Knowledge Networking Portal for Sustainable & Responsible Tourism
The Langtang Valley Trek is an exciting Himalayan trek that guides trekkers through the unspoiled countryside of Langtang National Park. Famed for its breathtaking mountain vistas, rich Tamang culture, and diverse flora and fauna, the trek is arguably one of the most rewarding short treks in Nepal. Langtang Valley Trekking starts from Syabrubesi and reaches Kyanjin Gompa, offering stunning views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m) and other peaks. The trek is moderate in difficulty and appropriate for those looking for a less crowded option to Everest or Annapurna treks. With picturesque villages, monasteries, and green forests along the route, Langtang trekking offers the perfect blend of nature and culture.
What are highlights of Langtang Valley Trek?
Langtang Valley Trek provides spectacular scenery, dense Tamang and Tibetan-influenced culture, and spectacular mountain vistas. The trek goes through Langtang National Park, which is home to varied wildlife like red pandas and Himalayan black bears. Kyanjin Gompa, an old Buddhist monastery, is a prominent cultural highlight. Trekkers may also explore the Langtang Glacier and Tserko Ri (5,000m) for views of the Himalayas. The warm hospitality of the local Tamang people and their ethnic villages further beautify the Langtang trek. The integration of nature, culture, and adventure makes Langtang trekking one of Nepal's most satisfying adventures into the core Himalayas of Nepal in Langtang region.
Where does the Langtang Valley Trek begin and end?
Langtang Valley Trek starts at Syabrubesi, a town about 7-8 hours' drive from Kathmandu. The hike follows the Langtang River, passing Langtang Village and Lama Hotel to arrive in Kyanjin Gompa. After Kyanjin Gompa and surrounding viewpoints like Tserko Ri, trekkers hike back the same route to Syabrubesi. The hike lasts 6-9 days depending on the itinerary. Syabrubesi is both the start and end point of Langtang Valley Trekking, and this makes logistics simple compared to Langtang Circuit hikes.
What kind of accommodation is available in Langtang Valley Trek?
Accommodation on the Langtang Valley Trek is in the form of teahouses, which are simple but clean. Rooms are plain with twin beds, blankets, and shared toilets. Attached toilets are available in some teahouses in Kyanjin Gompa. Lower-altitude villages have more luxurious lodges, while higher-altitude ones are less so. Though the accommodation is simple, the warmth and hospitality of the teahouse owners make the experience welcoming and warm. A sleeping bag must be carried by trekkers for added warmth, particularly in cold seasons during Langtang Valley Trek.
What kind of food is available on the Langtang trek?
Langtang trekking trail teahouses provide various meals such as Nepali, Tibetan, and plain Western food. The typical meal is dal bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), a healthy and energy-filled meal. Other meals available are Tibetan bread, momo (dumplings), noodles, fried rice, and porridge. At higher altitudes, less and more costly food is due to transport difficulties. Trekkers also get to enjoy yak cheese at Kyanjin Gompa where there is a local cheese factory. Vegetarian food should be consumed to avoid digestive issues at high altitudes. Vegetairan and vegan items also available in the menu provided by local lodges on the Langtang valley trekking trail.
What are the transportation options to get the Langtang trekking trailhead?
The most common way of getting to Syabrubesi, the start of Langtang Valley Trek, is by road. Daily buses and jeeps come from Kathmandu and take 7-8 hours. The drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi is scenic but bumpy due to poor road conditions. Private jeeps are a comfortable and fast alternative but more expensive. Since there are no flights, road travel is the only option. During monsoon, landslides may cause delays on roads from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, and thus road conditions must be checked before heading out.
What are the permits needed for Langtang Valley Trekking?
Trekkers need two permits for Langtang trekking: the Langtang National Park Entry Permit (NPR 3,000 for foreigners) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card (NPR 2,000). These required permits can be bought either in Kathmandu or on entry to the park at Dhunche. The permits go towards conservation work and safety monitoring. Permits are to be carried with them as checkpoints at intervals along the route require them to be produced. It is highly recommended to obtain the entry permits from Kathmandu before you head to the trailhead, Syabrubesi.
How difficult is the Langtang trek?
