Gosaikunda Lake Trek - 11 Days

Name: Gosaikunda Lake Trek - 11 Days
Brand: Nepal Excursion Treks
Rating: 5 (3 reviews)

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Recommended by 99% of Travelers

Trip Facts

Duration11 Days

Trip GradeModerate

CountryNepal

Maximum Altitude4610 mtrs

Group Sizemin. 1

StartsKathmandu

EndsKathmandu

ActivitiesTrekking

Best TimeMarch - May & October- December

The Gosainkunda Lake trek is one of the best ways to experience the landscape and culture of Nepal, as well as to access the high pass of Lauribina and enjoy the breathtaking view of Langtang. If you want to avoid the busy route, you should only stroll around an area where fewer people plan their journey. You can explore the serene trails that wind through enchanting forests and quaint villages, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture. This alternative route offers a serene trekking experience and provides stunning views of the majestic Himalayas, making it a memorable adventure for any traveler.

The trip to Gosaikunda Lake starts in Kathmandu and ends in Kathmandu. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, a representative from Nepal Excursion Treks will greet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel. A pre-trip briefing will be given after you have rested after the long flight to Kathmandu, and we will have a welcome dinner in the evening, where you can see and experience the typical Nepalese dishes with a traditional folk presentation. The day after your arrival, you will begin your trek from Kathmandu. The trek starts from Sundari Jal, which is about an hour's drive from Kathmandu.

During the Gosaikunda Lake trek, you will have the opportunity to explore a bit of Nepal's wildlife as well, as the trekking route passes through the Shivapuri National Park and Langtang National Park. In comparison to other popular trekking routes, the route to Gosaikunda Lake is notably calm. The trek is moderately difficult and reaches a high pass at 4620 m, so participants should generally be in excellent physical condition to undertake it. Gosaikunda is a holy alpine lake among the Hindu and Buddhist people. During this trip, you will be passing countryside villages, agricultural fields, and lush forests. This trip offers a panoramic view of the Langtang Himalaya and the countryside landscape. The trek is suitable for those who are coming to visit Nepal for a short time and want to explore the city of Kathmandu and take a hike close to it. The package trip of the Gosaikunda Lake trek can be customized depending on your holiday length and adding the attractions of Kathmandu or skipping the city sightseeing in Kathmandu if you have a shorter holiday time.

Best Season for Gosaikunda Lake Trek

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times to hike to Gosaikunda. These months have stable weather, clear views of the mountains, blooming rhododendron forests, and good conditions for trekking. In the spring, the wildflowers are bright, and in the fall, the skies are clear and the views are wide.

Winter (December to February) can be very cold, and there may be snow at higher altitudes. The monsoon (June to August) brings rain and slippery trails. However, this is also the time of the Janai Purnima festival, when thousands of Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims come to Gosaikunda.

What Makes Gosaikunda Lake Trek Special?

The Gosaikunda Lake Trek is special because it has both spiritual meaning and natural beauty.

Hindus and Buddhists both believe that Gosaikunda is a holy lake which is at an altitude of 4,380 m.
You can see a lot of Tamang and Sherpa culture on the trek, visit monasteries, and walk through traditional villages.
The best part is getting to Gosaikunda Lake, which is surrounded by peaceful landscapes and snow-capped peaks.
During Janai Purnima, the lake is full of pilgrims and cultural events, which adds to its spiritual aura.

How Difficult is Gosaikunda Lake Trek?

This hike is considered moderate to hard. Daily trekking involves 5–7 hours of walking on steep and sometimes rugged ground. Laurebina Pass, the highest point at 4,610 meters, requires stamina and determination but not technical climbing skills. Most trekkers with average fitness levels can comfortably finish the trek if they acclimatize properly.

Permits Required

Trekkers need the following permits:

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

These permits will be arranged by Nepal Excursionto provide you with a worry-free trek experience.

Safety and Precautions

This hike is all about safety. Our experience guides know how to give first aid and deal with emergencies that happen at high altitudes. We suggest:

Going on a trek with a licensed guide.
Bringing warm clothes with you, especially when you're at higher altitudes.
Drinking enough water and walking at a steady pace.
Being careful on parts of the trail that are narrow or icy.

Training and Preparation

It is best to start getting in shape 6 to 8 weeks before the trek to prepare properly. Focus on:

Workouts like running, biking, or hiking.
Strength training for the legs and core.
Get used to carrying weight by going on practice hikes with a backpack.

