- 12 Days
- 130-160 kilometers
- 6-7 hrs
- Spring/Autumn
- Public/Private Vehicle
- Tea Houses/ Lodges
- Moderate
- Ganja La pass
- 5,122m
Overview
Trekking the Himalayan foothills in Nepal is an exquisite experience. Langtang is a scenic trekking landscape with breathtaking natural beauty. The Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek is one of the most adventurous trekking routes in the region.
This spectacular trek provides you with the magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains in all its glory. Some of the mountain peaks include Shishapangma (8046m), Langtang Lirung (7245m), Dorje Lakpa (6990m), Pemthang Karpo Ri (6830m), Ganchenko (6387m), and others.
Moreover, the trails of this trek also pass through the dense forests, serene lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, and others. The dense forest of the region has Oak, Rhododendron, Birch, and Pine trees falling under the pristine Langtang National Park. It is also the first National Park in the Himalayan region and home to diverse wildlife including 46 kinds of mammals.
Furthermore, the highest point of the trek is the majestic Ganja La Pass (5121 meters). This trek also provides you with the opportunity to climb the trekking peaks, and ridges along the trail. You can also spot the rare wildlife including the Assamese monkey, musk deer, clouded leopard, grey wolf, red panda, snow leopard, Tibetan sheep, leopard cat, and others.
Similarly, the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the Sherpa and Tamang community will spellbind you. The warm hospitality of the local people will make you fall in love with the place. If you love some adventure in the Himalayas, the Langtang Ganja La Pass trek is ideal for you. This stunning trek is available at a reasonable price.
Read further for the detailed description of the Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek and other relevant information.
Significant Highlights of the Trip
- An adventurous bus ride from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and vice versa
- Pilgrimage of the beautiful Kyanjin Gompa Monastery.
- Walking along with the pristine landscapes of the Langtang National Park (ACAP)
- Awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped mountains including Shishapangma (8046m), Langtang Lirung (7245m), Dorje Lakpa (6990m), Pemthang Karpo Ri (6830m), Ganchenko (6387m), and others
- Breathtaking views of the Himalyan sunrise from various viewpoints
- Climbing opportunity of the Tserko – Ri
- Opportunity to spot the rare wildlife of the region including the snow leopards, Himalayan Tahr, musk deer, and others
- Crossing the majestic Ganja La pass (5121 meters)
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Itinerary
Maximum altitude: 1460 meters
Drive duration: 7-8 hour long
After an early breakfast, we will start our journey to Syabrubesi through the scenic highway. The highway passes through the terraced farmed villages of the region. The bus ride to Syabrubesi (1460 meters) is 7-8 hour long.
We pass through the uphill and downhill trails and unique village settlements along the way. You will arrive at the famous Trisuli Bazar on your way to Syabrubesi. Trishuli Bazar is a major commercial hub of the region. The vegetation of the region ranges from rice paddy fields to maize and millet terraced fields.
Moreover, you will arrive at Dhunche (1,780m) after a drive of a few hours. Dhunche lies in the Rasuwa district and the premises of the Langtang National Park. After a journey of 1 – 2 hours, we arrive at fromSyabrubesi Dhunche and we stay overnight at a teahouse in the village.
Maximum altitude: 2420 meters
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we start our trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel. The trails of this stunning trek follow the path alongside the Langtang Khola. The trails pass through the lush forests, suspension bridges and serene waterfalls along the route. We will move up and down along the trail until we arrive at the Lama hotel.
Moreover, the trails pass through the village of Bamboo (1,960 m) along the rugged, and uneven terrains. We then descend gradually to arrive at Rimche (2,400 m). We will have our lunch at Rimche, and continue our trek to Lama Hotel. The settlement of Lama Hotel is beautiful.
Furthermore, you can also spot various wildlife including red pandas, bears, monkeys, and others in the route. There is a river near the Lama Hotel where you can dip in the evening. The trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2420 meters) takes around 5-6 hours long. We spend the night at the Lama Hotel.
