The adventurous trail to Langtang

Langtang Trek initiates 19miles away from Kathmandu at Syabru Besi. It is one of the shortest approaches to snowy mountains. One can explore the ethnic Tamang villages, lust green forests and snowy peak surrounded in Kyangjin valley during the trek. Langtang Trek offers a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view of mountains from an elevation of 4350m at Kyangjin Ri.

A native awaits to welcome

Recently, a student group of 15 from Hong Kong, Great Britain and Canada led by their tutors Ms. Donna Gee and Mr. David Ensor were with us for the Volunteering Holiday in Nepal. The holiday that took them to Langtang Valley supported schools and a health post of the trail. Here we have a trip report on the group’s Langtang Trek.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Khamjing

The first day’s schedule was a drive to Khamjing via Syabru Besi. After the breakfast, the team exit out of Kathmandu along the serpentine Highway.  After a long drive of almost a whole day, the team was tired. So without any further activities on that day, the day was concluded. They spent the night camping at a local school premises at Khamjing.

Beautiful kids of Langtang Region, yet underprivilged

Day 2: Khamjing to Lama Hotel

After the breakfast, the team donated NRS 75, 000 to repair the water tank pipes and paint the school to Shree Nepal Rastriya Prathamik School. Receiving the donation amount the principal of the school Mr. Temba Tamang was delighted and thankful to our valued guests. The team also contributed some sports items and stationeries to the school. The team was also involved in some sort games with the students of the school. This school currently has 16 students.

After 2 hours of program in the school, the team started their trekking again. On the way, at Sherpagaun, the team had their lunch. After the lunch, the team hiked to Lama Hotel where they spent the night after a long tiring day of walking.

Helping others always brings the smile that worths millions

 Day 3: Lama Hotel to Langtang

After the breakfast, the team continued their Langtang trekking towards Ghode tabela. The team had to walk all over the day as they only rested on Ghode Tabela where they had their lunch. At the end of Day 3 the student group arrived at Langtang .

Walking along the shadows of Himalayas- to Mundu

Donating life-saving medical equipments in Langtang

Day 4: Morning hike to Mundu and trek to Ghumti

After the breakfast, the students on volunteering tour to Nepal donated medical equipments worth Rs.40000 to a local health post in Langtang. They also donated sports equipment to a local school- Shree Nepal Rastriya School. After the program, except three members of the group others had short hiking of 2 hours to Mundu and back to Langtang. Because of the altitude sickness few students suffered, the group had to abandon their plans of trekking to Kyangjin Gompa. Hence, after the hike to Mundu the student group had their lunch at Langtang and began their trek on the retracing trail towards Ghumti. Ghumti is a beautiful riverside spot on the Langtang Trekking trail, where the group spent a night.

Playground in the Himalayas

Day 5: Ghumti to Syabru Besi

This day was all scheduled for walking. The team hiked all day until they reached Syabru Besi. They had their lunch at Bamboo on the way. After a tiring day, they spent the night at Syabru Besi.

The following day they drove back to Kathmandu and enjoyed the cultural farewell dinner at Hotel Shangri-La and the day after they departed back home.

Langtang Trek- the camera does not rest

After the conclusion of the trek in Nepal, Ms. Donna Gee the group leader said few beautiful lines about their trek to Langtang.

The best memory of my trip was Langtang village. It has been a remarkable trekking alongside the most unique opportunity to connect with very memorable and inspiring people.

Explore Himalaya’s meeting and handling was perfect and timely. I feel it was well taken care of. The hotel were all fantastic with good food. The guide was very helpful. The staffs were remarkable. The transport was excellent even during in rough conditions.

Without a doubt, I would recommend this trip and the service of Explore Himalaya. Thank you for this unforgettable experience.

 

The group poses for the group photo

The officials of Nepal Tourism Board have decided to invite the international experts to assess trekking routes of Nepal. The assessment will include the quake affected trekking routes including the popular Everest and Annapurna Regions. Once the team of national and international experts do the inspection of these trekking routes, the team will declare safe to only those routes, which are absolutely safe for the hikers.