Mountain Views

The trek rewards you with stunning views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Hiunchuli, Dorje Lakpa, and Annapurna ranges. You can see some of the most beautiful Himalayan views in Nepal from Laurebina and Gosaikunda.

Altitude Sickness and Prevention

There is a chance of altitude sickness on the trek because it goes above 4,000 m. To avoid it:

Climb up slowly and include acclimatization days.
Avoid drinking alcohol and drink a lot of water.
Look out for early signs like headaches, nausea, or dizziness.
If your symptoms don't go away, tell your guide right away.

What to Expect During Gosaikunda Lake Trek

You can expect a mix of cultural experiences, beautiful hiking trails, and spiritual places. The trip goes through forests, waterfalls, yak pastures, and high passes before ending at the peaceful alpine lakes of Gosaikunda. We spend our nights in cozy teahouses and our days on this amazing and rewarding trek.

Internet and mobile networks in the Gosaikunda Lake Trek

Nepal Telecom (NTC) SIM cards have limited signal at the lower altitudes, and once you are at a higher altitude, you are away from the mobile network coverage. Currently, most teahouses offer paid wifi service; however, we cannot guarantee that the internet will be functional. Therefore, you should prepare to be without a mobile phone network and internet access for several days during your trip to Gosaikunda Lake.

Why Choose Nepal Excursion for Gosaikunda Lake Trek

If you pick Nepal Excursion for your Gosaikunda Lake Trek, you can expect a relaxing and a great time. We have licensed guides and reliable porters who have a lot of experience and will always put your safety and comfort first. We take care of all the permits you need for Langtang National Park and TIMS, and our well-planned itineraries include days for acclimatization to make sure your trek goes smoothly.

Everything is taken care of, from comfortable transportation to and from trailheads to full logistical support for meals and lodging, so you can focus on the trek itself. With Nepal Excursion, you can be sure that your trek will be safe, well-planned, and very memorable.

Things You Should Know

There aren't many ATMs or Wi-Fi connections outside of Dhunche or Syabru Besi.
At higher altitudes, especially near Gosaikunda, nights are colder.
For steep parts, it is highly recommended to use trekking poles.
For acclimatization, the best way to enjoy the trek is at a moderate pace.

Is Gosaikunda Lake Trek for Me?

The Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a great choice for people who are moderately fit and want to have a great time in the Himalayas. It also attracts cultural travelers who want to learn about the customs of the Tamang and Sherpa people, as well as spiritual seekers who are drawn to the area's holy lakes and sites. From snow-capped peaks to shimmering alpine lakes, photographers will never run out of chances to take pictures of beautiful landscapes. This trip is doable even if you've never hiked at high altitudes before, as long as you're prepared and determined. It's a great choice for both first-time trekkers and experienced adventurers.

Accommodations and meals in the Gosaikunda Lake Trek

There are plenty of teahouses for accommodation—simple teahouses, but good enough. Each of the teahouses prepares and serves the local dishes, so trekkers do not have to worry about having shelter and meals during the Gosaikunda Lake trek.

Plan Your Gosaikunda Lake Trek Today

The Gosaikunda Lake Trek usually starts with a beautiful drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche or Syabru Besi, which are the main trailheads in the Langtang area. Nepal Excursion takes care of every part of your trip so that you have a smooth experience. Our knowledgeable guides and porters will keep you safe and help you along the way, and comfortable transportation will take you to and from the trailheads.

Nepal Excursion takes care of all the permits and entry fees you need and plans your meals, lodging, and travel along the way. Our itineraries include proper rest and acclimatization days to make sure you are as comfortable and safe as possible. This gives you the best chance to enjoy the trek at your own pace.

Highlights

The holy Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m) is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
Crossing the Laurebina Pass (4,610 m) with views of the Himalayas.
Seeing Tamang and Sherpa culture in old-fashioned villages.
Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu all have amazing views.
There are a lot of different plants and animals here, like rhododendron forests, yak pastures, and waterfalls.

Why Choose Gosaikunda Lake Trek

This trek is one of a kind because it has spiritual meaning, beautiful scenery, and a chance to learn about a new culture. Gosaikunda is a quieter place than other routes. It has peaceful trails that are great for both trekking and spiritual growth, making it a great place for people who want to experience the Himalayas in an authentic way.

Packing List, Gears, and Equipment

Trekking boots and poles.
Warm layers (down jacket, fleece, thermals).
Sleeping bag (suitable for -10°C).
Backpack (40–50L).
Refillable water bottles and purification tablets.
Headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat.
Toiletries and personal first-aid kit.
Portable power bank (limited charging options at higher altitudes).

