Our Gosaikunda Lake Trek takes you on a spiritual journey to the holy lake of Gosaikunda in the Langtang region of Nepal. With over 100 holy Kunda (lakes), it is a sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is a short venture, but the trek offers you views of Nepal’s famous mountains, such as Ganesh Himal (7422m), Langtang Himal (7234m), Langtang Lirung (7234m), Langtang Ri (7205m), and Mt. Annapurna (8848m) along the trail. Once you set your eyes on this glorious lake, it will give you a new definition of blue.
The Gosainkunda Trek is an average moderate trek in terms of difficulty, but it also depends on your experience in trekking and physical fitness. Since this is a 6-day trek, you will cover long distances in a comparatively shorter amount of time, so you will have to prepare for the challenges you may face. The best season for this trek is spring (March-May), as the temperatures are mild and there are meager chances of rainfall. You can also opt for this trek during autumn (September-November). If you have any prevailing health conditions, please inform us beforehand so we can provide you with the best advice and support for the trek.
Trip Highlights:
Trek to the beautiful Gosainkunda Lake at an altitude of 4460 meters.
Hike through dense woodlands, rivers, waterfalls, traditional villages, and terrace farms.
Explore various flora and fauna in Langtang National Park.
Traverse on the quieter and off-the-beaten trails of the Langtang region.
Explore the sacred Gosaikunda lakes and its 108 kundas.
Fantastic views of mountains like Ganesh Himal (7422m), Langtang Himal (7234m), Langtang Ri (7205m), and Annapurna (8848m).
Experience the culture and tradition of the Tamang and Tibetan people living in these rural parts of the country.
Difficulty of Gosaikunda Lake Trek
Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a short and moderate trek that anyone with reasonable fitness and health can undertake. It is suitable for beginners as well as seasoned trekkers. The trek duration is usually between 5 to 7 days. However, it would help if you did not underestimate the difficulties of the Gosaikunda Lake Trekking. It can be physically demanding, especially when you ascend to higher altitude regions.
During the six days of Gosaikunda Trek, you must hike off-beat and rough terrain while making steep ascends and descends. The average daily walking time is 5 to 6 hours. En route, you will cross several suspension bridges and a high mountain pass to reach the sacred lake 4,460 meters above sea level. Although it is relatively at a lower elevation than other trekking destinations in the Himalayas, there is a risk of altitude sickness. Therefore, trekkers must rest well and keep themselves well-hydrated throughout the trek.
As you trek higher, the weather also presents challenges as it changes rapidly. Sudden changes in weather, such as wind speed, rain, fog, etc, can make it harder for trekkers to trek. It can stress trekkers and put mental strain. Therefore, Gosaikunda Lake Trekking requires proper physical and psychological preparation.
For a more adventurous trek experience, you can combine the Gosaikunda Trek itinerary with another trek. You can combine Langtang Valley Trek with it, also known as Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. It takes 13 to 15 days to complete the Langtang Gosainkunda trek, which begins with a drive to Syabrubesi. The number of days may be more, but it is more awe-inspiring and enriching.
January
-5°C to 4°C
February
-5°C to 5°C
March
-3°C to 7°C
April
0°C to 10°C
May
5°C to 15°C
June
10°C to 18°C
July
12°C to 20°C
August
12°C to 20°C
September
8°C to 16°C
October
5°C to 12°C
November
0°C to 8°C
December
-3°C to 5°C
Best Time for Gosaikunda Lake Trekking
Gosaikunda Lake Trekking is a beautiful experience where you can witness enchanting views of the landscapes and mountains. Visiting during the spring and autumn seasons will help you see the beauty of the place. Similarly, these seasons also provide clear visibility during the trek, and you will feel the true beauty of nature. Take a look at the different seasons for Gosaikunda Lake Trek:
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times for Gosaikunda Lake Trekking and the perfect time for nature lovers to undertake the trek. You can enjoy the fresh flowers and trek through the blooming rhododendron trails. The wildfires are also the most active during spring. Hence, there is a high chance for you to encounter rare animals like red pandas, musk deer, and more. The weather is stable, with warm temperatures and clear views. The average temperature is around 6 to 18°C. It is a dry season, so there is minimal rainfall except for occasional rain showers.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is characterized by stable weather, crisp and clear skies, and mild temperatures. It is a peak and right trekking season in Nepal. The maximum temperature can reach 28°C, while the minimum is around 6°C. It offers one of the most comfortable climatic conditions. Similarly, you can enjoy the best views of the mountain panoramas without obstruction. The Gosaikunda Trek offers the best views of the Langtang ranges and surrounding mountains during autumn. The vegetation looks vibrant and fresh, while the colorful wildflowers color the landscape. Since autumn is peak trekking season, the trails can get busier.
