Langtang Valley trek

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Langtang valley trek
Langtang valley trekking
Trek in Langtang
Customize Trip
langtang
At a Glance
Duration8 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5000
Travel Styletrekking
Best Timespring and autumn

The Langtang Valley trek is well-known for providing stunning views of the Langtang region Himalayas, diverse high-altitude landscapes, and exposure to its rich hidden culture. This wonderful trekking destination has scenic and adventurous trails, which let you discover and explore the unique local culture and unspoiled natural beauty of the place. The remote off-the-beaten trails allow you to experience the pristine wilderness of the Langtang region and the opportunity to soak into the vibrant traditions, costumes, religions, and resilient way of living of the mountainous communities.

Langtang Valley trek

The Langtang Valley trek manifests varying high-altitude landscapes like lush forests, verdant hills, terraced farmlands, meandering rivers, enchanting waterfalls, alpine grasslands, dramatic cliffs, barren terrains, sweeping glaciers, and more. The Langtang trails slowly ascend through subtropical forests and quaint villages and eventually transform into icy and snowy terrains. The awe-inspiring vistas of the captivating snow-clad mountains dominate the Langtang trekking journey. During the Langtang Valley trek, the captivating scenery of the lower region forests to alpine meadows, glaciers and icy mountains takes your breath away. 

Langtang Valley is an iconic destination to explore the rich Tamang heritage amidst the spectacular Himalayan landscapes where the warmth of native Tamang, their strong Buddhist beliefs, and the charm of typical village life twist together to offer you an enriching cultural experience. A Langtang Valley trek is the ultimate journey to experience deep natural and cultural immersion. If you are seeking an adventure amidst the glorious foothills of the majestic Himalayas, the untouched beauty of nature and rich cultural tapestry of the Langtang Valley simply cannot be overlooked. But when to go? Well, the perfect time to go for this trek is while there is temperate weather and temperatures during the spring and autumn seasons. 

Join us to embark on a journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Experience the once-in-a-lifetime adventure with our meticulously crafted Langtang trekking package starting at cost US$ 700

Langtang Valley trek

What to Expect on Langtang Valley Trek Days?

During each day at Langtang Valley trek, you will wake up early morning and begin the day with breakfast. After packing up the daypacks, we begin trekking through the varying high-altitude landscapes, taking in the scenery and enjoying the views of snow-capped peaks along the way. In between the journey, you will have short breaks for rest, hydration, and snacks. We will stop at one of the teahouses at a designated stop along the trekking trail and enjoy a lunch with a variety of traditional Nepali and Tibetan dishes. 

After lunch, we continue trekking by ascending or descending as per the day’s route. In the late afternoon or early evening, you will reach the particular village for a teahouse accommodation. You will rest and freshen up before dinner and gather at a dining area to enjoy the delicious local meal. After dinner, you can socialize with fellow trekkers, read books or do other fun activities, and retreat to the sleeping bags or teahouse beds for a restful night. 

Who Can Do Langtang Valley Trek?

The Langtang Valley trek is suitable for a diverse range of trekkers with varying levels of skills and experience, from novices and starters to skillful professionals. The Langtang trek offers several route options for trekking with different difficulty levels. Though this trek involves steep ascends and descends on rugged mountainous trails, the journey is accessible to a wide range of people due to well-marked routes and breaks along the way. From kids to retirees who love to travel and are comfortable with hiking can embark on this exciting journey. Unlike other mainstream trekking destinations, the Langtang Valley trek is relatively approachable and straightforward.   

If you are a beginner trekker with a fair level of physical fitness, you can easily overcome the moderate challenges of the trails and complete the trek. However, you need to follow proper planning and effective altitude acclimatization for an easygoing adventure. On the other hand, the Langtang Valley trek is equally rewarding and adventurous for experienced climbers, with a more peaceful trekking experience than the Annapurna Circuit or the Everest Base Camp. Moreover, adept trekkers can also opt for the Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri hikes to experience even more thrilling and intrepid adventures.  

What Makes Langtang Trek Special?


Langtang National Park

Langtang National Park is the first Himalayan National Park of Nepal, established in 1976. The captivating trails of the Langtang Valley trek traverse the rich biodiversity of this protected region. The Langtang National Park is home to a wide species of flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests and bamboo groves, pine, oak, and maple trees, musk deer, snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, red pandas, Himalayan tahr, with variety of monkeys, birds, and butterflies. 

While passing through the National Park area during the trek, you will have an opportunity to spot these valuable and rare animals as well as diverse vegetation from the temperate to tundra of the Langtang Himalayan region.

