Langtang Valley Trek

Duration: 8 Days | Based on 2 Reviews | Trip Photos | Trip Map

Destination: Nepal
Trip Difficulty: Moderate
Transport: Private Vehicle / Bus
Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge to lodge
Max Elevation: 4965m
Group Size: MIn 1 pax

Langtang Valley Trek is one of the most popular trekking in the Langtang region of Nepal. "Langtang” in particular is derived from the Tibetan words ‘Lang’ and ‘Tang’, which means ‘following yak’, citing to an incident where it is believed that once a Lama lost his yak and followed the trail till the valley and the valley is believed to have been discovered. Langtang valley is one of the most fascinating trekking regions for those wishing a short trek into the Himalayas with a desire to explore the natural beauty, ancient Tibetan culture, and panoramic mountain views.

The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and heads forward through the banks of Langtang River. The trail to Langtang valley passes through marvelous alpine meadows, majestic waterfalls, and magnificent rhododendron forests. Langtang National Park preserves this region, the first Himalayan national park of Nepal, established in 1976.

Passing through this national park makes this trek more astonishing as it provides a great opportunity to witness various floras and faunas, including Danphe, red panda, musk deer, and Himalayan black bear. The Buddhist flags fluttering on the way during the trek.

After spending an overnight at the Lama Hotel, you can get to the Langtang Valley, located just below the Langtang Glacier. The ethnic generosity is surprising as the customary villages populated by the Tamang people have preserved their traditional folk culture and customs, which is much similar to the Tibetan culture.

The trekking extends to the Kyanjin Gompa, which is the central spiritual attraction in the Langtang region. Exploring the adjacent panoramas and the yak grazing pastures is an exciting day. The Himalayan views of Langtang Lirung, Mt. Gangchenpo, Ganesh Himal, and Yala Peak are simply awe-inspiring.

Langtang valley, also known as the “valley of glaciers,” is described by the famous British mountaineer and explorer Bill Tilman as the most beautiful valley in the world. Join us and explore this beautiful valley to discover one of the most rewarding treks in the nation of the Himalayas.

You might be interested in our Langtang Trek 7 Days package.

The difficulty level of the Lantang valley trek

The difficulty level of treks in Nepal varies mostly based on the altitude of the trekking destination and the number of days taken. Four major trekking difficulty grades run from the easiest grade to the hardest.

Grade one (easiest) - Treks below the altitude of 3500 meters

Grade two (moderate) - Treks between the altitude of 3500 and 4500 meters

Grade three (moderately difficult)- Treks between altitudes of 4500 and 5600 meters

Grade four (difficult with technical climbing)- Treks between altitudes above 5600 meters

The Lantang valley trek varies in altitude, but the highest altitude it brings is 3900 meters. Such altitude treks are the moderate grade two level trek. So the difficulty level of the Lantang valley trek is moderate.

Is the trek beginner friendly?

The trek falls among the Mid level difficulty of Nepali trail treks. The trek is definitely beginner friendly and poses very few dangers for a hike. If you wish to do a short trek with your friends and family, this could be the one. It allows any age group for a hike and is very simple.

Best time for Langtang valley trek

The best time for the Lantang valley trek is like any other trekking season in Nepal. Autumn and spring are the peak trekking season in Nepal. The same goes for the best time for the Lantang valley trek.

Spring in Nepal falls in March, April, and May, whereas autumn falls in October, November, and December. The spring and autumn seasons bring very clear and temperate weather. You do not have to face the hassle caused by a sweltering hot climate or freezing weather. The trails are very clear and dry as there is minimum to no chance of rainfall or snowfall.

The autumn seasons, specifically the months of October and November, are festival seasons in Nepal. The festive environment of the country aids in the season and is very suitable.

On the other hand, people also trek the Lantang region off-season during monsoon and winter. But it will need a lot of preparation and hassle. You ought to be prepared for rainy or snowy weather. Preparation of extra trekking gear for rain, raincoat, boots, etc., is necessary for the monsoon. The winter season requires heavy luggage for thick thermal wear to fight the cold.

Although the off-season treks could be challenging, they could still be positive. The trails in off-season treks are very quiet and peaceful. Hiking on such trails will be a great experience. Snowfall during winter in Nepal’s Himalayas is quite a beauty.