The quake that triggered landslides and avalanches in Everest, Langtang and Manaslu Regions has caused significant damages in the routes. Langtang and Manaslu Regions are closed for hikers at the moment. For rest of the trekking routes an assessment to assure safety has been essential.

“After the quake it is essential to examine and certify that the routes are safe,” said Tulsi Prasad Gautam, Deputy General of Tourism department.

Gautam added that international trekking operators are concern about clients’ safety, as well as insurance companies show slight interest to cover trekkers visiting Nepal.

Sources say, the team of geologists will survey the trails of Everest and Annapurna Regions in a month’s time. The trails of other regions will also be surveyed if necessary.

Thousands of Himalayan peaks and as many  trekking trails, Nepal is truly the biggest trekking hub in the world. Solely housing 8 out of 14 8000m+ peaks including world’s highest peak Everest, Nepal caters many world class trekking adventures to the Base Camps of these mighty Himalayan Peaks. Based on trekkers interest, the number of trekkers trekking along the particular trail and highlights of the trek, here we have 10 most popular treks in Nepal.

Round Annapurna Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek

1. Round Annapurna Trek (RAT)

The most popular trek in Nepal, Round Annapurna Trek (RAT) is a stretch of 100+ kilometers circumnavigation around Annapurna Range. The trek that offers diverse beauty from mid-hill jungles to striking alpine landscapes, Round Annapurna Trek is also pleasures with cultural encounter at several ethnic villages nestling in the highlands. The trek also known as Annapurna Circuit Trek caters magnificent views of the Annapurna, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu and Langtang Himal. Although the construction of roadways deeper into the circuit has reduced the real essence of the trek, still almost 100km of stretch of the fascinating route makes Round Annapurna Trek, Nepal’s number one trekking trail.

Everest Base Camp Trek

2.Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC)

The classic trek that brings trekkers to the proximity of world’s highest mountain, Everest- Everest Base Camp Trek  is itself an achievement. Everest Base Camp, which is higher than almost every mountain in Europe, Australia, Africa and America, is the place where every mountaineer who has conquered this beautiful white         Goddess began here. The trail full of amenities in scores of teahouses is interesting for two particular reasons- the thriving Sherpa culture and the alpine beauty that even open eyes in the broad daylight cannot capture wholly.

Langtang Valley Trek

3.Langtang Valley Trek

Avoiding difficulty sighting supreme beauty in diversity- Langtang Valley Trek is the best-opted trek in the category. The shortest approach from Kathmandu, Langtang Valley Trek offers 360⁰ view of snowcapped Himalayas dominated by Langtang Lirung. Authentic Tibetan culture in frequent Tamang villages, sacred highland monasteries like Kyangjin Gompa and sacred alpine lakes like Gosainkunda  are prime highlights of Langtang Valley Trek.  Langtang is so close to Tibet that from some high vantage points, the glimpses of villages in Tibet can be viewed.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

4. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

One of the most popular easy treks in Nepal is Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The trek caters the alpine experience blended with diverse terrains. From beautiful glaciers to terraced fields, from rock-strewn trails to snowy paths- the trail of ABC Trek has it all. The Gurung culture at its best traditional form and their indelible hospitality are recreating factors during Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The view of Annapurna from the Annapurna Base Camp, the widespread Himalayan view from Poonhill and the view of Mt. Fishtail from Machhapuchhre Base Camp are striking views of the trek.

Manaslu Cicuit Trek

5. Manaslu Circuit Trek

Ever since in 2010 Manaslu became teahouse trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek is emerging as one of the most popular trekking trails in Nepal. Few trekkers also have acknowledged this trek as replica of Round Annapurna Trek. However, Manaslu Circuit Trek is by far untouched and raw compared to Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trail during Manaslu Circuit Trek winds through the lower slope of Mt. Manaslu (eighth highest mountain in the world) through Larkya La Pass. The views of Himalayas are excellent and the cultural experience is more authentic.