Summer (June to August)
Summer coincides with the monsoon season and receives an average monthly rainfall of around 400 to 500mm. Thus, the lower region and forest trails get wet and muddy, with leeches infesting them. There are risks of landslides and floods due to heavy rainfall. However, the rain cleanses the surroundings and vegetation, making everything luscious green. The maximum temperature is around 22 to 30°C, while the minimum temperature is between 17 to 21°C. If you do not like the wet season, it is best to avoid summer when trekking in Nepal.
Winter (December to February)
The winter season covers the landscapes of higher altitude regions with thick snow, offering an incredible view of the winter wonderland and snow-capped mountains. Similarly, the temperature plunges and ranges between 2 to -6°C. The highest temperature ranges between 18 to 22°C. The snow can make the trails icy and slippery. There are only a few trekkers, so the trails are mostly empty. It is the best time to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Gosaikunda Lake Trekking.
Gosaikunda Lake Trek Day-to-day-Itinerary
Day 1
Drive to Dhunche from Kathmandu
Day 1 Facts
Trekking Time Average
160km Drive to Dhunche (Av.06 hours)
Accommodation
Hotel Himalayan View or Similar category
Altitude
(1966m./6487ft.)
Included meals
Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, We embark on the bus to Dhunche. This is a roughly six-hour drive, where you can view the beautiful landscape, rough terrains, and the famous Trishuli River on the way. We will stop for lunch at one highway restaurant and then continue our journey. You reach Dhunche by late afternoon. Overnight in Dhunche.
Day 2
Trek to Sing Gompa/Chandanbari
Day 2 Facts
Trekking Time Average
10km Hill hike
(Av.04 hours)
Accommodation
Hotel Yak & Nak or Similar category
Altitude
(3330m./10989ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we begin our trek to Chandanbari, also known as Sing Gompa, because of its famous monastery. After walking past forests of rhododendrons, pines, and oaks, you will make your way to a relatively steep staircase before you reach the beautiful village of Deurali. We will stop here for lunch and rest. Catch a fascinating glimpse of Ganesh Himal (7422m) from here. After walking for a few hours, we reach Chandanbari, where you can explore the famous Sing Gompa. Overnight in Chandanbari.
Day 3
Trek to Lauribinayak
Day 3 Facts
Trekking Time Average
10 km Uphill hike
(Av.05 hours)
Accommodation
Maya Hotel & Lodge or Similar category
Altitude
(3850m./12705ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, we begin our trek to Lauribinayak. This is a short trek and relatively more natural as you go uphill through the alpine grasslands, where you can see yaks grazing. You can also see small village settlements of the Tamang people along the way. After having lunch and resting for a while, we continue the trek. After trekking for about 4 hours, we reach Lauribinayak in the afternoon. You can spend the rest of the day resting and acclimatizing to the environment. Overnight in Lauribinayak.
Day 4
Trek to Gosainkunda
Day 4 Facts
Trekking Time Average
6 km Uphill hike
(Av.03 hours)
Accommodation
Hotel Tibet or Similar category
Altitude
(4460m./14718ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we finally made our way to the famous lake of Gosainkunda. Again, we go uphill through the rocky terrains and alpine grasslands. When we finally reach the Gosainkunda Lake, we can see 108 small lakes surrounding the main Gosainkunda Lake. Some famous lakes here include Naagkunda, Bhairab Kunda, and Suryakunda. You also get an excellent view of the mountains from Gosainkunda, such as Ganesh Himal (7422m), Langtang Himal (7234m), Langtang Ri (7205m), and Annapurna (8848m). Overnight in Gosainkunda.
Day 5
Trek to Dhunche
Day 5 Facts
Trekking Time Average
20 km Hill hike
(Av.08 hours)
Accommodation
Hotel Himalayan View or Similar category
Altitude
(1966m./6487ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, we descend back to Dhunche and retrace our steps. You will be trekking for about 8 hours, which makes today the longest trek day. Since we are going downhill the same way we came up, you can walk at your own pace, enjoying the sights and scenery along the way. We pass Lauribinayak and stop at Chandanbari for some rest and lunch. We will then continue towards Dhunche, walking past forests and grasslands. Overnight in Dhunche.
Day 6
Drive to Kathmandu
Day 6 Facts
Trekking Time Average
160km Drive to Kathmandu (Av.06 hours)
Altitude
(1295m./4273ft.)