Relate Trips:

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek
Tamang Heritage Trek

Highlights

Sightseeing of cultural heritages in Kathmandu
Exploring Langtang National Park
Culturally rich and hospitable Tamang villages
Walking through blooming rhododendron forest
Visiting Kyanjin Gompa, an ancient Buddhist monastery
Spectacular mountain views of Langtang range

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 Drive to Syabrubesi (1450m)
Drive hours - 7 hours to 8 hours
Distance - 80 km
Syabrubesi’s altitude - 1450 meters
Overnight stay at Syabrubesi
The first step of our Langtang valley trek will go towards a small mountain town called Syabrubesi. The mountain village lies inside the Lantang national park. We will take a route on the northern highway to drive towards this small village. The road passes through mountain regions and along the Trishuli river.
We get views of mesmerizing landscapes, hamlets along the hills, vistas of the mountains, etc., as we reach our destination. The first day ends with an overnight stay at Sybrubesi’s lodge.
Day 2 Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2480m)
Trekking hours - 7 to 8 hours
Lama Hotel’s altitude - 2480 meters
Overnight stay at Lama Hotel
The second day of the trek is the start of the hiking part of the trip. we will enter the Lantang National Park on this day. The route takes us alongside trails of the Bhote Koshi river. The trails are usually full of rhododendron and oak trees.
Hiking uphill through the forests, we will reach the village called Bamboo(1850m) for lunch. Then we pass through stable trails among the dense forests where we can see many birds. A short ascent through the bamboo forest will take us to the Lama hotel. This will be our last destination for the day. A good night's sleep at this hotel will mark the end of day two.
Day 3 Lama Hotel to Langtang (3540m)
Trekking hours - 6 hours to 7 hours
Lantang altitude - 3540 meters
Overnight stay at Langtang
On this day, we will continue our journey by trekking through trails covered by rhododendron and pine forests. A three-hour-long trek will take us to a place called Ghora Tabela for lunch. The place is covered with wildlife and many herbal shrubs nearby.
After we finish lunching at Ghora Tabela, we will walk for further 3 hours towards Lantang. The trek will take us through picturesque trails. The day will end with arrival at Lantang village and resting off the exhaustion here.
Day 4 Langtang to Kyanjin Gompa (3900m)
Trekking hours - 3 to 4 hours
Kyangjin Gompa’s altitude - 3900 meters
Overnight stay at Kyanjin Gompa
Day fourth of the Lantang valley trek will be towards Kyangjin Gompa. The destination is an ancient Buddhist monastery. The place housing this monastery is a quaint hamlet that lies at the foothills of many mountain peaks. The place also houses a cheese factory that the Nepal government runs. The cheese factory and the monastery will be our exploration points in this place.
Clear weather will show us stunning views of mountains like Ganchempo and Lantang Lirung. A small hill nearby shows us views of other small mountains like Langshisa, Dorje Lakpa, etc.
After a day full of exploration of this region, we will stay the night here.
Day 5 Day hike up to Tsergo Ri (4985m) and back to Kyanjin Gompa
Trekking hours - 7 to 8 hours
Kyangjin Gompa’s altitude - 3900 meters
Overnight stay at Kyanjin Gompa
On this day, we will wake up early in the morning and hike to a place called Tsergo Ri. The place has splendid panorama mountain views of Lantang Lirung, Yubra Himal, Naya Kanga, Yala peak, etc. we can see the mountain ranges stretched all over the horizon.
Moreover, we will also reach the Lantang glacier and Langshihs Kharka, which is a yak pasture. After exploring our destinations for the day, we will return back to Kyanjin Gompa to spend the night.
Day 6 Trek down to Rimche
Trekking hours - 6 to 7 hours
Rimche’s altitude - 2399 meters
Overnight stay at Rimche
The sixth day of the trek will include a descent to a lower altitude, Rimche. We will pass through beautiful landscapes as we trace our steps back to Rimche. The downhill walk will be much easier than most treks done on the prior days. The day’s trek will end as we reach Rimche and settle for the night's stay here.
Day 7 Trek Down to Syabrubesi
Trekking hours - 5 to 6 hours
Syabrubesi’s altitude - 1450 meters
Overnight stay at Syabrubesi
The seventh day’s trek will be a very fast downhill hike. we will go back to our initial routes of the trek to Syabrubesi. We will again pass through the trails housing bamboo trees and rhododendron forests. The walking hassle will end once we reach Syabrubesi. We will sleep overnight here and get ready to leave for the next day.
Day 8 Drive back to Kathmandu
Drive hours - 7 hours to 8 hours
Drive distance - 80 km
Kathmandu’s altitude - 1400 meters
Overnight stay at Syabrubesi
This Langtang valley trek started at Kathamdnu and will end with a journey back to Kathmandu. We will drive through a scenic route carrying a lifetime's worth of memories from the trek. We will reach Kathmandu by passing the same route as we did earlier in the journey. Then, after a hotel transfer upon arrival at Kathmandu, the eight-day journey of the Lantang valley trek will end.

