Gosainkunda Lake Trekking

The trekkers get opportunity to travel through pristine forests to the village of Ghoda Tabela, where the valley of Langtang opens. Langtang accommodates Himalayan river plain, which provide beautiful camping sites, spectacular peaks and wide glaciers. The trekkers, if like to explore glacier filled side canyons can hike to the back of the valley. It is a holy place of Hindus where thousands of Hindus reach there trekking during summer to pay homage to Lord Shiva. A lake called Gosainkunda itself is situated here at 4,380 meters. There are some other popular lakes near Gosainkunda as Nagkunda, Suryakunda, Saraswatikunda and Bhairabkunda. The route to Gosainkunda passes through varied landscapes ranging from evergreen forest to sub alpine grasslands where cascading waterfalls and beautiful mountains make an addition to its beauty. It lies to the north of Kathmandu where dominantly Sherpa and Tamang races have their homes. The trekkers come in contact with temperate forests and alpine pastures, glaciers lakes and snowy peaks which sometimes give the feeling of heaven.

Trip Details

Itinerary
Detail Itinerary
Cost details
FAQs
Equipment
Useful Info

Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu Transfer to the Hotel [1,338m]. (Car).
Day 02: Sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath and Boudhanath. "B".
Day 03: Kathmandu Drive to Dunche [2,030 m]. "B". (06-07 Hours drive).
Day 04: Trek to Shing Gompa [3,330 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (05-06 Hrs).
Day 05: Shing Gompa Lauribinayek [3,920 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (03-04 Hrs).
Day 06: Trek to Gosainkund [4,380 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (03-04 Hrs).
Day 07: Cross Laurebina pass [4,600 m] descend to Ghopte [3,430m]. "B,L,D". Trek (06-07 Hrs).
Day 08: Trek to Thare Pati [3,510 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (02-03 Hrs).
Day 09: Trek to Kutumsangu [2,471m]. "B,L,D". Trek (04-05 Hrs).
Day 10: Trek to Chisapani [2,194 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (06-07 Hrs).
Day 11: Trek to Sundarijal and drive to Kathmandu [1,338 m]. "B,L". Trek (04-05 Hrs drive 1 hour
Day 12: Trip ends! Fly back home, taking with you the memory of a life time. "B".

Note: If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.

Detail itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival to Kathmandu [1330 m]: A representative from Adventure Treks Nepal will be waiting outside the airport gate according to your flight time who will transfer you to the Hotel. Briefing will be done once you have settled down. Please do let us know if you have any queries. Overnight in Hotel.

Day 02: Cultural Tour in Kathmandu [1330 m] - (B): After Breakfast we Proceed for sightseeing tour of Bhaktapur city 15 km from Kathmandu, known as city of Devotees and center of medieval art and architecture founded by King Anand Dev in 889 AD, visit Nyatpola temple, the most beautiful temple of Nepal, the 15th century palace of 55 windows, Golden gate and other place of Interest. Lunch Time: 1300hrs-14:00hrs PM: Visit Pashupatinath temple one of the most sacred Hindu shrine in the World. The holy river Bagmati and the burning ghats and also visit one of the oldest and biggest stupa of Boudhanath. Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 03: Kathmandu Drive to Dunche [2,030 m] - (B/L/D): After breakfast we proceed towards our trekking starting point. The road is smooth till we reach Trishuli Bazaar. We drive along the Trishuli River till TrishuliBazzar from where we head towards Dhunche with marvelous views of valleys and mountains like LangtangLirung. Arriving in Dhunche we take a short walk around to know the culture of the people living in this region.Overnight in Tea House. Driving time 6-7 hours.

Day 04: Trek to Shing Gompa [3,330 m] - (B/L/D): Today we begin our trekking from Dhunche. The trail passes through several terraced fields and villages to cross a stream on a wooden bridge. After crossing the stream we start a steep ascent into the forests offering a view of the rugged mountain of Gosaikunda far down in the valley. The trail today is mostly uphill as we are gaining altitude in this day. The path then goes up through the Rhododendron forests joining the trail from Kyanjin Gompa from where we trek further ahead to reach ShingGompa. Upon your arrival in ShingGompa we will visit a cheese factory and a Buddhist monastery later in the evening. Overnight in Tea House. Average Trekking time 5-6 hours.

Day 05: Trek to Lauribinayek [3,920 m] - (B/L/D): Ascending continues on this day as well. After breakfast we trek uphill on the ridge offering different vegetation on two sides. On the northern part is has a dry vegetation where as in the southern part the forests are dense and rich which is also believed to be home for endangered Red Pandas. The trail then reaches ChalangPati (3,655m) which is the gateway to Gosaikunda Protected Area. On today trek we will witness excellent views of Annapurnas, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Langtanglirung. This is a short trek as it is important to acclimatize with the decreasing oxygen so it is preferred to spend one night in Lauribinayak and also the morning view from here is outstanding. Overnight in Tea House. Average Trekking time 3-4 hours.

