Goshaikunda Lake Trek
Langtang Goshaikunda Lake trek offers a stunning view of the Langtang Himalayas and the Holy Goshaikunda Lake. The trek usually takes around 11 to 16 days and is moderately difficult, with elevation ranging from 1400 meters to 4610 meters above sea level. The trek begins from Syabrubesi which is located about 132 kilometers from Kathmandu. From Syabrubesi, the trail passes through a lush forest, beautiful villages, and scenic villages, before reaching the holy Goshaikund Lake. The lake is considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists and attracts a large number of pilgrims every year. And thousands of trekkers came here to see a mesmerizing view of the Lake.
Along the way, trekkers can enjoy a spectacular view of the Langtang Himalayas including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Ganesh Himal. The trek also provides opportunities to experience the local culture and lifestyle of the Tamang and Sherpa people who inhabit the region. Accommodation on the trek ranges from basic lodges to tea houses, with meals provided at the lodges or tea houses along the way. The best time to do the Langtang Goshaikunda Lake trek is from September to November or from March to May when the weather is clear and the views are spectacular. It is a wonderful experience for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those interested in experiencing the local culture and customs of Nepal.
Trip highlights
- Trek passes through a lush forest, beautiful villages, and scenic villages
- Spectacular view of the Langtang Himalayas including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Ganesh Himal
- Opportunities to experience the local culture and lifestyle of the Tamang and Sherpa people who inhabit the region
- Wonderful experience for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those interested in experiencing the local culture and customs of Nepal
- Explore the old monastery that is Kyanjing Gompas
About Goshaikunda Lake Pilgrimage
Goshaikunda is a sacred high-altitude lake located in the Langtang region of Nepal. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus and is visited by thousands of devotes every year during the full moon festival in August. The lake is believed to have been created by lord Shiva when he pierced a glacier with his trident to obtain water to quench his thirst. According to Hindu mythology, the lake is one of the many holy lakes in the region and is said to have medicinal properties. The lake is also believed to be the abode of several Hindu deities, including the God Shiva and Goddess Gauri.
The Goshaikunda pilgrimage is a challenging trek that takes around 7 to 8 days to complete. The trail passes through rugged terrain, a dense forest, and beautiful alpine landscapes, offering stunning views of the Langtang Mountain range. The trek is also an opportunity to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the Tamang and Sherpa communities who inhabit the region.
How to go for the Langtang Goshaikunda Lake trek?
This trek is a rewarding experience with stunning views of the Himalayas, lush forests, and pristine lakes. Just make sure to plan carefully and enjoy the trek to the fullest. Here is general guidance on how to plan and go for the Langtang Goshaikunda Lake Trek:
1) Plan your itinerary: The trek usually takes around 10 to 12 days, but it can be customized to fit your preference. You can either hire a guide or do the trek independently. If you are doing it independently, make sure to have a detailed itinerary and enough supplies to sustain yourself for the enter trek.
2) Obtain the necessary Permit: To trek in the Langtang National Park, you need to obtain the Langtang National Park Permit and the TIMS. You can obtain them at then you can obtain them at the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu Valley or at the entry point of the Langtang National Park.
3) Get in shape: The trek is a moderately difficult trek with steep ascents and descents. Therefore, it is recommended to do some physical training to prepare you for the trek.
4) Pack wisely: Make sure to pack essential trekking gear such as comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothes, a sleeping bag, a tent, and a water bottle. Also, carry enough food and water as there are limited food options available on the trek.
5) Start trekking: The trek starts from Syabrubesi, which is a 7 to 8 hours drive from Kathmandu. From Syabrubesi, you will take to Lama Hotel, Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, and then to Goshaikunda Lake.
6) Follow safety precautions: Always follow safety precautions while trekking. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and smoking, walk slowly to acclimate, and follow the instruction of your guide.
Culture and tradition of the local people of Langtang Goshaikunda
It is a remote area located in the Himalayan mountain range in northern Nepal, bordering Tibet. The region is known for its unique culture and traditions, which are influenced by both Hindu and Tibetan Buddhism. The local people of this route are primarily Tamang and Sherpa, who have their own distinct language, culture, and traditions.
The traditional dress of the Tamang people includes a long woolen robe called a “Bakkhu” and a “Dhaka topi” or hat made from a traditional Nepali fabric. The Sherpa people traditionally wear a “Karakul” hat and a “Chuba” or robe made from yak wool. Both groups wear colorful scarves and jewelry as part of their traditional attire.
