Langtang Valley Trek - 10 Days

On the first day of the Langtang Valley Trek, you will arrive at Kathmandu. The moment you touch down at Kathmandu (1,300m), you’ll find yourself in a city where ancient tradition meets modern-day vibrancy. The capital, which lies in the Kathmandu Valley, is encircled by rolling hills and boasts a variety of UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can explore the historic Durbar Square, where the intricately carved wooden temples testify to Nepal’s architectural heritage. This bustling Thamel town with its myriad of shops, eateries, and cultural curiosities presents an exciting mystical introduction to Nepal. 

Weather in Kathmandu in February is generally moderate, with daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and cooler evenings nearing 7°C (45°F). Therefore, carrying a light jacket for the evening is advisable. While you load up for the trek ahead, ensure that all required gears and permits are properly arranged. The trekking shops around town can attend to your last-minute needs, and you will do well to brief with your trekking guide for the exciting adventure ahead.

Today, you will embark on a 7-8 hours of road trip from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,460m). The change from urbanity to terraced fields, hilly green nature, and traditional villages is satisfying for the camera eye. While following the Trishuli River, glimpses of peaks of the Ganesh Himal range seem to glow in the distance, embellished by reflections of sunlight and snow.

Along different segments, the road may serve you a bumpy ride due to the wrecks of maintenance; a small price to pay for the beautiful sights along the way. Syabrubesi is a lovely little village on the edge of the Langtang region. There, you will not forget the Tamang hospitality; their culture-influenced architecture and lifestyle are said to be Tibetan. Accommodation is fairly basic in the village but quite comfortable for relaxation before the real trek kicks off.

Crossing over a sturdy suspension bridge across the Bhote Koshi River, the trek sets on a trail that goes along the Langtang Khola. It rises gently through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. This luxuriant habitat blooms with life, with the rare red panda and multiple species of birds making the trip peaceful and interesting.

After about 6 to 7 hours of trekking and around 1,000m, we will reach Lama Hotel (2,500m). This tiny village, set deep in the forest, provides the type of teahouse accommodation that is quite basic. Travelling through these remarkable forests, the trek proves challenging but rewarding in that it sets the theme for the adventure to come with delightful ambiance amidst the background of flowing waters.

The trek carries on from Lama Hotel, gaining altitude and moving through beautiful forests until the trail opens into large meadows. With every step forward, the vegetation recedes giving way to magnificent sights of peaks surrounding one. On the way, the track crosses Ghoda Tabela, once a Tibetan resettlement village, where old lodge remains and military outposts can be seen. 

Further, after trekking for 5-6 hours, you will reach Langtang Village, located at an altitude of 3450m. Almost completely destroyed by the earthquake of 2015, today the village stands testament to the incredible resilience of its people. Traditional stone houses, prayer wheels, and mani walls decorated with Tibetan inscriptions supply deep insight into local culture. Imposing silhouette of Langtang Lirung (7227m) soaring above the village adds to its celestial charm.

The journey from Langtang village to Kyanjin Gompa (3,880m) takes just a few hours, with the hike made pleasurable. The trail slides through yak pastures and small settlements with the vista tending toward increasing alpine character. Along the way, you will pass more water-powered prayer wheels and chortens, which testify to the complex Buddhist traditions of the land. 

When you’ve reached Kyanjin Gompa-a quaint little village caressed by snow-capped mountains-you’ll find yourself within the vicinity of a monastery, which holds significance for local spiritual practices. The Yak Cheese Factory is also close by, where samples and purchase of local cheese are quite worth-the-while. The rest of the afternoon should be spent roaming around the village and acclimatizing.

The sixth day of the Langtang Valley Trek is set for exploration and rest as well. If you are looking for a challenge, we recommend an early morning ascent to Tserko Ri (4,984m). The climb is steep and requires fair fitness but, from the summit, the views are absolutely breathtaking. The magnificent mountains Langtang Lirung, Langshisa Ri, and Dorje Lakpa stand proudly on the horizon, and on clear days, the sunrise casts the faintest golden light upon the mountains, creating a spellbinding spectacle. 

If not, you can take a walk around Kyanjin Gompa, visit the monastery, and meet the local people. And short hikes to nearby glaciers are also worthwhile, if not just Chin back, soaking it all in. The weather here is likely to be cold, especially early in the morning and late in the evening; layered clothing is recommended. Whatever you choose to do, the day will present riches for the very soul with Himalayan ambience.

Retracing from Kyanjin Gompa to the Lama hotel takes around 6 to 7 hours. The way back is known, but your vantage will change as you see new landscapes and have different thoughts. The way down retraces through alpine meadows, Langtang village, and then even lower through the lush green forests.

Since the downward journey is less challenging, you can take your time enjoying the beauty of nature and perhaps even spot wildlife. As you return to the Lama Hotel, it is with an overwhelming sense of fulfillment that you are enveloped in the still sleep of the forest for the night.

The last trekking day of the Langtang Valley Trek involves a descent of about 1,000 m over 5-6 hours back to Syabrubesi. Walking on familiar grounds, the lush forest transforms into cultivated fields while a lullaby of village life unfolds. On arriving in Syabrubesi, there is the opportunity to rest and contemplate the completed journey. While the comforts in the village may be simple, they afford a chance to get some rest after the successful completion of the journey. Interaction with the locals and other trekkers generates a great sense of communal pride and achievement.

Today we start the drive from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu. The journey will take 7-8 hours. Following the Trishuli River, you’ll enjoy panoramas of terraced paddy-fields, deep forests and hill-side villages. After passing Dhunche, administrative center for Rasuwa district, you come across green hills where in the course of time these fields become grey sprawl that is Kathmandu.

Road conditions can be really rough, particularly in areas of new construction or landslides after heavy rains. The occasional jolt will soon fade in comparison with the beauty around you. Arriving at Kathmandu, check in your hotel and rest for the night.

Day 10 is the last day of your stay after the completion of Langtang Valley Trek. Today, you will bid farewell to us and return to your home country. One of our representatives will help you escort to Tribhuvan International Airport from where you will fly back home.