Upper-Mustang Trek

6. Upper Mustang Trek

North of Jomsom up on Kali Gandaki basin, the deserted kingdom of Mustang nestles where the Tibetan culture till date spills over.  A restricted trekking region in Nepal demands heavy permit fee of US Dollars 500 for 10 days. The windswept landscapes, colorful barren hills and the caves carved in vertical cliffs are geographical delights whereas; the culture in Mustang is exclusive unique in whole Nepal. Preserved centuries world monasteries, the remains of historic palace in Lo-manthang and celebration of Tiji festival are major sights trekker to Upper Mustang crave to watch. In brief Upper Mustang is a true Tibet outside Tibet.

Gokyo- Everest Base Camp Trek

7. Gokyo, Everest Base Camp Trek

Getting to Everest Base Camp via more isolated and remote trails makes Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek intriguing trek in the Everest Region.  In addition to the highlights of EBC Trek, Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek caters the beauty of five emerald lakes together with Himalayas. The trek along the challenging Cho La Pass to get into Khumbu Valley from Gokyo Valley is also the major highlight of this trek. Gokyo Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the few trekking route in Nepal, which offers remote experience, rich local culture, and the supreme beauty of Himalayas.

Upper Dolpo Trek

8. Upper Dolpo Trek

Crystal Mountain, snow leopards, sacred monasteries and the endless isolation- Upper Dolpo Trek is truly a lifetime experience. Every place trekkers reach and every people they meet leave an indelible impression. Upper Dolpo Trek is truly fascinating. The trek rewards in very early stage with the magnificence of Phoksundo Lake. Trekking further, trekkers cross three high passes, Nagdalo La (5350m), Shey La (5000m) and Jeng La (5110m) to Shey Gompa, which is a spiritual heart of Upper Dolpo. Hundreds of pilgrims visit Shey Gompa that lies dramatically at the base of Crystal Mountain each year to circumambulate the mountain in act of prayer. Upper Dolpo is a restricted area which demands 10-day permit for $500.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

9.Kanchenjunga Base Camps Trek

The trekking to the Himalayas in the extreme east of Nepal, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is probably the most popular offbeat trekking in Nepal. Trekking along the foothills of world’s third highest mountain, Kanchenjunga is a wonderful adventure. To experience the treks based on tented camps, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is suitable option. Snow Leopard can be sighted during the treks in the region. The Kanchenjunga Base Camps Trek is a long and challenging walk while visiting both the North and South base camps. The authentic culture of Rai and Limbu tribes can be well observed during the trek to this part of nation.

Makalu Base Camp Trek

10. Makalu Base Camp Trek

This is an outstanding trek in the eastern region of Nepal, which offers a combination of rich cultural heritage, unsurpassed beauty and biological diversity. The trail takes you from the steamy lowlands of Tumlingtar on the Arun River, through one of the least frequented areas of Nepal, to the base camp of Makalu [8475m]. The trail follows the beautiful Barun river valley in the Makalu Barun National Park, crossing Shipton pass at 4127 meters before arriving at Makalu Base Camp [5000m]. From here, views of the south face of Makalu, as well as Everest and Lhotse are truly regal and fantastic.

Rara Lake Trek

+ Rara Lake Trek

This trek through the remote wilderness of western Nepal offers a superb experience of nature and a visit to Rara Lake, Nepal’s Largest Lake at 3062 meters. During this easy trek, the trail passes through green countryside, which provides unusual glimpses of a culture, and scenery quite different from that found elsewhere in Nepal and which eventually culminates to the Rara Lake National Park. Alpine meadows and forests of pine, juniper and spruce surround this beautiful high altitude lake, whilst in the background trekkers can view the magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The entire route is ‘off the beaten track’, which involves the crossing of Ghurchi Lagna Pass 3450m and a few ridges at around 3000 meters.