Langtang Village

Langtang village (3,430 meters) is nestled amidst the captivating natural surroundings of forests, rivers, waterfalls, and the Himalayas. This charming village is predominantly inhabited by the Tamang ethnicities, along with a significant population of Gurung and Sherpa. These native communities have deep-rooted cultural connections with Tibet, and the widespread Tibetan-influenced Buddhist culture is evident in the Monasteries, Shrines, Chortens, and Mani Walls around their traditional settlements. You can visit the religious places in the Langtang village for insights into the exquisite art and architecture of the region. Interaction with the indigenous people helps you to learn about the unique attire and traditional practices of the place. The villagers are friendly and offer a kind welcome and genuine hospitality.

Langtang village was severely destroyed by the disastrous earthquake in 2015, and very soon, avalanches and landslides aggravated the devastation, causing more damage. Afterward, several initiatives were taken to rebuild the village. People reconstructed the houses and reconditioned the trekking trails. Now, Langtang village is safe for trekking and stands once again as a bustling hub for trekkers in the Langtang region.

Kyanjin Gompa

Kaynjin Gompa village (3,870 meters) is a beautiful village with glorious views of the majestic Himalayas, which makes it a popular stopover for trekkers visiting the Langtang Valley. The village houses an ancient revered Buddhist Monastery, Kyanjin Gompa, which is decorated with colorful prayer flags. You can visit the Kaynjin Monastery, take in its peaceful ambiance, and explore the complex artwork of this historical heritage in between your Langtang journey. 

Kyanjin Gompa village is also renowned for its ancient cheese factory. The local cheese factory of Kyanjin Gompa supplies the best cheese around in the Langtang area. The cheese produced in this village is best in quality and flavour, which comes from the fresh milk of yaks and cows. You can tour the cheese factory in Kyanjin Gompa and inspect the traditional way of producing cheese by the local people. You can also taste the community-produced mouthwatering cheese. 

While in Kyanjin Gompa, you can observe the traditional way of life of the mountainside communities in the remote Himalayan regions. Visit the local homes in the village and learn about the local Tamang culture, customs, and religious beliefs and practices firsthand. Soak into the delicacy of traditional Nepali cuisines and the unique taste of Tibetan dishes in the local Tamang teahouses. 

Langtang Valley trek

Preparations Before Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley trek is moderately challenging in terms of difficulty level. While the trails are well-defined and maintained, the elevation gain, steep and long ascents and descents, and rocky terrains make trekking difficult. Still, the Langtang trek is considered an introductory trek in the Himalayas and is suitable for both beginner and experienced trekkers. This adventurous undertaking pleases trekkers of diverse experiences and skill levels. 

The moderate trek of the Langtang Valley can be completed with ease if you have a fit body with sound health conditions. During the journey, you will meet the inclined trails of the rugged Himalayan terrains, and a basic level of fitness is necessary to overcome the potential challenges of the trek. For a seamless trekking experience, you can prepare yourself by joining a regular exercise routine a few weeks before the start of the trek. Consider involving in cardiovascular exercise and strength-building training to upgrade your strength, stamina and endurance capacity. Exercises such as push-ups, deadlifts, squats, planks, cycling, swimming, jogging, dancing, skipping, etc, are useful to tackle the physical demands of the journey. 

Besides, mental preparedness is also essential to stay calm and composed and continue the journey with strong determination. A positive mindset and mental resilience keep you going and aid in the easy accomplishment of an adventure.  

Why Us?

As a registered company, we specialize in crafting personalized itineraries tailored to your needs, preferences, and the time you have for the trek. We will offer tailor-made itineraries that best align with your time, interests, experience, and fitness level. Whether you are seeking a fast-forward, challenging adventure or a leisurely and serene travel, we can design the perfect itinerary for you. Simply share your holiday plans and let us know the number of days available for trekking. The fine-tuned itineraries can also include side trips and activities that address your preferences and requirements. Book with us today and enjoy the custom-crafted ultimate trekking adventure to the fullest.

Our expert team of experienced and knowledgeable guides are licensed professionals. They are highly passionate and dedicated to the Himalayan trekking activities and ready to support you throughout the journey. They ensure a seamless adventure by providing you utmost safety, comfort, and enjoyment. 

Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 01
Drive From Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,550 meters / 5,085 feet)
Day 02
Trek From Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2,380 meters / 7,808 feet)
Day 03
Trek From Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (3,430 meters / 11,253 feet)
Day 04
Trek From Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 meters / 12,696 feet)
Day 05
Hike to Tserko Ri (5,000 meters / 16,404 feet) and Back to Kyanjin Gompa
Day 06
Trek From Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel (2,380 meters / 7,808 feet)
Day 07
Trek From Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi (1,550 meters / 5,085 feet)
Day 08
Drive Back to Kathmandu (1,380 meters / 4,572 feet)
Tour Plan
Day 01

Elevation Gain: 170 meters

The exhilarating trek of Langtang Valley begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, the starting point of the trek. Early in the morning, after breakfast, we will pick you up from the respective place of your stay and embark on a picturesque overland drive through the outskirts of the Kathmandu valley. 
As we depart from the busy capital city, the wide and bustling town streets slowly meet narrow and winding countryside roads. You can catch a glimpse of diverse landscapes and distinctive cultural tapestry along the way. The landscapes gradually transform into colorful terraced fields and several small settlements, offering insights into the rural lifestyle of people. The road slowly ascends into hills with captivating views of valleys and faraway mountains. During the stops at roadside hotels, you can stretch your legs and enjoy a hearty lunch, taking in the mesmerizing scenery. 
Driving along the meandering roads by the hillsides will venture us higher into the mountainous regions. Following the ways of rivers and waterfalls, eventually, the cool air and rugged scenery start greeting you. Progressing through the trees of rhododendrons and pine lining the roadside,  the winding road slowly descends into the valley below. The picturesque Syabrubesi village opens up into a vision, which is our overnight stop. The symphony of impressive landscapes from a packed urban setting to the remote and serene gateway of Langtang region is worth the drive. 

After a long day drive of around 8-9 hours, we will reach Syabrubesi with the magnificent beauty of the Himalayas up close. In this cultural village of Tamang, you will experience a warm welcome from the local people and have a cozy retreat at one of the best traditional teahouses. Enjoy the delicious local meal offered with the charming hospitality of the friendly Tamang teahouse owner and spend a comfortable night. 

Day 02

‌Elevation Gain: 830 meters
After waking up at Syabrubesi, enjoy a delicious breakfast at the Tamang teahouse. Then, prepare to head out for a trek towards Lama Hotel. We will leave the village and begin trekking by crossing the Bhotekoshi River and walking alongside the banks of the Langtang River. 
You will navigate the Langtang River through a suspension bridge over it. Next, you will pass by several rural settlements and thick forests of pine, rhododendrons, and oak trees. After a few hours of trekking, you will reach the Bamboo village amidst the lush bamboo groves. With the magnificent views of Langtang Lirung as a backdrop, climb the slightly uphill trails to enter the farmland areas and the beautiful village of Rimche. 
Continue from Rimche, traversing the dense bamboo fields with a view of the Langtang River flowing peacefully. Navigating the trails through moorlands, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant forests, the steeply ascending trails will take you to the Lama Hotel. Lama Hotel is a quaint settlement of local people after a forest clearing.

The trek from Sybrubesi to Lama Hotel takes you around 6 hours while covering a distance of around 10 kilometers. You can rest in the traditional teahouse of the Lama Hotel, savor the delicious dinner, and spend a peaceful overnight. 

Day 03

‌‌Elevation Gain: 1,050 meters

We will have a morning breakfast at the Lama Hotel and proceed towards the Langtang village. Initially, we will follow the picturesque trails that lead us across the Langtang Riverbed. Next, we will ascend and pass through the colorful forest of pine and rhododendrons. After around 3 hours of trek blessed with breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, the trail stretches out to Ghoda Tabela (a Horse Stable). We will possibly have lunch at Ghoda Tabela, enjoying the exposed and closing-up vistas of the lofty Himalayas. 

Trekking further, we will come across Thangshyap, a small settlement and pass by the forested trails. Ascending through the ridge over the Langtang River, you will trek across alpine grasslands. Walking past the Chortens, Mani Walls, Shrines, Prayer flags, and Prayer Wheels marks your closeness to the Langtang Village. Eventually, the scenic Langtang village, largely populated by the Tamang people, approaches. 

After around 7 hours of trekking from the Lama Hotel, we will reach the beautiful Langtang village, which houses a community health post, government schools, Langtang National Museum, small local markets, and historical monasteries. We will stay overnight in this charming village, experiencing the Tamang culture and soaking into the genuine hospitality of indigenous communities.‌

Day 04

‌‌Elevation Gain: 440 meters

The trek from Langtang village to Kaynjin Gompa is a short and scenic that boasts the captivating beauty of Langtang Valley. It is only about 3 hours of trekking on easy, short trails, and an early start to reach Kyanjin Gompa by lunchtime lets you rest and explore its surroundings for the remaining time.
After we leave Langtang village, we will follow the ascending trails that lead us through sweeping pasture lands and lush rhododendron forests all the way to Mundo. On the way, you will be treated to an expensive panorama of the magnificent Himalayas. You will cross the small wooden bridges over the rivers and tributaries after a slight descent from Mundo. Taking in the closing-up views of glacier moraines, we will pass by water mills, giant Mani Walls carved with religious Buddhist inscriptions, Chortens, and Prayer Wheels. This signals the nearness of the timeless Kyanjin Monastery, after which the village is named. 