The people of this route also have a rich tradition of music and dance. The Tamang people have their own unique style of dance called “Selo,” which is often performed during festivals and special occasions. The Sherpa people also have their own traditional dance called “Cham,” which is performed during religious festivals. Religion plays a significant role in the culture of this route.
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu Valley
The team of Blue Sheep Trek will be there for you to pick up and welcome you. From the airport, you will take you through Thamel and you will take some rest at the hotel. At the hotel, there will be a guide with a brief description of the trek.
Day 02: Drive to Syabrubesi (1550m / 7 to 8hrs)
From Kathmandu Valley, you can take the Pasang Lhamu Highway, which is also known as the Trishuli Highway. The highway passes through several towns and villages including Galchhi, Betrawati, and Trishuli Bazaar. You will also cross the Trishuli River several times and keep following the Highway until you reach Dunche. From Dunche, the road can be narrow and steep in some places, but it offers stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains. And from Dunche, it takes 45 minutes to reach Syabrubes and spend the overnight night.
Day 03: Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2380m / 6hrs)
The trail follows the Langtang River and goes through several small villages, a dense forest, and suspension bridges. After walking for about 2 to 3 hours, we will reach Bamboo village which is the best place to take some rest. After Bamboo, the trail goes uphill through dense forests until you reach Rimche Village. From here, it is a gradual climb to Lama Hotel.
Day 04: Lama Hotel to Mundu (3545m / 6 to 7hrs)
On this day, the trail is uphill, and you will gain about 600 meters in elevation so it can be quite strenuous. As you trek from Lama Hotel to Mundu, you will pass through lush forests, cross several suspension bridges over the Langtang River, and encounter beautiful waterfalls. You will also see the snow-capped peaks in Langtang Lirung and Langtang II.
Day 05: Mundu to Kyanjin Gompa (3870m / 4 to 5hrs)
From Mundu, trekkers need to follow a trail that passes through several small villages, lush forests, and beautiful landscapes. The trail passes through several high-altitude areas, so trekkers need to be physically fit and mentally prepared to tackle the challenge of the trek. On the way to Kyanjin Gompa, we get a chance to see a mesmerizing view of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Langshisa Ri.
Day 06: Rest day in Kyanjin Gompa
Kyanjin Gompa is a small village in the Langtang Region and today, we take a rest in this village. This village is small but charming and we get a chance to explore the old monastery of the Langtang region. On this day, we also get a chance to visit the cheese factory and also get a chance to explore or hike up Kyanjin Ri.
Day 07: Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel (2380m / 6 to 7hrs)
The trail from Kyanjin Gomapa to Lama Hotel is generally downhill. From there, you will cross the river and then make your way through dense forest, passing through the village of Mundu and Ghoda Tabela before reaching Lama Hotel. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views of the Langtang Himalayan range and the surrounding valleys.
Day 08: Walk to Thulo Syabru (2230m / 5 to 6hrs)
From Lama Hotel, you will follow the trail that goes uphill through a dense forest of rhododendron and Bamboo. As you climb higher, you will start to see the view of the Langtang Lirung mountain range in the distance. The trail is a moderately challenging trek that requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Day 09: Thulo Syabru to Shing Gompa (3330m / 3 to 4hrs)
The trail passes through beautiful landscapes and small villages. The trail from Thulo Syabru to Shing Gompa is a beautiful trek that offers stunning views of the Langtang region. Along the way, the trail gives a chance to experience the culture and lifestyle of the people living in the Langtang region. The trek continues through forests and beautiful landscapes and you will pass through several small villages and suspension bridges.
Day 10: Shing Gompa to Goshikunda Lake (4460m / 5 to 6hrs)
This is a steep uphill climb. The trail passes through several small lakes. The trek will be the most challenging day of the trek and this day trek will be an easy downhill trek. The trail passes through a dense forest of Rhododendron, oak, and pine trees, crossing several small streams and waterfalls on the way.
Day 11: Goshikunda to Ghopte (3440m / 6 to 7hrs)
From Goshikunda, you will need to follow the trail leads toward the Laurebina Pass. The trek from Goshikunda to Laurebina Pass is a steep ascent. From Laurebina Pass, you will need to descend toward the village of Ghopte. The descent from Laurebina Pass to Ghopte is also quite challenging due to the steep and rocky terrain. The trail offers a stunning view of the Himalayan Mountain and the surrounding landscapes.
