Langtang Valley Trek Guide

Langtang Valley Trek Guide
  • Rohit Subedi
  • Last Updated on Sep 22, 2024

The Langtang Valley Trek is one of the easiest and most beautiful treks in Nepal which is located in Langtang National Park. It provides a beautiful integrated package of nature, culture, fun, and enjoyment. Comparatively, a low number of people visit the Langtang Region as compared to other trekking trails like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. And yes, the Langtang Valley offers a unique experience for those wishing to explore the untouched beauty of nature.

The trek takes you through the forests, glacial rivers and high altitude meadows to arrive at the Langtang Village. Here, you will cross some beautiful ethnic Tibetan influenced villages during the trek especially in Langtang Village and Kyanjin Gompa.

Whether you are the first time trekkers or experienced ones, Langtang Valley Trekking is a perfect option because of moderate level of difficulty, biological diversity and cultural attraction. But before going on a trek, there's several things you might want to consider and this guide can help you a lot.

Table of Contents

Langtang Valley Trek Trip Facts

  • Location: North-central Nepal, bordering Tibet
  • Trek Duration: Typically 7-13 days
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Maximum Elevation: 4,984 metres (16,352 ft) at Tserko Ri viewpoint
  • Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
  • Permits Required: Langtang National Park Entry Permit and TIMS Card
  • Starting Point: Syabrubesi, accessible by bus or Private Vehicle from Kathmandu
  • Highlights: Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, Tserko Ri
  • Cultural Aspect: Home to Tamang and Sherpa communities
  • Accommodation: Teahouses and lodges along the trail
  • Major Peaks Visible: Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), Gangchenpo (6,387m)
  • Unique Feature: One of the few treks that doesn't require flights to reach the trailhead

Highlights of the Langtang Valley Trek

  • Viewing the snow-covered Himalayan ridges from Langtang National Park including Langtang Lirung (7,227m).
  • Abundant diversity within Langtang National Park.
  • Chances of spotting rare red pandas and snow leopards.
  • 'Cultural integration into traditional Tamang and Sherpa settlements.
  • A stopover at the ancient Kyanjin Gompa Buddhist monastery.
  • Passing through different landscapes like woods, alpine meadows, and ice fields.
  • An opportunity to climb Tserko Ri (5,000m) for a great view.
  • Witnessing the revival process of local communities since the earthquake of 2015.
  • Not so crowded as it is compared to other famous trekking routes in Nepal.
  • Accessible from Kathmandu without any domestic airline.

Why Choose Langtang Valley Trek?

Natural Beauty and Tranquility

The Trek to Langtang Valley has its uniqueness from other trekking trails because it has less crowded and more natural scenery. Being less crowded does not mean that Langtang Region misses the beauty like other destinations. Langtang Valley trek still provides a relatively tranquil hiking experience and thrill like the Annapurna and Everest region including the views of stunning mountains, Tamang Heritage, diverse ecosystem with flora and fauna in the Langtang National Park, and more. Trekkers are blessed with magnificent views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m) and an opportunity to visit the high altitude lakes such as Gosainkunda.

langtang Valley Hike
Trekkers Posing on the Langtang Valley

Cultural Experience

What makes Langtang unique is the possibility to explore the ethical life of the Tamang and Tibetan people. Communities around Langtang Village and Kyanjin Gompa offer cultural insights of Tamang people and old monasteries, local organic yak cheese industries and farms.

Easy Accessibility

The trek is relatively closer to the city of Kathmandu making it easier to transport oneself and the required gears. As such trekkers can easily get to Syabrubesi in a matter of few hours rather than the time it may take for other large trekking zones of Nepal.

Ideal Trek Experience

This trek is perfect for those who are in search of a beautiful natural environment and a contact with the local people together with some real adventure without overcrowding.

How to Reach Langtang Valley?

Starting Point

The journey to the Langtang Valley Trek starts at Kathmandu. To get to the point where the trek to Langtang begins, one has to trek to Syabrubesi, a beautiful small village that is the entry point to the Langtang region.

Transportation Options

By Bus

The most preferred and cheapest means of transport to Syabrubesi is by road transport.

Local buses and private jeeps are available at Kathmandu on a daily basis which is connected to Syabrubesi. The journey by bus normally lasts between seven to nine hours depending on the state of the roads as well as traffic. This is another beautiful but sometimes very curvy and bumpy ride, you will pass through terraced fields, rivers and small villages.

By Private Vehicle

If the trekkers want to make the trekking more comfortable and less time-consuming, they can also hire a jeep for private use. Even though it costs more, a private car is flexible concerning the time of travel and is also more comfortable especially for people who have never travelled by bus.

