Gosaikunda Lake Trek
The Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a moderate Himalayan trek located in the Langtang National Park in central Nepal. This trek is famous for the sacred alpine lakes of Gosaikunda, which hold religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists, and for its panoramic views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and other Himalayan peaks. The trek passes through lush forests, terraced farmlands, and high-altitude alpine landscapes, offering a combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and spiritual experiences.
The trek typically begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche, the gateway to the Langtang region, followed by trekking through villages like Sing Gompa, Chandanbari, and Lauribina, which provide insights into the lifestyle of Tamang and Sherpa communities. The trail ascends gradually, taking trekkers through dense rhododendron and pine forests, streams, and high pastures before reaching the Gosaikunda Lake at 4,380 m.
A highlight of the trek is Gosaikunda Lake, a cluster of glacial lakes, with the largest one, Gosaikunda, considered sacred, attracting pilgrims during Janai Purnima (full moon festival). The trek also allows for spectacular views of Langtang Lirung (7,227 m) and other peaks and the opportunity to explore smaller alpine lakes like Bhairab Kund and Saraswati Kund. For adventurous trekkers, a short acclimatization hike to Lauribina La Pass (4,610 m) offers panoramic mountain views.
The Gosaikunda Trek is moderate in difficulty, with elevations ranging from 1,550 m at Dhunche to 4,380 m at Gosaikunda Lake, making proper acclimatization important. The trek is suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness levels, families, and pilgrims seeking spiritual and natural experiences in the Himalayas.
Highlights
- Trek through lush rhododendron and pine forests
- Visit traditional Tamang villages and experience local culture
- Reach sacred Gosaikunda Lake and nearby lakes like Saraswati and Bhairav
- Explore alpine meadows, high ridges, and glacial landscapes
- Moderate trekking suitable for intermediate trekkers with minimal crowds
Basic Information
- Destination
- Duration
- Start / End Location
- Accommodation Type
- Difficulty Level
- Max Altitude
- Age Limit
- Transportation Mode
- Gosaikunda Lake
- 10 Days
- Kathmandu / Kathmandu
- Lodges, tea houses, guesthouses
- Moderate
- 4381m
- -
- -
Best Season
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies, pleasant temperatures – best season Spring (Mar–May): Blooming rhododendrons, moderate temperatures – second best Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold, possible snow – for experienced trekkers Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Trails muddy, slippery – not recommended
Tour Plan
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m / 4,430 ft)
- Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport
- Overnight in Hotel in Kathmandu
- Meals: Dinner
- Highlight: Free evening to explore or rest
Kathmandu Sightseeing
- Visit: Kathmandu Durbar Square (UNESCO Site)
- Pashupatinath Temple (Sacred Hindu pilgrimage site)
- Boudhanath Stupa (one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world)
- Overnight in Hotel in Kathmandu
- Meals: Breakfast
- Highlight: Cultural immersion into Nepal’s religious heritage
Drive to Dhunche (1,950 m / 6,400 ft) – 6 hrs
- Scenic drive through Trishuli River valley
- Overnight in Lodge at Dhunche
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlight: Entry to Langtang National Park, mountain views en route
Trek to Chandanbari / Shing Gompa (3,250 m / 10,663 ft) – 6 hrs
- Steady ascent through rhododendron & pine forest
- Overnight in Lodge at Shing Gompa
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlight: Peaceful monastery
Trek to Lauribinayak (4,000 m / 13,123 ft) – 4 hrs
- Steep uphill with panoramic Langtang views
- Overnight in Lodge at Lauribinayak
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlight: Stunning sunset views over Ganesh Himal and Langtang Lirung
Trek to Gosaikunda Lake (4,381 m / 14,375 ft) – 3 hrs
- Gradual climb to the sacred alpine lake
- Overnight in Lodge near Gosaikunda
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlight: Explore holy lakes — Saraswati, Bhairav & Gosaikunda
Trek back to Shing Gompa (3,250 m / 10,663 ft) – 6 hrs
- Descend through same trail, enjoying different angles
- Overnight in Lodge at Shing Gompa
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlight: Forested descent with tranquil monastery stop
Trek back to Dhunche (1,950 m / 6,400 ft) – 5 hrs
- Final day of trek through forested trails
- Overnight in Lodge at Dhunche
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlight: Celebrate trek completion with local cuisine
Drive back to Kathmandu – 6 hrs
- Drive along scenic mountain roads
- Overnight in Hotel in Kathmandu
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Highlight: Leisure evening for shopping or relaxation
Final Departure from Kathmandu
- Transfer to airport for your onward flight
- Meals: Breakfast
- Highlight: Farewell