Langtang Trek

The Langtang Trek, 137 kilometers north of Kathmandu in the periphery of Langtang National Park, is one of Nepal’s best treks, allowing us to experience abundant wildlife, rich culture and heritage, and fascinating experience for the trekkers.

It is an off-the-beaten-beaten trek that offers the renovated yet still beautiful countryside of Nepal.
We can visibly see the gradual change in the landscape on this trek. We can see the banana jungles, farmlands, and settlements in the lower land. The higher we go, the more we see glacial lakes and icy peaks.

We can see mountains like Langtang Lirung (7,234 m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m), Changbu (6,781 m), Yansa Tsenji (6,690 m), Langshisha Ri (6,427 m), Gangchenpo (6,387 m), and many other mountains from the beautiful trails of the Langtang trails.

People can also opt for an optional climb to Kyanjin Ri or Cherko Ri from this region and get better looks at these peaks.
As this trek is partially going to be done inside Langtang National Park, we may have opportunities to catch sight of different flora and fauna while walking through the forests.

This region houses endangered species of animals like the red panda and snow leopard, as well as other animals like musk deer, Himalayan tahr, goral, danphe, and many more.

There are many things to explore on the Langtang Trek, like various landscapes, traditional villages, a local cheese factory, majestic peaks, wildlife, traditional monasteries, and many more. It is a short trek that offers most of the specialties of Nepal.

One of the major attractions of the Langtang trek is Kyanjin Gompa, which is a famous monastery in the Langtang Valley. This place has a very strong significance for culture and spiritual peace.

Another attraction of the Langtang Trek is the Kyanjin Ri, at an elevation of 4,773 m. This is the highest point of the entire Langtang trek. This place is very famous for the views that can be seen of the upper Langtang Valley.

Therefore, the Langtang Trek is one of the shortest and easiest treks in Nepal and has everything a trekker would like to experience, from the cultural, historical, and spiritual importance to the nature attractions like the lush green forests, high flowing rivers, rare plants and animals, and snow-covered peaks.

Highlights

1. Sightseeing tour in the historic Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu and Bhaktapur)
2. A scenic ride through the traditional villages of Nepal to Syabrubesi
3. Trek in the lush green forests with peaceful trails and amazing views.
4. Explore the spiritual Kyanjin Gompa.
5. Witness the awe-inspiring views of upper Langtang from the Kyanjin Ri.
6. See the stunning peaks throughout the trek.
7. Experience the traditional villages and their local lifestyle.

Trip Information

Best Time

The Langtang Trek can be done all year. As the trek is not very far from the valley and doesn’t require any technical climbing, it can be completed in any month or season.

Though it can be done in any season, spring and autumn are the best seasons for not just the Langtang Trek but almost all the treks in Nepal.

The spring season falls from March to May, and the autumn is from September to November. The skies are clearer in this season with stable weather and a moderate temperature, making the trek even more pleasant with amazing and unobstructed views.

Though in spring or autumn, always be prepared for lower temperatures in the higher altitudes and even the possibility of occasional rain or snowfall.

The Langtang Trek can also be done in the monsoon and winter. The trials will be less crowded in these seasons, and you can witness a lot of wildflowers all over the Langtang Trek trails.

Though beautiful and less crowded, the monsoon and winter come with their challenges. The major challenges could be rainfall and snowstorms. But if done with proper training, planning, and management, the Langtang Trek can be done in any month or season, all year.

Elevation and distance

The elevation on the Langtang Trek keeps increasing with the itinerary of the trek. The minimum elevation of the Langtang Trek is at Syabrubesi, which lies at an altitude of 2,830 m.

The altitude gradually decreases and reaches 4,773 m at Kyanjin Ri. This is the highest elevation point in the entire Langtang Trek.

The total ascent and descent in the entire trek are 3,925 m.

The total distance of the actual trek from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Ri is 77 km, up and down, whereas the driving distance from Kathmandu to the trekking start point of Langtang Trek in Syabrubesi is 145 km.

