Langtang Valley Trek

Overview

The Kyanjing Gompa Trek is a captivating adventure that takes trekkers deep into the heart of the Langtang Valley, a stunning region nestled to the north of Kathmandu, Nepal. This trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual exploration, making it a cherished journey for anyone seeking an immersive Himalayan experience. The trek not only offers breathtaking views of the towering Langtang Himal but also offers an opportunity to delve into the local culture, traditions, and customs of the indigenous Tamang people. The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, a lively village situated at the gateway to the Langtang region. As trekkers make their way to Syabrubesi, they are greeted with captivating views of terraced fields, rushing rivers, and the towering peaks that surround the area. Upon arrival, trekkers embark on their adventure with the first day of the trek taking them through lush forests of bamboo, oak, and rhododendron, alongside gushing streams, to the village of Lama Hotel, where they rest for the night.

On the following days, the trail ascends gradually, passing through charming villages like Langtang and Mundu. These settlements provide trekkers with an authentic glimpse into the way of life in the Langtang Valley, as well as the opportunity to interact with the local Tamang people, who practice Tibetan Buddhism. As trekkers continue their journey, they are greeted with increasingly stunning views of the Langtang Himal, including the iconic Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Ganchenpo (6,388m), and Yala Peak (5,520m).

The trek’s ultimate destination is Kyanjing Gompa, a spiritual and cultural hub nestled at an altitude of 3,870 meters. The trek to Kyanjing Gompa takes trekkers through lush meadows, glacial moraines, and beautiful alpine scenery, with each step bringing them closer to the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Langtang range. Upon reaching Kyanjing Gompa, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to explore the historical Kyanjing Monastery, a significant pilgrimage site for the local Tamang and Tibetan communities. The serene atmosphere and profound spiritual energy in this sacred place make it a truly unique and memorable experience.

During the trek, trekkers will also have the chance to visit the Kyanjing Gumba and nearby cheese factory, both of which are key highlights of the trek. The Kyanjing Gumba is a revered Buddhist monastery, and its tranquil surroundings are the perfect place for reflection and meditation. A visit to the cheese factory provides a glimpse into the traditional cheesemaking process that is a local specialty in the region, with the chance to sample delicious yak cheese produced from the milk of the area’s famed yaks.

One of the highlights of the trek is the opportunity to explore the Langtang National Park, a protected area known for its remarkable biodiversity. The park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including red pandas, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and various species of birds. The lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine alpine meadows offer ample opportunities for nature lovers and photographers to capture the untouched beauty of the region.

The Kyanjing Gompa Trek is also an excellent choice for trekkers looking for a moderate-level trek that doesn’t require technical climbing skills but still offers a true Himalayan adventure. The trek provides a perfect balance of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and spiritual immersion, making it an ideal option for those seeking a more accessible yet rewarding trek in Nepal. The relatively short duration of the trek, typically lasting around 7 to 10 days, also makes it an ideal choice for trekkers with limited time but a desire to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.

Throughout the trek, trekkers are accompanied by experienced guides and porters from the region, who ensure that the journey is both safe and enjoyable. These local experts not only assist with logistics and provide valuable insight into the region’s history and culture but also share their knowledge of the flora, fauna, and spiritual practices that define the Langtang Valley. The Kyanjing Gompa Trek offers an unforgettable adventure in one of Nepal’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. With its combination of awe-inspiring mountain vistas, cultural encounters, and spiritual exploration, this trek promises to leave trekkers with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of the unique beauty of the Langtang Valley. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor to the Himalayas, the Kyanjing Gompa Trek is a journey that will undoubtedly inspire and captivate you from start to finish.

						Trip Highlights
						Trek through lush rhododendron forests and pine woodlands.
Explore Tamang villages and interact with the locals.
Visit the sacred Kyanjing Gompa monastery, offering majestic views.
Enjoy panoramic vistas of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and other peaks.