Itinerary

Day to DayExpand all

Day 01:

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m) – Welcome to Nepal (Dinner)

When you get to Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Nepal Excursion will meet you and take you to your hotel in Kathmandu in a private car. After a while to rest and recover from your trip, you'll meet your trekking guide for a short briefing about the trip. This will give you an idea of what to expect on the trip. At night, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner at a cultural restaurant with live music and dance. This is a great way to learn about Nepal's rich culture and warm hospitality.

Max Altitude: 1350 m Meals: DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Day 02:

Drive to Sundari Jal (1350 m , 2 hrs.) and trek to Chisapani (2135 m, 3-4 hrs) (B, L, D)

We'll leave Kathmandu after having a delicious breakfast and take a beautiful two-hour drive to Sundarijal, which is the entrance to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The hike starts with a steady climb through forests, waterfalls, and traditional village settlements. As we go up, we'll see terraced fields and small Tamang communities, which will give you your first look at how people live in the countryside. Chisapani is a beautiful hilltop village with stunning views of the Himalayas at sunrise and sunset. It will take us about 3–4 hours of hiking to get there. Spend the night in a cozy teahouse, where we can relax in the peaceful mountain air and have a warm meal.

Max Altitude: 2135 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerMode of Travel: Drive, FootDuration: 5-6 hrs

Day 03:

Trek to Golphu Bhyang (2150 m, 6-7 hrs.) (B, L, D)

Start the hike from Chisapani to Golphu Bhyang (2,150 m) after breakfast. The path goes through thick forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine, where we can see and hear wildlife and streams flowing along the way. Along the way, we'll see traditional Tamang and Sherpa villages where you can learn about their way of life and customs.

The trek is interesting because it includes both gradual climbs and descents. It lasts 6 to 7 hours. When we get to Golphu Bhyang, we find a cozy teahouse, where we eat a hot meal, and relax while taking in the view of the peaceful mountain scenery.

Max Altitude: 2150 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerMode of Travel: FootDuration: 6-7 hrs

Day 04:

Trek to Mangenkoth (3390 m, 6-7 hrs) (B, L, D)

Keep going from Golphu Bhyang to Mangenkoth (3,390 m) after breakfast. Today's trip takes us through terraced landscapes, alpine meadows, and mixed forests, all of which give you great views of the mountains around you. We'll see small villages and traditional stone houses along the way, which will give you a taste of the Tamang and Sherpa cultures. The trek has some moderate climbs, so it will take us 6 to 7 hours of rewarding hiking. When we get to Mangenkoth, we check into a teahouse or lodge, have a hot meal, and relax in the peaceful high-altitude surroundings for the night.

Max Altitude: 3390 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerMode of Travel: FootDuration: 6-7 hrs

Day 05:

Trek to Phedi / Lauribina Base Camp (3630 m, 6-7 hrs.) (B, L, D)

After breakfast, start the hike from Mangenkoth to Phedi or Lauribina Base Camp (3,630 m). As we walk, the trail slowly rises through high-altitude pastures, rocky ground, and scattered alpine plants. The views of the peaks get better and better. We will see yak herders and small mountain villages along the way, which will give you a taste of what life is like in the Himalayas.

The hike is moderately hard and takes about 6 to 7 hours. Once we get to base camp, we can stay in a teahouse or lodge, eat a big meal, and take in the views of the mountains all around us to get ready for the high-altitude trek ahead

Max Altitude: 3630 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerMode of Travel: FootDuration: 6-7 hrs

Day 06:

Cross Lauribina Pass (4610 meters) to Gosaikunda Lake (4380 m, 6-7 hrs.) (B, L, D)

After a quick breakfast, we set out on the hard but rewarding hike across Lauribina Pass (4,610 m). The climb is steep and requires a steady pace, but the views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and the surrounding peaks make it worth it. After we cross the pass, we go down toward the holy Gosaikunda Lake (4,380 m), which is a holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists.

The lake is often partially frozen in the winter and is surrounded by rough alpine scenery. It has a peaceful, spiritual feel to it. When we get there, we check into the teahouse or lodge, eat a warm meal, and enjoy the peaceful high-altitude setting.