Difficulty and altitude sickness

As the altitude of the Langtang trek reaches up to 4,773 meters, altitude sickness can be a matter of concern. Altitude sickness is generally caused by rapid ascent, low personal physical fitness, and dehydration.

Usually, acute mountain sickness (AMS) can affect travelers in higher areas.

The symptoms of AMS are listed below:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Fatigue and difficulty sleeping

Preventive measures:

• Acclimatization is a crucial part of an uncomplicated trek, as are rest days.
• One should stay hydrated throughout the trek as the body needs enough fluids, but you should also avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Another way to avoid sickness while on trial is meditation, which keeps the body constant.

Be aware of the body changes and work according to them.

Maximum and minimum walk

The average duration of walking per day on the Langtang trek is about 5 to 6 hours or 10 to 14 km.

The maximum number of hours of walking in the entire trek is on the fifth day when we will trek from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village. It will be a 6-hour walk in the shaded area of the Langtang Trek.

The minimum hour of walking is on the ninth day when we will trek from Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi. It will be around 4.5 hours long in the downhill terrain.

Accommodation

The accommodation before the start of the Langtang trek will be in a tourist-standard 3-star hotel in Kathmandu. The accommodation during the trekking days will be in tourist-standard tea houses or lodges, which will have basic facilities for a comfortable night’s stay.

The hotels in Kathmandu will have all the facilities that will make any tourist’s stay very comfortable, from WIFI, charging ports, bathrooms, etc.

The area primarily focuses on the teahouses and lodges, which are run by the local families. The teahouses provide travelers with comfortable enough rooms with twin beds or dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms.

They will offer extra blankets and hot water for showers, which are often charged extra.

The washrooms in most of the tea houses are not built into the rooms and are common for all the people staying at the respective tea houses.

Most of the tea houses in the higher elevation of Langtang Trek have eastern-style squad toilets, and the toilet papers are replaced with a jug of water.

Therefore, there are numerous tea houses and lodges on the trails of Langtang Trek that will offer warm hospitality and a comfortable stay during your trek.

Foods and drinks

The three meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—will be provided during the trekking days of the Langtang trek.

But only breakfast will be provided on the days you are in Kathmandu.

You will have to pay on your own for any foods or drinks other than breakfast when in Kathmandu, and anything other than the provided breakfast, lunch, and dinner must be paid for and not included in the package during the Langtang trek.

The tea houses and lodges in the trails of the Langtang Trek generally offer basic Western dishes, which include Dal Bhat (boiled rice with lentil soup served with vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat).

The food usually ranges from NPR 400 to NPR 800 or more.

You can have chapati, pancakes, eggs, oats, porridge, bread, and toast with jam or peanut butter for breakfast.

There are a wide range of options for lunch and dinner. You can eat dumplings, eggs, pancakes, noodles, pasta, curry, fried rice, spaghetti, etc. for lunch and dinner, but the best option would be Dal Bhat.

The meals served by the tea houses and lodges are catering and filling to the trekkers, as they need energy throughout the trek. There is also a wide range of varieties for vegetarians.

Just like meals, the trail also has a generous variety of beverages as per the needs and preferences of the travelers. The locals offer bottled water, soft drinks, and sometimes alcohol, which mostly includes beer and local spirits.

Similarly, hot beverages like black tea, masala chiya, and coffee are available, but they are available at higher prices due to their remoteness.

A few of the must-try dishes during your Langtang Trek are Yak Cheese and Milk, Masala Tea, and Sukuti, which is dried meat of mostly yak but can be of buffalo or chicken as well. You should also try buckthorn juice, which is a sweet local juice made up of berries.

Alternative routes

Langtang is a huge region where all the scenery is equally beautiful. There are many trails and treks to enjoy the beauty of the Langtang region.

Here are a few of the most famous and scenic alternative routes of the Langtang Trek:

• Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is one of the most famous trekking trails in Nepal. It is a moderate trek that is a concoction of Nepalese cultures, beliefs, and spiritual values with beautiful natural attractions.

