Trekkers mistakenly overlook the valleys of Langtang and Helambu for the Annapurna and Everest regions. Although only a day’s drive from Kathmandu this region is a relatively isolated wilderness with sacred lakes and great snowcapped peaks. Langtang is situated north of Kathmandu Valley, bordering Tibet, whilst Helambu Valley lies north east of the valley, bordering Langtang. Both of these areas are predominately inhabited by Tibetans and Tamangs who share a similar religion, language and attire.

The trek traverses from the west to the east crossing extremely diverse landscapes: rice-terraces, gigantic rhododendron and fir forests in the lowlands, and in the highest parts you will find a rock and shrub wilderness with incredible backdrops of snowy peaks, and an arena of glaciers below Langtang Lirung (7,225m). A climb to the summit of Kyanjin Ri opens up a magnificent panorama of Langtang Lirung, Langshisha Ri (6,427m) and fluted and tent peaks of summits greater than 6,000m. The route passes by the sacred lakes of Gosainkunda (4,380m), a pilgrimage spot where during the full moon festival in August flow hundreds of pilgrims. Across the Lauribinayak Pass (4,610m) towards the Helambu Valley we pass through numerous picturesque Sherpa villages. In all, a truly magical and spiritual journey.

Highlights

Climbing to Kyanjin Ri’s viewpoint for a panorama of summits greater than 6,000m
Traversing alpine pastures to arrive at the amphitheatre of huge glaciers at Kyanjin Gompa
Immersing in the peace and tranquility of Gosainkunda’s sacred lakes
Crossing over Lauribinayak La at 4,610m
Immersion into Buddhist culture