Gosaikunda Lake Trek
A sacred alpine lake in the clouds
Duration
7 Days
Max Altitude
4,610 m / 15,124 ft (Laurebina Pass)
Best Season
March–May, September–November & August (Janai Purnima)
Group Size
2–12 (private trips available)
Overview
Gosaikunda is one of the holiest lakes in Hindu mythology, believed to have been created by Lord Shiva, and thousands of pilgrims visit during the Janai Purnima festival each August. As a trek, the route climbs steeply from Dhunche through dense forest and rhododendron groves to the alpine lake district, then crosses the wind-swept Laurebina Pass (4,610 m) — making it a genuinely high-altitude experience in a shorter time frame than most Himalayan treks. It can also be combined with the Langtang Valley or Helambu treks for a longer circuit.
Trip Highlights
- Gosaikunda, a sacred high-altitude lake at 4,380 m
- Crossing Laurebina Pass (4,610 m)
- Rhododendron and oak forest en route
- Can be combined with Langtang or Helambu for a longer trek
- Rich Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage significance
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Drive Kathmandu to Dhunche
6–7 hour drive to Dhunche (1,960 m), entry point to Langtang National Park.
Day 2
Trek to Sing Gompa
Climb through forest to Sing Gompa (3,330 m), home to a cheese factory and monastery.
Day 3
Trek to Gosaikunda
Ascend past alpine lakes to Gosaikunda (4,380 m).
Day 4
Cross Laurebina Pass to Ghopte
Cross the high Laurebina Pass (4,610 m) and descend to Ghopte.
Day 5
Trek to Kutumsang
Descend through forest and ridge trail to Kutumsang.
Day 6
Trek to Chisapani
Continue on the Helambu ridge trail to Chisapani, with Kathmandu Valley views.
Day 7
Trek to Sundarijal, drive to Kathmandu
Final descent to Sundarijal and drive back into Kathmandu.
Cost Includes
- Kathmandu–Dhunche ground transport
- Licensed trekking guide
- Porter service
- Teahouse accommodation
- All permits
Cost Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear
- Tips
Permits Required
- Langtang National Park Entry Permit
- TIMS Card
Gosaikunda Lake Trek — FAQs
Very much so — many of our guests combine the trek with Hindu pilgrimage rituals at the lake, especially during the Janai Purnima full moon festival in August.