What to Expect

What's included

Standard meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek
Government license holder guide
Strong and helpful porter with proper equipments (1 porter for 2 people)
Salary,food,accommodation and insurance for guide and porters
Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
All land transportation.
TIMS (Trekking information Management System) card
Langtang National Park entry permit
Comprehensive first aid kit
Government taxes and official expenses

What's not included

International Airfare and taxes
Nepal entry visa fee
Your Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu
Entrance fee in the heritage sites during city tour.
All the expenses of personal nature
Any kind of drinks and desserts during the trek
Tips for guide and porter (Tipping is expected)

PRICES & DATES

Trip Dates	Availability	Price
29 Sep, 2023 - 06 Oct, 2023	Guaranteed	USD 675

Request a Private Date

Useful Information

Why should you do the Lantang valley trek?

The varied climactic zone

The Langtang valley lies within the area of Langtang National Park. This park is a protected area popular for having a varied climate zone. You can find subtropical climates to alpine climates here. This varied climatic zone allows diverse wildlife to exist. One-fourth of the park lies within a thick forest. The trekking through trails housing such land areas will be pretty adventurous. You will find oak, maple, pine, rhododendron trees, etc. Animals of various species also live in the area. Rare species like red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan tahr have shelter here. The place also is home to over 250 bird species.

The culture of the region

In the remote region of Lantang valley resides the natives of the region referred to as “Langtangpa”. The natives follow Tibetan Buddhism and culture. They have their own language closely related to the Tibetan language spoken in the Kyriong of Tibet. The natives worship the Lantang Lirgrung mountain as their god.

Although the Lantangpa people are also referred to as Tamangs, their culture is very unique to Tamangs. Natives believe Lantang to be a hidden valley blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. You will also find a huge population of Sherpas and Tamangs here. The cultural lifestyle and its influence is very strong in the Lantang region. Getting to experience this in remote trails of Nepal is a great experience.

Vistas of the region

The Lantang trek gives you immensely beautiful views of the roadways and mountains of Nepal. The beautiful landscape’s viewing will start as early as you leave Kathamdnu through the Trishuli route. The trekking trail takes you to mesmerizing trails of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees.

The Lantang National national park, a significant part of the trek, also aids in its beautiful vistas. The various destinations throughout the trek also show beautiful natural and cultural landscapes. Yak pastures and local village houses will be a mesmerizing environment4 to experience. Mountain views of peaks like Lantang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, etc, will leave you enchanted.

Unspoiled trekking trails

The road to Lantang valley trek consists of a journey towards the rarely trekked region of the northern Tibet border. Lantang valley also has the name “beyul” which translates to a hidden valley. Such valleys were restricted to foreigners in the past, so they rarely get many visitors. The Lantang national park is also an unspoiled visit destination. Trekking to such places is always a unique experience.

Miscellaneous information about the trek

Accommodations in the Lantang valley trek

The accommodations in this trek vary based on the altitude you are staying in and your budget. Most rooms in the higher part of the Lantang trails need to be shared with trekkers. These shared rooms may or may not have an attached bathroom. However, a shared common toilet will definitely be available. You will get a proper mattress, bedsheet, blankets, and pillow.

