Langtang Circuit Trek

The Langtang Circuit Trek is a captivating journey through Nepal's Langtang region, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual significance. This 17-day trek takes you through the Langtang Valley, up to Kyanjin Gompa, and across the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, providing stunning views of Himalayan peaks and encounters with local Tamang and Tibetan communities. Highlights include panoramic mountain vistas, the serene Gosaikunda Lake, and the less crowded trails, making this trek an unforgettable adventure.

Trip Fact

DestinationNepal
Durations17 days
Trip DifficultyModerate to Challenging
ActivitiesTrekking
AccommodationHotel/Resort in City and Guest House during Trek
MealsBreakfast Lunch & Dinner
Group Size15+

Overview

Highlights

scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi.
Views of glistening mountains, including Dorje Lakpa, Yansa Tenji, Langtang Ri, and Kimsung.
Discover rich flora and fauna such as musk deer, snow leopard, langur, and red panda.
A quick stroll to Langtang's famed cheese factory and Tserko Ri.
A short trip of Kyanjin Gompa and Langtang Village.
Explore the purest holy: Gosaikunda lake.
Cross the 12,000-foot Lauribinayak Pass.
Explore ancient monasteries, vibrant Mani walls, and stunning structures.
Explore the amazing Kimsung and Lirung glaciers.

The Langtang Circuit Trek is a magnificent adventure that takes you through the stunning Langtang Valley, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. This trekking journey, also known as Langtang Circuit Trekking, offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, lush forests, and picturesque villages. As you embark on this Langtang Hiking adventure, you'll have the opportunity to explore the region's rich cultural heritage and experience the warm hospitality of the local people.

The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syafrubesi, followed by a series of ascents and descents through dense forests and rugged terrain. Along the way, you'll pass through traditional villages, such as Lama Hotel and Langtang Village, and visit sacred sites like Kyanjin Gompa. The trek reaches its climax at Gosaikunda Lake, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site situated at an altitude of 4,460m. From here, you'll cross the Lauribinayak pass and begin your descent to Phedi, Tharepati, and eventually back to Kathmandu.

Throughout the Langtang Circuit Trek, you'll be treated to spectacular vistas of the surrounding mountains, including Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu. This trekking adventure is an ideal choice for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in Nepal's majestic Himalayan landscape.

Key Highlights:

Explore the beautiful Langtang Valley and Kyanjin Gompa
Visit the sacred Gosaikunda Lake and cross the Lauribinayak Pass
Experience the rich Tamang and Tibetan culture in traditional villages
Enjoy panoramic views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and other Himalayan peaks
Trek through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to alpine meadows and high-altitude terrains

Langtang Circuit Trekking is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure and cultural immersion. The trek offers panoramic views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and other Himalayan peaks, along with encounters with the local Tamang and Tibetan communities. The region's natural beauty is complemented by the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, a major pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, adding a spiritual dimension to the trek.

Langtang Hiking is not just about stunning landscapes; it's also an opportunity to explore the resilience and hospitality of the local people who are rebuilding their lives after the devastating earthquake of 2015. The trek is relatively less crowded than the more popular Everest and Annapurna regions, providing a more serene and intimate trekking experience. With varied terrains, cultural richness, and breathtaking mountain vistas, the Langtang Circuit Trek is a remarkable journey for trekkers of all levels.

While the Everest region is home to the Sherpa ethnic community, the Langtang region is home to the Tamang people, one of Nepal's largest indigenous communities. Langtang region is located in the north-central Himalayan area of Nepal's Bagmati province, approximately 50 kilometers from Kathmandu valley, the country's capital city.It's one of the most thrilling treks, with breathtaking views, cultural landmarks, and lots of places of interest that no one may miss up. Any avid hiker, but especially beginners, will enjoy this easy-to-reach hike in Langtang, which includes picturesque scenery.

The Langtang Circuit is probably the most enjoyable of the region's treks. Hikers can easily access the circuit and climb their way up without much difficulty or pain. Trekking the circuit is even more comfortable and convenient with Shepherd Holidays because we take care of all your needs and even provide you with a trekking guide.

Not only that, but trekkers who complete the Langtang Circuit will learn about the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle. Visitors are more likely to learn about Tamang customs and heritage because they make up the majority of the village's population.

