The Gosaikunda Lake Trek is an ideal choice for family and beginner trekkers, offering breathtaking Himalayan views of Nepal and Tibet. This trail, relatively unknown to tourists, promises peace and serenity as trekkers journey through diverse landscapes and spend a night by the sacred Gosaikunda Lake. Situated at 4,380m (14,370 ft.), the lake holds religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists. According to Hindu mythology, it was formed by Lord Shiva to alleviate his throat pain. The trek features rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, rivers, streams, and charming villages, with stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Mt. Manaslu, and several Tibetan mountains.
Trekkers will experience the rich culture of the local Tamang people, who practice Buddhism influenced by Tibetan traditions. The journey includes stays in modest teahouses, offering an immersive cultural experience. While the ascent at Lauribina Pass (4,610m/15,124 ft.) is challenging, the trek rewards hikers with mesmerizing landscapes, high suspension bridges, and the tranquil beauty of Gosaikunda Lake. This trek provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a touch of adventure, making it a memorable experience for all.
Itinerary
Day-1 Drive to Dhunche
We will start our trip early in the morning after having our breakfast. Dhunche is the starting point of our actual trek to Gosaikunda. On the way, we will be able to enjoy the picturesque settlements, meadows, and snow-capped mountains like Mt. Annapurna II, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal along with the Langtang Himal. Through a mesmerizing scenic route along with boundless Trishuli River, it will take us around 5-6 hours to reach Dhunche. Dhunche is a small settlement area and the headquarters of Rasuwa District. After our entrance into Dhunche, we will roam around the village and spend our time with the locals. After spending an amazing evening with locals, we will stay overnight in a well-maintained Guest House.
Day-2 Trek to Chandanbari
After breakfast in Dhunche, we'll start our trek toward Chandanwari, enjoying stunning views of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Tibetan mountains. The trail ascends steeply through oak, hemlock, and rhododendron forests. After roughly two hours, we'll reach Deurali (2,500m), a small village with a few tea houses. Continuing along a scenic trail with rivers and waterfalls, we'll hike for three more hours to reach Dhimsa (2,900m).
From Dhimsa, the climb becomes more challenging as we trek uphill through beautiful pine forests to Chandanwari (3,200m), also known as Sing Gompa. Here, we'll visit a Yak cheese factory and monasteries, sampling the delicious Yak cheese. The area offers expansive views of Langtang Mountain and Ganesh Himal. After a hearty meal with plenty of cheese, we'll spend the night in Chandanwari.
Day-3 Trek to Gosaikunda
After a delicious breakfast in Chandanwari, we'll hike uphill to Gosaikunda (4,380m). Today's trek is more challenging, starting with a steep climb up a ridge transitioning from moist mountain forests to dry scrub vegetation, home to red pandas and offering views of snowcapped Ganesh Himal. After 1.5 hours, we'll reach Cholangpaty (3,500m) with close views of Langtang Lirung, Langtang Ri, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal. Two more hours of trekking will bring us to Lauribinayak (3,900m).
From Lauribinayak, we'll enjoy panoramic views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Langtang Ri. Another two-hour hike leads to the Sakyamuni temple, followed by a half-hour walk to Saraswati Kunda, Bhairav Kunda, and finally, the mighty Gosaikunda Lake. We'll explore the holy temples of Shiva Mandir, Gosaikunda Mahadev, and Trishul Dhara, visit nearby lakes, and spend the night in a tea house.
Day-4 Trek back to Dhunche
Enjoying the beautiful morning, we will have our breakfast at the highest lake. We will dig into Gosaikunda and then retrace our steps downhill to Dhunche through Lauribinayak, Dhimsa, and Deurali. Today is the last day of the trek, so we will enjoy every bit of it. Enjoying the captivating views of mountains, pine forests, and the flavorful cheese of Chandanwari, we will be hiking downhill. Since we will be walking down, hiking will be a bit easier and more fun. We will also spot different protected birds in the pathway like Wood Snipe, Snow Patridge, Tibetan Snow Cock, etc. After walking for roughly 7 hours, we will reach Dhunche.
Day-5 Drive back to Kathmandu
Today is the last day of our trip. After a tight sleep in one of the tea houses in Dhunche, we will have our delicious breakfast. We will drive to Kathmandu to enjoy the beauty of the immense Trishuli River, meadows, and picturesque settlements. After riding around 6-7 hours, we will reach Kathmandu. Our trip ends here. We will have a lot to cherish from the experience of this trek. The mighty Gosaikunda Lake, scenic trails, culturally enriched Tamang people, the Tibetan-influenced lifestyle, and the delicious Yak’s cheese will be something we will remember for a lifetime.
Inclusion
- Transportation: Private tourist vehicles (all ground transport, airport pick up/drop)
- Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Kathmandu (twin sharing, breakfast); standard trekking lodges
- Meals: Full meals during trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with tea or coffee); seasonal fruits and snacks
- Permits: Langtang National Park Area Trekking permit; TIMS card
- Guides: Licensed trekking guide (1 per 5 trekkers) with salary, accommodation, meals, and insurance
- Porters: One porter per two guests for luggage, including salary, accommodation, meals, transport, insurance
- Extras: Special cultural show and farewell dinner; first aid kit
- Taxes: Government tax, service charge, and local taxes
Exclusions
- Excluded Meals: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Excluded Drinks: Dessert and any types of drinks during the trip
- Tour Fees: Kathmandu city tour entrance fees
- Travel Costs: International airfare and travel insurance
- Tips: Tips for the trekking crew members
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Expedition Information
$360
Langtang Valley
Trekking
Fitness Level
3
Technical Level
2
Group Size
1-99
Ratio
1:5
Continent:
AsiaCountry:
NepalLocation:
Langtang ValleyElevation:
4,000 m / 13,123 ftGPS:
28.25 N°, 85.5 E°