Gosainkunda Trek

Overview

Heaven on the earth is mythical, but in Nepal it’s real. Where on earth will you find the splendors of the Himalayas, woods, villages, and fairy Lakes? All these surprises and the wonderful creations of Mother Nature are present in Nepal. There is no better trekking route than the Langtang Gosainkunda Trek trail to find out all these wonders of Mother Nature. Explore the mighty place, supposed to have been created by Lord Shiva himself in the form of Gosainkunda Lake. Traverse the mystical valley of Langtang and panoramic view of mountains like Sishapangma, Gaurishankar, Ganjala Peak, Langtang Lirung and others.

The trip of Langtang Gosainkunda Trek starts similarly to the Langtang Valley Trek. During the trekking holiday in Langtang, you will come across numerous spiritual places and Himalayas view points. For more information regarding the Langtang Valley trip, you can check out our Langtang Valley Trek itineraries as well. This is the first phase of the trek before you head towards the iconic Gosainkunda Lake. Places like Lama Hotel, Ghodatabela, Langtang Valley, Kyangjin Gompa, and Kyangjin Ri offer the colorful rhododendron woods, alpine forests, monasteries and panoramic views of mountains as well as memorial chortens. Once you depart from the Langtang trail the journey heads uphill towards the Thulo Syapru. The view of the turquoise lake is mystical. It is believed that Lord Shiva drank all the poison extracted accidently during sea mining to save the world. In pain of keeping poison in his neck he threw his Trishul on the rocks around Gosainkunda. This led to the source of the pure pristine water forming this holy lake. During August the Janaipurnima festival is marked with so much of vibrancy in this part of Langtang. Beyond the Gosainkunda the trekkers reach the small village of Tamang origin of people called Chisapani. This is the short trekking route to take too. The terraced farmlands and villages might interest you before heading back to Kathmandu.

Accommodation & meals during the Gosainkunda Trek

The Gosainkunda Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you through the stunning Langtang region and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

When it comes to accommodation and meals during the Gosainkunda Trek, there are several options available.

Accommodation:

Similar to the Langtang Valley Trek, several lodges and teahouses along the trail provide basic accommodation facilities like a bed, blanket, and pillow. These lodges and teahouses also have communal bathrooms with hot showers. The rooms are usually shared and sometimes private rooms are available at an additional cost.

Meals:

Most lodges and teahouses in the Gosainkunda Trek offer a variety of meals including traditional Nepalese food like dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), noodles, and momos (dumplings). You can also find western-style food like pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. The lodges and teahouses also provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

It's important to note that the prices of accommodation and meals may vary depending on the location and the season. It is always advisable to carry some extra cash for unforeseen expenses. Additionally, it is recommended to bring water purification tablets or a filter to purify water from streams or taps, as bottled water may not be readily available or environmentally sustainable.

Best time to do Gosainkunda trek

The best time to do the Gosainkunda trek in Nepal is during the months of September to November, which is the autumn season. During this time, the weather is clear and dry, offering stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains and valleys. The temperature during this time is moderate during the day and chilly at night, making it a comfortable time to trek.

Another good time to do the  Gosainkunda is during the months of March to May, which is the spring season. The weather during this time is also dry and clear, and the mountains are adorned with blooming rhododendron flowers. The temperature is mild during the day and still cool at night.

It's important to note that during the winter months of December to February, the Gosainkunda region experiences heavy snowfall and the trekking routes may be blocked. Similarly, during the monsoon season from June to August, the trails can be slippery and muddy due to frequent rain. Therefore, it's best to avoid trekking during these months.

How can solo travelers do the Gosainkunda trek?

The Gosainkunda trek is beautiful and challenging in the Langtang region of Nepal, and it is possible for solo travelers to do this trek. Here are some tips for solo travelers planning to do the Gosainkunda trek:

1:Research and plan ahead: Before embarking on the trek, do thorough research on the route, the weather, and the equipment needed for the trek. It is also essential to plan your itinerary, including your accommodations and meals.

2:Choose the right time: The best time to do the Gosainkunda trek is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is clear and dry. It is best to avoid the monsoon season, which brings heavy rains and can make the trek challenging.

3:Hire a guide or a porter: While it is possible to do the trek solo, it is recommended to hire a guide or a porter for safety and convenience. A guide can provide valuable insights into the trek, while a porter can carry your backpack, leaving you free to enjoy the trek.

4:Stay in teahouses: The Gosainkunda trek has several teahouses along the route that provide food and accommodation. Staying in teahouses is an excellent way to meet other trekkers and share experiences.

5:Be prepared for altitude sickness: The Gosainkunda trek involves a significant altitude gain, and it is essential to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water, take it slow, and if necessary, take a rest day to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.

6:Pack the right gear: Make sure to pack warm clothing, a good pair of hiking boots, a sleeping bag, and a trekking pole. It is also essential to bring a first aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

7:Be respectful of the local culture: The Gosainkunda trek passes through several villages, and it is essential to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photographs, and avoid littering.

Trip Preparation

Clothing

• Thermal underwear (top and bottom)
• Moisture-wicking t-shirts (long-sleeved)
• Moisture-wicking underwear
• Fleece jacket or pullover
• Insulated down or synthetic jacket
• Waterproof, windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Waterproof, windproof pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Warm beanie or hat
• Sun hat or cap
• Neck gaiter or scarf
• Trekking pants (convertible preferred)
• Waterproof trousers

Handwear

• Lightweight gloves (inner)
• Insulated gloves or mittens (outer)

Footwear

• Hiking boots (broken in and waterproof)
• Comfortable camp shoes (e.g., sneakers or sandals)

Gear

• Trekking backpack (30-40 liters) with waterproof cover
• Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
• Sleeping pad or mattress (insulated)
• Adjustable trekking poles
• Insulated water bottles or hydration bladder (2 liters capacity)
• Travel-sized toiletries
• Biodegradable soap
• Quick-dry towel
• Medications for altitude sickness, pain relief, and common ailments
• Sun protection cream, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer

Miscellaneous

• Camera and batteries
• Notebook and pen
• Earplugs (for sleeping in lodges)
• Portable solar charger
• Headlamp, power bank, and extra batteries