Langtang Valley Trek
The Langtang Valley Trek is one of the most popular and worthwhile trekking trails in the Nepal Himalayas. It is positioned north of Kathmandu in the Langtang National Park, a park where you will find towering snow-capped mountains, beautiful glaciers, and distinctive wildlife. This beautiful trekking trail lies in a narrow Langtang valley close to the border with Tibet, but still far from the Tibetan plateau.
The Langtang Valley trekking is relatively easy and less crowded than different popular trekking trails in Nepal, and offers a variety of landscapes, from lush green forests and terraced fields to high alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks.
The Langtang Valley trek also offers the opportunity to experience the unique culture and hospitality of the local Tamang and Tibetan communities. The people living here look like Tibetans, the great influence of Tibet can be felt in this valley. The forests on this trek are home to numerous wild animals and birds, including wild boars, Himalayan black bears, ghorals, gray langurs, leopards, musk deer, the endangered red panda, and over 250 species of birds.
The Langtang Valley trek usually starts and ends at Syabrubesi, a small town in the Langtang region, which is easily accessible from Kathmandu. To reach Syabrubesi, you can take a private jeep or a local bus from Kathmandu, which takes about 6 to 8 hours.
From Syabru Besi, the trek follows the Langtang River through lush rhododendron and bamboo forests, with occasional waterfalls and native wildlife. During the trekking you will pass by small villages like Rimche, Lama Hotel, Ghodatabela and Langtang village before reaching your final destination Kyanjin Gumba (3,870 m).
Kyanjin Gompa is an important highlight of the trek. It houses a Buddhist monastery with panoramic views of Langtang Lirung (7,227 m) and other surrounding peaks. From Kyanjin Gompa it is possible to do a day hike to higher places like Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m) or Tserko Ri (4,984 m), which offer breathtaking views of the mountains and glaciers.
However, you will have to return to Kyanjin Gompa and spend the night there. This is necessary because there are no more tea houses after Kyanjin Gompa. Tserko Ri (4,984 m) requires more time and energy for a day hike from Kyanjin Gompa, so most people prefer to hike to Kyanjin Ri only. You can choose to climb Kyanjin Ri or Tserko Ri, or you can do both.
After visiting the higher places, return to Syabru Besi to finish the trek. The way back to Syabrubesi follows the same route as the ascent, but may be faster due to the descending terrain. From Syabrubesi, you will take a bus or private jeep back to Kathmandu, depending on which service you have decided.
If you want to make this trek longer, it is better to start the trek from Dhunche or finish it in Dhunche. And if you have a few more days for the trek, you can also add Gosaikunda (Gosaikunda Lake). It is a beautiful pilgrimage site in the region.
11 days Langtang Valley Trek includes 6 days trekking (or 8 days from Kathmandu), one day sightseeing in Kathmandu, two days for arrival and departure from Kathmandu.
Customizing the trip itinerary and package
We can definitely customize the trip itinerary and package according to your preferences. Regarding the hotel in Kathmandu, you have the option to book it yourself, or we can assist you in finding suitable accommodation based on your requirements.
If you prefer not to hire a porter and carry the luggage yourself, that is certainly possible. However, please note that for full board trekking packages, a guide is mandatory for safety and logistical reasons.
Please let us know your specific preferences and any other details you would like to include in your itinerary, and we will be happy to assist you further in creating a personalized trip package.
Langtang Valley Trek Highlights
- The Langtang Valley trek is easily accessible from Kathmandu, making it a convenient choice for trekkers with limited time.
- Breathtaking Himalayan views, including Langtang Lirung (7,234 meters), Ganesh Himal, and other surrounding peaks.
- Lush green forests, rhododendron blooms in spring, and alpine meadows.
- Traditional villages provide insight into the local way of life.
- Friendly people, who have a rich cultural heritage with influences from both Tibetan and Nepalese traditions.
- Explore the ancient Buddhist monastery of Kyanjin Gompa is a significant cultural and spiritual site.
- Optional side trips to Kyanjin Ri (4,773 meters) and Tserko Ri (4,984 meters) for panoramic views.
- The trek takes you through Langtang National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and various species of birds.
- Staying in Mountain Lodges along the route offers the opportunity to socialize with other hikers, swap stories and enjoy the local cuisine.
Langtang Valley Trek Cost
The cost of the Langtang Valley trekking package depends on various factors. These include the duration of the trek, the size of the group (Larger groups might be able to negotiate better rates, while solo trekkers or small groups may pay a premium for personalized services), the level of services included (budget, standard, luxury) and the reputation and standard of the trekking company you choose.
All-inclusive Langtang Valley trekking costs between $650 and $1150 per person with Alpine Adventure Club, including permits, guides, porters, accommodation, food, and transportation.
The Alpine Adventure Club announces the cost and some fixed departure dates for the Langtang Valley Trek for groups joining in 2024 and 2025, the cost includes the standard service. If you wish to participate in a private trek, the cost will be different.
Langtang Valley Trek 11 Days Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport, transfer to Hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 03: Drive to Syabru Besi (1,503 m)
Day 04: Trek to Lama Hotel (2,400 m)
Day 05: Trek to Langtang village (3,430 m)
Day 06: Trek to Kyangjin Gompa (3,870 m)
Day 07: Excursion around Kyanjin Gompa - Hike either Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m) or Tsergo Ri (4,984 m)
Day 08: Trek to Lama Hotel (2,470 m)
Day 09: Trek to Syabru Besi (1,503 m)
Day 10: Drive to Kathmandu (1,350 m)
Day 11: Depart Kathmandu