Short Gosaikunda Trek( 3-5 Days)

The short Gosaikunda trek takes you to the Gosaikunda Lake which is situated at an altitude of 4,380 meters (14,370 feet). This entire trail is about 20-25 km and this trek starts from Dhunche.

You can even customize the itinerary as per your needs and preferences. Even though it is short, make sure to prepare well before undertaking the trek. Being near Kathmandu just 118 km in distance, this trek has seen a huge number of tourists both local and foreign. 

Below is the complete information about the Gosaikunda, Accommodation, food, best time, and itinerary including expert tips.

Worth reading: Top Short Treks in Nepal: Adventure in Just 5 Days

Where Is the Gosaikunda Lake Located?

Gosaikunda lake is a famous high-altitude lake located inside Langtang National Park. You will find this beautiful lake at an altitude of 4,380 meters (14,370 feet). Located in the Himalayas, northeast of Kathmandu, it’s one of the sacred spots for both Hindus and Buddhists. Being short in distance from Kathmandu you can find many trekkers here to soak in the natural beauty of this region.

What Is the Best Season for the Gosaikunda Trek?

The best time for the Gosaikunda trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. Being situated at a high altitude, the temperature remains cold most of the time. Also, sudden changes in winter and the monsoon create difficulties. So during the spring, the weather is most often suitable for trekking and offers a great view of nature and the beauty of the lake.

How to reach the starting point of the Gosaikunda Trek?

You can find the local bus and tourists from the Gongabu bus station that departs every day mostly in the morning at around 6-7 am. You can find the Ticket counter for bus tickets outside the bus station. The cost of the local bus is around 750 NPR to 1100 per person. You can also find the deluxe tourist bus with AC but it will be a little more expensive than the local bus. You can also hire a private vehicle to reach Dhunche.

Accommodation on the Gosaikunda Trail: Staying in Local Tea house

In this Short Gosaikunda trek, you will find the basic accommodation and food in the local tea house. Local tea houses are similar to guest houses and lodges but offer very basic facilities. 

Single tea houses can host 10-15 visitors and there are very limited tea houses. If you are trekking during the time of the Janai Purnima Festival, thousands of pilgrims travel here for spiritual, cultural, and traditional beliefs. 

You can also carry the tent and enjoy your night in the Gosaikunda Lake for an amazing and unique experience.

What to expect in the local tea house during Gosaikunda trek

• Basic bathroom
• Cozy room with twin beds
• Common dining
• The place to charge and wifi facilities
• Outdoor dining facilities with beautiful background view
• Rubbish bins

Food on the Gosaikunda Trek

Having a meal inside the tea house is the popular choice for travelers as you can find a wide range of meals such as Dal Bhat Tarkari, momo, Thukpa, chow mein, spaghetti, macaroni, breakfast, and much more.

Remember that the higher altitude you go the more the cost of the food will be. It is because the food and the logistic items are carried by the porter and the donkey. You can expect the cost of tea 100 Rs at a high-altitude tea house. So for meals, you need to arrange a budget of 5-10 $ per meal.

Highlights of the Short Gosaikunda Trek:

• Scenic Drive: Enjoy the comfortable and scenic journey from Kathmandu to Dhunche.
• Lush Forests: Trek through beautiful lush green forest with amazing trail path
• Gosaikunda Lake: Reach the sacred, stunning glacial lake at 4,380 meters.
• Mountain Views: Marvel at breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal.
• Cozy Stays: Relax in a charming guest house/tea house

Itinerary for Gosaikunda Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Dhunche

The trekking begins at Dhunche, which is the starting point of the Langtang region. Though the nearest town is Lamjung from which there is a steep 7 to 8 hours drive from Kathmandu, a local bus or jeep can also be taken. When you get here, that is what you are going to see, the rolling hills and large mountains.

It serves as an excellent starting point to explore the town and settle into a guesthouse first before doing anything else. Visit a nearby restaurant to book a meal – take the famous dal bhat – rice and lentil soup most appropriate as it feels somewhat heavy for a full day’s trek.

