Gosaikunda Lake Trek-05 Days

  • Duration5 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 4,380m
  • Starts at Dhunche
  • Ends at Dhunche
  • Trip Type Private
  • Accommodation Lodge
  • Transport Private Vehicle
Highlights
  • Proximity to Kathmandu: A short and manageable itinerary from Kathmandu (1400m) makes this trek an accessible Himalayan adventure.
  • Sacred Lakes Exploration: Discover the stunning beauty of sacred lakes including Gosaikunda, Bhairav Kunda, and Saraswati Kunda, among others.
  • Panoramic Mountain Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of peaks such as Langtang Lirung (7234m), Langtang Ri (7205m), Ganesh Himal (7422m), and numerous other smaller mountains.
  • Diverse Wildlife: The region is home to endangered species like the red panda and snow leopard.
  • Authentic Accommodations: Stay in traditionally-built teahouses, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Himalayas.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience close encounters with the unique lifestyle of the Himalayan communities.

The Gosaikunda Trek is an ideal adventure for those with limited time in Nepal but eager to explore its stunning mountain landscapes and experience the alpine zone. This 5-day trek leads to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, situated at an elevation of 4380 meters. Revered as a pilgrimage site by Hindus, particularly during the Janai Purnima festival in August, the lake's serene beauty and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination.

Starting from Dhunche, the trek quickly ascends through lush forests, reaching the treeline at Cholang Pati. Here, trekkers are rewarded with their first views of the majestic Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, and distant Annapurna peaks. Overnight stays in the comfortable tea houses of Lauribinayek allow for rest and acclimatization before the early morning hike to the lake itself. The return journey to Dhunche and Kathmandu follows, completing this compact yet fulfilling trek.

Rated as medium in difficulty, the Gosaikunda Trek's challenge varies based on factors such as age, physical fitness, trekking experience, chosen itinerary, and seasonal weather conditions. With an ascent to 4380 meters from Dhunche (2100m) in just two days and a steep descent of 2200 meters in a single day for the 5-day itinerary, trekkers should be prepared for significant elevation changes. For those pressed for time, this trek offers great tea house accommodation, minimizing the need for extensive gear. Contact us for personalized trip planning and make the most of your experience in the Himalayas.

Gosainkunda Trek 5 Days Routes

The journey to Gosaikunda starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche, despite challenging road conditions. Dhunche, the headquarters of Rasuwa, is the initial overnight stop. The trek begins the next morning, winding through bamboo bushes and rhododendron forests to Cholangpati, where trekkers spend the night before reaching Gosaikunda. The viewpoint at Gosaikunda offers stunning views of the Langtang Himalayan range. The return journey to Dhunche spans two days, with options for a condensed 4-day trek or an intense 3-day trek for those seeking a more rigorous experience.

Itinerary

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We begin our adventure early in the morning after breakfast, with our guide leading us to Machha Pokhari Bus Station. From there, we embark on a scenic 5-6 hour bus journey to Dhunche (2,030m/6,660ft), the administrative center of Rasuwa District. Along the way, we'll enjoy picturesque views of settlements and meadows, traveling alongside the majestic Trishuli River. Upon arrival in Dhunche, we'll explore the village, interact with locals, and stay overnight in a comfortable teahouse.

    After breakfast in Dhunche, we ascend towards Chandanwari. Our trek leads us first to Deurali (2,500m), a quaint village with several teahouses, about 2 hours into the hike. We continue through serene streamlets and cascades, reaching Dhimsa (2,900m) after 3 hours. The path becomes steeper as we journey through lush pine forests to Chandanwari (3,200m), also known as Sing Gompa. Here, we'll visit the local Yak cheese factory and monastery, sampling delicious Yak cheese. The evening concludes with a hearty meal and an overnight stay in Chandanwari.

      Our day starts with breakfast in Chandanwari, followed by a challenging uphill trek to Gosaikunda (4,361m). The trail is rugged and narrow, ascending through barren hills under a cold breeze, so warm clothing is essential. After about 1.5 hours, we reach Cholangpaty (3,500m), where views of Langtang Lirung (7,234m), Langtang Ri (7,205m), Manaslu (8,163m), and Ganesh Himal (7,422m) become vivid and breathtaking.

      Continuing for another 2 hours, we arrive at Lauribinayak (3,900m), offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. After about 2 more hours of hiking, we visit the Sakyamuni temple, a site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. A short hike thereafter reveals the stunning lakes of Saraswati Kunda, Bhairav Kunda, and finally the majestic Gosaikunda. We explore the nearby lakes before retiring for the night in a local teahouse.