Day 06: Trek to Gosainkund [4,380 m] - (B/L/D): This day is the highlight of the trek. Today we will be heading to the holy Gosaikunda Lake where people come to worship and bath in August during the full moon festival. The lake holds great value in Hindu Culture as it is believed that Lord Shiva pierced the glacier to extinguish his thirst after consuming the poison. We begin our trekking following the trail on the ridge till we see the first lake at an elevation of 4,100 meters. After leaving the ridge and walking high above the Trishuli valley the second lake, BhairavKund comes in our sight. Continuing gradual climb we finally reach the third and largest of the three, Gosaikunda. Overnight in Tea House. Average Trekking time 3-4 hours.

Day 07: Cross over the Laurebina pass [4,600 m] descend to Ghopte [3,430m] - (B/L/D): After spending a night in Gosaikunda we retrace our footsteps towards Ghopte. The trail today takes us northern of the lake towards the Lauribina Pass with some more lakes on our way. After crossing the pass we will descend to Ghopte (3,430m) via Phedi (3,740m) and DupiChaur (3,630m).Overnight in Tea House. Average Trekking time 6-7 hours.

Day 08: Trek to TharePati [3,510 m] - (B/L/D): Walking in the forests with waterfalls on our way we descend to caves and enter a thic pine and rhododendron forests followed by a stream which is dry for the part of the year. After crossing the stream we trek uphill foe one last time to reach Tharepati. Overnight in Tea House. Average Trekking time 4-5 hours.

Day 09: Trek to Kutumsangu [2,471m] - (B/L/D): The trail today is mostly downhill till Kutumsang. In the background we will witness Annapurna and Manaslu rising majestically above us. If in spring we will see Rhododendron blooming offering extraordinary experience of trekking thorough out the day. Overnight in Tea House. Average Trekking time 4-5 hours.

Day 10: Trek to Chisapani [2,194 m] - (B/L/D): Sunrise from Kutumsangu offers wonderful views of snowcapped mountains. After breakfast we will continue our journey towards Chisapani which translate, "cold water" in Nepali. Chisapani is also well known to catch the sunrise and sunset views. Overnight in Tea House. Average Trekking time 6-7 hours.

Day 11: Trek to Sundarijal and drive to Kathmandu [1,330 m] - (B,L): Witnessing our last sunrise of the trek we begin to trek in the direction of Sundarijal via Mulkharkha and Shivapuri National Park. We see seeTamang people while trekking on today's trail. From Sundarijal we drive back to Kathmandu and check in to the hotel. Overnight in Hotel. Average Trekking time 3-4 hours. Driving time 45 min-1 hour.

Day 12: Fly back home - (B): A representative from Adventure Treks Nepal will drop you to the airport according to your flight time. Returning back with memories that last lifetime.“NAMASTE!”.

Note: If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.

Trip Cost Includes:

Arrival & Departure Transfers by private car on both domestic / international flights.
Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu with an entrance fee.
Duffle Bag using for Trekking.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner during the Trekking.
Accommodation in simple Tea house (mountain lodge) while trekking.
Kathmandu Dhunche by (Jeep/Bus).
Chisapani-Kathmandu by Car.
First Aid Kid.
Trekking Porter with Insurance. (We Provide 01 Porter for 02 Pax).
Trekking Guide with insurance.
Gosainkunda Lake Trekking Region map.
TIMS / National park /Conservation entry fees.
All Government taxes.
Office service charge.

Trip Cost Excludes:

International Airfare.
Your travel insurance of any kind
Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 30 for 15 days you should get visa open your arrival)
Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Heater charge, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities.
Tips for Guide, Porter and driver.

Weather information

We offer trekking in Nepal from mid-September to May. However within this period there are clear seasons in the weather. From early September the monsoon rains decrease. By mid-October through to December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights and clear views. Daytime temperatures can reach 25-30 deg C at low altitude in October and nights can drop to below 0 deg C at higher altitudes.

Winter trekking, from December to February, offers cool to mild and clear days with often very cold nights. Daytime temperatures at low altitudes will be mild, around 20 deg C and at night may drop to 0 or as low as -10 deg C at the higher points. Occasionally winter storms can bring snow as low as 2500m.