Day 2: Dhunche to Sing Gompa via Chandanbari

On your second day of the trek, you need to trek from Dhunche via a 4-5 hours’ trek to Sing Gompa or Chandanbari. The trail passes through the varied forests of the park and the only thing that will be heard is the sound of birds.

On ascending you are privileged to view some parts of the spectacular Langtang Lirung and the Ganesh Himal ranges. When you get to the village of Chandanbari, take some time to visit the quiet and serene Sing Gompa Monastery. there are quite a few welcoming guest houses around and those will provide you with a comfortable place to rest and also unearth the true taste of the local hospitality.

Day 3: Sing Gompa to Gosaikunda

Day three of the trek is the most exciting when you take the trek from Sing Gompa to the glacial Gosaikunda Lake which stands at 4380 meters (14300 feet). This stretch normally takes 6-7 hours and towards the higher altitudes, you see increased and jagged terrain and beautiful mountains.

Once you get to Gosaikunda, you cannot believe that there is a group of great round glacial lakes ahead of you. The largest of them is particularly unique as it is holed among both Hindus and Buddhists. It is believed that Lord Shiva cut out this lake from the rock using his trident while he was trying to quench his thirst after consuming poison.

Spend time and wander around enjoying the scenery and optionally engage in activities of the inhabitants of an area. Subsequently, retire to one of the comfortable lodges or tea houses and spend the night gazing at the stars in this religious site.

Day 4: Gosaikunda to Ghopte

After taking in a gorgeous sunrise at Gosaikunda Lake, you’ll start your trek to Ghopte. This part of the journey takes about 7 to 8 hours and involves some rugged terrain with steep ups and downs. You’ll enjoy incredible mountain views along the way, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some wildlife. When you arrive in Ghopte, you’ll find it’s a cozy village where you can relax and get ready for the final stretch of your trek.

Day 5: Ghopte to Thulo Syabru and Departure

On the last day, trek from Ghopte to Thulo Syabru in 4 to 5 hours through beautiful forests. Once you arrive, enjoy a final meal at a guesthouse. You can then either head back to Kathmandu or continue exploring the Langtang Valley, with simple transport options available for your journey home.

Packing list for Gosaikunda Trek

Clothing: Waterproof jacket, warm layers, base layers, trekking pants/shorts, hat, gloves, sun hat, trekking socks, comfortable boots.

Gear: Daypack, sleeping bag, trekking poles, water bottle, headlamp/flashlight.

Personal Items: Sunscreen, lip balm, insect repellent, personal medications, toiletries, camera, power bank.

Food and Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix.

Documents: Passport, trekking permits, insurance.

Miscellaneous: Cash, small lockable bag for valuables, wet wipe

Note: Make sure to carry one raincoat and rainproof cover even when you trek at the best time. 

Worth reading: Nepal Trekking Packing List

Safe Hiking Tips for the Short Gosaikunda Trek

If you are traveling for the first time here are some of the important tips that you need to understand before undertaking the Gosaikunda trek.

Aware of altitude sickness: 

The chances of altitude sickness remain high when you start your trek on day three. So always be aware of any difficulties and signs of Acute mountain sickness. If you find any difficulties, immediately descend downhill. Don’t ever neglect the altitude sickness symptoms because it can be life-threatening.

Take regular breaks

This short Gosaikunda trek is possible with friends and family therefore make sure to take enough breaks during the day trip. Rest when you feel like doing it. Never try to ascend quickly.

Respect nature

This lovely, peaceful trail in nature should be preserved for its stunning beauty and calm. So throw the rubbish items only in the designated place. Respect nature.

What to do if you cannot continue hiking due to lack of fitness?

If you feel that in the middle of the journey you are exhausted during Gosaikunda trek then you can also ride the horse. For this, you need to pay the extra cost.

How to Book Gosaikunda Trek?

You can book Gosaikunda Trek with Eco Nepal trekkers along with many other treks in Nepal Like the Everest base camp trek, Annapurna base camp trek, etc. For this, you can contact us through IMO, WhatsApp, or Viber, or call us at +977-9813322433. You can also check our website for detailed package information at [email protected].

You can also ask our expert if you have any inquiries about the trek. We also provide the trek at an affordable cost with a guaranteed departure. So join us and make your trusted trekking partner here in Nepal for an incredible journey.