There are numerous primordial monasteries, chortens, and Mani walls here that reflect the Tamang people's rich history, customs, and shared beliefs. The locals in the village are extremely friendly and welcoming to all visitors.

They extend warm hospitality to visitors and make them feel at home. Trekking the Langtang Circuit is about learning about different people while also having an unforgettable experience and adventure.

Langtang Circuit is located in the north-central Himalayas at an altitude of 5,520 meters, making it easily accessible. Syafrubesi, located 49.6 kilometers from Kathmandu, serves as the trek's starting point. The trip begins in this popular village and continues on the Tamang Heritage Trail and the Gosainkunda trek.
Trekkers set out on a hike to the circuit, crossing the Bhotekoshi River and walking alongside Lamjung Khola. The direct trail to Lama Hotel takes them uphill through a dense forest filled with rhododendron and sal. Hikers reach the summit by following rugged trails that lead through the remote settlements of Langtang and Kyanjin Gompa.

Most trekkers stop here to visit the monastery and pray alongside the devotees. From here, the trail leads to Gosainkunda, traversing rugged terrain dotted with rocks. Gosainkunda is another stunning landmark in Langtang, nestled between glistening mountains and hills and offering unrealistic views.

Langtang's diversified landscape provides a beautiful display. It provides visitors with a picturesque view of rocky hills, peaceful lakes, and beautiful vistas. If that's not enough, trekkers get to ascend the beautiful Kyanjin Ri, which is the nearest.

Gosainkunda, an oligotrophic freshwater lake fed by melting glaciers, is regarded as a sacred spot for Hindus. It's really nice, with a relaxing environment and breathtaking views all around. From here, the trail ascends to Lauribinayak Pass before continuing on to Phedi.

It appears to pass through Tharepati and Kutumsang, following unpaved trails over steep hills. Similarly, the trail leads past numerous villages and across gushing rivers and streams before arriving at Sundarijal. The staff of Shepherd Holidays will then take a 30-minute drive to Kathmandu Valley.

Detail Itinerary

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1Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu airport and Transfer to the Hotel

Immerse yourself in Kathmandu's vibrant culture and beautiful sights until your flight arrives at Tribhuvan International Airport. When you arrive, our representatives will meet you at the terminal and transport you to your hotel. Freshen up and get some rest before we meet in the evening for a pre-trip discussion.

You'll meet the crew members there, who will assist you in making primary plans for the journey. If you have any concerns about the trekking equipment that needs to be purchased, you can do so right now.

2Day 02

Whole Day Sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley

You can leave your bags today while we take a short tour of Kathmandu Valley. We'll start by visiting Kathmandu Durbar Square, which isn't far from Thamel. We'll arrive in less than ten minutes and be treated to a spectacular display of former royal palaces, statues, courtyards, and religious shrines.

Durbar Square features some impressive old temples with fine wooden carvings and Newari architecture. Kumari Ghar, Jagannath Temple, Kal Bhairav, and Hanuman Dhoka are among the highlights of the visit.

After that great start, we'll head to Monkey Temple, which is located on a hilltop in the northwest of Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhunath is one of Nepal's most sacred Buddhist stupas, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

There are numerous small and large Chortens, prayer flags, and spinning mani wheels within the stupa's premises. The temple offers visitors a breathtaking view of Kathmandu City, as well as the surrounding hills and forests. During our visit, we'll take a quick tour of the monastery and offer prayers.

We'll then drive from one stupa to the next, eventually arriving at Boudhanath, which is 9.2 kilometers from Swayambhu. It takes us about half an hour to reach the monastery, which has a dome-shaped base that look like a full solid skirt with a cubical structure above.

Inside the stupa, there are numerous rotating mani wheels, flapping prayer flags, and Thangka-themed local shops. The hymn coming from the monastery, with the sound of musical instruments, is quite relaxing.

After exploring the monastery, we'll drive to the hotel. On the way, we'll stop at the Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple located on the banks of the Bagmati River. There are hundreds of small temples, ashrams, and courtyards, as well as Pagoda-style temples with stone statues.

Unlike Boudhanath, the Pashupatinath Temple is a little chaotic, with devotees from all over the world. After attending the evening aarti, we'll return to the hotel a little earlier, giving you enough time to rest before the adventure begins.

