Langtang Valley Short Trek - 12 Days

  • Duration 12 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Country Nepal

The Langtang Valley short trek takes you to a massive glacier valley north of Kathmandu. Starting the walk from Syabrubesi, you will ascend through the Langtang National Park's beautiful Tamang villages and lush rhododendron forests.

Known for its picture book-like beauty and stunning mountain visits, trekking in the Langtang Valley allows you to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas without traveling far away from Kathmandu.

The giant Langtang Himalayas dominate the Langtang Valley trail. Unlike the famous Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp treks, it is quickly accessible. You can start the trek in less than 7 hours of driving from Kathmandu.

The terrain is relatively easy; however, you have to be fit to walk for 6 hours a day. If this is your first time trekking in the Himalayas, then the Langtang Valley short trek 12 days is a perfect package for you.

Beginner trekkers experience the Himalayas trail, diverse climatic zones, and high altitudes. This trek preps you for the more challenging journeys like EBC, ABC, and Annapurna Circuit. Starting the trek from 1,503 meters (4,655 ft), you will ascend to 5,033 meters (16,512 ft) in just four days of walking.

The good news is that there is very little risk of altitude sickness during the Langtang short trek because of its well-paced itinerary. Kyanjin Gompa (3,865 m/12,675 ft) is the highest point where you will spend the night. You will hike to Tserko Ri from here to witness a stunning sunrise and outstanding mountain panorama.

You must have heard how the 2015 massive earthquake ruined the entire Langtang region. It was an immense tragedy, but the region has healed in the last few years, and the locals are welcoming trekkers to their humble homes once again.

Highlights

  • Embark on an adventurous trek to a massive glacier valley north of Kathmandu, Langtang Valley
  • A fantastic short itinerary with ample time to enjoy the mountains
  • Explore the natural wonders of the Langtang National Park as the trail goes through it
  • Enjoy forest walking, lush cliff sides, meadows, and viewpoints
  • Come across ancient stupas, mani walls, chortens and prayer flags along the way
  • Get to see the lifestyle and culture of the Tamang community
  • Witness jaw-dropping mountain vistas and landscapes
  • Visit the local yak cheese factory and explore mountain schools
  • Hike to Tserko Ri to witness a wonderful sunrise along with a stunning mountain vista
  • Explore Kyanjin Gompa and Shin Gompa

Why do the Langtang Valley short trek 12 days?

First of all, we have designed the Langtang Valley short trek of 12 days for trekkers who are bound by time and looking for a trip under two weeks. The itinerary is not rushed, and you get ample time to enjoy the mountains.

Even though it is a short trekking package, you will spend a good number of days in the mountains. Most of the short Langtang Valley trek packages in the market are either six or eight days long, which is definitely not enough time to explore and enjoy the mountains.

However, following our 12-day itinerary, you will spend eight full days in the mountains, and the remaining four days are used to travel back and forth from the trail and arrive/depart Kathmandu.

You will spend nights in picturesque villages like Lama Hotel, Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, Thulo Syabru, and Shin Gompa. These are Tamang villages. Tamangs are one of Nepal's indigenous groups. They are believed to be the descendants of Tibetans.

If you want to learn more about Tamangs and experience their lifestyle closely, we recommend you combine the Tamang Heritage Trail in your itinerary.

Similarly, during the Langtang Valley short trekking, you will witness stunning mountain vistas of Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), Gaurisanker (7,134 m/23,405 ft), Langtang Lirung (7,234 m/23,734 ft), Scout Peak (5,710 m/18,733 ft), Naya Kanga (5,846 m/19,180 ft), Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m/22,854 ft), Ganchenpo (6,387 m/20,955 ft), and many more.

The landscapes also change throughout the trail. While trekking via forests, you may see langur monkeys, butterflies, and different species of birds. Explore many stupas, chortens, prayer wheels, and mani walls along the trail. Likewise, you will visit a local yak cheese factory. Trekkers taste delicious cheese and also buy them as souvenirs.

Extend your Langtang trek to the Gosaikunda Lake or Helambu region

Our Langtang Valley short trek itinerary ascends to Shin Gompa. From here, you can walk up to the beautiful Gosaikunda Lake and return in just two days. It is a holy lake with stunning beauty. We highly recommend extending your trek here if you can spare two days. You do not need to get any additional permits for Gosaikunda Lake.

Likewise, if you want more challenges, you can extend the Langtang Valley trek to Lauribina Pass, which connects the Helambu region to the Langtang region. The trail is offbeat and steep. Extending your trek to Helambu with the Laurbina pass requires one additional permit—the Shivapuri National Park permit.

Are you ready for the Langtang Valley short trek? How to prepare for the journey?