This is a 10- to 14-day trek, according to the itinerary, that leads to the holy lake Gosaikunda. You can witness the traditional villages of Langtang, enjoy the scenic views of mountain peaks, and find yourself at peace on this trek.

•  Tamang Heritage Trek

This is another beautiful trek that is done in the Langtang region. The Tamang Heritage Trek takes 15 days to complete and is a moderately graded trek.

You can explore and immerse yourself in the vast and beautiful cultures of the Tamang community of Nepal. They are the indigenous community of Nepal who have their own cultures, traditions, attire, dances, and festivals.

You will get to witness the warm hospitality and traditional cultures and values of the Nepalese on the trek.

• Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu Trek

The Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu Trek is a magnificent circuit trek that involves the exploration of three of the most stunning Himalayan regions of Nepal: Langtang, Helambu, and Gosaikunda.

It is going to be a moderate-level trek of 16 days in the high elevation with unexpected advantages and the sacred lake Gosaikunda. This trek also offers an opportunity to experience the traditions and cultures of the alpine parts of Nepal.

• Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari Trek

Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari Trek is one of the famous trekking trails in Nepal that offers panoramic views of mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and beautiful cultures and traditions.

You can also explore the sacred site of Panch Pokhari, a collection of five ponds.

You can witness and experience Jugal Himal up close on this trek and also cross a few Himalayan passes.

It is a 15-day moderate-level trek in the alpine regions of Nepal.

Can a beginner join this trip?

The Langtang Trek is a good choice for trekkers who are looking to experience the best landscapes of the Himalayas. For a beginner to join this Langtang trek, it will depend on various factors.

First of all, you should understand the Langtang Trek, its location, duration, and difficulty.

Location

The Langtang Trek is a part of Langtang National Park, which lies to the north of Kathmandu and near bordering Tibet.

Duration

The exact duration of this Langtang Trek varies depending on the chosen route, but typically it takes 7–10 days, including travel to and from Kathmandu.

Difficulty

In this Langtang trek, 5-7 hours of daily hiking are done, reaching the highest point (4,984m; Tsergo Ri.

Additionally, other facts need to be considered.

Physical Fitness

You should be able to walk 5–6 hours a day carrying your bag. Also, cardio workouts are needed so that they will help you acclimate as you go higher.

Prepare yourself physically

You should do regular workouts, including running, cycling, jogging, etc., which help you strengthen yourself. Also, it will be more helpful if you go for short hikes, which can help you know your limits and increase your experience.

Altitude sickness

As you ascend higher during the Langtang trek, there are chances of having headaches, nausea, dizziness, etc. So, you should take rest, stay hydrated, ascend slowly, take your time to go up, and prevent yourself from being sick.

Equipment and Gears

You should be equipped with good equipment, like sleeping bags, trekking poles, thick clothes, and trekking boots. Along with these, you should take essential first-aid kits, including some necessary medicine.

Guides and Porters

For good navigation, local guidance, emergency assistance, and many more, you can hire a good guide who can help in these sections. Also, if you are having trouble carrying your heavy loads, you can hire porters. Having them also helps you physically by reducing your workload.

Moreover, there are some pros and cons for beginners:

You will experience various cultures while trekking, and encountering Tamang and Sherpa villages. Compared to other treks, the Langtang Trek is less crowded. You will also find breathtaking scenery, views of mountains, and various landscapes.

You will find some challenges, including acclimatizing, and in some parts, you will only find basic facilities.

Finally, there are some tips for beginners:

Short Treks

To make your body fit, start with some short hikes and treks so that your body will adapt gradually and also build experience and confidence.

Group Trek

For a beginner, you can also go on a solo trek, but in a group, you can be helped by others and learn from their experiences regarding the same treks and other treks as well.

Physical Limits

One of the most crucial things is your health, so you must listen to your body. Sometimes the body might take time to acclimatize, or you can get altitude sickness. If you have overcome your sickness and your body is ready, then only proceed upward; otherwise, return to avoid any injury.