Maximum altitude: 3430 m
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we start our trek from Lama Hotel to Langtang village. The trek passes through the dense rhododendron forests and Tamang villages of the region to arrive at the village of Mundu. The gentle uphill trail is pleasant due to the shade of Rhododendron and Oaks forests of the area.
You will arrive at a gorge alongside the glacial upstream of the Trishuli river. The trail leads to the beautiful area of Ghore-Tabela after a trek of around 3 hours. Ghore-Tabela means Horse Stable in the Nepali language. It gets located among the beautiful pine, Rhododendron, and Hemlocks forests.
After resting at the Ghore-Tabela for a while, we resume our trek to the Langtang valley. The trek alongside the alpine wood continues for an hour on a long, winding trail. We pass through the up and down trail to arrive at the Langtang village. You can observe the beautiful glimpses of the Langtang Himal from the North in the Langtang village.
Moreover, the April 2015 Earthquake severely damaged the Langtang village settlement (3430m). However, with the local initiation and government help, the trails have been duly restored, and teahouses have been duly reopened. We stay overnight at a teahouse in the Langtang village.
Maximum altitude: 3870 meters
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we start our trek from Langtang to Kyanjin Gompa. The trail passes through a gradual path for a short while and then trek along the winding up hills for a few hours. The trek passes through the high alpine Burberry shrubs and various mani-prayer walls along the path. We pass these prayer walls in a clockwise direction as a tradition.
You can also observe the Tibetan influenced Buddhist culture and tradition. The walk leads further towards the east as the valley opens up. We pass through the grassy meadows observing the beautiful views of snow-capped peaks. You will gain quite a lot of altitude along the trail to the Kyanjin Gompa (3870 meters). Hence, you should walk slow and steady to tackle altitude sickness along the path.
Moreover, the Kyanjin Gompa provides you with the awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped mountain peaks, including the majestic Langtang Lirung (7,234m). Besides that, you can observe the Ganja La (5160m), Dorje Lhakpa (6430m), Langshisha – Ri (6427m), Gen Jempol Kyanjin Ri (4750m) and others as well.
Furthermore, you can observe the icefall and the Kyanjin Gompa monastery lying at the top of the ridge. The trail passes through the rocks and boulders that form a glacial moraine along the ridge. Kyangin Gompa is a spiritual hub of the region with many large chordens and a giant mani wall with prayers. You will spend the night at a teahouse in Kyanjin Gompa.
After breakfast, we start our Acclimatization tour that includes a stunning hiking opportunity to Tserko-Ri. The acclimatization tour is essential to tackle altitude sickness in the high altitude region.
Moreover, you can visit the majestic monastery and other Buddhist shrines of the region. There is also a famous cheese factory on the premises of the monastery. You can also climb up the moraine. From the moraine, you can observe the stunning icefalls and tumbling glaciers of Langtang Himal.
Furthermore, the hike to the magnificent Tserko Ri (5000m) is also possible. The challenging trek to Tserko Ri takes along the rugged terrains of the region. You can observe the awe-inspiring views of the entire Langtang range. After this stunning hiking tour, we will arrive at the Kyanjin Gompa for overnight stay.
Maximum altitude: 4000m
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we begin our trek from Kyanjin Gompa to Ngengang. The trail passes through the Langtang Khola and the monastery along with the rhododendron forests. The rugged trails pass through the hard and steep trail.
Moreover, regular hydration and diet are essential during the trek. We pass through the green pastures of Ngegang. You can observe the beautiful scenery and yaks grazing calmly. We will spend the night at a camp in Ngegang.
Maximum altitude: 5121 meters
Trek duration: 6-7 hours
After breakfast, we start our trek from Ngegang to Keldang by crossing the Ganja-La Pass. The trail passes through the streams and moraines in the southward direction. The gradual climb then turns into a steep ascent towards the pass.