Kyanjin Gompa is surrounded by sky-craping mountains, offering an up-close panoramic view of Langtang region peaks and glaciers. Upon arriving at the Kyanjin Gompa village, spend the rest of the day exploring its nearby areas after you have lunch and keep your belongings at one of the best teahouses in the area. 

Explore the sacred Kyanjin Gompa, around 700-year-old Buddhist Monastery, and soak into its tranquil ambiance. You can also visit the local yak cheese factory and witness the cheese-making process. You can also engage in friendly interaction with the local people to have a deep knowledge and understanding of the local culture and tradition. After exploring the village to the fullest, you can spend the evening time resting and relaxing at traditional Tamang teahouses and enjoying the local cuisines. ‌

Day 05

‌‌‌Elevation Gain: 1,130 meters
Elevation Loss: 1,130 meters

Today, we will embark on a challenging and rewarding hike to Tserko Ri. It is the highest elevation of our Langtang Valley trekking journey, with an elevation of 4,984 meters/16,355 feet. After waking up early in the morning, we will follow the trails of steep, rock leading to Tserko Ri. An exciting hike to this amazing viewpoint rewards you with a mesmerizing view of the Himalayas bathed in the golden hues of sunrise. From the vantage point of Tserko Ri, you can enjoy the expansive panoramic views of the Langtang Valley and glistening mountains such as Langtang Lirung, Langtang Ri, Dorje Lakpa, Yala Peak, Naya Khanga, Gangchenpo, etc.

Next, we will retrace our footsteps back to Kyanjin Gompa. After around 8-9 hours of trekking adventure in the mountains, we will return to settle in for a night at our familiar teahouse in the Kyanjin Gompa village.‌

Day 06

‌Elevation Loss: 1,490 meters

After breakfast at Kyanjin Gompa, we will begin a return journey towards the Lama Hotel. During most of the time on trails, you will follow a downhill descent. While retracing the footsteps we previously took to reach the Kyanjin Gompa village, the trails will lead us all the way to Langtang village and Ghoda Tabela. 
We will probably enjoy a leisurely lunch break at the Ghoda Tabela and register our exit at the army checkpost. Moving on, you will descend through thickly forested, passing by the cascading waterfalls and crossing the river via suspension bridges. Finally, after 6-7 hours of trekking from Kyanjin Gompa, we will reach the Lama Hotel. Once we arrive at the Lama Hotel, we will check in at one of the notable teahouses and spend a second enjoyable night in this village. ‌

Day 07

Elevation Loss: 830 meters

Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi is the final trekking of our Langtang Valley journey. We begin to trek towards Syabrubesi after breakfast at the Lama Hotel. Following the downstream trails of the Langtang River, we will trek toward the captivating river valley. As we go down more to lower elevations, the landscapes transform from rugged terrains to dense greenery. 

Descending from the bamboo and birch forests, you will catch the views of the snowy Himalayas that stretch into the distance. As the forest opens to the Langtang River, you will cross it over the suspension bridge. Again, on navigating the Bhote Koshi River, 6-7 hours of this day trek will take you to the picturesque Syabrubesi village, where you will be staying for a night. 

Day 08

‌Elevation Loss: 170 meters

After waking up at the ending point of our trek at Syabrubesi, we will have a delicious breakfast at the teahouse. Then, we will get into a vehicle and begin to drive back to Kathmandu. We will ride along the same route as before, and you can take in the fantastic scenery of the other side of the road from the window of your seat. Along with the captivating views of the Trishuli River Valley, such as charming settlements, terraced farmlands, meadows, and glimpses of distant mountains, we will make our way back to the capital city. 

Upon arriving in Kathmandu after 8-9 hours of driving, we will drop you at your hotel. You can rest, refresh, relax, and enjoy the rest of the time at the hotel. 