The Trek

Trek Starting Point

The official start of the trek is from Syabrubesi where you get to trek up to Kyanjin Gompa.

Trek Route

From here on, the trail rises gently through rich forests of pine and oak and beautiful valleys that take you further into Langtang region.

Final Destination

The final destination of this trek is Kyanjin Gompa which is a monastery.

Langtang Valley Trek Best Itinerary in 2025, 2026

Langtang Valley Trek- 11/10 Days Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
  • Transfer to hotel
  • Free time to rest and acclimatise

Day 2: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,470 m)

  • Early morning departure from Kathmandu
  • Drive to Syabrubesi via Dhunche (2,030 m)
  • Travel time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Overnight stay in Syaphrubesi

Day 3: Syaphrubesi to Lama Hotel (2,200 m)

  • Begin trek from Syabrubesi
  • Destination: Lama Hotel
  • Trekking time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Elevation gain: 730 m

Day 4: Lama Hotel to Langtang Valley (3,307 m)

  • Continue trek from Lama Hotel
  • Destination: Langtang Valley
  • Trekking time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Elevation gain: 1,107 m

Day 5: Langtang Valley to Kyanjin Gompa (3,750 m)

  • Trek from Langtang Valley
  • Destination: Kyanjin Gompa
  • Trekking time: Approximately 4 hours
  • Elevation gain: 443 m

Day 6: Kyanjin Gompa and Kyanjin Ri

  • Full day hike around Kyanjin Ri
  • Explore the surroundings and acclimatize
  • Return to Kyanjin Gompa for overnight stay

Day 7: Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel (2,200 m)

  • Begin return journey
  • Trek back to Lama Hotel
  • Trekking time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Elevation loss: 1,550 m

Day 8: Lama Hotel to Syaphrubesi (1,470 m)

  • Continue return trek
  • Destination: Syabrubesi
  • Trekking time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Elevation loss: 730 m

Day 9: Syaphrubesi to Kathmandu (1,400 m)

  • Drive back to Kathmandu
  • Travel time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Transfer to accommodation in Kathmandu

Day 10: Departure

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport
  • Departure from Kathmandu

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek - 13 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

  • Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
  • Transfer to hotel
  • Rest and prepare for the trek

Day 2: Kathmandu to Syabru Besi (1,460 m)

  • Depart Kathmandu by bus
  • Travel time: Approximately 7 hours
  • Overnight in Syabru Besi

Day 3: Syabru Besi to Lama Hotel (2,240 m)

  • Begin trek from Syabru Besi
  • Destination: Lama Hotel
  • Trekking time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Elevation gain: 780 m

Day 4: Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (3,450 m)

  • Trek from Lama Hotel
  • Destination: Langtang Village
  • Trekking time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Elevation gain: 1,210 m

Day 5: Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa (3,840 m)

  • Short trek to Kyanjin Gompa
  • Trekking time: Approximately 3 hours
  • Elevation gain: 390 m
  • Afternoon to explore and acclimatise

Day 6: Acclimatization Day and Kyanjin Ri (4,700 m)

  • Early morning climb to Kyanjin Ri
  • Elevation gain: 860 m
  • Spectacular views of the Langtang range
  • Return to Kyanjin Gompa for overnight stay

Day 7: Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel (2,240 m)

  • Begin return journey
  • Trek back to Lama Hotel
  • Trekking time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Elevation loss: 1,600 m

Day 8: Lama Hotel to Thulo Syabru Village (2,465 m)

  • Trek to Thulo Syabru Village
  • Trekking time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Elevation gain: 225 m

Day 9: Thulo Syabru Village to Sing Gompa (3,340 m)

  • Trek from Thulo Syabru to Sing Gompa
  • Trekking time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Elevation gain: 875 m

Day 10: Sing Gompa to Gosaikunda (4,460 m) and back to Sing Gompa

  • Trek to Gosaikunda
  • Climb to Laurebina La pass (4,630 m)
  • Explore around the lake
  • Return trek to Sing Gompa
  • Total trekking time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Maximum elevation gain: 1,290 m (to pass)

Day 11: Sing Gompa to Dhunche

  • Short trek from Sing Gompa to Dhunche
  • Trekking time: Approximately 3 hours
  • Elevation loss: Significant (exact figure not provided)

Day 12: Dhunche to Kathmandu

  • Drive back to Kathmandu by bus
  • Travel time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Evening at leisure in Kathmandu

Day 13: Departure

  • Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport
  • Departure from Nepal

Best Time for Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley Trek is best undertaken during Nepal's two main trekking seasons: This includes spring which is between March, April and May as well as Autumn which is between September, October and November. These are the best times to observe the good weather on the mountains and other favourable conditions for trekking. 