The Langtang Valley short trek is moderately difficult. Trekkers have to walk 5 to 6 hours a day on this trek, so decent fitness is required. If you are not physically fit, start training yourself early and then join the trek. If you exercise and go on regular long walks for at least 4 to 6 weeks before the trek starts, you will be prepared for the trek.

Focus on exercise that will help you improve your stamina, strength, and endurance. These factors are achievable by doing strength training in the gym and participating in cardio activities like swimming, hiking, running, and cycling. While walking, we also recommend carrying a 5 kg backpack. Likewise, you can watch vlogs on the Langtang Valley trek to learn about the trail.

Langtang Valley trek packing list

For the short Langtang Valley trek, you will need the following things:

  • Trekking clothes: Breathable underwear, base layer, trekking shirts, trekking pants, fleece, down jacket, windcheater, raincoat, socks, gloves, beanie, scarf, sunhat, trekking shoes, casual shoes/slipper, dry towel, etc
  • Trekking poles, sunglasses, hand sanitizer, and map
  • Reusable water-bottle, water purification tablets
  • Daypack and duffel bag
  • Toiletries: SPF, lip balm, moisturizer, toilet paper, deodorant, shampoo, soap, wet tissue, toothbrush/toothpaste, dry bags/zip lock bags, etc
  • Adapter, charger, power bank, snacks, camera, journal/pen (optional), first aid kit, etc

Get the best Langtang Valley short trek service with Himalayak Trekking

We, Himalayak Trekking, organize treks for foreigners in Nepal. Our team supports the trekkers throughout their expedition. We arrange permits, transportation, and all other logistics. You will get international standard service with us along with a reasonable Langtang Valley short trek cost.

Whether you are trekking solo or with your loved ones, you will enjoy a hassle-free and safe short Langtang Valley trek with us. Our guides and porters are reliable and trustworthy. They can speak English and other languages, so you will have no issues with communication.

Likewise, you can customize the Langtang Valley short trek itinerary. Choose your preferred departure date, group size, day-to-day, and other factors of the journey. We do not have any age limit until the participants are fit enough for the trek. There are no hidden charges involved in our trip, and you will get a genuine Langtang Valley short trek cost.

Bookings for the Langtang Valley short trek 2024 and 2025 are open. If you have any questions, contact us.

Good to know

  • You can tailor the Langtang Valley trek to under eight days as well.
  • Refrain from touching or eating any flowers, leaves, or plants along the trail.
  • Do not drink water directly from a stream or tap. Mountain waters are hard and not easy to digest.
  • Budget USD 13 to USD 25 per person for personal expenses during trekking. You will need extra money for WiFi, hot showers, charging, etc, which are not covered by our package cost.
  • While sharing the trails with yaks or mules, let them pass first and wait on the side of the cliff. Do not disturb them while they are passing.
  • Tips are common practice in Nepal's travel industry. You are expected to tip guides, porters, and drivers.
  • If you cannot join the Langtang Valley short trek during the top trekking seasons (spring and autumn), we highly recommend this trek during winter. Of course, the climate will be very cold, but the empty trails and jaw-dropping winter panoramas will leave you in awe.
  • Wear used trekking boots in the mountains. If you are going to buy a new pair of trekking boots, get used to them before the trek starts.
Itinerary

If you want to see Mount Everest up close, join Everest Experience Flight. Another great option is EBC Helicopter Flight. Both of these activities take a few hours of your morning.

You can extend the trek to Gosaikunda from here. From Shin Gompa, you can reach there in 1-2 days. It is a must-visit place in the Langtang region.

Trip Plan
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For a smooth start to your journey in Nepal, we will provide pick-up from the Tribhuvan International Airport on your arrival day. Our representatives will welcome you and drop you off at the hotel. Relax and later spend the remaining day attending trek briefing and packing.

  • Meals: Welcome dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Trek to the Langtang Valley starts from Syabrubesi. It is the entrance to the Langtang National Park. From Kathmandu, you will drive to Syabrubesi in a comfortable four-wheeler. The scenery along the highway is excellent. On the way, you will see panoramic views of Annapurna III, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Lirung.

  • Max Altitude: 1,503 m/4,655 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 122 km/75.8 mile

From Syabrubesi, you will trek along the Bhote Koshi River and Langtang River. The trail goes past small villages like Bamboo and Rimche. It will be a rugged walk along lush hillsides. Enjoy a peaceful walk.

  • Max Altitude: 2,470 m/8,103 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 11.3 km/7 miles

The trail continues along the Langtang River and enters dense forests of rhododendron, fir, pine, etc. Following a narrow river valley, you will reach Ghora Tabela. Here, you will take a lunch break and ascend to Langtang village, crossing the east side of the Langtang River.

