Overview
- Duration 7 days
- Max Altitude 4460m
- Group Size 2-10
- Best Season Mar-May, Sep-Nov
- Per Day Walk 05-06 hrs
- Accomodation Hotel / Teahouse
- Start/End KTM / KTM
- Difficulty Moderate
- Trip Type Solo / Group /
- Location Langtang Region
The Gosaikunda Trek is a spiritual and scenic journey in the Langtang region, renowned for its captivating blend of nature and religious significance. At the heart of this trek lies the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, revered by Hindus and Buddhists. Nestled at 4,380 meters, the lake is a tranquil gem surrounded by dramatic landscapes, making it a must-visit for trekkers and pilgrims.
This 7-10-day trek offers flexibility in the itinerary, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your preferences. Starting from Kathmandu, you’ll travel through picturesque villages, rich forests, and rugged alpine terrain before reaching the serene Gosaikunda Lake. The trek offers incredible mountain views and immerses you in the local culture, with opportunities to engage with the friendly communities along the Gosaikunda Trek route.
Whether you’re drawn by its spiritual significance or the allure of the Gosaikunda Lake Trek, this journey promises a rewarding experience through Nepal’s stunning natural landscapes.
Trek Highlights
- Explore the sacred Gosaikunda Lake
Journey to the spiritually revered lake, a highlight of the trek. - Panoramic views of the Langtang Himalayas
Experience stunning landscapes and majestic mountain vistas. - Best trekking seasons: Spring and Autumn
Enjoy clear skies, vibrant nature, and perfect weather conditions. - Cultural immersion with local Tamang communities
Discover the rich traditions and warm hospitality of local people. - Witness the Janai Purnima Festival
Trek during this religious event for a unique spiritual experience. - Diverse flora and fauna along the trail
Spot rhododendrons, birds, and other wildlife in pristine surroundings. - Peaceful alpine meadows and lush forests
Walk through serene forests and open meadows filled with natural beauty. - Accessible from Kathmandu with flexible itineraries
Choose a 7-10 day trek based on your preferences and schedule. - Extend your adventure with the Langtang Helambu Gosaikunda Trek
For those seeking a longer and more immersive experience, consider the Langtang Helambu Gosaikunda Trek
Gosaikunda Trek Itinerary Map
- Day 1 :
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Day 2 :
Kathmandu to Syafru Besi (1,550m /
Distance:122 km /
Time: 09-10 hrs by Public bus / 07-08 hrs Jeep - Day 3 :
Syafru Besi to Lama Hotel ( 2,447m /
Distance: 15.7 km /
Time: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 4 :
Lama Hotel to Shin Gompa (3,330m/
Distance: 13.1 km /
Time: 06-07 hrs walk - Day 5 :
Shin Gompa to Gosaikunda (4,460m/
Distance: 11.2 km /
Time: 05-06 hrs walk - Day 6 :
Gosaikunda to Dhunche ( 1,300m/
Distance: 18.2 km /
Time: 07-08 hrs walk - Day 7 :
Dhunche to Kathmandu /
Distance: 102km /
Time: 7-8 hrs drive
Gosaikunda Trek Itinerary
Day 1 : Arriving in Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu and settle in. Later in the evening, attend a detailed trek briefing where essential information regarding the Gosaikunda Trek will be provided. Use this time to finalize any last-minute preparations. Enjoy the overnight accommodation at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu, allowing you to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 : Kathmandu to Syafru Besi (1,550m) Trip Duration: 09-10 hrs by Public bus / 07-08 hrs Jeep
The journey to Syafru Besi begins early in the morning. The drive takes you through scenic countryside roads, offering beautiful views of terraced farmlands, lush hills, and traditional Nepali villages. Moving closer to the Langtang region, the surrounding landscapes shift to more rugged and mountainous terrain. The drive, while long, is rewarding, with fantastic views of the Himalayas. Upon arriving in Syafru Besi, settle into a cozy teahouse and relax after a day of travel. Overnight in Syafru Besi.
Day 3 : Syafru Besi to Lama Hotel (2,447m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hrs walk
Start your trek through forests filled with bamboo, oak, and rhododendron, home to various wildlife, including langur monkeys and birds. The trail runs alongside the Bhote Koshi River, offering a serene walk through nature with occasional ascents. This section of the trek is moderate, providing a beautiful introduction to the Gosaikunda trek route. After trekking for 6-7 hours, arrive at Lama Hotel, a small settlement where you can relax and enjoy a warm meal. Accommodation is arranged at a traditional mountain teahouse.
Day 4 : Lama Hotel to Shin Gompa (3,330m) Trip Duration: 6-7 hrs walk
The 4th day of the trek involves ascending through beautiful forests and quaint villages. The trail gradually gains altitude, offering increasingly stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Along the way, pass through traditional villages to experience local culture and hospitality. The final destination is Shin Gompa, a peaceful village known for its monastery and locally made yak cheese. The day ends with a warm meal and rest in a teahouse, offering the perfect setting to relax before the ascent to Gosaikunda.
Day 5 : Shin Gompa to Gosaikunda (4,460m) Trip Duration: 5-6 hrs walk
The trek continues towards Gosaikunda Lake, one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. The trail leads through alpine meadows and rugged terrain, gradually climbing higher. As you approach the lake, the landscape transforms into a beautiful alpine setting, with the pristine lake emerging as the centrepiece. Gosaikunda Lake is known for its religious significance and natural beauty, providing a peaceful environment for reflection. After reaching the lake, enjoy the views and rest in a nearby teahouse for the night.
