Trip Info
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Private Vehicle
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Lodge and Tea-House
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4,380 metres
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Kathmandu
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March-June, September-November
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Trekking and Hiking
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Nepali and Continental
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English, Spanish, French, Chinese
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Medium/Hard
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2-10
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12
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65
Overview
Gosaikunda Trek, this 5-day short trek to the Holy Glacial Lake of Gosaikunda is designed for those with a short period in Nepal, for its classic mountain treks, and who want to feel the alpine zone and experience the Himalayas. Gosaikunda Lake (4380 m) has great religious significance and is well-known as a pilgrimage site for Hindus who flock to the site in August during Janai Purnima. The first few days are spent ascending through the forests before you reach the treeline at Cholang Pati, from where you get your first glimpse of the towering Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, and Annapurna in the far distance. Rest for the night at the tea houses of Lauribinayek and then get up early the following morning to hike up to the lakes. Return the following days to Dhunche and Kathmandu.
This short Gosaikunda trek offers great tea house accommodation, so you don’t need to bring a lot of gear. The number of days listed here is shorter than our standard itineraries, so if you are pressed for time, drop us an inquiry and let us help you with your unique customized trip.
Highlights
- Easy Access from Kathmandu and Less Crowded Trails: The trek start point is easily accessible. It is only 1 hours drive to Sundariajl, which provides a trek start from Kathmandu for a 7-day loop or Circuit itinerary, and a long version of a one-week trek. And a 5 to 6 hours drive to Dhunche from Kathmandu for a clockwise short and fast route for 5 days, making it one of the most accessible treks from Kathmandu. And, it remains less crowded than the Everest Base Camp or Annapurna routes, offering a similar, serene, and memorable trekking experience.
- The Sacred Gosaikunda Lake: The focus of the trek is the stunning, glacier lake of Gosaikunda situated at a height of 4,380 meters above sea level. Hindu mythology says it is where Lord Shiva struck his trident to create a spring of water to quench his thirst after drinking poison. It's a major pilgrimage site, especially during the Janai Purnima festival in August, when thousands of devotees visit. The deep blue lake against the rugged mountain backdrop is incredible.
- Great Mountain Vista and Landscape View: This hike rewards the trekkers with excellent vistas of the mountain panorama, including Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Ganesh Himal, Manaslu Mountain Ranges, and, on clear days, even Annapurna and peaks in Tibet can be seen. The view from Laurebina Pass (4,610m) is particularly spectacular.
- Short and Budget-Friendly Trekking in Nepal: While popular, this trek is short, and accessibility makes it a budget-friendly trek. It is merely a 5 to 6-hour drive from the capital of Nepal. It is possibly the best high altitude trek close to Kathmandu, and the trip costs under 350 USD.
- Offers Choices to start different routes: The trek offers several routes to begin the trek, depending on your interest and the time you can allow for the journey. The popular route starts at Dhunche and ends at the same place for the shorter option. You can either start this trek at Sundarijal and conclude the trek anticlockwise. Also, one can combine this trek with the popular Langtang Valley Trek. Even possible ending the trek via the Helambu Route that may take 12 to 14 days.
