Gosaikunda Lake Trek
Sacred Waters of Gosaikunda: A Pilgrimage’s Journey”
Embark on the Gosaikunda Lake Trek, a spiritual odyssey to a revered alpine lake within the Langtang National Park. This pristine freshwater body is not only the birthplace of the Trisuli River but also endures a six-month winter slumber.
Significance of Gosaikunda: Gosaikunda is a sanctuary for both Hindus and Buddhists, who believe its waters possess the power to absolve sins. Every August, during the full moon, the lake draws a multitude of devotees seeking spiritual purification.
Trekking Highlights: On this trek, you’ll scale the Lauribina pass at 4,610m, delve into the lush Helambu Sherpa & Tamang settlements, and encounter the amiable locals with strong familial and cultural bonds.
Adaptable Trekking Schedule: Nepal Trekking Guide offers adaptable trek durations to suit those with limited time or budget. The Gosainkunda Lake Trek can be condensed to 4 days for swift trekkers, though we suggest a measured pace, especially for novices, to avoid altitude sickness.
Langtang’s Gosainkunda Lake Fame: The Gosaikunda Holy Lake is famed in Langtang for its role as a pilgrimage site and for exploring villages, ascending minor peaks, and visiting glaciers at a modest elevation.
You can initiate your trek from Kathmandu. The lake is a focal point for thousands of Hindu pilgrims during August’s full moon festival and holds equal sanctity for Buddhists. Gosaikunda is the largest among three key lakes, the other two being Saraswatikunda and Bhairabkunda.
Legend of Gosaikunda: The lake’s religious lore is rooted in the tale of God Siva, who struck his trident into the earth to extract water, leading to the formation of the Trisuli River. The name Trisuli (meaning three) and Suli (meaning needle), or Trisuli, originates from the trident wielded by Shiva.
Trekking Experience: The trek offers breathtaking vistas for all. If time allows, you can proceed to cross the Gosaikunda Pass (4,610m) through Helambu village, culminating at Sundarijal and then driving back to Kathmandu.
Cost of Gosaikunda Trek: For a 9-day Gosainkunda Trek, the package is priced at USD 599 for international visitors. The expense hinges on the trek’s length, and we provide flexible trekking durations for those with limited time who prefer a more budget-conscious option.
Our itineraries promise an exceptional experience, with our capable staff and welcoming porters ensuring your trek is secure, pleasant, and memorable.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our team from Trekking Guide Team Adventure will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Later in the evening, your guide will provide a short briefing about the trek, giving you the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.
Early in the morning, you'll head to Maxapokhari to catch a local bus to Dhunche. The 6-7 hour drive offers enchanting views of rolling hills, meandering rivers, and terraced fields. Dhunche, the gateway to the Langtang region and the district headquarters of Rasuwa, is where you'll spend the night.
After breakfast at the teahouse, you'll begin your trek. Today's route is longer and takes you through picturesque villages like Thulo Syabru and Shin Gompa. You'll climb through vibrant woodlands of rhododendron and pine. At Shin Gompa, you can visit monasteries and a local cheese factory, where you can sample authentic local cheese while enjoying the stunning surroundings. The ascent from Shin Gompa to Cholangpati might be a bit challenging for those new to trekking, but the forested path and occasional views of the Himalayas make it a delightful journey.
The trail from Cholangpati to Lauribinayak and then to Gosainkunda is steep but rewarding. Lauribinayak, a quaint village, offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. As you continue, you'll ascend and descend to Gosainkunda. Along the way, you'll be treated to views of the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang ranges. Upon reaching the sacred Gosainkunda lake, you'll be mesmerized by its beauty. Nearby lakes like Bhairav Kunda and Saraswati Kunda add to the allure. It is believed that the holy water of the lake purifies the body of sins, making it a significant pilgrimage site, especially during Janai Purnima. Feel free to explore the area and learn fascinating facts about the lakes from our guides.
At an altitude of 4610m, Lauribina pass, also known as Gosainkunda pass, is the highest point of the trek and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. The descent from Lauribina pass to Ghopte takes you through the human settlement of Phedi.
Today, you'll cross Thadepati pass. The trek from Thadepati to Kutumsang takes you through pine and rhododendron forests.
Enjoy the downhill trek to Chisapani, passing through village settlements like Jogini Danda, Gul Bhanjyang, Chipling, and Pati Bhanjyang.
Enjoy the downhill trek to Sundarijal, passing through rural settlements and the rich landscape of Shivapuri National Park. Trekkers can enjoy a peaceful walk through the forest until they arrive at Sundarijal. From there, you'll take a local bus back to Kathmandu for the night.
The trip concludes today. You'll be transferred to the airport in time for your flight. Have a safe journey home.