The Gosaikunda Lake Trek is an 8-day spiritual and scenic adventure in Nepal’s Langtang National Park, located north of Kathmandu in the Rasuwa district. Priced at $550 per person, this moderate trek takes you to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m / 14,370 ft), a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva created the lake by piercing a glacier with his trident to quench his thirst after consuming poison during the Samudra Manthan (ocean churning). The trek, covering approximately 45 km round-trip from Dhunche, offers breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks like Langtang Lirung (7,246 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), and glimpses of the Annapurna range on clear days.
This trek is ideal for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and spiritual significance. The trail winds through lush rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, alpine meadows, and traditional Tamang villages, showcasing the region’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Trekkers may encounter wildlife such as red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and musk deer, alongside vibrant birdlife and wildflowers. The route is less crowded than popular treks like Everest Base Camp, offering a tranquil experience, especially outside the Janai Purnima festival in August, when thousands of pilgrims visit for a holy dip. With a maximum altitude of 4,610 m at Lauribina Pass, the trek requires moderate fitness and careful acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Basic teahouses provide cozy lodging and hearty meals, ensuring a comfortable journey through this pristine Himalayan landscape.
Visit the sacred Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m), a significant Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Experience the rich Tamang and Sherpa cultures in traditional mountain villages.
Trek through Langtang National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendrons and red pandas.
Enjoy a less crowded trail compared to other popular Himalayan treks.
Combine adventure with spirituality amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
The Gosaikunda Lake Trek starts at $550 per person for an 8-day package, offering excellent value for a Himalayan adventure. This cost typically includes:
Permits: Langtang National Park Entry Permit ($30) and TIMS card ($10 for group trekkers, $20 for solo).
Accommodation: Teahouses or lodges during the trek (twin rooms with shared bathrooms) and a hotel in Kathmandu for pre- and post-trek nights.
Meals: Three meals daily during trekking (breakfast, lunch, dinner), featuring Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat, Tibetan, and Indian options.
Guide and Porter: A licensed guide ($25–$35/day) and porter ($15–$20/day, carrying up to 20 kg for two people) for navigation and luggage support.
Transportation: Round-trip local bus from Kathmandu to Dhunche (6–8 hours, $10–$15 one way) or optional private jeep ($200–$245, split among 6–8 people).
Additional expenses may include personal items (snacks, hot showers, device charging: $2–$5 each at higher altitudes), travel insurance (covering up to 5,000 m), and tips for guides/porters (10% of trek cost recommended). Group discounts (5–10% for 5+ people) and off-season deals can lower costs, while deluxe packages with private transport or extra amenities may reach $700.
Breathtaking vistas of Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Manaslu (8,163m), and Ganesh Himal.
Serene alpine lakes, including Gosaikunda, Bhairav Kunda, and Saraswati Kunda.
Rolling hills, dense forests, and high-altitude meadows with panoramic Himalayan backdrops.
Stunning sunrise and sunset views from Lauribina Pass (4,610m).
Ideal for moderately fit trekkers with some hiking experience.
Perfect for those seeking a spiritual and scenic trek in a shorter timeframe (5-7 days).
Suitable for adventurers comfortable with high altitudes (up to 4,610m) and basic teahouse stays.
Not recommended for beginners with no trekking experience or those with serious health conditions.
Physical Preparation:
Train with cardio exercises (running, hiking, cycling) 2-3 months prior to build stamina.
Practice hill walking with a loaded backpack to prepare for uneven terrain.
Focus on leg and core strength for long trekking days and high-altitude climbs.
Proper Gear:
Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support.
Layered clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket, and a warm down jacket.
Trekking poles, UV-protective sunglasses, and a hat for sun and wind protection.
A sleeping bag rated for -10°C and a 20-30L daypack for essentials.
Pack Light:
Keep your backpack to 5-7 kg; porters can carry up to 10-12 kg.
Avoid non-essential items like heavy electronics or extra clothing.
Use dry bags to organize gear and protect against rain or snow.
Hydration and Altitude:
Drink 3-4 liters of water daily to combat dehydration at high altitudes.
Carry water purification tablets or a filter for safe drinking water.
Watch for altitude sickness symptoms (headaches, dizziness) above 3,500m.
Acclimatization:
Follow the itinerary’s gradual ascent to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Spend an extra day at Gosaikunda (4,380m) for acclimatization and exploration.
Descend immediately if severe altitude symptoms (confusion, shortness of breath) occur.
Cash and Connectivity:
Carry Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in small denominations for teahouses and tips.
No ATMs after Dhunche; plan cash needs in Kathmandu or Syabrubesi.
Limited mobile network; a local SIM (NTC or Ncell) may work in some areas.
Power Solutions:
Teahouses have limited electricity; carry a 10,000mAh power bank.
Solar chargers are a reliable backup for remote areas.
Expect to pay for device charging at teahouses (NPR 100-300 per charge).
Toiletries:
Pack biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and wet wipes.
Bring a quick-dry towel and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
Carry toilet paper and a small trowel for outdoor use in remote areas.
Respect Local Culture:
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially near religious sites.
Seek permission before photographing locals or sacred sites like Gosaikunda Lake.
Respect pilgrimage customs, such as walking clockwise around lakes and stupas.
Permits:
Langtang National Park Entry Permit (approx. NPR 3,000).
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card (approx. NPR 2,000).
Obtain permits via a registered trekking agency or in Kathmandu.
Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) for vibrant flora and Autumn (September-November) for clear skies.
Trek Duration: 5-7 days, starting from Dhunche or Syabrubesi (accessible by bus from Kathmandu).
Difficulty: Moderate, with 5-6 hours of daily walking and a max altitude of 4,610m (Lauribina Pass).
Accommodation: Basic teahouses with shared rooms and simple meals (dal bhat, noodles, tea).
Guides/Porters: Hiring a guide or porter is recommended for navigation and cultural insights.
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal, offering clear skies, mild weather, and vibrant scenery. March–May features blooming rhododendrons, while September–November provides crisp mountain views. Winter (December–February) is colder but quieter, with possible snow at higher altitudes. Monsoon season (June–August) is wet, with risks of landslides and leeches.
Moderate to challenging, with 6–9-hour days and high passes (5,306m–5,416m). Suitable for fit trekkers with some experience; acclimatization days reduce altitude sickness risks.
Langtang National Park Permit (NPR 3,000) and TIMS card (NPR 2,000), obtainable in Kathmandu or via a trekking agency.
Not mandatory but recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights. Porters carry up to 10-12 kg, easing your load.
Basic teahouses provide shared rooms and meals like dal bhat, noodles, and tea. Limited electricity; bring a power bank.