Moreover, the Ganja La Pass provides you with the beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains, including the majestic Mt. Langtang Lirung. Trekkers will pass through the boulders on a rocky moraine and arrive at the stunning Ganja La Pass. The descending trail passes through the Tangri Khola valley. You need to prepare well for the trip.
Furthermore, the Ganja La Pass is a majestic pass covered in snow all around the year. You will trek through the icy ground to arrive at the pass. After a trek of a few hours, we arrive at the grassy meadows of the Keldang. We will spend the night at a camp in Keldang.
Maximum altitude: 4080 meters
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we start our trek from Keldang to Dhukpa. The taxing trail descends through the ridge and passes through the water streams. We pass through the ridgeline and the settlement of Helambu village. The trail passes through many uphills and downhills and some pasture lands in the middle.
Moreover, there is a Kharka with a large boulder just below the trail. You can also observe a smoke-blackened ‘‘rock shelter’’ on the Northern part of the trail. You will first make a steep ascent to a little col and then a steep descent into the ridge before making a steep ascent to another small col.
Furthermore, you will arrive at a Kharka just before Dukpu, which is a perfect camping site with excellent views. After a trek of around 6 hours, we will arrive at Keldang and stay overnight at a teahouse.
Maximum altitude: 2740 meters
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we start our trail from Dhukpa to Tarkegyang. The trail descends from Dukpu and then ascends to a mountain pass. You can observe the awe-inspiring views of the Everest and the Annapurna-Manaslu region from the mountain pass. The pass also has a few Chortens.
Moreover, you will then descend to Helambu after enjoying the views and taking pictures from the mountain pass. After an hour’s walk, you will arrive at a narrow ridge crest. The long diagonal descent takes you to the western side, and you will also pass through the wooden water troughs.
Furthermore, we will make the steep descent campsite through the rhododendron forests before arriving at the Gekye Gompa village. We descend again through the steep drop to the large settlement Tarke Ghyang. We will spend the night at a camp in Tarke Ghyang.
Maximum altitude: 2621 meters
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we start our trek from Tarke Gyang to Sermanthang (2621 meters). The comfortable and pleasant trail to Sermathang takes around 5-6 hours to complete. The trail takes you along a gradual winding path, and we trek along observing the beautiful landscapes of the region.
Moreover, you can observe the snow-capped mountains including the Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal range, Mt. Langtang, Gosainkunda, Rolwaling, also Mt. Everest. You can observe the splendid views of the mountains from Sermathang (2621 meters).
Furthermore, the trail takes you around the wide valley end and the village settlements of Parachin, and Gangyul. Locals in the region follow Drukpa Kagyu Buddhism, which is also the national religion of Bhutan. We will stay overnight at a teahouse in Sermanthang.
Maximum altitude: 2621 meters
Trek duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we start our trek from Sermanthang to Kakani. The trail then takes you on a descending path to Kakani. We pass through the settlement of the subtropical region along with the vast rice paddy fields. The trail then leads us to Kakani after a trek of a few hours. We stay overnight at a lodge in Kakani.
Maximum altitude: 2621 meters
Trek duration: 3-4 hours
Drive duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, we start our trek from Kakani to Melamchi Pul. The trail then descends gradually through the grasslands and fields to arrive at Melamchi Bazar. After a trek of 3-4 hours, we will arrive at Melamchi Pul (840 meters).
Melamchi bazaar is a commercial hub of the region. After having lunch and observing the beautiful market, we take a scenic drive back to the capital city of Kathmandu. Our Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek itinerary comes to an official end. We will stay overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Langtang Valley Ganja La Pass Trek is located in the pristine Langtang region, North of Kathmandu.
The starting point of the trek is Syabrubesi. You can arrive at Syabrubesi through a scenic drive from Kathmandu.
The Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek is moderately challenging. The difficulty level of the trek also depends upon each individual and their endurance level. A basic level of fitness is essential for this high altitude trek.
Hence, a good training regime that includes some cardiovascular activities like hiking, cycling, swimming will help you immensely along the trail.