        As the sun rises over Gosaikunda, we begin our day with breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore the area one last time. We then start our descent back to Dhunche, retracing our steps through Lauribinayak, Dhimsa, and Deurali. This final day of trekking invites us to savor every moment, from the stunning mountain views and the lush pine forests to the delightful taste of Chandanwari's cheese. The downhill hike is generally easier and more enjoyable, and we may encounter various protected bird species along the trail, such as the Wood Snipe, Snow Partridge, and Tibetan Snow Cock. After approximately 7 hours of hiking, we will find ourselves back in Dhunche.

          Today marks the conclusion of our trek. After a restful night in a Dhunche teahouse, we enjoy breakfast and then board a coach bound for Kathmandu. The journey back is filled with scenic views, including the vast Trishuli River, rolling meadows, and charming settlements. After approximately 6-7 hours of travel, we arrive in Kathmandu, where our journey ends.

          This trek will leave you with lasting memories: the majestic Gosaikunda Lake, the picturesque trails, the rich culture of the Tamang people, the Tibetan-influenced lifestyle, and the unforgettable taste of Yak's cheese. These experiences will be cherished for a lifetime.

            Cost Details
            What's Included
            • Meals: Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
            • Accommodation: Tea House stays throughout the trek.
            • Support Staff: A trekking guide and a porter (shared by two clients) including their insurance, food, and accommodations.
            • Transport: Bus tickets from Kathmandu to Dhunche for clients and support staff.
            • Essentials: First aid kit, trekking permit (conservation fee), and TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System).
            • Extras: A complimentary company duffel bag and all necessary official fees.
            What's Excluded
            • Airfare: International airfare is not included.
            • Insurance: Your travel insurance must be arranged separately.
            • Visa: Nepal visa fee.
            • City Expenses: Any expenses in Kathmandu or other cities.
            • Personal Items: Drinks and personal items like hot showers, battery charges, telephone calls, porters, etc.
            • Tips: Tips for the guide and porter are expected but not included.

             

            Useful Information

            Best Season for Gosaikunda Trek

            The Gosaikunda Trek in Nepal is a journey of breathtaking landscapes and spiritual significance, with the best seasons for trekking being spring and autumn.

            • Spring (March, April, May): Spring, a favored time for trekkers, transforms the Langtang National Park into a vibrant floral paradise. The trails are adorned with pink, red, and yellow rhododendron blooms, offering a sensory feast with the scents of pine and maple. Wildlife, including the endangered red panda, becomes more active, making this a perfect time for nature enthusiasts. The weather is stable, with temperatures ranging from a pleasant 18-30°C during the day to a cooler 6-18°C at night.

            • Summer (June, July, August): Known as the monsoon season in Nepal, summer offers lush, green landscapes with vibrant water sources and full lakes. Despite the potential for rain, with average temperatures between 22-30°C and rainfall averaging 400-500mm per month, the trek from Dhunche becomes drier. Early June can provide clearer days before the heavier rains set in, ideal for those seeking adventure amidst nature's renewal.

            • Autumn (September, October, November): The most popular trekking season in Nepal, autumn brings moderate temperatures (20-28°C daytime, 6-10°C nighttime) and clear skies. The trails are dry and well-maintained, free from mud and slippery conditions. This season offers spectacular views of peaks like Langtang Lirung, Ganesh, Himalchuli, and Dorje Lakpa, along with vibrant wildflowers and unobstructed views of surrounding valleys and highlands.

            • Winter (December, January, February): As winter sets in post-mid-December, Gosaikunda's high-altitude regions receive snowfall, creating stunning frozen landscapes. Despite cooler temperatures (18-22°C max, 2 to -6°C min), the trek remains feasible with proper gear. This season offers tranquility and pristine snow-capped mountain views, ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

            Gosainkunda Festive Days

            • Janai Purnima: Gosaikunda Lake is central to the vibrant Janai Purnima festival, a significant event for Hindus and Buddhists, occurring on the full moon day of August. Devotees from across Nepal and the world visit the lake, believed to have a sacred connection to the Kumbheshwar Temple in Kathmandu Valley. During this festival, Hindu participants chant the Gayatri Mantra, change their sacred thread (Janai), and engage in Rakshya Bandhan rituals, tying a sacred red-yellow thread around the wrist. This period is an excellent opportunity to experience the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal.

            Gosainkunda Trek Difficulties: The Gosainkunda Lake Trek is rated as moderately challenging. It features a mix of easy and steep trail sections with numerous ascents and descents through dense forests and occasionally rugged paths. Daily walking durations are 6 to 7 hours, requiring good health and stamina. While prior trekking experience is beneficial, it is not necessary for this adventurous journey.

            Weather and Temperature: The weather in Gosaikunda is notably unpredictable and can change rapidly. The area tends to be moist, so it's crucial to be well-prepared. Essential items include warm clothing, hiking boots, walking sticks, gloves, water bottles, sunglasses, raincoats, medicine, and some food. Preparing for varied conditions ensures a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

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