Gadgets charging and Internet

Langtang Trek, a blissful and renowned destination that is popular among travelers and nature lovers provides you with some of the essential facilities when it comes to connectivity and communication.

most of the guest houses during the Langtang Trek provide electricity but it may depend upon the tea house or lodge you are staying in.

The charging facilities are free in the lower elevation but with the gradual ascend the guest houses or tea houses may charge an extra amount for charging the electronic.

The price of the charging varies from device to device such as phone, camera, and other batteries. The price ranges from NPR 100 to NPR 300 in most of the teahouses and lodges.

While talking about the internet facilities, the remoteness and high altitude of Langtang Valley may result in a discontinuity in the internet services.

The internet may be provided by some of the tea houses and lodges but they charge an extra amount which may range from approximately NPR 300 to USD 400 depending on location and quality of connection.

About the communication alternatives, you can use local SIM cards which are reliable and easily connected throughout the Langtang Trek.

The teahouses and the lodges may also have satellite phones which can be used by the guests for emergency use.

Trekking Permit

For trekking in the Langtang Valley or completing the Langtang Trek, you are required to obtain some necessary permits to enter certain areas, like Langtang National Park.

Here we have explained the main permits required for the trekking:

1. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

The card is required for all travelers who are trekking in the Langtang area.

Usually, the Green TIMS card costs USD 10, which is for individual trekkers, and the Blue TIMS card costs USD 20, which is for organized trekkers. You can easily obtain the card quickly from Pokhara or Kathmandu.

2. Langtang National Park Entry Permit

Langtang National Park Entry Permit allows travelers to enter the Langtang National Park as it is a protected area and is required for all visitors.

The permit approximately costs USD 30 per person for foreigners.

The permit can be obtained from the entrance checkpoint in Dhunche or at Syabrubesi, which is the starting point of the Langtang trek.

3. Restricted Area Permit

The restricted area permit allows travelers who are planning to trek beyond the checkpoints into the restricted area within the Langtang area, such as Ganja La Pass or Tserko Ri Pass.

This pass is generally provided by the travel agency.

Documents required for all the permits:

TIMS Card

• Passport photocopy
• Passport-size photo (2)
• Trekking Insurance
• Emergency contact number at home and in Nepal

Langtang National Park Entry Permit

• Original Passport
• A copy of the passport
• 2 passport-sized photos

Restricted Area Permit will be obtained by the travel agency you are going with for your trek.

Transportation

The transportation we will be using for this trek is from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi in the start, and back to Kathmandu after the trek.

We will be either going on a bus or a jeep, according to your preference and budget.

This will be about a 9-hour journey on a bus, and the jeep will take about 7 to 8 hours to reach Syabrubesi.

Insurance

As we already know about the difficulties that we may face while on the Langtang Trek due to various conditions, it’s better to be prepared for it by getting travel insurance.

Travel insurance provides you with financial coverage for unforeseen events that may occur while traveling and in the conditions of trip cancellation or any interruption and trip delay.

Besides this, travel insurance also covers medical expenses or emergency conditions while on your trip as well as it also helps you with your lost baggage and personal belongings.

What to expect from this trip

Langtang Trek offers diverse experiences including culture, breathtaking views, adventure, and beautiful nature.

You can find some stunning views of mountains like Langshisha Ri, Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, etc. Some breathtaking views can be seen from viewpoints like Kyanjin Ri. Also, glacial rivers like Langtang Khola can be observed and you can also experience the forest which is filled with bamboo and rhododendron. You may also find some yaks and wildflowers through the trek.

Different cultural experiences can be observed in this Lantang Trek region. You can find Tamang and Sherpa villages which are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness. You can explore places like Syabrubesi, Tianjin Gompa, etc which contain traditional villages and can observe their customs and local daily life, cultural dances, rituals, and music.

Challenges

You will face various challenges during this trek. There will be daily hikes of 5-6 hours. you will experience walking through different terrains like rocky, uneven, muddy rain, etc. Crossing the suspension bridges will make your heart pump and the view from them is breathtaking. Trek will end reaching up to 4,850m at Kyangin Ri, so you need to be careful while acclimatizing.