Lower trails do give you services with a single room, but it is rare at higher altitude places. Perhaps paying extra might help you get single rooms even in higher places.

Lower destinations like Syabrubesi give you very flexible and luxurious single-room services. You will likely get attached toilets and bathrooms as well.

Toilets and Bathrooms

Most remote regions of the trek will likely have a squatting toilet, whereas regular commotes are available in more facilitated regions. You could get joined toilet to your rooms or shared ones. This also depends on where you are staying for the day.

The hot water facilities for baths also vary; some places have automatic hot water from taps and showers. Some remote places require you to set separate hot water in a bucket and use it. You might also have to pay extra money for hot water in some places.

Communal dining room

Every tea house and lodge in the trek will have a common dining room area. Most of these dining areas have a fireplace. Enjoying a good meal in front of a fireplace after a long day's worth of trek will be very satisfying.

Extra facilities needed for the Langtang valley trek

During your trek, you need miscellaneous facilities like electricity, Wi-Fi, etc. You will have adequate electricity and wifi in the lower part of the trek. But such facilities become slim as you trek higher. Local tea houses might use solar energy for power generation. If you wish to charge your electronics, you should bring your own power bank. But if you choose not to, you could get your gadgets charged by paying a small amount of money.

You can also get a SIM card back in Kathmandu if you want reliable internet services. Ncell and NTC SIM cards are the cheapest and most used in Nepal.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lantang valley trek

How challenging is the Lantang valley trek?

The Lantang valley trek is not very challenging but rather very easy. It does not need extensive physical strength and does not take you to very high altitudes. The trek is suitable for even novices.

What are the best and worst times for the Lantang valley trek?

The best times for the Lantang valley trek would be the seasons with less rainfall and snow. They usually occur during the months of March to May or September to November. In other words, the spring and autumn seasons are the best time for the Lantang valley trek. But the rainy and freezing monsoon and winter seasons are the worst times for the Lantang valley trek.

What are the permits necessary for the Lantang valley trek?

Langtang valley trek requires Trekkers Information Management Systems(TIMS) and Lantang National park entry permits as the prime permits. Sometimes if you choose a different route for the trek, you might also need the Shivapuri National Park entrance fee.

Do I need to get insurance for the Lantang valley trek?

Yes, Travel insurance is a must for any treks you go in a foreign country. Insurances help you in cases of emergencies, accidents, disasters, or additional costs. You must ensure you have covered your travel insurance for the Lantang valley trek.

How are the accommodations during the Lantang Valley trek?

The accommodations of the Lantang valley trek varies based on daily destinations. Every destination has certain lodges or hotels available. But the accommodations vary based on how much you pay. You will get good hotels if you want a very comfortable and lavish night’s sleep. But if you want to stay on budget, you could just stay in cheap guest houses or tea houses. Bringing extra sleeping bags could help if you choose the latter option.

How are foods during the Lantang valley trek?

The basic meals available in Nepal trail treks are rice with lentil and curry. Nepali snacks like mo:mo dumplings or chowmein noodles are available. But hotels and guest houses accommodate to meet many tourists’ needs. You can get a variety of non-Nepali food options too. Any food you get served are always hygienic and fresh.

What are the facilities for drinking water on the trek?

On this trek, you can easily access drinking water, either boiled or filtered.

Do I need to carry extra cash?

Most of the Lantang valley trek requirements get covered within the packaged payment. But bringing extra cash for donations, souvenirs, or miscellaneous spending is always a good idea.