Mountain views: Langtang Lirung, Naya Kang, Scout Peak, and Gangchempo.

  • Max Altitude: 3,430 m/11,255 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and & dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 14.8 km/9.1 miles

From Langtang village, you will gradually ascend towards Kyanjin Gompa. The trail goes past stupas and chortens. The forested route gives way to meadows and takes you to the last settlement in the Langtang Valley, Kyanjin Gompa. It is an important monastery. It is a short walk to this place, so you can hike to Kyanjin Ri to witness a beautiful sunset and mountain views.

Mountain views: Scout Peak, Langtang Lirung, Langshisha Ri, Gangchempo, Naya Kang, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 3,865 m/12,675 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Duration: 3-4 hours
  • Distance: 6.8 km/4.2 miles

Today, you will spend an acclimatization day and hike to Tserko Ri before the sun rises. Witness a gorgeous sunrise and breathtaking mountain vista from here. After the hike, you can visit the local yak cheese factory. Taste cheeses and buy some as a souvenir. Later, you'll return to Kyanjin Gompa to spend the night.

Mountain views: Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Scout Peak, Naya Kang, Gangchempo, Langshisha Ri, Yala Peak, Urkeinmang Himal, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 5,033 m/16,512 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Duration: 4-5 hours

Today, you will trek back to the Lama Hotel. It will be a long descent following the same trail. Start walking early in the morning. Trek past Langtang village and Ghoda Tabela. Enjoy lovely scenery and mountain views along the way.

  • Max Altitude: 2,470 m/8,103 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Distance: 21 km/13 miles

You will hike to Thulo Syabru from the Lama Hotel. The trail goes along the banks of the Langtang Khola. On the way, pass by a waterfall. You will then trek via rhododendrons and bamboo forests. You may come across langur monkeys on the way.

Mountain views: Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Shishapangma, etc.

  • Max Altitude: 2,210 m/8,500 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 13 km/8 miles

From Thulo Syabru, walk uphill to Dimsa village. The trail then ascends to Foprang Danda (3,200 m) and passes through a forest of hemlock, oak, and rhododendron. Shin Gompa is another ancient monastery in the Langtang region.

Mountain views: Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and Tibetan Mountains.

  • Max Altitude: 3,330 m/10,925 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Distance: 7 km/4.3 miles

It is the last day of walking. You will trek to Dhunche following a downhill route. The trail passes through lush rhododendrons and pine forests. On the way, you will pass by Deurali and Ghattekhola. Enjoy tranquility and beautiful scenery.

  • Max Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 8-9 hours
  • Distance: 7 km/4 miles

Enjoy this day as you wish. It is a leisure day in Kathmandu. Rest and explore local markets. You should go shopping as well. Visit tourist sites like Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Bouddhanth Stupa.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Today, you will fly back to your home. Our team will drop you off safely at the international airport and help you with your luggage.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Add-ons and Options
  • Single room while trekking: If you want a single room during trekking, add this upgrade to your package.
  • Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu: Explore the historical sites in Kathmandu with an experienced tour guide and get to learn deeply about Nepali history and culture.
  • Everest Experience Flight: It is a one-hour commercial flight across the eastern Himalayan range of Nepal. You can see Mt. Everest and many other mountains. Window seat guaranteed.
  • Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour: This is a 4-5 hour day program. You will fly to EBC and Kala Patthar. Land at the Hotel Everest View for breakfast. Breakfast expenses are not included in the package cost.

Availability

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We will strictly follow the proposed itinerary. However, there could be changes if the weather gets poor or unforeseen circumstances arise. Be flexible and open to changes. If our Langtang Valley short trek itinerary is not suitable for you, feel free to contact us to customize it. You can design the itinerary according to your wishes and budget.

Essential Info

Langtang Valley short trek difficulty

The Langtang Valley short trek is a beginner-friendly trek in Nepal. The trail is moderate, with some rugged tracks. The terrain ascends and descends frequently. You will follow the lush forested route. Anyone with good health and decent fitness can do the Langtang Valley short trek.

  • Trek distance: On the Langtang Valley short trek, you will trek approximately 90 kilometers. Daily walking distance ranges from 9 to 12 km.
  • Daily walking hours: The daily walking hours are 5 to 6.
  • Tourist infrastructure: The tourist infrastructure along the Langtang Valley trek route is excellent. You will get comfortable lodges to spend the nights in and enjoy delicious food. Likewise, charging, hot showers, and WiFi services are also available.