Day 6 : Gosaikunda to Dhunche (1,300m) Trip Duration: 7-8 hrs walk
Begin descending from Gosaikunda, following the trail through alpine terrain before reaching the more forested sections near Chandanbari. The trail offers stunning views of the Langtang range and surrounding hills, with plenty of opportunities to take in the region’s beauty. Pass through traditional villages, offering insight into the local way of life. Upon reaching Dhunche, settle into a lodge where you can rest and enjoy a final night in the Langtang region before returning to Kathmandu.
Day 7 : Dhunche to Kathmandu Trip Duration: 7-8 hrs drive
On the final day of the journey, depart from Dhunche and enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. The route offers a last glimpse of the stunning landscapes of the Langtang region, passing through rural villages and terraced fields. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, there is time to relax, reflect on the trekking experience, and enjoy final city exploration. Whether shopping in Thamel or visiting local cafes, the day offers a peaceful end to the adventure.
Gosaikunda Lake Trek Cost
Trek to Gosaikunda is an affordable adventure that can be tailored to different budgets, depending on group size and the services chosen. Costs typically cover trekking permits, accommodation, meals, and transportation from Kathmandu. Whether you trek solo or in a group, the pricing offers flexibility. The total trek cost varies based on the distance from the Gosaikunda Lake Trekm, the number of days to travel and the support services, such as guides and porters.
| Number of People | Cost Per Person (USD) |
| 1 Person | $550 – $700 |
| 2 People | $450 – $650 |
| 3-5 People | $350 – $550 |
| 6+ People | $300 – $450 |
Document and Permit Required for Gosaikunda Lake Trek
To embark on the Gosaikunda Lake Trek, a few essential documents and permits are required. Make sure to have the following:
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): Mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal.
- Langtang National Park Permit: Required to enter the Langtang National Park.
- Valid Passport: Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Travel Insurance: Insurance covering trekking up to 4,600m is strongly recommended.
- Local Identification: A local ID is required instead of a TIMS card if you are a Nepali citizen.
Gosaikunda Trek Shortest Routes: 5 Days
For trekkers short on time, the Gosaikunda Trekking distance can be completed in a condensed 5-day itinerary without missing the key highlights. This shortest route allows you to experience the beauty of Gosaikunda Lake and its surroundings in a more focused schedule. Here’s a detailed itinerary for the 5-day trek:
5-Day Gosaikunda Trek Itinerary
- Day 1: Kathmandu to Dhunche (1,300m): Take a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche, passing through terraced fields, rivers, and beautiful hilly landscapes.
- Day 2: Dhunche to Shin Gompa (3,330m): Begin the trek with a steady ascent through lush forests, arriving at Shin Gompa, known for its serene monastery and local cheese.
- Day 3: Shin Gompa to Gosaikunda (4,460m): Trek through alpine terrain and rugged landscapes, reaching the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, a stunning and spiritual highlight of the journey.
- Day 4: Gosaikunda to Dhunche (1,300m): Return to Dhunche, retracing your steps through the picturesque forests and enjoying panoramic views of the Langtang range.
- Day 5: Dhunche to Kathmandu: Drive back to Kathmandu, taking in the final scenic views as you conclude the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions of Gosaikunda Trek
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What is the distance from Kathmandu to Gosaikunda?
The distance from Kathmandu to Gosaikunda is approximately 140 kilometers. The drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche, the starting point of the trek, covers about 122 kilometers, followed by a trek of around 18 kilometers to reach Gosaikunda Lake. The journey typically takes 6-7 hours by vehicle and 2-3 days of trekking.
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How difficult is Gosaikunda Trek?
Gosaikunda Trekking comes under moderate trek Grade. However, one needs to be in good physical condition to complete the trek, as one needs to trek at high altitudes and steep terrain. The trails are not confusing and well-maintained. Gosaikunda trekking is recommended for all levels of trekkers. This trail doesn’t require any technical skills or mountaineering skills.
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Will I also be travelling to Langtang Valley?
Yes, of course. First, we will be going to Langtang Valley travelling around the Beautiful valley and then trekking to Gosaikunda. We will start from Syafru Besi, go to the Lama Hotel, and then go to Shin Gompa. From there, we will trek to Gosaikunda.
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How are the people and culture of Gosaikunda trek?
Gosaikunda Region is filled with diverse cultural and ethnic groups. You will be trekking through various villages, giving you the unique experience of rural life. Tribes like Tamang, Sherpa, and Hyolmo are the indigenous tribes of this region. Most of their lifestyle is influenced by Tibetan culture, and most are Buddhist. Their warm hospitality will take away your homesickness. Most of the houses were destroyed by the 2015 earthquake however, the newly made houses are also made from the local stones and colourful prayer flags at the top.
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What about food and accommodation on the trail to Gosaikunda?
Along the Gosaikunda Trekking, local teahouses provide food and accommodation. These teahouses offer simple but hearty meals, typically including dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soups, and momos. For accommodation, trekkers can stay in basic but comfortable teahouses, which provide a warm bed, communal dining areas, and clean rooms. Facilities become more basic at higher altitudes, but the hospitality remains warm and welcoming throughout the trek.
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What is the best season to trek Gosaikunda?
The best seasons to trek to Gosaikunda are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is clear and stable, offering excellent views of the mountains and pleasant trekking conditions.
