Gosaikunda Trek-5Days

Quick Overview
Duration5 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4380m / 14,370ft at Gosaikunda
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeFeb, Mar, April, May, June, Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec

The Gosaikunda Trek takes you deep into Nepal’s Langtang region, famous for its holy alpine lakes, stunning scenery, and cultural richness. Along the way, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of towering peaks such as Langtang Lirung (7,234m) and Ganesh Himal (7,422m). The journey begins with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche and continues on foot through dense rhododendron and pine forests, charming Tamang villages, and rugged mountain trails. 

One of the main highlights of this trek is Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m), a sacred site that holds deep spiritual importance for both Hindus and Buddhists, drawing many pilgrims during the Janai Purnima festival.

Highlight 

  • Discover the holy Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m), a sacred destination deeply revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Witness the lively Janai Purnima festival, when thousands of pilgrims make their way to the lake.
  • Admire panoramic views of majestic peaks such as Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu.
  • Trek through enchanting rhododendron and pine forests teeming with rich biodiversity.
  • Visit traditional Tamang and Sherpa settlements to experience their warm hospitality and unique culture.
  • Enjoy unforgettable sunrise and sunset vistas over the Langtang Himalayan range.
  • Wander across tranquil high-altitude landscapes with grassy meadows, rugged trails, and sparkling alpine lakes.

Overview of the Gosaikunda Trek—5 Days

The Gosaikunda Trek itinerary is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to enjoy trekking in Nepal. The sacred Gosaikunda Lake, a major destination for Hindu pilgrims, is the highlight of the journey. Along the trail, you’ll pass through beautiful rhododendron and pine forests, home to diverse wildlife and plants. Adding to the charm of the trek, you’ll also come across a monastery and a traditional yak cheese factory, making the experience even more memorable.

The Gosaikunda Trek is one of the shortest yet most scenic treks in Nepal’s Langtang region. At an altitude of 4,380 meters, the holy Gosaikunda Lake is believed to be the source of the Trisuli River. This sacred lake holds great religious importance for Hindus, and every year during the Janai Purnima festival, thousands of devotees make the journey to bathe in its waters, seeking purification and salvation. The trek rewards travelers with breathtaking views of the Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu ranges. On the way, you’ll also encounter several other beautiful lakes such as Bhairav Kunda, Surya Kunda, Saraswati Kunda, Ragat Kunda, Nau Kunda, and Nag Kunda. The trail winds through rhododendron, oak, and pine forests, crosses valleys and suspension bridges, and passes along ridges, offering glimpses into the daily life of the local communities. As the route runs through Langtang National Park, there’s even a chance of spotting rare wildlife like the endangered Red Panda.

The Gosaikunda Trek lasts five days and starts with a beautiful bus ride from Kathmandu to Dhunche. The bus runs via some attractive cities, like Kakani, Ranipauwa, Bidur, Trishuli, Betrawati, and Ramche. It takes about six hours to get there. The hike starts at Dhunche the next day and goes through Deurali and Dimsa on its way to Chandanbari. From Deurali to Chandanbari, the road goes up a lot. Then, you will go to Gosaikunda by way of Chyolangpati, Laurebina, and the Bouddha Temple. Along the path, there are rhododendron trees and mountains with snow on top of them. You will have time to explore the lake and the surroundings around it at Gosaikunda. The next day, the tour goes back to Dhunche from Gosaikunda. The last thing on the itinerary is bus travel from Dhunche to Kathmandu.

Reminder

For a smooth and stress-free start, we highly recommend arriving in Kathmandu by 4 PM the day before we leave. This gives you enough time for a final gear check, a trip briefing with your guide, and to make sure you have everything you need before heading to the trek. 

Online briefing 

This is like our first coffee before the trip, but online!  This online meeting is our chance to show you everything that will happen on the trip.  We'll talk about everything from what gear to bring to what each day on the route will be like and how it will feel, and we'll answer any questions you have.  After you book, we'll send you an email with a couple of times when we can talk. We'll set up the meeting after the booking process is completed. Also, our trek itinerary does not include your hotel stay in Kathmandu. During the online meeting, please share your preferences, budget, and the standard of the hotel you would like to stay at in Kathmandu. We will arrange it for you accordingly. 