3Day 03

Drive to Syafrubesi (1,503m/7-8 hours)

We'll leave Kathmandu and travel to Syabrubesi in the early morning. We'll leave the valley and head north on the main valley route. As the journey progresses, we arrive in the picturesque town of Dhunche, which is often crowded.
Driving through the valley, we can see tall hills, small villages, rushing rivers, and beautiful meadows. Unless the weather is bad, you can see beautiful Himalayan ranges like Annapurna, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal.After following the Trishuli River, the path leads to Syabrubesi, which has a picturesque view of green terraces and pastures. After nearly 7-8 hours of jeep riding, we will arrive in the stunning Syabrubesi, the starting point for the Langtang Trek.

4Day 04

Trek to Lama Hotel (2,470m/6 hours)

We begin our Langtang Circuit Trek in Syabrubesi, following the trail along the Bhote Koshi and Langtang Rivers. From here, we walk through the birch forest and terrace fields before arriving at the remote settlement.
Walking through the forest, we may come across some wild animals, including the red panda. Following that, the trail gently slopes upward to Rimche via Bamboo, which lies on the banks of the Langtang River. We'll arrive at Lama Hotel after a few extra miles of trekking on the course. There are numerous lodging options in the village for visitors to stay the night.

5Day 05

Trek to Langtang Village (3,430m/6 hours)

We leave the settlement and follow the trail, which runs alongside a river and ascends steep hills through dense forest. It then travels along the narrow river valley until it widens at Ghoda Tabela. Before continuing our journey, we'll stop at an army checkpoint in this former Tibetan settlement to register our papers.
We then proceed to Chyamki village, gradually ascending and passing through a few remote settlements. As the trail approaches Langtang village, we will see numerous chortens, mani walls, and prayer wheels. After walking past the small stream, we'll arrive at Langtang Village, which has breathtaking scenery. Trekkers can get glimpses of towering mountains and hilltops from here. Stay overnight in a hotel.

6Day 06

Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (3,865m/3 hours)

The trek from Langtang to Kyanjin Gompa begins with a short and easy walk. Before ascending to higher elevations, the trail passes through a small highland, yak pasture, several remote villages, and mani walls. The trek from here is difficult, with continuous steep hills and low atmospheric pressure, which slows progress.
We'll head to Kyanjin Gompa after passing by water mills and sacred rock cairns with inscriptions. It is one of the oldest and most renowned Tibetan monasteries in Langtang, located at an elevation of 15,655 feet. From the crest, you can see a mountain range, as well as rolling hills and valleys. Tonight, we'll stay in a guest house.

7Day 07

Exploration Day

After the long and exhausting journey of the previous day, it's only fair that we take a day off from hiking. So, instead of heading to the trail, we'll spend our time exploring the valley and taking in the breathtaking views.
We will visit Kyajin Gompa early in the morning and pray with other Buddhists. We'll leave the monastery and head to Langtang's famous cheese factory. For acclimatization, we'll climb Kyanjin Ri, which stands at 4,773 meters.
It is as popular with Langtang trekkers as Kala Patthar, and it is breathtakingly beautiful. It takes only 2-3 hours to walk to the top, but it won't be easy. The trail leading to the ridge is steep and rugged, making trekking stressful and exhausting.
However, once at the crest, trekkers will be relaxed and rewarded with breathtaking scenery all around. Kyanjin Ri is the highest point on the Langtang trek, so you can expect to see Langtang Lirung, the Langtang glacier, and the Rocky Mountains. As an alternative, you can spend the day hiking to Tserko Ri 4985 meters.
From up here, we can see some Tibetan sculptures carved into beautiful stones, steppe lands, and breathtaking valleys. After exploring the viewpoint and having a wonderful time, we return to Kyanjin Gompa via the trail. Overnight stay in a teahouse.

8Day 08

Trek from Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel (2,470m/6 hours)

After a relaxing day at Kyanjin Gompa, we'll return to the trail that leads down to the valley. Following the same route as before, we'll pass through Langtang Village and Ghoda Tabela, where the army checkpoint keeps track of our exit.
We'll grab lunch at the village before continuing down the trail through the river valley's dense forest. After a trek of about an hour or more, we'll arrive at the Lama Hotel, which will also serve as our overnight lodging.