Langtang Valley Trek is moderately challenging. Although the trek does not require technical mountaineering skills, daily elevation gain and intricacies in the terrain make it challenging. Trekkers need to be prepared for 5-7 hours of trekking each day. The ascent to Kyanjin Gompa is gradual but hikes with a discretionary nature to Tserko Ri with Langshisha Kharka absorb additional effort. Common fitness and familiarity with previous treks help in finishing the Langtang Valley trek smoothly.
Is there risk of altitude sickness on the Langtang trek?
Altitude sickness can, sometimes, be risk on Langtang Valley Trek, especially above Langtang Village (3,430m). Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. To minimize risk of altitude sickness in Langtang Valley Trek, trekkers need to acclimatize properly, hydrate well, and avoid alcohol. With an extra day at Kyanjin Gompa before ascending higher, the body has time to adjust. At the last minute, descending to a lower altitude is the ideal remedy for acute mountain sickness.
What is the best time to do the Langtang Valley Trek?
The best season for Langtang trek is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Spring offers flowering rhododendrons, a wide range of plants, and autumn boasts clear skies with stable weather. Langtang Valley Trek in Winter (December-February) is chilly but still possible, with snow-covered paths creating scenery. Monsoon (June-August) is the worst season for Langtang Valley Trek with heavy rain and landslides. Leeches my be irritating to you if you trek to Langtang Valley Trek in summer days.
What mountain views can I see in the Langtang trek and what is the highest altitude on the Langtang valley trek?
Langtang trekking offers stunning view of Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Gangchempo (6,387m), and Dorje Lakpa (6,966m). The highest elevation in Langtang Valley Trek that most tourists visit is Tserko Ri (5,000m) and offers panoramic Himalayan vista. Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) is the highest overnight base camp in Langtang Valley Trek. Langtang Village (3,430m) and Lama Hotel (2,470m) are other high points you would love to stay overnight and explore the unique things.
What Unique Experience can I have in Langtang Valley Trek?
A unique experience of Langtang Valley Trek is a visit to the Kyanjin Gompa cheese factory, where one is able to savor fresh yak cheese. In addition, the trek offers the chance to interact with the local Tamang people, who rebuilt their villages after the 2015 earthquake. Around 300 people were killed by the massive 2015 earthquake in Langtang Valley.
Langtang Valley Trek is a great adventure that has magnificent nature, culture, and views of mountains all in one. Langtang trekking is a rewarding experience of Nepal's stunning landscapes whether you are a beginner or an experienced trekker.
The cost of Langtang Trek for 7 days ranges between $500-600. This cost includes the transportation from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and back, required permits, guide service, your accommodation along the trail and your breakfast in the mountain during the trekking days. If you want something extra services, you need to go with little higher price.
Let’s see the Langtang Valley Trek Itinerary 7 days and the cost breakdown individually title- wise.
Langtang Valley Trek Itinerary 7 days
Day 1: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi
Altitude: 1,460 m (4,790 ft)
Distance: 120 km (7–8 hours drive)
Duration: 7–8 hours drive
Drive by jeep/bus from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi.
Stay overnight at Syabrubesi.
Day 2: Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel
Altitude: 2,480 m (8,100 ft)
Distance: 10–12 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
Start trekking following the Langtang River.
Trek through forest, witnessing views of waterfalls and rhododendron trees.
Overnight at Lama Hotel.
Day 3: Lama Hotel to Langtang Village
Altitude: 3,430 m (11,253 ft)
Distance: 12 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
Walk through dense forest, with increasingly stunning views of Langtang Lirung.
Reach Langtang Village, a classic Tamang village.
Overnight at Langtang Village.
Day 4: Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gompa
Elevation: 3,870 m (12,697 ft)
Distance: 6 km
Duration: 4–5 hours
Walk through yak pastures and alpine meadows.
Reach Kyanjin Gompa, a famous monastery with stunning mountain views.
Explore the area and overnight at Kyanjin Gompa.
Day 5: Kyanjin Gompa to Tserko Ri (Optional)
Elevation: 5,000 m (16,404 ft)
Distance: 5–6 km (round trip)
Duration: 5–6 hours (round trip)
Optional trek to Tserko Ri for panoramic views of Langtang Lirung, Yala Peak, and other mountains.