Note to Hikers

Experience the Himalayas on your terms. We create personal, intimate treks for groups of two or more. Whether you select our Budget, Standard, or Luxury package, your adventure will be exclusively for you and your companions, ensuring a comfortable and personal journey from start to finish.

Short Itinerary
Day 01: Drive starts from Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,393ft) to Dhunche (1,960 m / 6,430ft), usually around 5 -6 hours with a total elevation change of 560m – 2,037ft.
Max Altitude: 1,960 m / 6,430ft
Day 02: Trek starts  7 km / 4 miles walk from Dunche (1,960 m / 6,430ft) to Chandanbari (3,330m / 10,925ft), usually around 5 – 6 hours with a total elevation change of 1370m - 4495ft.
Max Altitude: 3,330m / 10,925ft
Day 03: Trek starts with a 9 km / 5.5 mile walk from Chandanbari (3,330m / 10,925ft) to Gosaikunda (4,380m / 14,370ft), usually around 5 -6 hours with a total elevation change 1050m – 3445ft.
Max Altitude: 4,380m / 14,370ft
Day 04: Trek starts with 15 km / 9 miles walk from Gosaikunda (4,380m / 14,370ft) to Dunche (1,960 m / 6,430ft), usually around 7 – 8 hours with a total elevation change 2420m - 7940ft.
Max Altitude: 1,960 m / 6,430ft
Day 05: Drive starts from Dhunche (1,960 m / 6,430ft) to Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,393ft), usually around 5-6 hours with a total elevation change of 560m – 2,037ft.
Max Altitude: 1,400m / 4,393ft
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Detailed Itinerary
Day 01:

After an early breakfast, your Gosaikunda Lake Trek will begin. You will make your way to Machha Pokhari Bus Station in Kathmandu, from where a bus will take you to Dhunche. Along the way, you can enjoy views of charming villages, lush pastures, and dense forests. The scenic journey, which takes about 5 to 6 hours, passes through terraced farmland, flowing streams, thick woodlands, and the mighty Trishuli River, offering a true glimpse of Nepal’s natural beauty.

Dhunche, a small village and the administrative center of Rasuwa District, will be your stop for the night. Upon arrival, you can explore the village and interact with the friendly locals. In the evening, you will relax and spend the night in a comfortable, well-maintained tea house, soaking in the peaceful surroundings and warm hospitality.

Max Altitude: 1,960 m / 6,430ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Local lodgesDuration: 5-6 hoursElevation: 560m – 2,037ft.
Day 02:

After breakfast in Dhunche, your trek toward Gosaikunda Lake will begin. Within about an hour of walking, you will arrive at Ghatte Khola. From there, following the side of the Trishuli River alongside Ghatte Khola, you will reach Deurali, a small settlement with a few tea houses on the way to Chandanbari. Continuing for around three hours along a scenic trail that passes by bubbling streams and cascading waterfalls, you will arrive at Dhimsa. From Dhimsa, the path becomes steeper as it climbs through dense pine forests, making the ascent a bit more challenging.
Chandanbari, also known as Sing Gompa, is a remote village nestled in the heart of a pine forest and can only be reached via these demanding uphill trails. The village offers intriguing attractions, including a peaceful monastery and a traditional yak cheese-making business, providing a glimpse into the local way of life. Trek starts  7 km / 4 miles walk from Dunche (1,960 m / 6,430ft) to Chandanbari (3,330m / 10,925ft), usually around 5 – 6 hours with a total elevation change of 1370m - 4495ft. 

After breakfast in Dhunche, your trek toward Gosaikunda Lake will begin. Within about an hour of walking, you will arrive at Ghatte Khola. From there, following the side of the Trishuli River alongside Ghatte Khola, you will reach Deurali, a small settlement with a few tea houses on the way to Chandanbari. Continuing for around three hours along a scenic trail that passes by bubbling streams and cascading waterfalls, you will arrive at Dhimsa. From Dhimsa, the path becomes steeper as it climbs through dense pine forests, making the ascent a bit more challenging.
Chandanbari, also known as Sing Gompa, is a remote village nestled in the heart of a pine forest and can only be reached via these demanding uphill trails. The village offers intriguing attractions, including a peaceful monastery and a traditional yak cheese-making business, providing a glimpse into the local way of life.

