Langtang Valley,Gosainkunda & Helambu Trek

This 16-day trek takes you through the Langtang Valley and over high passes to the glacier lake of Gosainkunda, on a route that stays remote and sparsely populated for most of its length. You start in the hill town of Syabrubesi and finish at Sundarijal, with the trail moving through rhododendron and conifer forest, alpine pasture, moraines and glaciers along the way.

Gosainkunda itself is the centrepiece — one of 108 lakes in the area and a site held sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists, said to be the dwelling place of Lord Shiva. If your timing lines up with the full moon of Bhadra (around August), you may see pilgrims and shamans gathering there for an annual ritual celebration.

Beyond the lake, the trek is as much about the people and villages as the scenery, passing through Tamang and Sherpa settlements within Langtang National Park, with wide Himalayan views opening up from the higher points on the route.

What you'll do

• Trek from Syabrubesi through Langtang Valley and Langtang National Park
• Walk through rhododendron and conifer forest into alpine pasture and moraine terrain
• Reach the glacier lake of Gosainkunda, sacred to Hindus and Buddhists
• Cross Lauribinayak Pass en route to Sundarijal
• Pass through Tamang and Sherpa villages
• Possible full moon (Bhadra) pilgrimage gathering at Gosainkunda, around August