Gosainkunda Trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Tea House / Lodge

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

4610 m.

Transportation

Bus / Jeep

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Duration

7 Days

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The Gosaikunda Trek will takes you up to Gosainkunda Lake through fhe forests of Helambu region and temperate and sub alpine vegetation of Langtang region. The dense oak and pine forests on the trail look fascinating. As usual, the rhododendrons form a spectacular display during the spring.

Gosainkunda is one of the Hindu holy places and is considered to be created by Lord Shiva. The Buddhist Tamang that lives nearby also reveres it as their holy place. Every August on full moon night, lake is thronged with pilgrims for a big festival. On other days the lake sits in a tranquil atmosphere.

The people here are of Tibetan origin and call themselves Sherpa although they are quite distinct from the Sherpas of Everest region both in language and customs. Also found in large numbers here are the Tamang people who also originated in Tibet but settled in Nepal considerably earlier than Sherpas.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche (1960m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1960

You head north out of Kathmandu driving through scenic foothills and ridgeline vistas to Dhunche. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 2 : Trek from Dhunche to Sing Gompa (3330m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3330

The first part of the trail ascends gradually by a mineral water factory up to Ghatte Khola (stream). Crossing a suspension bridge over this stream, you begin to trek steeply up until you reach Sing Gompa through pine, silver oak and rhododendron forests along with marijuana plants. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 3 : Trek from Sing Gompa to Gosaikunda (4380m.) via Laurebina La (3910m.) takes about five and half hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4380

You follow a rugged trail with dramatic views. To the west lies Himal Chuli (7893m.,) Manaslu (8156m,) and Ganesh Himal (7406m.) On a clear day, even the Annapurna range can be seen rising up behind and to the north across the valley is Langtang Lirung. You pass a few huts in the high pastures of Laurebina, cross a small ridge and have your first views of the holy lakes. There are about a dozen lakes in the Gosainkunda Basin, the main three being Saraswatikund, Bharab Kunda and Gosainkunda. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 4 : Trek from Gosainkunda to Lauribina Pass (4610m.) to Ghopte (3430m.).

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

4610

The trail leaves Gosainkund and climbs through rugged country, past four more small lakes to the Lauribina La [4610m], the highest point of this trek. Keep looking back for spectacular views of Manaslu and the mountains of the Ganesh Himal, as well as the now familiar Langtang Lirung. You then descend steeply to camp near Gopte. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 5 : Trek from Ghopte to Kutumsang (2446m.) via Tharepati (3690m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3690

Until Tharepati, the trail ascends through forests of rhododendron, oak and bamboo along with other natural vegetation. From Tharepati the trail gradually descends through pine and rhododendron forest with good views down into the Helambu valley and across to Jugal Himal and Numbur in the Solu Khumbu. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 6 : Trek from Kutumsang to Chisapani (2215m.) takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2215

From Kutumsang, you climb a pass at 2620m, before descending to the Tamang village of Gul Bhanjyang. Beyond Gul Bhanjyang, your trek ascends to a ridge with splendid views, stretching from the Annapurnas and Manaslu in the west to Numbur in the east. You then descend to Pati Bhanjyang, a large Tamang village with a few shops and a police check post. From here it is almost a two hour climb to Chisapani. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 7 : Trek from Chisapani to Sundarijal takes about three hours and drive from Sundarijal to Kathmandu takes about one hour.

Food

Breakfast & Lunch

Elevation

1400

Leaving Chisapani, the trail passes through meadows and cultivated fields and then climbs through oak and rhododendron forests to Burlang Bhanjyang. From here there are magnificent views, from Annapurna in the west to Ganesh Himal and Numbur in the east. This ridge marks the northern rim of the Kathmandu valley. You now begin descending steeply through dense forests of oak, pine and rhododendron to cross a dam and then follow a large water pipe which supplies much of the water for Kathmandu. Soon you are down into Sundarijal where you pick up your transport back to Kathmandu.

What Is Included ?

Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private A/C vehicle
Trekking guide
One porter for every 2 trekking participants (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Accommodation in Lodge (Tea houses) during the trek
Trekking equipment: Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags, trekking poles, etc.
Entry Permit for Langtang National Park and Shivapuri National Park
Trekkers' Information Management system (TIMS) card
Land transportation from Kathmandu to Dhunche and Sundarijal to Kathmandu by bus/jeep
Insurance and equipment for guides and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT and our service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening
Souvenir

What Is Excluded?

Personal nature expenses (Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers and any alcoholic beverages)
Travel insurance
Tips for involved staffs
Meals and hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (even in case of early arrival or late departure, early return from trekking due to any personal reason than the scheduled itinerary)

Gosainkunda Trek Altitude Profile

FAQs

The trek is considered moderate, but it includes some steep climbs and high-altitude exposure, particularly near Gosainkunda and Lauribina Pass. No technical skills are needed, but trekkers should be reasonably fit. The elevation gain is relatively quick, so those not used to altitude may feel the effects. The route can be challenging in winter due to snow and icy paths. With proper preparation and pacing, even beginner trekkers can complete the journey successfully.

Most itineraries range from 5 to 7 days, depending on your starting point and acclimatization needs. A common plan is Kathmandu → Dhunche → Lauribina → Gosainkunda → and return via the same route or extend to Ghopte and exit through Sundarijal. Adding buffer days for rest or exploration is always a good idea, especially if you're sensitive to altitude.

The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, stable weather, and great visibility of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges. Spring is particularly beautiful with blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn offers crisp air and golden hillsides. You can also trek in winter (December to February) for a chance to see the frozen lake, though it's colder and more challenging.

Yes, altitude sickness (AMS) is a potential risk as you ascend quickly to 4,380 meters. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. To prevent AMS:

Ascend slowly
Stay well hydrated
Take rest days if needed
Avoid alcohol and smoking

If symptoms appear, don’t push forward—rest or descend. Carrying Diamox (with medical advice) and traveling with a guide familiar with AMS can add safety.

You’ll need:

Langtang National Park Entry Permit
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Shivapuri National Park permit.

Most trekkers begin at Dhunche or Syabrubesi, towns that are reachable by local bus or private jeep from Kathmandu. The journey takes around 6–8 hours depending on road conditions. Though rough in places, the drive offers scenic views of terraced hills and river valleys. Private jeeps are more comfortable but costlier.

Yes, if you trek in spring, summer, or autumn, you'll see the lake in its natural turquoise color, surrounded by rocky cliffs and snow-dusted peaks. In winter, the lake freezes completely, offering a surreal and tranquil scene. Regardless of the season, the view of the lake is one of the highlights of the trek. Early morning or late afternoon light gives the most dramatic reflections.

While not mandatory, hiring a guide is highly recommended, especially if it’s your first time trekking in Nepal or you’re not used to high altitudes. A guide can enhance your cultural understanding, navigate trails, and handle emergencies. A porter can carry up to 20–25kg of your gear, which allows you to enjoy the trek without strain. Guides and porters also contribute directly to the local economy.

Yes, the Gosainkunda Trek is generally safe for solo trekkers, especially during peak seasons when the trail is more populated. However, in off-seasons or winter, trails can be lonely, and weather conditions can change rapidly. If trekking alone, always inform someone of your itinerary, carry a phone or GPS device, and stay at known teahouses. Hiring a guide or joining a group increases safety and enjoyment.

The region is home to Tamang and Tibetan-influenced communities, with rich Buddhist traditions. You’ll see monasteries, chortens, prayer flags, and mani walls along the trail. Gosainkunda itself is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. According to mythology, Lord Shiva created the lake by thrusting his trident into the mountain to quench his thirst. During the Janai Purnima festival in August, thousands of pilgrims make the journey for ritual bathing.

While shorter than more famous routes like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, the Gosainkunda Trek offers a unique blend of spiritual atmosphere, stunning alpine scenery, and cultural immersion—all within a week. The sacred lakes, dramatic views of Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal, and proximity to Kathmandu make it ideal for those with limited time who still want an authentic Himalayan experience.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Gosainkunda trek. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.

Additional Information

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.

General Items:

Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

Clothing Items:

Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff

Sun-worn Items:

Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

Gadgets:

Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),

Liquid/Snacks:

Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

Medical Essentials:

First Aid Kit

Optional:

Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc

Additional items for camping trek:

Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.

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