In March the cold, dry winter season begins to give way to warmer, wetter spring conditions. Mornings are usually clear with cloud build-up occasionally bringing afternoon rainstorms. Daytime temperatures increase quickly in March, with temperatures of up to 30 deg C and mild nights at low altitudes. The increase in rainfall in the hills is more than compensated for by the spectacular displays of rhododendrons and other wildflowers at this time of year. Late spring conditions, as in April and May, are generally hot at low elevations and as the clouds build up to the next monsoon, daily afternoon rainstorms are common. This is a period that generally has clear weather at the higher altitudes and is traditionally a time when mountaineering expeditions commence their ascents.

The monsoon creates a rainy season in Nepal, which lasts from mid-June to mid-September. During this time the Nepal Himalaya is unsuitable for trekking, with the exception of a few remote valleys. We offer treks during this period in Low altitude Treks in the Nepal Himalaya, Tibet & India (Kulu, Ladakh).

The post-monsoon period: From early September the monsoon rain starts to decrease. By mid-October through to mid-December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights and clear views. Daytime temperatures can reach 25-30 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes and decrease as you gain height. Over 3000 meters the daytime temperatures can vary as much as 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, and may be hotter or colder, depending on whether it is sunny or windy etc. At night at lower altitudes, temperatures do not normally drop much, although as you approach November it does get colder and the days shorter. Up high it can drop sharply at night, from 0 to minus 10 or 15 and more when camped on the ice or snow.

The pre-monsoon period:In March the cold, dry winter season begins to give way to warmer, wetter spring conditions. Mornings are usually clear with cloud build-up bringing occasional afternoon rainstorms. Views of the mountains in the middle of the day and afternoon may often be obscured. Daytime temperatures increase quickly in March with temperatures of up to 30 degrees Celsius and mild nights. At higher altitudes it is similar to the conditions of the post-monsoon period, however there is usually more snow, which has accumulated over the winter period. There are spectacular displays of rhododendrons and wildflowers at this time of year. Late spring conditions ie April and May, are generally hot at low elevations and as the clouds build up to the next monsoon, daily afternoon rainstorms are common.

List of Clothing Equipments & Personal Effects

Lightweight Trekking (walking) (Waterproof) boots and spare laces. If new one is being bought, “walk then in” to avoid blisters. Also bring spare laces.
A pair of track shoes for evening and walk around campsite.
Warm Jackets (Fiber fill or down) down should be adequate.
A rainproof jacket with hood or ponchos (Get guaranteed Waterproof)
Woolen shirts and thick sweaters.
A pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks.
Thermal underwear.
A tracksuit.
2 pair of loose fitting long shorts/skirts.
Few pairs of cotton T-shirts.
At least 1 lightweight long sleeved shirt is particularly to avoid sun born.
A woolen hat for morning and evening and Sun cap (Hat) during the day and ensure it has a wide brim to cover the face and neck..
A pair of gloves.
A pair of sandals to shower and campsite.
Few pair of thin and thick woolen socks.
Underwear: normal quantity and swimming costume.
Sleeping bags for night. (At least -20 Celsius)

Equipment and Accessories

Duffle bag or kit bag to carry gears while trekking. (We provide)
Daypack to carry personal day requirements. (25-30 Ltr) This is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement for the day
Water bottle.
Snow glasses and sunglasses.
2-5 large plastic bags to separate clean and dirty clothes. Some small plastic bags for garbage.
Toiletries with large and small towels. Toilet paper can be by in Kathmandu and some villages in the mountains.
Wallet or money belt with compartment for coins.
Headlamp or torch light with spare batteries and bulbs.Candles or lighter to burn toilet paper and to lit on.
Snow gaiters essential during winter and High Altitude trekking.
Walking poles. (If you like to have).
Camera with spare batteries and films
Reading materials, game items (optional), note book, rubber band, pen and pencil, envelopes, a diary, a calendar, a pocket knife, binoculars (optional), a small pillow or headrest (optional). Thermoses (optional)- an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of
passport photograph
First aid kit with enough Personal medicine.

Physically prepare yourself: It is important that your body is adequately prepared for the physical challenges of trekking. It is thus important that you assess your own condition and train accordingly. In general, the fitter you are, the easier it will be for you to handle the rigors of the trek. A well-rounded training program would include strength training, aerobic cross training, and hiking (ideally at high altitude but not necessary).

Mentally prepare yourself: Mental preparation is often overlooked. You should always keep a positive state of mind, but not ignore the signals your body sends you. Your mental stamina will, without a doubt, make the most difficult parts of the trekachievable.

We will keep the packing list update asnew equipment becomes available. If you have reviews or suggestions please send us an email.