Altitude Sickness

The Langtang Valley short trek carries a risk of altitude sickness because it takes you up to 5,033 meters (16,512 ft). You will spend multiple days above 2,500 meters, so acclimatization is necessary. The gradual ascent of the Langtang Valley route makes it easier for trekkers to adjust to elevation without taking an acclimatization break.

  • Symptoms: Vomiting, headache, nausea, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, insomnia, loss of appetite, etc.
  • Preventive measures: Stay hydrated, ascend slowly, maintain your pace, listen to your body, get ample rest, eat carbohydrate-rich food, and do not drink alcohol or smoke while ascending.

Travel insurance for Langtang Valley short trek

Travel insurance is essential to join any trek in Nepal these days. It ensures that you get quick helicopter evacuation and medical assistance in case of an emergency. When purchasing a travel insurance plan, make sure it covers helicopter evacuation from the Himalayas and medical bills.

Langtang Valley short trek permits

The Langtang short trek requires these two permits- a TIMS Card and a Langtang National Park entry permit. The permit fees are included in our package cost. Our team will obtain these permits for you in advance.

  • TIMS Card cost: USD 20 + 13% VAT per person
  • Langtang National Park entry permit cost: USD 30 + 13% VAT per person

The best time to do the Langtang trek in Nepal

The best time to do the Langtang trek in Nepal is the spring and autumn seasons.

  • Spring (March to May): Spring brings rhododendrons and many other wildflowers. The hills and valleys are adorned with vibrant rhododendron blossoms, creating a surreal and captivating environment. Trekkers also enjoy the mild climate, stunning mountain views, and stable weather.
  • Autumn (September to November): Autumn is the second best time for Langtang trekking. Trekkers enjoy mild temperatures during the day, ranging from around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) in the lower elevations. The weather is generally stable, with minimal chances of rain or snowfall. The comfortable temperatures make trekking more enjoyable.
  • Winter season (December to February): Winter is considered an off time for Langtang Valley trekking because of snowfall and cold. However, we highly recommend trekking to Langtang Valley in winter for a magical experience and jaw-dropping panorama. If you are well-packed, then winter trekking is quite excellent.

Accommodation & food during the trek

On the short Langtang Valley trek, you will spend nights in lodges/guesthouses. The lodges are simple accommodations with decent meals. Rooms are twin-shared and small, but you will get a comfortable bed to spend the night in. Western-style and squat toilets are available for trekkers. Carry all toiletries with you, including toilet paper.

  • Services in the lodge: Services like hot showers, charging, and WiFi cost extra money, ranging from USD 1 to USD 5. These expenses are not covered by our Langtang Valley short trek cost, so carry ample cash with you.
  • Drinking water: You can buy boiled water in lodges at a fraction of the cost. Mineral water bottle costs are very high and are not encouraged. If you are unsure about boiled water, you can use water purification tablets to filter it further.
  • Snacks: Buy ample snacks in Kathmandu for the trek. Everything costs high along the trail. Pack nuts, energy bars, and other things you like eating.
FAQs

We will assign one of our team members to pick you up from the airport on your arrival day. We use private vehicles to drive from/to the airport to your hotel in Thamel.

The Langtang Valley short trek is moderately difficult. It is suitable for beginner trekkers, and previous trekking experience is not needed. You have to be in good health and be able to walk 5 to 6 hours a day.

Yes, the short Langtang Valley trek is worth the effort. You will witness stunning mountain views and experience a simple mountain lifestyle. The trek provides a break from the daily chaos of life in the city, allowing you to unwind and relax.

Yes, you can do the Langtang short trek solo. During the trek, you will be accompanied by a trustworthy guide and porter.

If you have extra luggage, you can store it free of charge in our office or your hotel's locker room during the trek.

Yes, the Langtang Valley short trek is good to do with your family. The trail is not very demanding and presents adventure, beautiful views, interactions with the locals, and tranquility.

For the short Langtang Valley trek, you will need a Nepal travel visa, valid passport, travel insurance, trek confirmation letter (from our company), permits, and passport-sized photos.

No, there is no such wildlife risk during the Langtang trek. However, you may come across langur monkeys, birds, and butterflies along the trail. Whenever you see any animal, do not bother it and let it pass.

No, Mount Everest is not visible on the Langtang Valley trek route.

Yes, the Langtang trek is safe for female travelers. You will trek with our reliable and friendly mountain guides and porters. You can trust them. They are kind and trustworthy individuals.

If you get injured while trekking, our guide will give you first aid. If the situation demands more medical assistance, we will evacuate you to our partnered hospital in Kathmandu.

Our one porter carries a duffel bag of two trekkers. Each trekker gets a 9 kg weight limit.

The weight limit for porters is 18 kg. This number is divided between two trekkers.