9Day 09

Trek to Thulo Syafru (2,230m/2-3 hours)

After breakfast, we'll head straight to the trail that runs alongside the Langtang River and leads down to the beautiful valley. Climbing down through the bamboo and birch forest will reward us with a breathtaking view of diverse landscapes, rolling green hills, and gleaming mountains.
In between, we'll cross the Langtang and Bhotekoshi rivers before descending to Syabrubesi. The final few hours of the trek to the valley are difficult, with steep climbs. When the path ends in the village, you'll be able to enjoy the stunning backdrop of lofty mountains with a terrace farm on the side.

10Day 10

Sing Gompa from Syafru village (3,250m/3-4 hours)

We leave Syafru Village and head to Singh Gompa, which is 2.3 miles away. Walking the trails here can take between 3 and 4 hours, depending on your pace. The trek starts with a slow and steep walk over rough terrain and into the rhododendron forests.
On our way to Singh Gompa, we'll pass through numerous traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and chortens. While exploring the trails, you'll notice a number of stone-fenced walls and prayer flags. Trekkers on the Tamang Heritage trail learn about local culture and traditions while enjoying scenic views of snow-capped mountains. Even after arriving at the remote settlement, you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking views. Images of Ghengu Liru, Langtang II, and Dorje Lakpa. We'll spend the night in a teahouse in Singh Gompa.

11Day 11

Trek to Gosaikunda Lake (4,460m/5-6 hours)

Unlike the previous day's trek, today's hike is more enjoyable, with well-marked trails. The journey begins with an ascent over a steep ridge alongside the gleaming Hiunchuli and Manaslu. After about an hour of ascending, the trail descends the hill, offering stunning views of Sarswati and Bhairav Kunda.

Finally, after a 5-to-6-hour hike on a winding trail with a few ups and downs, we arrive at the stunning Gosainkunda. Gosainkunda lake, situated at an elevation of 4,380 meters, is extremely important to Hindu pilgrims. They consider the lake to be Lord Shiva's abode and therefore visit it during major festivals and events.

Gosainkunda, part of the Langtang Circuit trek, is incredibly charming and has a peaceful atmosphere. It is surrounded by towering rocky peaks, pure glaciers, and breathtaking scenery. After exploring the lake and its surroundings, we will return to the village and spend the night in a tea house.

12Day 12

Pass across the Lauribinayak pass and descend to Phedi (4,610m/7-8 hours)

Following an incredible trip to Gosainkunda, it's time to get back on the trail and begin hiking to Phed. So, right after breakfast, we retrace our steps back from the rocky moraine, which is somewhat strenuous. The first few miles of the trek are up a steep incline, but they are rewarded with a beautiful view. The trail leading to Laurina Pass is likely the most difficult of all walks, with a constant elevation gain and loose rocks.

At this altitude, trekkers are less likely to experience altitude sickness. After crossing the Laurinayak Pass, the hike becomes slightly easier with a few downhill walks. The Helambu Valley trail, which winds through the rhododendron forest, awaits us with a scenic view.

The final few hours of the trek take us through lush meadows and past the village of Surya Kunda. Soon after climbing down the trails through Surya Kunda, we arrive at the charming village of Phedi.

13Day 13

Tharepati from Phedi (3,690m/2-3 hours)

Today's hike is short but difficult, with uneven trails and a walk over a mountain ridge. It begins with an easy walk downhill and through the forest before ascending through narrow lanes and steep rocky slopes. After a few miles, the trail descends to Tadi Khola, from which we will arrive at the small settlement of Ghopte.
It's a popular spot for hikers to refuel after a long day of walking and eat lunch, breakfast, or grab some snacks. After a half-hour of relaxation, we continue our trek to Tharepati, which includes both uphill and downhill sections. On the way to Tharepati, there is an old chorten Stay overnight at a local teahouse.

14Day 14

Trek to Kumutsang (2,470m/5-6 hours)

We're ready to continue our trek to Kutumsang after enjoying a warm breakfast and spectacular views at Phedi. We'll descend the trail through the forest and climb the hills outside of the village on our way to Mangengoth. It is a shepherd village located on a hilltop at an elevation of 3,499 meters.