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is the most favourable time for Trekking in Langtang Valley since the temperature is relatively cool and the rhododendron trees are in bloom. This season the vegetation is rich and the slopes of the hills are covered with brightly blooming wildflowers. The daily temperature is usually high and fluctuates between 10 to 20 centigrade on the lower altitudes, however, the night temperatures can be very cold though not extremely so. 

There is nothing like the feeling of having clear blue skies while trekking, especially in springs because this makes it easier to view the Langtang Lirung and other mountains. Although, there could be a little more traffic in the spring as trekkers come to Nepal, but the Langtang trail is less crowded than the Annapurna or the Everest. 

Autumn Season (September to November)

There are many considerations as to why Autumn is said to be the best time for the Langtang Valley Trek. The best time is the post-monsoon period when the sky is clear and the weather is quite satisfactory as one gets to have a clear view of the mountain ranges. The temperatures are moderate with day temperatures ranging between 10-15 degree centigrade at higher altitude during the day and cooler temperatures at night which is well suited for trekking. 

It also compliments the trek with the Nepali culture and tradition during this season which also falls during the celebration of festivals such as Dashain and tihar. The trails are dry and there are no signs of landslides or rain therefore making it safe for trekking.

Langtang Valley Trek in October

October is the best time to go for the Langtang Valley Trek because the climate is favorable with clear skies. In this month, trekkers can expect the daytime temperature of 10°C to 15°C(50°F to 59°F) at lower elevations and night time temperature at higher elevations. It means that the probability of rainy days is very slim and this makes it possible to trek throughout. 

October is a perfect time because the green of the forests and the terraced rice fields are complemented by the colors of the fall. This makes it easy for the trekkers to be able to appreciate other features such as mountains such as Langtang Lirung while on the trek.

Langtang Valley Trek in December

The Langtang Valley Trek in December is not the most preferable, but the most interesting one. Trekkers can have a wonderful and quiet time observing the beautiful mountainous view including the Langtang Lirung. 

However, the Langtang Valley is even more beautiful in winter and that is why the trekkers should expect some feat. December is cold with average temperature ranging between 10°C to -5°C, (50°F to 23°F) though it may snow with icy trails. Few choices for lodges are available particularly at the higher altitude and several teahouses might be shut for the season. 

Therefore, there is the need to strategise so that in the event that camping is required, it can be done effectively. The right gear, suitable sleeping bag and clothing layers, and trekking poles are suitable for the trails hence making the experience comfortable and safe. 

If there is one advantage of trekking in December, it is the fact that it is not crowded and therefore there is a better interaction with the natural environment and the people.

Langtang Valley Trek in January

Langtang Valley Trek in January is an opportunity to enjoy a calm hike in the winter in Nepal’s Himalayan region. January is the coldest month in this area with average temperature of 0-10°C (32- 50°F) in the lowlands while in the highlands the temperature lowers to freezing point and below. Most of the time the weather is clear and thus spectacular views of mountains like Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal can be seen. There are fewer hikers during this time and the environment is very serene hence trekkers are able to have a wonderful experience at this beautiful valley. 

Trekkers should be ready to face the cold and should take measures which include extra days for acclimatization in order to have a balance between the nature and culture side of the trekking safely. 

The planning of the trek in January should be done well due to low temperatures and the possibility of snow related dangers. Thermal wear and insulated jackets form part of the necessary clothing while waterproof boots are also recommended and use of trekking poles especially when the ground is icy.

Required Permits and Regulations

Before embarking on the Langtang Valley Trek, trekkers are required to obtain two essential permits: The TIMS Card and the Langtang National Park Entry Permit. Both of them are essential for safety as well as, for the purpose of nature conservation. 

TIMS Card 

The TIMS Card is compulsory for all the trekkers visiting Nepal for trekking. It assists authorities in monitoring trekkers in the event of an emergency and assists in the overall coordination of trekking routes in the country. Independent trekkers are issued with one type of TIMS card while those who go with a guide are issued with another type of TIMS card. 

In regard to the TIMS Card for the Langtang Valley Trek, individual trekkers will be charged NPR 2000 per head. However, if you are in a group trek arrangement then the cost may differ slightly depending on the agency’s company you have hired. The TIMS Card is available in the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or from trekking agencies. 