					

Itinerary

Day 1

Drive to Syabrubesi (1,470m)

On the first day of the Kyanjing Gompa Trek, we begin our adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, the starting point of our trek. The journey takes around 6-7 hours, and along the way, you will witness the picturesque rural landscapes of Nepal. As we leave the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu behind, the drive unfolds a series of views that will captivate you, including terraced fields, winding rivers, and traditional Nepalese villages nestled in the valleys. As we approach the village of Syabrubesi, located at an altitude of 1,470 meters, we catch glimpses of the majestic peaks of the Langtang range that will be our companions throughout the trek. Upon arrival, we will check into a local teahouse and take some time to rest, preparing for the trek ahead.

Day 2

Trek to Lama Hotel (2,380m)

We begin the actual trekking portion of our journey as we head towards Lama Hotel, located at an altitude of 2,380 meters. The day’s trek is approximately 6-7 hours, and the trail takes us through dense forests of bamboo and rhododendron, crossing several suspension bridges along the way. The sound of the Langtang River accompanying us throughout the day adds to the tranquility of the trek. As we ascend gradually, the natural beauty of the region begins to unfold, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks poking through the tree line. Upon reaching Lama Hotel, we check into a local teahouse for a well-deserved rest. This charming spot provides an opportunity to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings before we continue on our journey.

Day 3

Trek to Langtang Village (3,430m)

The third day takes us from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village, situated at an altitude of 3,430 meters. This portion of the trek is approximately 5-6 hours, and the terrain is a mix of forested areas and open meadows, offering a variety of landscapes. As we continue climbing, we enter the Langtang Valley, which is known for its wide, open spaces and stunning views. Langtang Village, a Tamang settlement, is one of the most scenic and culturally rich villages in the region. Upon arrival, we will take time to explore the village, which is surrounded by traditional stone houses adorned with intricate carvings. The village offers sweeping views of the Langtang Lirung (7,227 meters) and other surrounding peaks. We will spend the night in a local teahouse, immersing ourselves in the vibrant local culture and traditions of the Tamang people.

Day 4

Trek to Kyanjing Gompa (3,870m)

We make our way to Kyanjing Gompa, situated at an altitude of 3,870 meters. The trek takes approximately 3-4 hours, and it is a relatively short but rewarding day. The trail leads us through alpine meadows and yak pastures, with spectacular views of Langtang Lirung and other Himalayan peaks. As we approach Kyanjing Gompa, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking, with the towering mountains surrounding us on all sides. Kyanjing Gompa is a sacred site for the locals, and upon arrival, we will visit the famous Kyanjing Monastery, where you will have the opportunity to interact with the resident monks and learn about the region’s spiritual practices. The monastery offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal place for reflection and meditation.

Day 5

Acclimatization Day at Kyanjing Gompa

Is an acclimatization day at Kyanjing Gompa, which is essential for ensuring our bodies adjust to the higher altitude. The day is meant for rest, exploration, and short hikes to help with acclimatization. For those seeking a more adventurous day, we have two optional hikes: one to Kyanjing Ri (4,773 meters), which offers panoramic views of the Langtang range, or a hike to Langshisa Kharka (4,030 meters), a beautiful alpine pasture with stunning views. Whether you choose to rest or embark on a short hike, the day is meant to help you prepare for the return journey while soaking in the tranquil beauty of the region. The evening is free for you to enjoy the serene ambiance of Kyanjing Gompa, reflecting on the journey thus far.

Day 6

Trek back to Lama Hotel

We begin our return journey from Kyanjing Gompa back to Lama Hotel. This portion of the trek is mostly downhill, and it takes approximately 6-7 hours. Retracing our steps, we descend through the alpine meadows, yak pastures, and dense forests of bamboo and rhododendron. As we make our way down, the landscape offers a fresh perspective, with new views of the Langtang Valley unfolding around us. We will stop for lunch along the way before continuing our trek to Lama Hotel, where we will rest for the night. This is a relaxing day after the previous days’ challenging ascents, giving us time to appreciate the peaceful surroundings and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past few days.