The tap water is not safe to drink. You need to boil the water or use water purification tablets. However, you need to boil the water for a long duration at a higher altitude. If you carry bottled water, make sure that the cap is properly sealed and not tampered.
There are many tea houses, and lodges, all along the trails. You will spend the night at these accommodations facilities. You will get twin beds, a pillow, and a warm blanket in these teahouses.
Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for the trek. A proper travel insurance package that covers the medical and emergency evacuation cost is essential.
Elementary medical facilities are available along the trail. There is also a helicopter evacuation back facility back to Kathmandu.
Acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness in the high altitude region. You should also trek gently and not rush during the trek. Regular hydration during the trek is also quite helpful to tackle altitude sickness. Besides that, you can also take precautionary anti-nausea tablets like Diamox.
You can hire a porter for this high altitude trek. Hiring a porter significantly reduces the weight off your back. A porter generally carries 10kg per client, and they take for two clients which makes it a maximum of 20kg.
For breakfast, the tea houses generally provide a toast along with hot tea or coffee. The tea houses provide the typical dish of “Dal Bhat” for lunch and dinner. You will get a limited variety of western and international cuisines like Pasta, Pizza, Burgers, Momos, Chowmeins, and others as well.
Nepal is safe for women travelers and trekkers. However, dressing modestly by covering thighs and shoulders will keep you away from any unwanted gaze on the streets. Female travelers should not trek alone and must choose their guide after a complete check.
In general, $25 per day per person on average is ideal for trekking. The accommodation costs range around $2 – $3 per bed. Food costs are also included in these costs. You can carry extra if you want to take hot water showers or charge electronic gadgets. Overall, the price also depends on the way you spend.
You can tip around 15 percent of the total cost. Solo trekkers can tip around $5 per day for guides and $2 to $4 per day for porters. Group trekkers can around tip $10 per day for guides and $5 per day for porters. You can also tip as you wish based on the weight of your luggage.
The best time for the trek is the Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). The stable weather conditions and the minimal precipitation is the highlight of the trek in these seasons. During Spring, wildflowers, including rhododendrons bloom all over the trails turning the hills pink and red.
A basic level of fitness is essential for the trek. You should get a good training regime that includes cardiovascular exercises, including hiking, jogging, cycling, swimming, and others. Besides that, you should get endurance training, strength training, and mental strength exercises before the trek.
Yes, you can charge electronic gadgets along the trail in the teahouses. You will have to pay extra for the facility. Hence, you can also carry a solar-powered charger or power bank during the trek.
You should bring essential trekking gears and clothes, first aid kits, accessories, and other relevant documents during the trek. Waterproof trekking jackets, sturdy boots, gloves, are also essential. Besides that, you can also bring other accessories like a camera, power banks, solar chargers, and others.
The Trekking Route
The Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. From Syabrubesi, the trails pass through the settlements of Lama Hotel and Langtang Village to arrive at the famous Kyanjin Gompa (3049m).
The Buddhist Monastery of Kyanjin Gompa is a spiritual hub of the region. There is also a Swiss-run cheese factory near the monastery. We acclimatize and climb the trekking peak of Tserko Ri (5000m). The trail then leads us to the settlements of Ngegang and Keldang to arrive at Ganja La Pass (5122m) which is also the highest point of the trek.
Moreover, the Ganja La Pass remains covered in snow all round the year. You can observe the magnificent views of the Ganesh Himal, Mt. Langtang Lirung, Gauri Shankar, Dorje Lakpa, Yala Peak, and others. We descend towards the Tarke Gyang, Sermanthang, Kakani, and Melamchi before driving back to the capital city of Kathmandu.
When is the Best Time for the Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek?
The Langtang Ganja La Pass trek is ideal during the Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May).
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn months of September, October, and November is an incredible time to trek the region. The stable weather conditions and moderate temperatures make this season an excellent adventure.
Many festivals fall around in Autumn as well, including Dashain, Tihar, Chaath, etc. Trekkers will have a great time trekking these stunning trails in the Autumn season.