Langtang National Park Entry Permit

The Langtang National Park Entry Permit is the permit that grants the visitors access to the protected areas within the Langtang region. The price for the foreign travelers is three hundred US dollars while the SAARC travelers are charged hundred US dollars. 

For Nepalese nationals it is only NPR 100 which is a token fee. The permit can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board, or at the checkpoint in Dhunche at the entrance to the park. 

Remember to always have both permits with you during the trek since they may be requested at some point of the trek.

Difficulty Level of Langtang Valley Trek

In terms of Difficulty of the Langtang Valley Trek is comparatively easier as compared to other high altitude treks in Nepal including the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek. Although it does have some limitations, particularly in the higher grounds, it is slightly easier as compared to the other types and can be undertaken by any physically active trekker. 

The trek is relatively a Moderate Trek, which comprises several up and down throughout the trek up to the last destination at Kyanjin Ri which is at about 4,773 metres or 15,659 feet. This is a fairly big altitude, but not as high as the Everest or Kanchenjunga treks, so it is a little easier. 

Trekking distances are normally between 5 and 7 hours a day with some stretches being up-hill or down-hill. The trails are quite popular though some of them are very steep and can at times be very rugged hence the need to prepare for long and steady walks. 

The major concern for this trek is the Acute Mountain Sickness [AMS]. Despite the fact that the Langtang valley trek is not as high as many of the other treks in Nepal, one can still get affected by altitude sickness. Above 3, 000 metres (9, 800 feet) headaches, nausea and dizziness may be experienced. 

Can I Do Langtang Valley Trek With Kids?

Yes, you can go for the Langtang Valley Trek With Kids. However, there are certain considerations including fitness and mental strength that need to be put in place. It is recommended that you consider your children’s fitness and abilities when it comes to trekking. Ensure that you allow for additional days for such a slow pace they can cover and also for them to be well prepared for the altitude and weather they will encounter. It is also advisable to get a local guide as this will also add to safety and fun.

Also, the fee for the trekking permits for children below the age of 10 years is exempted, thus making it a cheap endeavour for families.

Langtang Valley Trekking Route
The Bridge on Langtang Valley Trek Route

Langtang Valley Trek Cost For Foreigners in 2024, 2025, 2026

The Cost Of The Langtang Valley Trek can vary depending on factors such as accommodation preferences, transportation, and whether you choose to trek independently or with a guide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

1. Permits

  • TIMS Card: NPR 2000 per person.
  • Langtang National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3000 for international trekkers, NPR 1000 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepali trekkers.

2. Transportation

You can reach Syabrubesi (the trek’s starting point) by local bus or private jeep from Machhapokhari Bus Park in Kathmandu.

  • Local Bus: NPR 600–800 per person (one way).
  • Private Jeep: NPR 10,000–15,000 (one way, split between passengers).

3. Accommodation

Accommodation in teahouses can cost you around NPR 500–1000 per night.

4. Food and Drinks

  • Meals in tea houses cost anywhere between NPR 500–800 per meal. Altogether, the overall cost can come around NPR 2000–2500 per day including breakfast, lunch, and dinner combined.
  • Bottled water can be bought during the journey but it can be expensive, costing you around NPR 100–300 per liter. It is advised to consider using water purification tablets.

5. Guide and Porter

Hiring a guide costs around USD 25–30 per day, while a porter will cost around USD 20–25 per day.

Guides are recommended for safety and enhancing your trekking experience, especially if you're unfamiliar with the route.

6. Miscellaneous Costs

Tipping: Tipping guides and porters is not mandatory but they are highly recommended. Usually, trekkers tip around 10–15% of the total cost.

Wi-Fi and Charging Fees: Some tea houses charge for Wi-Fi and device charging, costing around NPR 200–500.

Overall, the Langtang Valley Trek Cost will sum up with around USD 400–800 for an 8-10 day trip. However, they are highly influenced by your preferences such as mode of transportation, accommodation, and food.

7. Langtang Trek Packages Cost

Here is our best two Langtang Valley Trek packages cost: 

Langtang Valley Trek Cost for Nepalese Trekkers

Cost Overview

The Langtang Valley Trek is one of the fantastic treks that help to provide the Nepalese trekkers to explore the natural and cultural parts. Normally, a normal trekker can easily go on this trek with NPR 15,000 to 30,000 for a trek that ranges between 8 to 10 days including the costs of permits, food and lodges, and guide charges.

Accommodation Cost

The type of accommodation that one chooses to take can have a huge bearing on the total expenses incurred. Local people in Nepal prefer tea houses as they are cheap accommodation facilities that also provide meals, which cost between 500 and 1500 NPR per night.