Day 12: Ghopte to Tarkeghyang (2590m / 5 to 6hrs)
The trek begins in Ghopte, a small village. From here, the trail descends through dense forests and crosses several streams before reaching Kutumsang. From Kutumsang, the trail continues through beautiful rhododendron forests and crosses a ridge before descending into the Melamchi River. The trail then passes through the villages of Tharepati and Melamchigoun before reaching the villages of Tarkeghyang and going to spend overnight.
Day 13: Tarkeghyang to Sermathang (2610m / 4 to 5hrs)
The trek starts with a climb from Tarkeghyang through a lush forest and past waterfalls. You will also pass through small villages and enjoy a stunning view of the surrounding mountain. Along the way, you will pass through the villages of Gangyul, Ghangyul, and Parachin. From Gangyul, the trail continues to climb before descending into the village of Sermathang.
Day 14: Walk to Melamchi Bazaar and drive back to Kathmandu
Today is the last day of trekking the Langtang Goshikunda Lake trek where we will walk toward Melamchi Bazaar. You can follow the Melamchi Valley Trail which offers a stunning mountain and forest. After reaching in Melamchi Bazaar, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to drive toward Kathmandu Valley. The drive typically takes around 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Along the way, you will pass through several scenic villages and towns. After reach in Kathmandu, you will take toward Hotel in Thamel Bazaar. In the evening time, you can walk around Thamel Bazaar.
Day 15: Final Departure
Our team and the guide who is with you on your trekking journey will be at the international airport to see you off. We will say our goodbye and hope that you will give us an opportunity to trek with you all over Nepal.
Route Map
Manual Note :
Trip Reviews
Name: John
JohnAnnapurna Base Camp Trek with Sukman
“The Annapurna Base Camp trek was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. The scenery was breathtaking and the people were incredibly friendly. It was a challenging trek, but well worth the effort.”
Name: Sarah
CanadaABC trek with Bluesheep trek
“I absolutely loved the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The scenery was incredible, from lush forests to towering snow-capped peaks. The highlight was definitely reaching base camp and seeing Annapurna South up close.”
Name: Mike
AustraliaAnnapurna Trek with Sukman
“The Annapurna Base Camp trek was an amazing experience. The trail was well-maintained and easy to follow, and the tea houses along the way were cozy and welcoming. The view from base camp was unbelievable – I felt like I was on top of the world!”
Name: Cecelia Muller
USAAnnapurna Circuit, March 2023
I did the Annapurna Circuit this past March and it’s probably the best thing I have done and will ever do in my life. Don’t get me wrong, it was definitely challenging – as someone who loves her hot showers – but Sukman made the whole process such a breeze. He found our group teahouses and called ahead of time to reserve our slots. He also made sure we went at a reasonable pace and doled out lunch and tea breaks as the group needed it. At higher elevations, he was even more careful to pay attention to the elevation we gained each day and each person’s symptoms (or more hopefully, lack thereof) to avoid altitude sickness.
Name: Patrick Wasil
USAAnnapurna Circuit Trek
I hiked the Annapurna Circuit in March 2023. Sukman went above and beyond to make sure that everything went smoothly. The hike itself certainly was challenging, but Sukman made it as easy as possible. He has extensive knowledge of the trail, towns, and tea houses along the way. He called ahead to reserve rooms for us in the best tea houses because they can get crowded depending on the season. He curated tea and meal breaks as well. I particularly liked how closely he monitored the health and status of everyone in our group keeping an eye out for any symptoms of altitude sickness and adjusting the hike accordingly. Overall, Sukman was a fantastic guide on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and I will definitely utilize his services again on my next trip to Nepal!
Name: Uli
GermanyUpper Mustang
I trekked with Shukman from Blue Sheep Trek for 10 days in Upper Mustang. Shukman is a very nice guide. He has a good feeling what his customers need. I recommend trekking with Blue Sheep Trek. Upper Mustang is a incredible beautiful place. Thank you Shukman!
Name: Anouk
We’ve had a lovely time in the Kanchenjunga area! The trek was beautiful and challenging, but our guide Sukman made sure that everything was fixed and taken care of, so we could enjoy every moment of it!