Travelers can enjoy breathtaking views of glistening snow peaks, picture-perfect villages, verdant valleys, and surrounding hills. As the trail leads to Kyuola Bhanjyangng, the view of Dorje Lakpa gradually fades from the frame. The last few hours of the hike will be spent gently climbing down the trail that leads to Kutumsung.

We'll be able to see the spectacular scenery of lush green farms, rolling hills, and deep valleys from the village. It also includes a stunning sunrise view, but you'll need to get up before dawn to see it. After the scenic sightseeing, we'll return to the lodge and retire for the day.

15Day 15

Kumutsang to Chisapani (2,300m/6-7hours)

Next, we travel to Chisapani, which marks the end of our Langtang Circuit Trek. The trek from Tharepati to Kutumnsang will take approximately 5-6 hours. The majority of its sections are uphill, which can be exhausting, but the views are simply breathtaking.

From the highland village of Kutumsang, we'll slowly ascend the trail to Jogin Danda ridge before dropping down to Gul Bhanjyang. We follow the well-marked trail to the ridges of Thotong and Lapcha Danda.

After reaching the crest, we descend the trail to Chipling and continue down a steep hill with narrow lanes until we arrive at Pati Bhanjyang. From here, it takes about an hour or two to reach Chisapani, where we'll end our journey. Overnight stay at a lodge.

16Day 16

Drive to Kathmandu after trekking to Sundarijal (1,460m/4-5 hours)

Today marks the final day of our Langtang Circuit Trek. So, after a warm breakfast early in the morning, we'll race to the trail that leads to Borlang Bhanjyang Pass. From there, we'll make our way through the dense forest to Mulkharka, a small Tamang village. Walking further, the trail descends to Sundarijal via Shivapuri National Park.
Following that, we'll take a 1–2-hour scenic drive to Kathmandu. The ride offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, rushing rivers, snowcapped mountains, and waterfalls. When you arrive in the valley, our officials will take you to the airport, where you can sleep.

17Day 17

Departure from Kathmandu

If the provided schedule isn't suitable for you, we are able to create personalized travel arrangements according to your preferences and requirements.

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Cost Details

Cost Includes

Airport pickup and drop by private vehicle.
Three nights Kathmandu 3* hotel hotel twin sharing Hotel including breakfast.
Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) including a cup of tea/coffee.
Fresh fruit every night after dinner.
Trekking lodge(Tea House) accommodation during the trek.
Langtang National Park entry permit & Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) permit.
Bus to Syabrubesi and again and private transport to Kathmandu from Sundarijal.
A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transport, and Insurance.
A Strong, helpful porter with proper equipment (one porter for two people).
Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by your Travel insurance company.
Government taxes, Service charge and official expenses.
Guided Sightseeing tour with private vehicle.
Use of sleeping bag, down Jacket and walking Poles (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed). Using these 3 items you pay $10 USD each as maintenance and washing charge
Shepherd Holidays T-shirt cap cap and duffel bag.
Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible for all levels of trekker.
Assistant guide group size above 6+ person.

Cost Excludes

Meals while you are in Kathmandu Lunch and Dinner.
Nepal entry visa $50 USD for 30 days visa on arrival.
Your Travel and medical insurance.
International airfare.
Your personal expenses.
All the alcoholic and non alcoholic and all hot and cold drinks.
All deserts Sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
Tips for the guide, porter and driver (Tipping is expected).
Kathmandu sightseeing tour entrance fees $30 USD per person approximately.

Good to Know

Transportation:
Shepherd Holidays will provide you with a private vehicle for this trip.

Guides and Porter:
Shepherd Holidays will provide you well an experienced guide for the trip.

Insurance/Evacuation:
We do not hope that there may arise any serious problems for you in your journey, but if you get caught by a serious illness, then we will do our best to take you to the nearest health post or hospital possible. However, you will be responsible for all the expenses that take place during the evacuation process. So, you should be properly insured before the trip.

Trip Extensions:
If you like our service and would like to explore Nepal more or take part in any other adventurous activities in Nepal, India, Tibet, or Bhutan, please feel free to contact us for further details.

Custom Itinerary:
If you'd like to suggest a different itinerary or plans for the given trip, feel free to contact us so that we can make the best out of your custom-made trip upon your request.