Max Altitude: 3,330m / 10,925ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Local lodgesDuration: 5 – 6 hoursDistance: 7 km / 4 milesElevation: 1370m - 4495ft.
Day 03:

Today’s section of the Gosaikunda Trek will be more demanding than yesterday. After breakfast at Chandanbari, you will begin your hike, which gradually climbs higher from the start. The trail to Gosaikunda follows a narrow, rocky path, winding through open hills where cold mountain breezes sweep across the landscape. After approximately 1.5 hours of trekking, you will reach Cholangpati, where you can take in breathtaking views of peaks such as Langtang Lirung, Langtang Ri, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal.

From Cholangpati, the trail continues for about 2.5 hours to Lauribina, followed by a two-hour climb up to Buddha Temple. From there, you will encounter the first lake, Saraswati Kunda, followed shortly by Bhairav Kunda. After another hour of hiking, you will arrive at the majestic Gosaikunda Lake. You will spend the night at a cozy tea house and have the opportunity to explore the other nearby alpine lakes, surrounded by serene landscapes and snow-capped peaks.

Max Altitude: 4,380m / 14,370ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Local lodgesDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 9 km / 5.5 mileElevation: 1050m – 3445ft.
Day 04:

After a delicious breakfast, you will spend the morning exploring the area around Gosaikunda Lake. Nestled at an altitude of 4,380 meters, this sacred alpine lake is not only a place of spiritual significance for Hindus and Buddhists but also a serene spot surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine pine forests. You can take in the crystal-clear waters of Gosaikunda and its neighboring lakes, such as Saraswati Kunda and Bhairav Kunda, while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and the reflections of the surrounding mountains on the water’s surface. You will return back to Dhunche, retracing your route through Lauribina, Cholangpati, Dhimsa, and Deurali.

The descent is gentler, making the hike easier and more relaxing. Along the way, you will pass through scenic pine forests, terraced fields, and charming villages, where you can sample the local Chandanbari cheese and observe the daily life of the residents. Look out for the region's protected wildlife, such as the Wood Snipe, Snow Partridge, and Tibetan snowcock, while strolling through Langtang National Park. If you are lucky, you may even spot the elusive Red Panda. You will arrive at Dhunche after around seven hours of downhill trekking.

Max Altitude: 1,960 m / 6,430ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Local lodgesDuration: 7 – 8 hoursDistance: 15 km / 9 milesElevation: 2420m - 7940ft.
Day 05:

The Langtang Gosaikunda Lake Trek comes to an end today. After a peaceful night’s stay in a cozy teahouse in Dhunche, you will enjoy breakfast before boarding a bus back to Kathmandu. The drive follows a scenic route, offering stunning views of the Trishuli River, lush meadows, and charming villages along the way. The journey takes approximately six to seven hours.

This trek will leave you with many lasting memories—the serene and majestic Gosaikunda Lake, the picturesque trails through forests and alpine landscapes, the warm hospitality of the culturally rich Tamang communities, and glimpses of their Tibetan-influenced lifestyle. Not to forget the delicious local yak cheese, which adds a special flavor to your adventure. These experiences will stay with you long after the trek ends.

Max Altitude: 1,400m / 4,393ftDuration: 5-6 hoursDistance: 102 km / 63.3 milesElevation: 560m – 2,037ft.
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Equipment Lists

Only pack what’s needed for the trek to travel light and comfortably. You can store your excess luggage at The Everest Holiday for free. Porters will carry your main trekking bag, but the weight limit is 10 kg for each trekker. Since one porter carries the luggage for two people, we suggest that you and a trekking partner share one large duffel bag (over 60 Liters).