Driving on a tar road northwest out of Kathmandu, the road heads towards Dunche. As soon as the ride gains elevation at Kakani, it starts to offer the beautiful views of Ganesh Himalaya. The road beyond Trishuli Bazaar gets tougher and the adventurous fun of the Langtang Trek is hereby announced. The closest trekking destination from the Nepalese capital Kathmandu 130km, Langtang is the incomparable blend of natural and cultural treasures. The valley closer to Tibet comprises the first National Park of Nepal, Langtang National Park. The rare valley from where the 360⁰ view of Himalayas can be viewed, Langtang is dominated by Langtang Lirung 7,246m.

Langtang Trek is the third favorable trekking destination in Nepal after Everest Region and Annapurna Region Treks. However, the trek to Langtang not only offers breathtaking sceneries, it also allows an opportunity to witness the lifestyles and culture of Tibetan Tamangs whose craftsmanship, dialects, attires and homes still represent the exceptionality of ancient Tibetans. Home to more than 70 big and small glaciers, Langtang also highlights the high altitude sacred Lakes including Gosainkunda and Dudhkunda. Amazing wildlife including several species of migratory birds and highland mammals, Langtang is an ideal trekking destination to both novice and experienced trekkers.

Here we have a short photo essay on Langtang Trek, have a look. At the end of the photo essay we have a beautiful lines by Ms. Tina Nielsen and Mr. Jens Christian Iversen, who were the members different Danish groups,  trekking to Langtang this spring with us. 10 trekkers in Tina’s group and 15 in Jens group, both team of Danish trekkers  were through our exclusive country partner Kipling Travel.

A typical Tibetan family during Langtang Trek

Handsome lads and beautiful ladies- Langtang

Shamanism- the culture practiced for ages

Langtang Lirung dominates the sky in Langtang valley

Home beside a beach or at the foothills of Himalaya?

Road to Langtang

Blue skies are more beautiful at Langtang

Natural hot water bath tub- isn’t this great?

Far-flung hamlet at the base of Himalaya

Every color of the prayer flags has significant meaning

Beautiful bright view from the shade

Anybody here could spend a whole day in a single chair

Soothing sound of prayer flags fluttering

OMG! Mountains are so big

Between two dark shadows a huge pile of silver sparkles

Walking has never been so wonderful in the past

It is always adventurous to be in the middle of nowhere

We are almost there

Camping right below the mountains of Nepal is a thrilling experience

Highland rides! I wish I had one 

A testimonial by Ms. Tina Nielsen

The unplanned change in our itinerary so we had a lovely walk in the highland forest is worthwhile remembering rest of our lives. The beautiful nature throughout the trek and meeting friendly people in the Himalayas were the great experiences of the Langtang Trek. We had a great holiday and hence rate the service of Explore Himalaya with five stars.

A testimonial by Jens C. Iversen

14 members on the top of Kyanjin Ri is by far the best memory of the entire trek to Langtang. The service of Explore Himalaya was very professional. We rate their service with 5 stars.

Trek to Langtang

Nineteen miles north of Kathmandu, Langtang Valley nestles in the shadow of Langtang Lirung [7246m], the highest peak in the region. The trek along the valley which borders Tibet is the closest to snowy mountains from Kathmandu. After nine hours drive you get to Syabrubenshi, the trek starting point for the Langtang Valley. Following the trail upstream Bhote Koshi river through ethnic Tibeto-Tamang villages, lush vegetation and the wide spread Kyangin valley surrounded by snowy peaks from all  sides, takes you up to Kyangin at 3800 meter, where you get an opportunity to ascend Kyangjin Ri [4350m.], for 360⁰ panoramic view of the mountains.

Mr. John Christensen led nineteen Danish trekkers to Langtang Valley this November. Mr. John on the behalf of the group through our exclusive country partner Kipling Travel wrote a few lines on the trek and Explore Himalaya’s service.

Working together with our guide Pasang Sherpa and the other staffs to accomplish the trek is the best memory of the trek. Sabin, our Tour Officer handled the group very well with the best hotel, transportation and other facilities throughout the trip.

I would recommend the fellow trekkers to simply enjoy the trek as the guides and staffs of Explore Himalaya are extremely good to make your trip in Nepal extraordinary.