Included meals
Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, we make our way back to Kathmandu by bus. You can finally glimpse the landscapes, mountains, streams, and terrains along the way. We will reach Kathmandu by late afternoon.
What's Included
Tribhuwan International Airport ( Airport – Hotel – Airport ) transfer in Kathmandu .
Lodge ( Twin share basis ) accommodation during the trekking.
All meals ( Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ) during trekking.
Langtang National Park fee and Trekker’s information management system .
One experienced, well trained, fluent English speaking, friendly, specialized in Langtang region and government authorized trekking guide including required porters (one porter for two clients).
Guide and porter’s food, accommodation, salary, insurance, transportation and equipments.
Overland transportation as per mentioned in itinerary.
A trekking map, duffle bag, first aid medical kit box, water purification, Oxygen saturation check up everyday, company t-shirt and trekking completion certificate etc.
Assistance for emergency rescue evacuation.
Government tax and service charge etc.
Public Liability Insurance.
What's Not Included
Hotel accommodation and meals in Kathmandu.
Hard and soft table drinks such as tea/coffee, coke, fanta, alcoholic drinks, hot water, hot shower, mineral water, desert, bar bill, laundry and phone bill etc during trekking.
Every journey we create is uniquely tailored to you. Share your interests and passions, and our travel experts will design an unforgettable adventure filled with extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experiences crafted just for you.
Apr 2023
This is an unforgettable hiking trip. Gosaikunda is a sacred and tranquil lake that makes people want to stay there. Tej, the manager, and Bijan, the guide, are enthusiastic and friendly. I highly recommend it.
5.0
Cynthia Ku
Taiwan
Apr 2023 • Couples
This is my second time participating in Nepal Alternative Treks & Expedition! Tej is still as passionate as ever, and he helped me resolve non-trekking related issues. The whole team is fantastic, and I would choose this team again. Highly recommended.
During Janai Purnima, which falls in August, many Hindu devotees visit the pilgrimage site of Gosainkunda. If you visit Gosainkunda this month, you will notice a flock of devotees visiting this historical place. People believe that Lord Shiva conjured this lake using his Trishul to quench his thirst.
Travel insurance For Gosaikunda Lake Trek
Gosaikunda Lake Trekking is a high-altitude trek, and travel insurance is mandatory. Since you will be trekking to remote areas with a lack of infrastructure, insurance offers security. The insurance policy must cover high altitudes up to 5,000 meters above sea level.
Similarly, it should cover medical expenses, including altitude-related sickness, emergency expenses like helicopter rescues, trip postponement/ cancellation, and baggage loss/ damage. You must provide the insurance certificate to the trekking agency before the trek. The agency will use your travel insurance to provide immediate rescue and medical assistance in emergencies, sickness, or injuries.
Meals and Accommodation
We provide you with the facility of breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the Gosainkunda Lake Trek. Similarly, we will provide lodge accommodation for you during the trek. The accommodation usually consists of tea houses, lodges, and guest houses. So, feel free to travel with us. These facilities we provide are top class. Similarly, we provide Western and Nepali food.
Permits for Gosaikunda Lake Trekking
Trekkers must obtain two permits to take the Gosaikunda Lake Trekking. These permits are:
TIMS Card
The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card is mandatory for all trekking in all regions of Nepal, except for the Everest region. The card contains all your information, including personal details, emergency contacts, trek destinations, etc. Thus, it is a vital card that helps to ensure your safety during the trek. Similarly, it helps rescue teams track your whereabouts during natural disasters and emergencies.
The costs of the TIMS cards are as follows:
Solo SAARC nationals: NPR 600
Group SAARC nationals: NPR 300
Solo non-SAARC nationals: NPR 1000
Group non-SAARC nationals: NPR 2000
Langtang National Park Entry Permit
The Godaikunda Lake lies within Langtang National Park, which requires an entry permit to access. The national park protects numerous Himalayan flora and fauna and a diverse ecosystem. To enter the park, Trekkers must show the permit at the Dhunche army checkpoint.
The Langtang National Park entry fee is NPR 1500 per person for SAARC nationals and NPR 3000 per person for non-SAARC nationals.
Note: Children below 10 years are free
Fitness and experience requirements
The Gosaikunda Lake Trek is moderately complex. Almost anyone can do this trek, but make sure you are physically fit and don’t have any health issues. Likewise, you don’t have to have that experience as well. With proper preparation, anyone can join the trek.
Gosaikunda Lake Trekking requires reasonable fitness, strength, and stamina. To overcome the difficulties of the trek, trekkers can undertake exercises and training like running, jogging, cycling, swimming, etc. Proper physical and mental preparation is the key to a safe and more enjoyable trekking experience.