  • Sun hat (wide-brimmed)
  • Beanie (for warmth)
  • A neck gaiter or buff (for warmth and sun protection)
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Insulated gloves or mittens (for cold weather)
  • Waterproof gloves (for wet conditions)
  • A thick-wool or synthetic pair of moisture-wicking socks
  • waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and excellent traction
  • Sandals (for camp use or river crossings)
  • Gaiters protect
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short and long sleeves)
  • Thermal base layer (for colder conditions)
  • Fleece jacket and down jacket (Mandatory)
  • Lightweight puffy jacket (for extra warmth)
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Raincoat
  • Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt
  • Polypropylene underwear (four)
  • Quick-drying pants/trousers (convertible or full-length)
  • Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • Wear long underwear or thermal leggings when it is cold.
  • Two pairs of thermal/trekking trousers (pants)
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Medium-sized drying towel
  • Wet wipes or hand sanitizers
  • The toilet paper is stored in a Ziplock bag.
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Travel-sized shampoo
  • Nail clippers
  • Small mirror
  • A duffel bag with a capacity of over 60 liters is intended for porters, with one duffel bag for every trekker.
  • An individual's daypack or backpack with a 20- or 30-liter capacity should be plenty.
  • Adjustable and lightweight poles (preferably collapsible)
  • A two-liter water bladder or bottle (with a protective cover for cold climates)
  • Use water purification methods such as purification tablets, filter bottles, or UV filters.
  • Camera/smartphone (extra memory cards and batteries)
  • A portable charger, spare batteries, or a battery pack
  • Two-pin charging plug
  • Basic first aid supplies include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and Diamox (which is used to prevent or lessen symptoms related to mountain sickness).
  • Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  • Few passport-size photos
  • Passport photocopies
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binoculars
  • Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.)
  • Diamox (for altitude sickness prevention/relief)
  • Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  • Water purification (tablets, filter bottle, UV filter)
  • Energy bar
  • Lightweight headlamp (with adjustable brightness)
  • Face wipes
  • An extra pair of batteries
Essential Information

Gosainkunda trek (5 days) package information 

Arrival, Welcome, and trek

When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be there to greet you. They will be holding a sign with your name on it and will welcome you with a traditional marigold garland or khada. Afterward, they will drive you to your hotel in a private car. 
We request you arrive in Kathmandu by 4 pm one day before the trek departure. This gives us the final preparation. We will pick you up at your hotel. The adventure officially begins with a scenic drive to Dhnuche, the starting point of the Gosainkunda trek, according to the package.

Accommodation 

Along the Gosaikunda Trek, you can stay in simple tea houses, which serve as local lodges offering basic rooms and home-cooked meals. Typically, two trekkers share a room, with cold water and communal bathrooms provided. Hot showers are available for an extra charge. Private rooms may be arranged in some villages for an additional fee, though availability can be limited, especially during peak season. 

Meal 

On the Gosaikunda Trek, you can enjoy a mix of traditional Nepalese dishes like Dal Bhat and local specialties, along with a variety of international options, including Italian, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Breakfast options include Tibetan bread with jam, pancakes, porridge, chapatti with tea, eggs, and cereals. Lunch and dinner feature dishes such as momo (dumplings), fried rice, thukpa, noodles, soups, stews, and more, ensuring a tasty and satisfying meal at every stop.

Luggage 

We will provide two trekkers for one porter during the trek. The total weight limit for the porter is 20 kg, which means each trekker has a 10 kg luggage allowance. Hence, team up with a fellow traveller and pack your things in a duffle bag of over sixty litres. We expect you to only carry a small personal backpack for your essentials like a camera, water, snacks, and valuables. You can leave any extra bags at your hotel or at our Kathmandu office for free.

Facilities and essentials 

Water 

You can buy a water bottle at stores along the trail or get boiling or filtered water at hotels. You should carry a water bottle that you can refill and fill it with boiled water. Don't drink water from the tap, well, or river that hasn't been treated. Please use a water purification tablet for your safety. You may also buy one at stores along the trail. 

Communication 

We will provide you with a SIM card in Kathmandu and show you how to purchase data and add money to it, although the signals may not be as strong at higher altitudes. For your safety, our main guide talks to all of the hiking teams every day by phone. We are ready for anything that might happen, and our guides are trained to help when they are required. We also use walkie-talkies and satellite phones in places where there is no network to make sure we can always talk to each other.