Trekking in Nepal need not be considered risky affair as far as your health is concerned. Nevertheless, preventive measures such as a through medical checkup and inoculations before you start trekking can save you from unexpected hazards. Since the remote places of Nepal are not supplied with necessities that are essential for modern medical facilities and as the rescue and evacuation are measured in days, it is imperative to make a comprehensive first aid box consisting of basic drugs and accessories as part of the paraphernalia for trekking. Modern dentistry is unknown in the hill of Nepal so it is advised to have a checkup before departure from home. Tooth fillings; sometimes loosen in cold temperatures and high altitudes, so it is recommended to have them checked. Travelers are requested to bring medicine prescribed by their doctor at home. Common medicine for stomach problems, headache, and malaria is available in Kathmandu. Medicine is usually not available in remote areas. So necessary medicine is advisable to carry with you. Before going to Nepal, it is advised to get injections against typhoid, meningitis and hepatitis.

OVERCOMING ALTITUDE PROBLEM: This is often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which is particularly a matter of important medical consideration while trekking in the Himalayas. Altitude Sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to elevations above 3000 meters. Early mountain sickness will manifest itself in headache, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue; etc can be encountered as initials of the sickness. The major information source on prevention and treatment of the sickness is Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) and Adventure Treks Nepal (P). Ltd. is the confide life member of it. We assure every trekker that all our guides have followed the training conducted by HRA with the understated information.

CAUSE/FACTOR OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS
1. Less Oxygen
2. Low Pressure i.e. Barometric Pressure
3. Rapid Ascent
4. Possible Dehydration
5. Hypothermia TYPE OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

TYPES ALTITUDE SICKNESS
1. AMS - Acute Mountain Sickness
2. HAPE - High Altitude Pulmonary Edema
3. Hace - High Altitude Cerebral Edema

SYMPTOMS
1. (AMS) ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS
Mild symptom feels like hangover/not feeling good
a. Headache
b. Fatigue/Tiredness
c. Nausea
d. Shortness of breath
e. Loss of appetite
f. Sleep disturbance
g. Dizziness

2. (HAPE) HIGH ALTITUDE PULMONARY EDEMA (Water in lungs)
a. Increasing shortness of breath even at rest
b. Severe cough-dry/Productive
c. Very tired-Unusual fatigue while walking
d. High Pulse rate i.e. 110
e. Blueness of face, lips, finger nails that means inability to transport Oxygen into the blood

3. (HACE) HIGH ALTITUDE CEREBRAL EDEMA (Water in the head)
Severe symptoms of altitude sickness
a. Severe Headache
b. Vomiting
c. Walking like a drunk (Ataxia)
d. Mental confusion/Altered mental status
e. Irritable-Does not want to be bothered by other people
f. Unconsciousness or Coma
TEST - Tandem walking test, Heel to toe step fall off from the line.

DECISION MAKING
1. Find out the main problem i.e. at altitude. Assume all problems are Altitude Sickness unless proven otherwise.
2. If it is an altitude problem with mild symptoms, stay at the same altitude until the symptoms are completely gone. Take an Aspirin tablet, try to go up but listen to your body. If symptoms are worsening, go down.

PREVENTION
1. Acclimatization: - After a 1000m. Ascent, stay one more night for acclimatization.
2. Do not make RAPID ASCENT; don't go too fast too high.
3. No alcohol, sleeping pills and smoking.
4. Drink more fluid 3-4ltrs a day… clean, boiled or treated water/tea/coffee/soup/juice etc.
5. Do not carry heavy packs.
6. Climb higher sleep lower.
7. Do not travel alone.

TREATMENT
1. DESCENT is the best medicine; do not wait for the Helicopter.
2. Medicine:
a. Oxygen.
b. Diamox…for AMS 125mg. Before dinner, for sleeping problem if feeling suffocated.
c. Nafedipine for HAPE
d. Steroids/Dexamethasone for HACE
3. Hyperbolic Bag - Gammow Bag
4. Golden Rules
a. Awareness of ALTITUDE SICKNESS
b. If you have mild symptoms, do not go higher. Take Aspirin.
c. If you have worsening symptoms, go down.
d. Do not leave your team member behind unattended, either trekker or porter.
5. IMPORTANT
a. Go up slowly.
b. Drink plenty of fluids (at least 3 liters per day)
c. Get all information about Altitude Sickness before your trekking tour that will make you confident to make your tour successful.

Our advice: Drink 3-4 ltr of water minimum a day, don't exhaust yourself so much and breathe deep and take rest more than usual.

We will keep the packing list update asnew equipment becomes available. If you have reviews or suggestions please send us an email.

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Gosainkunda Lake Trekking