Max Altitude: 4610 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerMode of Travel: FootDuration: 6-7 hrs

Day 07:

Trek to Singh Gompa (3330 m, 3-4 hrs.) (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we start to go down from Gosaikunda Lake to Singh Gompa (3,330 m) at a moderate pace. The trail goes through alpine meadows, hillsides with prayer flags, and small mountain villages, giving you a taste of both the scenery and the culture. This 3–4 hour hike is easier than the one from the day before, so we can go at a slower pace and have plenty of time to take pictures and enjoy the scenery. When we get to Singh Gompa, we settle into our teahouse, eat a warm meal, and relax while taking in the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere.

Max Altitude: 3330 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerMode of Travel: FootDuration: 3-4 hrs

Day 08:

Trek to Dhunche (1960 m, 3-4 hrs.) and drive back to Kathmandu (4-5 hrs.) (B, L )

After breakfast, we begin the descent from Singh Gompa to Dhunche (1,960 m), walking through forests, terraced fields, and villages along the way. The 3–4 hour hike is at a slow pace, so we can relax and take in the beautiful scenery of the Langtang region one last time. When we get to Dhunche, we get in a car for the 4–5 hour ride back to Kathmandu. Along the way, we'll pass through rivers, farms, and small towns. We check into the hotel in Kathmandu and spend the night relaxing and thinking about the amazing experience of Gosaikunda Lake Trek.

Max Altitude: 1960 m Meals: Breakfast, LunchMode of Travel: Foot, DriveDuration: 3-4 hrs

Day 09:

Guided sightseeing tour to UNESCO world heritage sites of Kathmandu - Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swyambu, Pashupati and Boudha (B)

After breakfast, take a guided tour of Kathmandu's most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

Kathmandu Durbar Square– Visit the historic royal palace complex, temples, and courtyards that show off traditional Nepalese architecture.
Swyambhunath (Monkey Temple) – This sacred Buddhist site is on top of a hill and has colorful prayer flags and spinning prayer wheels. It has great views of the Kathmandu Valley.
Pashupatinath Temple – One of the most holy Hindu temples. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is on the holy Bagmati River.
Boudhanath Stupa – One of the biggest stupas in the world and a spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism.

As you visit these sites, the local cultural guide will tell you about Nepal's history, religion, and customs.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 10:

Free day in Kathmandu , farewell dinner in the evening (B, D)

After breakfast, you have the whole day free in Kathmandu to relax, shop for souvenirs, or see the city at your own pace. You can walk around the busy streets of Thamel, go to local markets, or take a peaceful walk through the gardens and cultural sites nearby. At night, we get together for a farewell dinner with traditional Nepali food and cultural performances to celebrate the end of your Gosaikunda Lake Trek and all the great things you experienced in Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11:

Departure day, transfer to Kathmandu international airport (B)

After breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.. This is the end of your Gosaikunda Lake Trek with Nepal Excursion, leaving you with many unforgettable memories of beautiful alpine lakes, the majestic Himalayan peaks, and the rich culture of Nepal. We hope to again welcome you back for your next adventure in Nepal in the future with us.

Meals: Breakfast

Route Map

Altitude Chart

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Cost Details

Includes

Airport transfers
Accommodation in a 3+ or 4-star hotel in Kathmandu
Welcome and farewell dinner
Private transport for transfers as per the itinerary
Trekking permits
Meals and accommodation on the trek—breakfast, lunch, and dinner
One duffel bag for each member to transport luggage on the trek
One guide and an assistant guide in a group of five people or more
Staff meals, accommodation, and one million rupees insurance
Dhunche-Kathmandu private Jeep
City guide, sightseeing entrance fees, transport during the sightseeing in Kathmandu

Excludes

International flight tickets
Travel Insurance
Nepal entry visa fee
lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu, apart from the welcome and farewell dinner
Drinks and bar bills—mineral water, juice, any alcoholic drink, or extra tea/coffee
Nature of personal expenses such as battery charging, hot shower, laundry service
Emergency evacuation and medical bills
Any extra cost occurs beyond the control of the organizer, such as flight cancellations, bad weather, political strikes, natural disasters, early/delayed arrival/departure, etc.
Tipping for guide, porters, and drivers

Cancellation Policy

Gosaikunda Lake Trek - 11 Days Traveler's Reviews

May 15, 2025

Cultural and Spiritual Experience

Daniel Robinson - Canada

September 11, 2024

Sacred Lakes and Himalayan Majesty

Emily Carter - Australia

March 29, 2024

Peaceful Trails and Stunning Views

Laura Müller - Germany