Spring (March – May)
Spring months of March, April, and May is another time to trek in the region. You will get moderate temperatures along the trail with minimal precipitation. The dry trekking trails and the sharp view of mountains are the main advantages of the trek in Spring. Spring also makes the wildlife active including the Snow leopards, Himalayan Tahr, Danfe, and others.
Similarly, the treks in the Summer and Monsoon season are challenging due to the heavy rainfall and slippery trails. There is also the risk of landslides and avalanches in the area. The winter months of December, January, and February bring frigid conditions in the region. Hence, the Langtang Ganja La Pass trek is ideal during the Autumn and Spring but possible all round the year with proper packing and preparation.
How Difficult is the Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek?
Langtang Ganja La Pass trek is moderate in its difficulty. The trails of this stunning trek have some challenging sections along the way. Langtang Valley Ganja La Pass Trek is a high altitude trek with the maximum height of Ganja La pass (5121 meters). There is a high risk of altitude sickness among trekkers.
Moreover, you should acclimatize regularly and hydrate properly during the trek to tackle this altitude sickness. The trek also goes uphill and downhill a lot in rugged Himalayan terrains. You should prepare and train for the trek 2-3 months or at least two weeks before the trek.
Furthermore, the training regime should include cardiovascular activities like cycling, hiking, jogging, swimming, and others. You should pack and prepare well for the trip in advance. Overall, the Langtang Ganja La Pass trek is an incredible trek that is moderately challenging.
Food and Accommodation Along the Trek
The food and accommodation along the trek are quite basic. You will get a twin bed, a pillow, and a warm blanket along the trail. The food and shelter is an essential part of your trekking journey. The accommodations are tea houses or lodges run by the locals. They are not at all fancy, and just a means to spend the night.
Moreover, trekkers need to carry their toiletries along with a sleeping bag. The food facilities in the region are pretty basic too. You will get the typical Nepalese dish of “Dal Bhaat” along the trail. The “Dal Bhaat” consists of rice, dal (pulses), lentils, vegetables, spinach, Gundruk, meat, and others. However, there are fewer chances of fresh meat being available at higher altitude regions. Which is why meat products are not recommended during a trek to the higher elevations.
Besides that, you will also get a limited variety of western and international cuisine along the trail, including Pizza, Burger, Momo, Chowmein, Pasta, and others. The food facilities of the region also include hot beverages like tea, coffee, rhododendron tea, mint tea, hot chocolate, and other alcoholic beverages.
Essential Tips for the Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek
- Regular acclimatization and hydration is essential for the trek
- Pack all the essential gear and equipment for the trek
- Start your trek early to arrive at your destination before dark
- Hire a guide and a porter during the trek
- Always check the weather forecast before the trek
- Carry anti-nausea tablets like Diamox
- Carry an accurate map during the trek
- Pre-book all the food and accommodations facilities
- Carry water purification tablets along the trek
- Get a proper travel insurance
Packing List for the Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek
Clothing
- Half sleeve shirt
- Full sleeve shirt
- Waterproof jackets
- Trekking pants
- Trekking trousers
- Woolen caps
- Woolen socks
- Trekking boots
- Trekking jackets
- Raincoats
First aid
- Sanitizer
- Sanitary napkins/ Tampons
- Anti-nausea tablets
- Water Purification Tablets
- Band-aids
- Anti dehydration oral salts
Accessories
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Camera
- Head Lamp
- Power Banks
- Extra batteries
- Solar Chargers
- Map
Important documents
- Passport
- Travel permits
The Final Say
The Langtang region is one of the most scenic trekking regions in Nepal. The Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek provides you with a complete trekking adventure in the natural wonders of the Himalayas. The trek takes you to the dense forests, waterfalls, serene lakes, glaciers, and others.
Moreover, the majestic Ganja La Pass (5121 meters) remains covered in snow all around the year. You can observe the snow-capped mountains of the region including Shishapangma (8046m), Langtang Lirung (7245m), Dorje Lakpa (6990m), Pemthang Karpo Ri (6830m), Ganchenko (6387m), and others.