Testimonials

Mathilde Zg, France
Really nice
Thank you for this nice trip in the Langtang! Everything was very well. I have seen beautiful landscape thanks to a passionate guide. I recommend Marvel adventure if you want a quality trek.
Hal Roseman, United States
Young at 70- Trekking Langtang, a Marvel-ous Adventure
What is the first thing to come to mind when you think of Nepal? Trekking and Sherpas. When I decided to take a sabbatical from my work, at age 70, I decided to come to Nepal per recommendations of my Nepali students. I investigated many trekking companies and, after interviewing several operators, I decided upon Marvel Adventures, after speaking at length by phone and exchanging numerous emails to Nir Kirki, its owner, extending over several months (after an unexpected, but wonderful, diversion in India). A guide for many years, Nir Kirki is an experienced and knowledgeable tour operator. He listened intensely, responded quickly to my communications, and met me personally when I finally arrived in Kathmandu. I explained to him my level of physical conditioning and expectations. Based upon my available time and the late May period close to monsoon season, he suggested the Langtang National Park since it was about 19 miles north of Kathmandu. It proved to be the perfect fit. He then assigned an experienced guide, Phinjo Sherpa from the Sherpa clan of the Everest area (parents still reside there). Although in his early 30s, he had already summited Everest twice and serviced Camp Base One. (Later, I found out later that Phinjo is assisting a school in his community to educate children, who have no other formal education options.) He is known as a “super guide” with special medical training in high altitude sickness and other medical conditions associated with trekking. He was extremely gifted in preparing me to reach eventually the 4450 meter elevation during the trek. “Slow but steady” was his motto, facilitating my altitude acclimatization to complete the trek without any mishaps. My porter, Jiwan Bisnet, was able, friendly, and accommodating, carrying safely my heavy belongings, including sensitive electronics and photographic equipment. The actual daily itinerary was expertly decided by my guide, who attempted to make my trip as comfortable as possible. After a while, he anticipated my food preferences and even helped cooked them. The tea houses chosen by Phinjo were adequate and provided sufficient food and supplies, except one without electricity. I came to take pictures and was not disappointed. The three of us bonded. After the trek, Nir met with me to ensure that the trek met with my satisfaction, which it exceeded. I felt the spirit of the mountain, the Tibetan Buddhist influences and and the people who lived there- Tamang, Sherpa, and the Gurung. I was regretful that the trek came to an end.Let me offer more details. Initially, being skeptical about the offering, I negotiated with Nir Kirka to pay for all of the transportation, housing, food, and licensing costs individually, and to pay him a service fee for guide, porter, and permit services. My first questioning occurred when Nir offered private taxi travel to the trail head Syabrubesi (1,440m/ 4,750ft), about $100-120 USD, instead of the bus. I was wrong. The road is disrupted by large potholes and uneven surfaces, which in speaking to other travelers, resulted in an uncomfortable passage for 7-9 hours. The car service costing about $100 USD, which was operated by his relative, was less expensive than other companies. (Keep in mind, the customer is obligated to pay for all services of the team of the guide and porter.) Although I questioned initially the decision, it was the right decision. The opportunity to stop wherever for food and take photographs, a necessary respite from the constant rocking and jostling of the ride. Once the trek began, everything that Nir described about the trek, I found accurate. Most of all, I felt safe. My trusted guide Phinjo Sherpa was patient and even imposed a slowness of my movements; although my pride aside, I followed his lead, a dawdling pace, which proved to be essential to prevent high altitude illness and able to reach the 4450 meters destination. During the eight-day trek, my body, despite my age, became conditioned to the rigors of the trek. I was mystified by the beauty of the landscape and the people. The Tea Houses, some I have forgotten but include Travelers Guest House in LangTang Village, Bamboo (near Pairo), Rimche, Riverside) were ample with basic accommodations (outdoor toilets, luke-warm showers, spotty internet services). I chose private quarters, which allowed me to recharge my electronic (except for one stop without adequate electricity power) and bodily batteries. As an experience, I could not have wanted more- the wide variety of climatic zones, from subtropical to alpine; varied flora and landscape, from rhododendron (the national flower), to pine forests, to bamboo forests alongside thundering waterfalls and stunning snow-capped mountains; interesting fauna, including musk deer and bovines (Yaks and Naks, water buffalo, cows, and various cross-breeds); and most of all, the authentic culture and heartwarming hospitality of its inhabitants, marked by strong Tibetan Buddhist influences with mani-walls and stupas dotting the landscape. I appreciate the ample knowledge of Nir Kirki- it was truly a “Marvel-ous Adventure”! Although I was suspicious at first (there are 200 trekking companies), Nir Kirki earned my trust. He is an honest man, who listened and responded to my requests and needs, offering recommendations based upon extensive experience as a guide, and extended himself to ensure that I had a wonderful experience. It proved to be more- transformative!