Climate and weather
The climate and weather while trekking to Gosaikunda Lake are moderate. It is suitable to take this trek throughout the year, but spring and autumn are the best times to visit this place. The climate and weather are ideal at this time of the year. However, as you ascend to higher elevations, the weather becomes unpredictable. Despite the season, the weather conditions can change within a few hours. Hence, trekkers must prepare to face all kinds of climate and weather during the Gosaikunda Trek in Nepal.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Is Gosaikunda Lake trekking route safe for trekkers ?
Yes, the trekking route is safe for tourists. The area has already recovered from the earthquake in 2015. Also, there is no burst of epidemics or viral diseases, or covid -19 in this region. The government and other respective bodies are continuously are trying to facilitate accessible communication, comfortable and safe internal travel, proper healthcare facility, and services of accommodation for tourists.
How challenging is the Gosaikunda Lake Trek?
Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a short and moderate trek suitable for beginners. It takes less than a week to complete, and the average daily walking time is 5 to 6 hours on varied terrains. The trekking trail has steep, narrow ascending and descending sections. Likewise, the highest altitude of the trek is 4,460 meters.
Should I hire a guide for the Gosainkunda Lake Trek?
Yes, you should hire a guide for the Gosaikunda Lake Trek. As of April 2023, the government of Nepal has made it mandatory to hire a licensed guide for trekking in Nepal. Always hire a licensed and experienced guide as they help to enhance your safety and experience.
How much does the Gosaikunda Trek cost?
The Gosainkunda Lake Trek cost is usually between USD 350 and USD 800. The cost can vary depending on the services, trek duration, extra days, season, and group number. The extra services, such as hot water/ services, bottled water, internet, charging devices, etc, will be an additional cost.
What makes the Gosaikunda Trek special?
The Gosaikunda Trek takes you on a mesmerizing journey to the sacred and holy lake of Gosaikunda. The lake holds religious and cultural significance for Hindus and Buddhists. The scenic trail of Gosaikunda Trek passes through the Langtang National Park and offers gorgeous mountain views.
How long will we have to hike each day during the trek?
An average day of trekking involves around 4 to 6 hours of hiking, including breaks for meals as needed. The average distance covered depends on the terrain and altitude, but ranges from 10 to 15 kilometers on average.
Along the way, you will have many chances for photography and other personal interests such as bird watching and discovering local areas of interest like natural springs, hot water ponds, and even exploring flora and fauna.
We thank our guests for trekking with us, reviewing our services, and making us eligible for the prestigious awards. We also sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment and continuous support of our company. Without their hard work, dedication, and passion, the awards and achievements we have received wouldn’t be possible.
My friend and I were lucky to find Tej online before visiting Nepal. We knew we wanted to do a trek, but we weren’t sure exactly which trek. Tej sent us a bunch of itineraries for different treks and we chose the Manaslu circuit. When we arrived our guide, Kumar, was waiting for us at the airport and Tej was able to get us all our permits for the trek done in less than 2 hours which was great. The manaslu trek was absolutely amazing! We were super happy with our whole trip and we were lucky to be able to make the pass even though we saw dozens of other people who had to turn back because of the weather. We are already looking forward to going back next year at the same time to trek Everest and we will definitely use Tej again!
“Nepal Alternative Trek addressed my needs according to my schedule and agenda. I stayed most of the time at his home-stay, shuttling between home and the places that I wanted to visit. Tej, the boss behind Nepal Alternative Trek, helped to make my stay in Kathmandu comfortable and productive. He walked me to the monasteries that I wanted to visit and even picked me up when I needed a ride back home.
The home-stay is hosted by his wife and I got to experience living with a Nepalese family, sharing their food, space and laughter.
For the home-stay:
1) Meals available upon request
2) Family get together and chats
3) Regular change of bed-sheets and towels
4) Free WIFI
5) Near Swayambhu and Thamel
6) Safe environment
7) Mountainous forest behind home
8) Walking distance to beautiful monasteries
9) Away from hustle and bustle of towns yet easy to get to town
Goal was achieved 4130 meter and 0 degree celsius, Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It was 6 months of preparation. It was challenging target for us. We had dense forest, mountain, and completely wilderness above the treeline, it was windy and terrain . There is a huge support team. Without them it would not be possible. We can do it , we just have to give time and practice. Mr. Gurung Ji, you with your entire 7 of team were wonderful. They were always ready to help us.
Thanks Mr. Gurung ji for all the support, and guidance that made the trip successful. While all of us focused on Mountain, big thing but there were so many beautiful things along the way, stream, flowers, flora, so many birds I took pictures. So, in summary, phenomenal, success and our confidence there. We know, we can do more and higher in next what bigger thing.