Day 7

Trek to Syabrubesi

The seventh day marks the final leg of our trek as we descend from Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi, where our journey began. The trek takes approximately 5-6 hours, following the same trail we traveled earlier in the trek. As we descend through the forests and cross suspension bridges, we will have one last opportunity to take in the beauty of the Langtang Valley before reaching Syabrubesi. Upon arrival, we will celebrate the successful completion of the trek, reflect on our experiences, and enjoy a farewell evening with our trekking team. The night will be spent in a local guesthouse, where we can relax and reminisce about the highlights of the journey.

Day 8

Drive back to Kathmandu

On the final day, we embark on a scenic drive back to Kathmandu from Syabrubesi. The drive takes about 6-7 hours, and we will enjoy the views of terraced fields, rivers, and villages along the way. The journey is a perfect opportunity to reflect on the adventure we’ve just completed and appreciate the diverse landscapes we’ve traversed. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will transfer to your hotel, marking the end of this incredible trek.

Route Map

Elevation Chart

What's Included

Airport pickup and drop-off
Ground transportation to/from Syabrubesi (starting point of the trek), local bus
Kathmandu 2 nights Hotel
Teahouse or lodge accommodation during the trek (basic but clean rooms)
Three meals a day during the trek [breakfast, lunch, dinner]
Langtang National Park Entry Permit
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
Porter(s) to carry luggage (usually 1 porter per 2 trekkers)
Insurance for guide and porters
First Aid Kit carried by guide
Trekking map
Emergency rescue arrangement (in case needed, helicopter evacuation is usually paid by insurance)
Sleeping Bag,Down Jacket
All applicable local and government taxes

What's Excluded

Tourist visa fees (can be obtained on arrival or online)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (only breakfast is usually included)
Snacks, drinks (bottled water, alcohol, soft drinks)
Hot showers and charging devices (some lodges charge extra)
Personal trekking gear (boots, clothing, backpack, etc.)

Including high-altitude coverage and emergency evacuation

For guides and porters (not mandatory but expected)

Extra hotel nights due to early return, flight delays, or personal reasons
Private jeep instead of public bus (more comfortable for travel to/from Syabrubesi)
Kathmandu sightsing

Gallery

Equipment

Clothing: Layered clothing, including thermal wear, rain jacket, trekking pants, and warm gloves.
Footwear: Comfortable trekking boots, sandals, and socks.
Accessories: Hat, sunglasses, trekking poles, headlamp, and camera.
Essential Items: Sleeping bag, water bottle, sunscreen, and first aid kit.

Essential Info

Accommodation
Teahouses are available along the Kyanjing Gomba Trek, offering basic accommodations with twin beds and shared bathrooms. These teahouses provide a simple yet comfortable resting place after a day of trekking. The warm hospitality of the locals creates a welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience.

Meals
Trekkers will enjoy hearty, nutritious meals throughout the journey, including staples like dal bhat (lentils and rice), vegetables, and occasionally meat at lower altitudes. As you ascend, the menu may become simpler due to the remote location, but it remains sufficient to keep you energized and fueled for the trek.

Trekking Permit
For the Kyanjing Gomba Trek, you will need the Langtang National Park Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card. These permits are essential for entry into the protected areas of Langtang Valley and help regulate trekking activities while ensuring safety and preservation.

Health and Safety
With the trek reaching altitudes above 3,000 meters, altitude sickness can be a concern. Trekkers are advised to stay well-hydrated, walk at a steady pace, and take necessary rest breaks. The itinerary includes acclimatization days to minimize risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Best Time to Trek
The best months for the Kyanjing Gomba Trek are March to May and September to November, when the weather is favorable, and the skies are clear. These periods offer breathtaking views of the Langtang region’s snow-capped peaks and the surrounding landscapes.

FAQ

What is the best time to do the Kyanjing Gompa Trek?

The best seasons for the Kyanjing Gompa Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and mountain views are spectacular.

Is the Kyanjing Gompa Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, the trek is considered moderate and suitable for beginners with basic fitness levels. The itinerary includes acclimatization days and gradual ascents, making it accessible to most trekkers.

What permits are required for the trek?

You will need a Langtang National Park entry permit and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. Our team will assist in obtaining these permits for you.

Destination

Duration

Accomodation

Max Elevation

Trek difficulty

Best months

Trip starts/Ends