Gosaikunda Lakes
Pilgrimage lake at 4,380m. Combine with Langtang Valley for a 14-day loop via Laurebina La.
Overview
The Gosaikunda trek climbs to a chain of sacred high-altitude lakes at 4,380 m in the Langtang region, a major Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site that draws thousands during the Janai Purnima full moon in August. Reached by road from Kathmandu via Dhunche, it offers big alpine scenery on a short schedule.
It can be done as a standalone trek or combined with the Langtang Valley or Helambu via the Laurebina La pass (4,610 m). The mix of forest, ridgelines and shimmering glacial lakes makes it a rewarding shorter Himalayan option.
Highlights
- ▸The sacred alpine lakes of Gosaikunda (4,380 m)
- ▸Laurebina La pass (4,610 m) linking to Helambu
- ▸Ridge-top panoramas of Langtang and Ganesh Himal
- ▸Janai Purnima pilgrimage atmosphere (August)
- ▸Short and road-accessible from Kathmandu
What's included — from $620
- ✓Langtang National Park permit and TIMS
- ✓Government-licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- ✓Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- ✓All teahouse / lodge accommodation on the trail
- ✓Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while trekking
- ✓All trekking permits and conservation-area fees
- ✓Ground transport between the city and the trailhead
- ✓Guide and porter wages, insurance, meals and lodging
- ✓Government taxes and official paperwork
- ✕International flights to and from Nepal
- ✕Nepal entry visa fee
- ✕Travel and high-altitude rescue insurance (mandatory)
- ✕Personal trekking gear and clothing
- ✕Meals and accommodation in cities / on rest days
- ✕Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging and bottled water on the trail
- ✕Tips for your guide and porter
- ✕Personal expenses and anything not listed as included
Best time to go
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Gosaikunda trek cost in 2026?
A guided Gosaikunda trek typically costs USD 450–750 per person including guide, porter, lodging, trail meals, permits and transport from Kathmandu.
How hard is the Gosaikunda trek?
It is graded Moderate. The climb to 4,380 m is steep in places and altitude should be respected, but the trek is short and non-technical.
How many days is the Gosaikunda trek?
A typical Gosaikunda trek is 5–7 days from Kathmandu; linking it with Helambu over Laurebina La adds a few more days.
What permits do I need for Gosaikunda?
You need the Langtang National Park permit and the TIMS card, plus a licensed guide.
When is the best time for the Gosaikunda trek?
March–May and September–November. The lakes may be frozen and the pass snow-blocked in winter; the monsoon is wet but brings the August pilgrimage.
Related treks
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