Gosainkunda Pass Trekking Tour

The Hindu and Buddhist shrine Lake Gosainkunda is situated in the Langtang Region, known as the Gosainkunda Pass Trek or Langtang Circuit Trek. It offers a unique Himalayan panorama stretching from west to east. People believe that Lake Gosainkunda was created by Lord Shiva with his Trishul (trident) when he was suffering from the effects of swallowing poison.

After drinking the cool water, he was relieved of the toxins; since then, Gosainkunda has been revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Hindus believe that the image of Mahadev (Shiva) can still be seen in the middle of the lake. As long as this sacred image remains within the tranquil waters, Shiva is considered ever-present. There are 108 lakes in the area, but the most popular ones are Gosainkunda, Saraswati Kunda, and Ganesh Kunda, located close to one another. Every year, thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit these sacred lakes during the full moon of August.

As we approach the Langtang Circuit Trek, the trail winds through pine, oak, and rhododendron forests with diverse vegetation and glimpses of wildlife such as wild boar, bear, and musk deer. If lucky, you may spot the shy red panda that inhabits the Langtang region. The melodies of birds, along with dawn and dusk views of colourful mountains, are truly splendid.

The Langtang Circuit Trek offers numerous stunning mountain vistas, including Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and the Annapurna Massif, as well as the Langtang Himal range surrounding the trail. The main inhabitants of this region are the Tamang and Sherpa people, whose physical and cultural lifestyles closely resemble Tibetan traditions that have been preserved for generations. Additionally, you will experience the spiritual lifestyle of Buddhist monks who perform rituals in monasteries dating back to around 1300 A.D.

The Langtang Circuit Trekking route passes through traditional Tamang heritage villages and untouched forests of rhododendron, juniper, pine, and bamboo after a 132 km drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi or Dhunche. The trail ascends along a hillside ridge through several typical villages before reaching Gosainkunda (4,460m).

You will then cross Laurebinayak Pass (4,609m) into the Helambu region, enjoying beautiful Yolmu Sherpa settlements and other ethnic villages with breathtaking mountain views. The trail offers beautiful rice terraces and several splendid Buddhist monasteries. The trek ends either at Sundarijal via Chisopani before driving back to Kathmandu, or by taking an alternative route through Helambu to Melamchi Bazaar before returning to Kathmandu. The Langtang–Helambu Trek or Laurebinayak Pass Trek is popular as a teahouse trek, though camping options are also available.

Gosainkunda Pass Trekking is recommended throughout the year, but February to May and August to November are the best months. It would be our great pleasure to make your holiday as relaxing and comfortable as possible with the support of our experienced and friendly staff.

We organise Langtang Circuit Treks based on your holiday schedule and interests to ensure a memorable experience. We look forward to welcoming you on this trip.

TRIP FACTS:

Activities: Trekking & Walking, Sightseeing, Cultural Tour
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Max Elevation: Laurebinayak Pass (4,609m)
Trek/Tour Style: Teahouse
Accommodation: Deluxe hotel in Kathmandu & Lodge during Trek
Meals: Full board on trek & Breakfast in Kathmandu
Best Season: Aug/Sep/Oct/Nov & Feb/Mar/Apr/May

DETAIL ITINERARY

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at the international airport, meet, assist, and transfer to the hotel (star category, centrally located in Thamel). Rest and enjoy a free afternoon.

Day 02: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing (1350m)

Our tour guide will lead you through the Kathmandu Valley for sightseeing. Explore historical and spiritual attractions, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, the House of the Living Goddess "Kumari," Kasthamandap (built from a single tree in the 16th century), Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (UNESCO site), and Pashupatinath Temple. If time permits, visit Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur. Return to the hotel and prepare for the trek.

Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1440m) – 7 to 8 hrs

Your guide and porter will meet you at 6:00 AM. Drive north from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi through scenic landscapes, passing Trishuli Bazaar, Betrawati, and Dhunche. Overnight at a hotel.

Day 04: Trek Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2,470m) – 5 to 6 hrs

Cross the Bhote Koshi River and follow the Langtang Khola through rhododendron and bamboo forests. Wildlife sightings may include boar, langur monkeys, and red pandas. Overnight at Lama Hotel.

Day 05: Trek Lama Hotel to Langtang (3,430m) – 5 to 6 hrs

Ascend through forests to Ghoda Tabela, then continue through a broad valley with grazing yaks. Reach Langtang Village and explore the area. Overnight in a guesthouse.

Day 06: Trek Langtang to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) – 3 to 4 hrs

A short but scenic trek through traditional villages and mani walls. Taste Yak cheese from the local factory. Perfect for acclimatisation. Overnight at Kyanjin.

Day 07: Exploration Day in Kyanjin Gompa

Explore the monastery and cheese factory. Optional hikes include Kyanjin Ri (4,350m) or Tserko Ri (5,000m) for panoramic mountain views. Overnight in Kyanjin.

Day 08: Trek Kyanjin Gompa to Langtang – 3 hrs

After a relaxing morning, trek downhill back to Langtang with fantastic mountain views. Optional glacier visit.

Day 09: Trek Langtang to Bamboo Lodge (1960m) – 4 to 5 hrs

Descend through Tamang settlements and forests with vibrant scenery. Overnight at Bamboo.

Day 10: Trek from Bamboo to Thulo Syabru (2,230m) – 5 to 6 hrs

Walk along the riverbank, then ascend to Thulo Syabru. The village offers superb landscapes and views of Ganesh Himal and Langtang Himal.

Day 11: Trek Thulo Syabru to Shing Gomba (3,330m) – 4 to 5 hrs

Ascend through dense forests with views of Langtang and Ganesh Himal. Shing Gomba features a famous cheese factory and a monastery.

Day 12: Trek Shing Gomba to Gosainkunda (4,460m) – 5 to 6 hrs

Climb through rhododendron forests to Lauribinayak, then follow a rugged trail with panoramic views, eventually reaching Gosainkunda. Overnight by the lake.

Day 13: Trek from Gosainkunda to Gopte (3,440m) – 6 to 7 hrs

Climb to Laurebina La (4,610m), the highest point of the trek, then descend through rocky terrain and forests to Gopte.

Day 14: Trek Gopte to Melamchigaon (2,560m) – 6 to 7 hrs

Ascend through forests to Tharepati, then descend toward Melamchi Gaon, a culturally rich Sherpa village.

Day 15: Trek Melamchigaon to Tarke Gyang (2,590m) – 5 to 6 hrs

Descend to Melamchi Khola, then ascend through traditional Sherpa villages to Tarke Gyang.

Day 16: Trek Tarke Gyang to Sermathang (2,610m) – 4 to 5 hrs

An easy walk through forested terrain and Sherpa settlements. Sermathang offers monastery visits and mountain views.

Day 17: Trek Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar (880m) – 3 to 4 hrs; Drive to Kathmandu

Descend through fields and villages to Melamchi Pul Bazaar, then drive back to Kathmandu.

Day 18: Free Day in Kathmandu

Enjoy leisure time or explore Thamel. Evening farewell dinner with certificate handover.

Day 19: Final Departure

Free time for shopping before your transfer to the airport for your onward journey.