Return to Kyanjin Gompa for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel
Elevation: 2,480 m (8,100 ft)
Distance: 15–17 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
Descend back down the Langtang Valley, following the same path to Lama Hotel.
Overnight at Lama Hotel.
Day 7: Drive to Lama Hotel and back to Kathmandu
Altitude: 1,460 m (4,790 ft)
Distance: 12–14 km
Time: 5–6 hours trek + 7–8 hours drive
Drive back to Syabrubesi and then to Kathmandu by jeep/bus.
Arrive at Kathmandu in the evening.
Langtang Valley Trek requires two different permits. These are TIMS Card and Langtang National Park Entry Permit. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu via local trekking companies or you can directly go to Nepal Tourism Board located in Kathmandu and fill up the form for this beforehand the trke begins.No trekkers are permitted to enter the Langtang National Park and the Langtang region without these two mandatory Langtang Valley Trekking Permits.
How much does Langtang National Park Entry Permit Cost?
As of 2024, Langtang National Park Entry Permit costs are:
How to Obtain:
Kathmandu (Tourism Board Office, Bhrikutimandap)
Dhunche or Syabrubesi (Entry Checkpoints)
Through Trekking Agencies
Passport copy and cash payment required. Trekkers also require a TIMS Card.
How much does TIMS Card cost?
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card is compulsory for trekking in Nepal. Charges vary with nationality and type of trek:
You can buy a TIMS Card from:
Langtang Valley Trek accommodation and food are mostly teahouses and lodges providing basic but comfortable services. The cost of food and accommodation varies according to altitude and facilities. On average, accommodation in Langtang Valley Trek is $5 to $20 per night, and meals are $5 to $10 per meal. Prices are cheaper in lower altitudes like Syabrubesi and Lama Hotel but increase as you ascend higher towards Kyanjin Gompa.
Standard Langtang trek accommodation and meals include Nepali dal bhat ($6-$10), Tibetan bread with honey ($4-$6), momo ($5-$8), noodle soups ($5-$9), pancakes ($5-$7), and eggs ($3-$5). Other meals such as tea, coffee, and snacks cost between $2-$5 per item. Bottled water gets more expensive as you go higher, from $1 to $4 per bottle. The bottled water is offered by the local teahouses on the Langtang Valley Trek.
Luxury accommodation in Langtang Valley Trek is possible and exists but is limited in Kyanjin Gompa and Langtang Village. There are a few lodges like Hotel Yala Peak in Langtang and Kyanjin View Hotel and Hotel Buddha Inn in Kyanjin Gompa that offer better rooms with attached bathroom and hot shower for $20-$50 per night. Nevertheless, trekkers should not expect five-star amenities like in Kathmandu in Langtang Valley Trek. The maximum cost of food and accommodation in Langtang Valley Trek per day can be $40-$60, based on the choice.
For Langtang Valley Trek, one needs to hire a guide because the region requires local knowledge for safety and directions. The hiring a guide is normally $25 to $35 per day, based on experience and agency. A porter, who will carry part of your luggage, is typically $15 to $20 per day.
The safest way of hiring a guide and porter is through local Kathmandu trekking companies. They offer pre-booked packages with a porter and guide for the trek. Pre-booking is advisable, especially during the peak trekking months (spring and autumn), to ensure availability and fair charges. Or else, you can hire a guide and a porter directly at Kathmandu upon your arrival, but it's good to book in advance with a credible company because it entails a better service and safety level.
The trekking companies in Kathmandu normally include the cost of permits, transports, and other logistics in their package. It's a good idea to inquire if the company employs experienced and certified porters and guides to enhance your trekking experience with safety and trouble-free travel in the Langtang region.
To get Syabrubesi from Kathmandu, there are various means of transportation, each providing varying costs, travel times, and comfort. Syabrubesi is the beginning point of treks such as the Langtang Valley Trek, and the drive from Kathmandu is approximately 120 km and takes about 6 to 8 hours depending on road conditions.