Wildlife

Different types of wildlife species can be found like Himalayan tahr and red panda including different birds. Also. depending on the season you can find blooming different kinds of flowers like rhododendrons, medicinal plants, orchids, etc.

Accommodations and meals

Accommodation will be quite basic; you will get basic facilities in the teahouses. So, you will have to adjust accordingly. Also, you will be provided basic Nepali dishes/meals like dal bhat (rice with lentils soup), momo, noodles, etc limiting the variety of foods.

Weather and Seasons

You need to be prepared as there will be weather changes rapidly including cold temperatures as you ascend higher. Also, while making your plan to go to Lantang Trek, you must pick the good season; spring and autumn are some of the best seasons where you can get good weather providing you with a clear mountain view.

Altitude and Safety

You must be aware while ascending as you might get symptoms like headache, nausea, and dizziness. you must be prepared with first aid kid and take some medicine for backup. Also, you can stay hydrated and take your time to acclimatize.

Connectivity

You will be limited in internet access and for charging also its better to bring power banks for charging your devices. Also, expect limited internet access as you go higher. There will only be basic amenities in this higher region so don’t expect high amenities.

Tips and suggestions for the trek

• As we know the altitude is high, so we should be physically prepared and can practice cardio exercises and short hikes to improve stamina.
• Most of the places include protected areas, so travelers need to obtain the necessary permits to enter the areas.
• We should be aware of overpacks and underpacks while doing any trek. Analyze the essential goods and try to carry lightweight items.
• One needs to be properly hydrated while on the trail, as the body needs plenty of water and energy throughout the trek.
• Gradual ascending is a key part of easy trekking. Travelers are recommended to keep acclimatization days in their trek as it can be helpful as a rest day as well.
• Before planning for a trek to Langtang Valley, you should get proper information about the weather conditions and best seasons and be prepared accordingly.
• The trekkers should respect the local culture and customs and should not do any practices that affect the environment or the people there.

• Get enough information about the necessity of guides and porters while planning for the Langtang Trek, as it helps you throughout the trek.

FAQs

How long does it take for a Langtang Trek?

Normally the Langtang Trek takes around 6-7 days at average to complete but it also depends upon the route you choose.

Which season is suitable for Langtang Trek?

The seasons suitable for Langtang Trek are Autumn and spring season. In this period, you can find a maximum number of visitors.

How do I prepare for Langtang Trek?

You can start doing some physical exercises before 2-3 months. Also, you can start going on short hikes to prepare your body.

Is the Langtang Valley one of the prettiest valleys in Nepal?

Yes, it is. As you ascend you can observe different flowers, different scenery, different species which are so beautiful and mesmerizing.

Is Langtang worth it?

The Langtang Trek offers a variety of stunning mountain views, a variety of cultures, and different fauna and flora which leaves you memories for a lifetime.

Do you need time for a Langtang?

Yes, you need a Trekkers information management system card (TIMS) and must have Langtang National Park permits if you are planning to enter the Langtang Trek via Langtang National Park

What is Langtang Valley famous for?

It is famous for its various species which include; the red panda, and the Himalayan black bear. Snow leopards, serows, and various species of birds.

What type of Accommodation is available during Langtang Valley Trekking?

You will find teahouses and lodges which provide you with basic accommodations and basic meals including cozy rooms with delicious food.

Do I need a guide for the trek?

If you hire a guide then he/she can help you in various ways like helping in ascending guiding you properly also describing various beauty scenes. Also, they will share their experience regarding the Langtang trek as well as about other treks.

Do I need a porter for the trek?

If you hire a porter then it will help you minimize your loads and will help to save your energy while ascending.

Can you get internet service and electricity in Langtang Trek?

You will be charged for electricity like charging your phones and power banks and limited internet services are found at teahouses and guesthouses.

What is the highest point on the Langtang trek?

The highest point on the Langtang Trek is Kyanjin Ri which is at an elevation of 4,773m.

Is the trek worth all the struggles?

The trek is worth all the struggles that you may face during the trek. The views, people, and peace will easily overshadow the difficulties.