Furthermore, the trails pass through the dense forests of Oaks, Rhododendron, Birch, Pine trees in the Langtang National Park. The diverse wildlife of the region is enchanting, and you can also spot the rare wildlife of the region. Overall, the Langtang Ganja La Pass trek is an incredible adventure in the tiny Himalayan nation.
Real Stories from our TripAdvisor Page
Verified Amazing Experience in Nepal This was a life-changing experience! Nepal is a beautiful country and I cannot recommend the trekking enough. The nature and hiking are incredible, and we had so much fun eating and playing cards at the tea houses.Our guide was Gokarna. I highly recommend getting him as your guide. He is knowledgeable about the country and makes the entire experience enjoyable.Coming back to Nepal is very high on my to-do list. Radiant Treks will be the first company I contact.Verified Very kind and good men When i come back from Annapurna ,I met him in touristic bus from pokhara to Katmandu He show me beautiful FOTO with different group from mountain that he was as guide in nepal, and told me have company . He was very helpful and know a lot of information about mountain in nepal,Verified Great experience trekking Annapurna Circuit with Gokarna We had a fantastic time trekking the Annapurna Circuit with Gokarna! The trek is spectacular and so varied. We loved the guest houses we stayed in and all of the food. Gokarna was a great guide — he had everything perfectly organized and we never had to think about logistics. We had a great time and can't wait to go back!Verified Amazing Amazing trip! Amazing tour! Always on time, never late, always smiling. Everything was perfect and smooth. I highly recommends Thank you!!Verified Best trek ever ! I had the pleasure of using Radiant Trek for a 10-day trip from Lukhla to Everest Base Camp, with a return by helicopter to Kathmandu. Overall, I was very satisfied with their service, attentiveness, and the quality of the experience they provided. I highly recommend Radiant Trek to anyone looking for a professional and dedicated team to guide them to Everest Base Camp.Verified Amazing experience with a great team I recently completed the Manaslu Circuit trek with Radiant Treks and Tours, and it was absolutely unforgettable! The entire journey was flawlessly organized, with all logistics handled smoothly by their team.Our guide, Gokarna, was exceptional. His knowledge of the region, attention to our needs, and cheerful personality made the trek both enjoyable and enriching. He ensured we were safe, comfortable, and acclimatized throughout.The trek itself was stunning—majestic mountains, charming villages, ever-changing landscapes and as a highlight the crossing of the Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.If you’re considering the Manaslu Circuit, I highly recommend Gorkana and his company Radiant Treks and Tours. A truly unforgettable adventure!Verified Manaslu Circuit Trek I recently completed the Manaslu Circuit Trek, and having Gokarna as our guide made the experience truly unforgettable. From the first day to the last, Gokarna's professionalism, expertise, and warm personality stood out, making the entire journey seamless and enjoyable.Gokarna’s deep knowledge of the Manaslu region was remarkable. He shared fascinating insights about the local culture, history, and environment, which added so much depth to the trek. Gokarna was always taking care for the group. He was attentive to our well-being, from checking on our health at higher altitudes to making sure we were well-prepared for each day’s trek. His encouragement and positivity were invaluable, especially during the more demanding sections of the trail.The Manaslu Circuit is a breathtaking adventure. Highly recommended!Verified Unforgettable experience! Great experience, amazing organisation The tour was incredible… challenging physically speaking but totally worth it ! Organisation was great and very easy . The tour guide were very knowledgeable and professional and very easy to speak with. Highly recommend them!Verified Manaslu Circuit Trek Trekking the Manaslu Circuit with Gorkarna as our guide was an unforgettable experience. He’s super knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. Highly recommend Gorkarna to anyone wanting to trek in Nepal!Verified Manaslu Circuit Trek Gorkana was the lead guide on our amazing Manaslu circuit trek. He handled the trek really well and the whole experience was fantastic. Gorkana is a great guide and would highly recommend him to anyone wanting to experience the mountains of Nepal 🇳🇵Load moreVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
