The Langtang trek is a trek with real heart. The Langtang Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Nepal and was once the darling of trekkers seeking stunning landscapes and authentic culture along with heartwarming hospitality in delightful homestay guest houses - all within easy reach of Kathmandu. However, the Langtang Valley is almost devoid of visitors these days as the people of Langtang are continuing to rebuild their lives after the 2015 earthquake. Survivors of the landslides caused by the earthquake were forced to leave the valley, but now they have come back to reclaim their homeland, rebuild their homes and re-establish their farms. Trekking in this beautiful valley will support the people of Langtang by providing much-needed income to rebuild in a sustainable and secure way. This is not charity; this is the business end of sustainable travel, where your travel choices can respectfully support local people while preserving their dignity, their culture and their way of life. Be wowed by nature, be humbled by the human spirit and be a part of local solutions when you choose to trek in Langtang.

• Pass through stunning forests, high alpine meadows, and yak pastures
• Enjoy panoramic views across vast open valleys at the end of the trek
• Support people rebuilding their lives and livelihoods after the earthquake
• Incredible mountain views of the Langtang Himalayas, valley and across to Tibet from Kyanjin Ri

The trek starts at the small town of Syabru Besi. You will trek through magnificent forests to the high alpine meadows and yak pastures around Kyangjin Gompa (a Buddhist monastery). After an (optional) day hike up to the top of Kyangjin Ri (peak), where the 360-degree views of the Himalayan mountains are truly spectacular, you retrace your route back down the valley and drive back to Kathmandu.

If time is limited and money isn’t an issue, consider adding a helicopter ride out from Kyanjin. Not only will this shorten the trip significantly and prevent you from needing to retrace your route, but you’ll have unforgettable views that can’t be had any other way.

If you're interested in doing the Langtang trek, connect with one of our local specialists in Nepal who can organize the trek for you. You'll have an experienced licensed guide, a well thought through itinerary, and the flexibility during the trek to move at your own pace.

Is Langtang Valley Trek for you?

Langtang Valley Trek is a moderate level trek which can be attempted by beginners as well. No prior experience is required as the trek is mostly done on flat surfaces going up and down. The terrain turns rocky at times but doesn’t cause extreme difficulty to the trekkers. So, you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty without any severe strain. This 10 days trek isn’t strenuous but exercising days before the trek could help.

If you consider this trek to be highly demanding you could opt for our Langtang Valley Heli Trek which is an 8 days trekking venture. You will have an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Langtang valley just as heavenly. However, the only difference is after you reach the highest point, you will be flying back to Kathmandu in a Helicopter. The Langtang Valley’s beauty can be experienced in an aerial view giving you a whole new perspective of the journey. It is the best of both worlds as you can appreciate the beauty both up close and distance. You can get more information on it, here.

Variations

If you have got more time, this trek combines well with the nearby Tamang Heritage trail, which adds an extra 4-6 days of trekking. There you will learn more about the ethnic Tamang people, who originally came from Tibet. 

Alternatively, trek over Gosainkunda back to Kathmandu instead of driving. Gosainkund is a beautiful blue high-altitude lake. It is preferable to trek to Gosainkunda on the return from Langtang rather than on the way, as it requires a fairly steep ascent, and by this point you will be better acclimatized, making the height of the lake (4,380 m.) less of a concern. (If trekking this route without a guide, be especially careful with the altitude—numerous people have been caught out by a dangerous error in a commonly available trekking map that incorrectly lists some altitudes. Double-check all altitudes before setting off.)

Accommodation & meals

The Langtang Valley had been very well set-up with plenty of comfortable lodges. While the earthquake and landslide destroyed many in certain towns (most dramatically, in Langtang Village), plenty of other settlements were less affected and good options are still plentiful. The standard here is good, with warm blankets, fireplaces, comfortable beds, the occasional hot shower (for an extra fee) and a variety of food. Don’t forget to try the momos in this region, as they are larger and more pastry-like than those commonly found in the capital.

Getting there & away                                                           

To trek in the Langtang National Park, you have to first drive to Syabrubesi, Dunche, or Sano Barkhu to start the trek. Public buses are available from Kathmandu, but slow. A private vehicle or jeep is a much better option. Exit is via the same route unless you trek over Gosainkunda and back through Helambu to Kathmandu.

Permits & regulations

You’ll need a TIMS card (US$10) and a Langtang National Park permit (US$34). If you’re trekking with an agency, they will arrange these for you. If you’re arranging the trek yourself, you’ll need to pick up your TIMS permit in Kathmandu and your Langtang National Park permit in Dunche.