Travel Essentials

Visa 

Except for citizens of India, all foreigners need a visa to enter Nepal. The Kathmandu International Airport can provide visas upon arrival for most nationalities. You will need a password that is valid for at least 6 months, one passport-sized photo, and cash for the visa fee (US$50 for a 30 visa).

Travel 

Having comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your policy must cover medical expenses and emergency helicopter rescue up to an altitude of 4,500 meters. Before the trek begins, you will need to provide us with a copy of your insurance policy.

Currency Exchange

The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the country's official currency; one US dollar is equivalent to around 130 NPR. In Kathmandu, you may find banks and approved money exchange centers where you can exchange major foreign currencies.  ATMs are widely available to withdraw NPR, but extra service fees may apply. Make sure your notes are new and undamaged, as old or torn bills may be refused. Only the 100 INR note from India is legally accepted in Nepal. Before traveling to trekking regions, it's best to exchange money in Kathmandu, as there are few exchange options in remote areas.

Extra Expense

While our package covers most of your expenses during the trek, you will need to budget for some personal items like meals and accommodation in Kathmandu, visa fees, snacks, hot showers, personal equipment, tips of the crew, etc. We recommend you budget approximately $ 20 USD per day for these personal expenses during the trek.

Trek Season and Weather condition 

The Gosaikunda Trek can be done throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience. Spring (March–May) brings mild weather with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 18°C, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views. Summer/Monsoon (June–August) is warmer, between 10°C and 20°C, but heavy rains can make trails slippery and cloudy. Autumn (September–November) is the most popular time, with cool, dry weather and temperatures from 4°C to 16°C, offering the best visibility of the Himalayas. Winter (December–February) is cold, ranging from -5°C to 10°C, with possible snow on the trails, making it quieter but more challenging for trekking.

Typical day 

We'll eat breakfast early every morning. The day's hike is normally broken up into two parts: a three- to four-hour hike in the morning, a one-hour lunch break, and then a shorter hike in the afternoon. Around 7:00 p.m., dinner is served, and your guide will go over the schedule for the next day with you. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, see the settlement, or hang out with the other trekkers.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to do the Gosaikunda Trek?
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring offers blooming rhododendrons and clear skies, while autumn provides crisp air and excellent mountain views. Winter is colder with occasional snow, and the monsoon season can make trails slippery.

2. How difficult is the Gosaikunda Trek?
The trek is moderate, suitable for beginners with basic fitness and experienced trekkers alike. The highest point is Gosaikunda Lake at 4,380m, so some acclimatization is recommended. Trails include forested paths, rocky ridges, and uphill climbs.

3. What kind of accommodation is available along the trek?
Accommodation is mainly in teahouses, offering simple rooms, home-cooked meals, and basic facilities. Most rooms are shared, bathrooms are communal, and hot showers are available for an extra fee. Private rooms can sometimes be arranged in certain villages for an additional cost.

4. What food can I expect on the trek?
You can enjoy traditional Nepalese meals like Dal Bhat, along with international options such as Italian, Chinese, and Indian dishes. Breakfasts include pancakes, Tibetan bread, porridge, eggs, and cereals, while lunch and dinner feature momo, noodles, soups, fried rice, and stews.

5. Do I need permits for the Gosaikunda Trek?
Yes, trekkers need a Langtang National Park entry permit and a trekking TIMS card. These can be arranged in Kathmandu or at the starting point of the trek.

6. Do I need a guide or porter?
While the trail is generally well-marked, hiring a guide is recommended for cultural insight, safety, and smooth arrangements. Porters are optional but useful for carrying heavy luggage, especially if you prefer to trek lightly.

7. What kind of wildlife or scenery can I expect?
The trek passes through Langtang National Park, with rhododendron, oak, and pine forests. You may spot wildlife like Red Panda, Himalayan Monal, Tibetan snowcock, and Snow Partridge. Panoramic views of peaks like Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu make the trek visually stunning.

8. How should I prepare for the trek?
Basic fitness training, cardio, and hiking practice are recommended. Pack layered clothing for varying temperatures, good trekking shoes, warm gear for high altitudes, and a reusable water bottle. Altitude awareness and gradual acclimatization are important.