Cost Details
Included
  • accommodation in teahouses or guesthouses during the trek
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
  • Transportation to and from the starting point  via private vehicle or bus
  • Licensed trekking guide and porter services
  • Langtang National Park entry fee and TIMS (Trekker’s Information Management System) card
  • Basic first aid and safety equipment
  • Trip briefing and orientation
  • Tea/coffee with meals
Excluded
  • International flights to/from Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs)
  • Tips for guides, porters, and drivers
  • Personal travel and health insurance (including evacuation)
  • Personal trekking gear (clothing, boots, sleeping bag, trekking poles)
  • Additional nights in Kathmandu before or after the trek
  • Any unforeseen expenses or extra services beyond the itinerary
Additional Info

Guides and Porters

As per the rule of the Nepal Tourism Board, you must hire a government-licensed guide mandatorily for remote hiking in Nepal, including the Langtang Valley trek. Besides the compulsion, hiring guides is essential for the safe navigation of rugged mountainous trails, arrangement of logistics, cultural immersion, and enriching the overall trek experience.

While the porters are not necessarily important for the Langtang Valley trek, you can hire one for assistance in carrying your loads and enjoy an open and free adventure. They help you relieve the weight of your backpack, trekking gear, and other belongings so you can focus on enjoying the trek. 

Permits and Fees 

For the Langtang trek, you will have to obtain the following two permits.  

  • TIMS card - NPR 2,000
  • Langtang National Park Entry Permit - NPR 3,000

It is necessary to obtain these permits before the start of the Langtang trekking journey. We will make all the required arrangements for the documentation and obtain the permits beforehand. But for this, you have to provide us with essential details, such as a copy of your passport and two PP-size photographs. 

Best Months for Langtang Valley Trek

April, May, October, November, and early December are the perfect months for the Langtang Valley trek. These months provide you with the best weather and temperature conditions for trekking in the Himalayas. The air is crisp, the sky is crystal clear, the mountain view is superb, the weather is stable, and the temperature is comfortably warm during this period.

March is the beginning month of Spring, the pre-monsoon period. The weather, dry for so long from the winter months and the windy conditions of March, makes the dust spread in the air. This affects the visibility of the mountainous surroundings and beautiful scenery. As the weather might not be fully clear, it is better to exclude this month for the Langtang trek. 

Likewise, September is the starting month of autumn, and this early post-monsoon month can still experience the late monsoon lingering rain. Because of the dark rain clouds, the view of stunning mountains is not seen with optimum clarity, and at times, it remains hidden under the clouds. As the monsoon weather is yet to fully settle in, September may not be the perfect time for high-altitude treks. 

Having said that, the Langtang Valley trek is doable at any time of the year, with distinctive characteristics and experiences of each month. 

Essential Packing for the Langtang Trek

  • Sun/brimmed hat
  • Knit hat or beanie
  • Scarf
  • Lightweight trekking shirts and pants
  • Flexible trousers
  • Thermal 
  • Pullover
  • Half/full sleeve T-shirts
  • Rain gear
  • Windproof jacket
  • Down jacket (for higher elevations)
  • Liner and woolen socks
  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • Gaiters
  • Woolen slippers or flip-flops
  • Light trekking shoes/sport shoes
  • Insulated and waterproof gloves
  • High SPF sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • Toiletries and personal care items
  • Permits and other essential documents
  • Cash
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Backpack to carry your trek essentials
  • Sleeping bag for cozy nights at alpine altitudes
  • Trekking poles for balance and support while walking
  • Head torch/flashlights with spare batteries
  • UV-protected sunglasses 
  • Water purification filter
  • First aid kit
  • Navigation tools like maps, compass, and GPS
  • Camera and cellphone 
  • Portable charger 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential in case of illness or injury during the journey. You need to have comprehensive travel insurance for remote Himalayan trekking, which can strike difficult and risky situations. 

Travel insurance takes care of several unthought-of expenses, such as medical fees in case of accidents and injuries, lost or stolen belongings, delays due to bad weather, natural calamities, emergency evacuations, trip cancellations, etc. With travel insurance, you can experience a safe and stress-free adventure.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is a possibility during the Langtang Valley trek, which takes you to the significant altitudes of high-Himalayan regions. The highest point you reach during this trek is 5,000 meters at Tserko Ri, when the symptoms of altitude sickness may start to appear after crossing 2,500 meters altitudes. So, to avoid altitude sickness, you can follow these basic remedies.

  • Stay well hydrated
  • Avoid the consumption of alcohol and other harmful beverages 
  • Take a slow pace of ascent by allowing enough time to acclimatize to the changing altitudes 
  • Descend down to familiar elevations and stay there until the symptoms improve
  • Intake the medication such as Diamox tablet as per the doctor’s prescription 
FAQs

The best time for the Langtang Valley trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is clear and the mountain views are stunning.

 

The Langtang Valley trek is considered moderate in difficulty. While the trails are well-established, trekkers need to be prepared for steep ascents and high altitudes.