Food and Drinks Cost

Also, available food and drinks along the trail range from NPR 300 to 800 per dish meaning that trekkers can afford to eat healthy without straining their pockets.

Transportation Cost

Hiking to the trailhead adds to the overall cost since one has to hire transport services to get to the trailhead. Many tourists go by bus from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, which is the starting point of the Langtang trekking. It will cost about NPR 1000 to NPR 1500 for a one way trip. Most wish to travel in groups in order to share the expenses among themselves.

Guide and Porter Costs

Other costs that would be considered are cost of a guide and porter in an organised trek which goes for about usd 25-50 per day and a porter usd 15-20 per day.

Can I Do Langtang Valley Trek Without Guide?

From April 1, 2023, the Nepal Tourism Board prohibited solo trekking in the country. Currently, trekkers must have a professional guide in their team for trekking including Langtang Valley Trek. This decision has been taken in view of safety concerns especially in areas such as Langtang where adverse weather conditions, difficult terrains and inadequate facilities are likely to be fatal. 

A guide is a source of important knowledge and experience, as he or she can explain the cultural, geographical and even natural peculiarities one might fail to pay attention to. As a result, they know the trails and the weather conditions on the treks and make sure that trekkers take the safest and most direct way.

Also, hiring a guide enhances the trip in general because he or she provides essential information. These people are well acquainted with the different areas and can take the trekkers to some of the least explored areas or better still, a local village home stay, which would give the trekkers a more real experience. 

A guide can also assist in cases of language differences so that it becomes easier to communicate with the locals and appreciate the cultural practices of the Langtang region.

Frequently Asked Questions on Langtang Valley Trek

How difficult is the Langtang Valley Trek?

The Langtang Valley Trek is rated as moderate trek. It involves walking for five to seven hours a day and it comprises hills and inclines. It is advisable to have some prior experience of trekking or at least moderate fitness but the determined beginner can attempt the trek as well. 

How long does the Langtang Valley Trek take?

The Langtang Valley Trek lasts between 8 to 10 days depending on the time spent on the trek and the time spent in the area. 

Is the Langtang Valley safe after the 2015 earthquake?

Yes, there has been a huge improvement in the Langtang Valley especially after the tragedy that happened in 2015 through an earthquake. The trails have been repaired and reconstructed and the teahouses have also been reconstructed. Trekking is no longer a threat to the area and tourism becomes vital in the development of the community. 

What is the highest altitude of this trek, and will I experience altitude sickness?

The best viewpoint of the Langtang Valley Trekking is Kyanjin Ri at the altitude of approximately 4,773 meters or 15,660 ft above sea level. There is always the problem of altitude especially when one is above 3,000 meters in the mountains. To avoid altitude sickness; move slowly, drink plenty of water and if possible take an extra day to tour the same trail.

What is the altitude of the Langtang Valley Trek?

The Langtang Valley trek reaches various heights, with the highest point normally being Kyanjin Ri at an altitude of 4,773 meters/ 15,659 feet. The track starts at Syabrubesi (1,550m) and passes through Langtang Village (3,430m) before ending at Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m).

What is the total distance of the Langtang Valley Trek?

Over the years, the classic Langtang Valley trek coversan approximate distance of 77 km/48 mi , back and forth, from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Gompa.

What is the maximum height reached during the Langtang Valley Trek?

The maximum height usually reached during the main trek is Kyanjin Gompa at 3,870 meters. Nevertheless, some people also climb Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) or Tserko Ri (4,984m) for even better vistas.

How much time should I allocate for the Langtang Valley Trek?

You should allocate about 7-10 days for the Langtang Valley Trek. This includes:

  • 1 day for travel from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi
  • 3-4 days of ascending to Kyanjin Gompa
  • 1-2 days for acclimatisation and exploration around Kyanjin Gompa
  • 2-3 days for the return journey
  • 1 day for return travel to Kathmandu

This timeframe allows for a comfortable pace and proper acclimatisation.

Rohit Subedi

Rohit Subedi

Hailing from the scenic expanse of Chitwan in Parsa, nestled adjacent to the enchanting Chitwan National Park, Mr. Rohit Subedi graces Adventure Altitude Treks as a seasoned Senior Accountant. Since his induction in 2018, immediately following the attainment of his master's degree, Rohit's journey has been marked by excellence. Elevating his role, our company entrusted him with the mantle of Tour Coordinator, specializing in crafting unparalleled journeys across Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.