8 days non trek city tour and 21days trek to EBC and chola pass
We love nepal and made 3 time visit to this beutiful country and rich culture. This time last year we came with 6 pax and visited Kathmandu , Pohkara and chitwan with a stay of 2 night in each place. We flew to Pohkara and got the van to chitwan and flew to Kathmandu. Tej arranged all transports overland and flights for us. We did not asked for a local guide but it was all smooth and no problem. We are happy with the service provided by Tej and he made all efforts to make us happy. His company performed professional with the very reasonable pricing. We encountered some small problem with the van transporting us back from nagarkot to kathmandu airport. This van was quite small and it came to pick up quite late that we almost missed the flight to pohkara. We told Tej about this and he must take care of this outsourced van company. Anyway the van in pohkara and to chitwan was excellent , big and comfy. So he has corrected the mistake.
Part 2 was our trek to EBC and chola pass for 21 nights. Tej arranged for flight and guide plus porter. For this trekking it was only me and my wife travelling together. We are about 50 years and used the service of 2 porters cause we bought a lot of dry food plus chocolate. We are difficult persons in terms of foreign food. Our guide Ammer and 2 porters are fabulous. They took care of us very well like we are part of their family.
Overall we strongly recommend this company. They are good and not high expensive tag. We will use their service again in June to trek in Langtang. Rocky
We had a fantastic experience on the Annapurna Circuit with Nepal Alternative Treks. Tej, the manager, was helpful, professional and efficient in dealing with our requirements and amendments, the arrangements worked smoothly and the information provided to us was excellent. Our guide Kul was brilliant. He was friendly, knowledgable and experienced and took changes in our itinerary in his stride. Our trekking experience was much better with his help in everything from planning the stages of the route to organising our food and accommodation. Just one warning: he is an ace card player and will probably beat you hands down!
A wonderful & interesting trek overall. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances ( heavy snow fall & Lie ping with a bad cold) we were unable to cross the Ganja la pass. However, our guide Simbir offered us as alternative trek which took us on a difference journey of Nepal. We had the opportunity to visit & stay in many local villages and meet Tamang, Gurung people experience, their lifestyle and culture. We visited our guide’s home town of Chalishgaun and timed it right to join in with Diwali celebrations!
Attempting Everest base camp trekking for me & my group was taking it to the next level. Before this, our limits were Kedarnath, MadMaheshwar & Tunganath with max distances of 18-19 kms spread over 2-3 days. Moreover, these tracks are such that people doesn’t necessarily have to trek. They have the option of ponies. EBC involves a lot for people like us (acclimatization to altitude, strength etc.), but above all, you need someone to provide logistical support, moral support that it can be done. This is where Nepal Alternative Treks does a great job. They organized it very well, guides and porters provided were very reliable and cost is reasonable when you compare to others. They can customize your travel plan according to your need.
A few weeks ago we went on a trip to Nepal, accompanied by a couple of friends who were on their second trip with Nepal Alternative Trek. Our first goal was to trek to the village of Chalish in Ruby Valley. We decided to go with the services of Nepal Alternative Trek to take us up there. We went there partly by jeep, partly walking through the cultivated terraces, meeting the inhabitants of the different communities who worked there.
I must say that the service that Tej offered us was perfect on all lines. First of all, before our departure, months before, Tej always answered our many questions (luggage, temperature, route to be revised, etc.) Always within 24 hours, he answered with a lot of patience.
All the equipment we thought we would need was available at his office.
Our guide Ammar led us to destination with confidence and professionalism. He knew all the trails, and especially all the shortcuts to avoid us having to go up or down too much along our road. He has managed all the difficulties we have encountered: due to personal reasons, we had to change and our itinerary, and our calendar, and he made everything possible. The whole team adapted to our changes. Our guide contacted Tej who orchestrated the changes without us even having to deal with anything.
The porters were attentive and were always in front of our needs.
Our journey continued towards Bandipur with the driver who made us know the various interesting points, from sunrise to sunset, making detours to take us to the most famous places. Then a 2 days stay in Chitwan, and return to Kathmandu again where the driver carried us without calculating from one place to another – God knows that traffic in Kathmandu, Bakhtapur and Patan can be complicated.
Thanks to Tej, and the whole Nepal Alternative Trek team. We will remember forever that amazing experience.
Many thanks to Tej – well organized, Dhan + hal worked Hard, we could not have done it without there Help, they were always there when needed, worked extra to help us when we were sick. Always kind and cheerful
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