Public Bus: The cheapest of all is the public bus, which will cost around NPR 1000 to NPR 1500. The buses operate from the Machha Pokhari region close to the New Bus Park Station and are a shared trip with locals and travelers. While affordable, buses may be uncomfortable, particularly on rough roads, and the journey takes anywhere from 7 to 8 hours. Tickets may be booked in advance at the bus stop or online with long-distance travel companies that service the region.
Local Jeep: You can take a local jeep for a faster and a bit more comfortable ride. These are priced around NPR 1,500 to NPR 2,500 per person and generally start from the same location, Machhapokhari, as buses. Jeep rides are quicker, taking around 6 to 7 hours, and the jeeps are smaller, hence less crowded during the journey. You can book a seat from local travel agencies or straight from the departure point in Kathmandu.
Private Vehicle: The most convenient and comfortable option is to use a private vehicle. This can be arranged for between NPR 15,000 and NPR 20,000 depending on the type of vehicle and the number of individuals to be transported. It takes 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic and speed, providing much more comfort and privacy. It can be easily booked with travel agents or by hiring directly from companies offering such a facility.
At any rate, booking transportation for Syabrubesi through a reliable travel agency or travel service provider in Kathmandu will certainly give the best and trouble-free experience for your Langtang Valley Trek.
While on the Langtang Valley trek, it may be worthwhile to factor in some additional cost besides the standard trekking package. These could be possible expenses:
Extra Meals: It's only the breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals in the teahouse that are usually included in any trek package. Snack or extra meals (in the event of a missed scheduled meal) would be estimated at NPR 300–800 per meal, depending on the location.
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is found in most teahouses but for a fee, usually NPR 200–500 per hour. Some teahouse and lodges offer Wi Fi for free if you eat and sleep there overnight.
Hot Showers: Hot showers are not typically offered, and rates differ. You might pay anywhere from NPR 100–500 per shower on the Langtang Valley Trekking trail, depending on the teahouse and altitude.
Drinks: Bottled water or soda will be NPR 150–300. For a hot drink like coffee or tea, it will be NPR 150–350 per serving. Alcoholic drinks (e.g., beer) will be more expensive, ranging from NPR 400–700.
Donations: There will be tiny fees or donation tin cans for local initiatives along the path, which can range from NPR 100–500. If you want to donate for local schools and monasteries, you can do it with little digits like Rs. 200-500.
Souvenirs: Small souvenirs like local crafts, postcards, or T-shirts may range from NPR 100–1000, depending on the transaction.
Tipping: It is acceptable to tip your porter and guide. An average tip would be NPR 1,500–3,000 per person for the guide and NPR 1,000–2,000 for the porter.
Total Extra Costs: A rough estimate of extra costs while undertaking the Langtang Valley Trek would be NPR 15,000 to 25,000, based on personal preferences and the trekking duration. It is always advisable to keep some extra money for unforeseen expenses like sudden sickness and injuries and immediate rescue procedures.
The cost for a 7-day Langtang Valley Trek would typically range from USD 500 to USD 600 per person. The cost typically includes the Langtang National Park permit, TIMS card, round-trip transportation from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, an experienced trekking guide, basic accommodation in teahouses, and breakfast during the trek.
Aside from the Langtang Valley Trek package cost, trekkers are also to carry another USD 150 to 200 for their own spending money in Langtang Valley Trek. Lunch and dinner meals are not normally covered in the Langtang Valley Trek Package and cost between USD 5 to 10 per meal. The hot shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and drinking water come with an added expense, which is between USD 1 to 5 each.
Hidden expenses in Langtang Valley Trek may be porter charges if required (USD 20–25 daily), guides' and porters' tips (USD 30–50), and possible emergency costs such as additional nights or helicopter evacuation upon altitude sickness. Some extra cash must always be kept, as there are no ATMs in the Langtang area after Syabrubesi
Concerned URL | https://www.havenholidaysnepal.com/blogs/how-much-does-it-cost-to-do-langtang-trek-for-7-days- |
---|---|
Address | |
Source | https://www.havenholidaysnepal.com/blogs/how-much-does-it-cost-to-do-langtang-trek-for-7-days- |
Keywords | Trekking in Nepal |