The three main Gosainkunda lakes high in the Langtang National Park are believed to have been created by Lord Shiva when he thrust his Trishula (trident) into a mountain to extract water to cool his stinging throat after he swallowed poison. There is a large rock in the center of the lake which is said to be the remains of a Shiva shrine. People often claim that they see Shiva lying in the water. Devotees gather here in hordes on the full moon night of August to take a holy anointment in the lake.
Hinduism, Buddhism and Shamanism are the three principal religions of Nepal. All three religions participate in various mystical ways in the annual Gosainkunda Festival. We will be "participant-observers" of all three of these traditions. The degree of your participation in Buddhist meditation, Ganja puja with Hindu Sadhus or Shamanistic mind-journeys is entirely voluntary. This trek combines the challenges and scenic rewards of high altitude Himalayan trekking with the cultural colour and spectacle of one of the great regional festivals of Nepal.
Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital city of the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal. You will be met on airport and transferred to your hotel. After the arrival, the group will be formally introduced to Guide for the activities over the next few days. One should pay attention in particular to the safety aspects of the briefing. Any questions or doubts should be asked and clarified at this time. We check your insurance details and other requirement for your trekking.
After breakfast, drive to Sundarijal from Kathmandu. During the 1 hour drive, we reach an altitude of 1400 meters which is the location of Sundarijal and also the starting point of the trek. Then we start the trek from Sundarijal to reach Chisopani for the overnight. We flex our muscles for 4 hours during the trek to Chisopani.
After breakfast, we trek from Chisopani crossing the pasture and field and arrive at another village Gul Bhanjyang. Then take the short ascending trail that leads to pass from where we descend to reach Kutumsang for overnight. During the 7 hours trek, we gain a height of 150 meters.
After breakfast, we take the gradually uphill trail that runs through fir and rhododendron forests to reach Yurin danda then finally arrive at Tharepati for overnight. During 6 hours trek, we gain an altitude of 1200 meters.
After breakfast, we trek on the undulating trail passing through pine, bamboo, and rhododendron forest and also crossing another place Ghopte to arrive at Phedi for the overnight. During the 5-6 hours trek, we gain an altitude of 250 meters witnessing the diverse species of birds.
After breakfast, we trek on the gradually uphill trail till we reach Suryakund which is at the height of around 4600 meters then descend for 1 hour to reach Gosainkund; bluish glaciated lake encircled by towering peaks and believed to be created by Lord Shiva piercing the trident.
Rest at Gosaikunda. The large lake Gosaikunda is at an elevation of 4361m. There are several small stone shelters for pilgrimage on the north-western side of the lake. Hundreds of people come here to worship and bath in the lake during the full moon festival each August. You will witness some black and white stones in the lake with an individual story about Lord Shiva and his creation.
It is interesting to see shamanism culture program with some hindu and buddhist culture in same time. visit Gosaikunda lake 4380m. or SHAILUNG HILL 3245 m. high from sea level. This year.beside that, landscape and mountain scenery are always there to show their beauty.
After breakfast, we descend from the Gosainkund till we reach Chandanbari for the overnight. During the 4-5 hours trek, we will be rewarded with excellent natural scenery. And we also explore the cheese factory and monastery during today’s trek.
Trek from Chandanbari to Dhunche and it takes about four and half hours. You trek along gradual descent path. On the way you walk through several forests and villages.
After breakfast, we leave Chandanbari on the downhill trail through pine, silver, oak, rhododendron forest taking 3 hours then drive from Dhunche to Kathmandu.
All too soon it’s time to bid Nepal farewell and one realizes that we can never be intimate, only acquainted with this amazing adventure Himalaya.
Recommended equipment list: Trekkers need to provide their own personal clothing and equipment. Some items of equipment are available for hire from us as like Down Jacket
Well broken-in walking shoes - these must be suitable for snow, thick socks, light socks, camp shoes.
Down or fiber filled waterproof jacket and trousers, sweater or fleece jacket, underwear, warm and cotton trousers or jeans, shirts and T-shirts, shorts, long underwear, wool hat, sun hat, gloves, bathing suit, track suit.
Sleeping bag (5 seasons), lock, day pack, water bottle, sun cream, sunglasses, flashlight with spare bulbs and batteries, lip salve, gaiters.
Insect repellent, toilet articles, diary, toilet roll, laundry soap, wet ones, pocket knife, towel, sewing kit, plasters, binoculars, camera, film, cards and personal medical kit.
Itinerary and Dates: Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary, but as this is adventure travel in a remote mountain region, we cannot guarantee it. Weather conditions and the health of trekkers can all contribute to changes. Your guide, and their Sherpa assistants, will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if necessary. Our aim is to return you safely to Kathmandu in time for your departure flight booking.
Experience Required: This Trek is suitable for keen walkers who are able to walk for 6 – 7 hours each day, with a light rucksack. Some of the days are quite long, and walking feels more strenuous at altitude. Generally, the trail is a good quality, but occasionally it will be uneven and rocky.
Food & Accommodation: You will be accommodated in a teahouse each night, unless the itinerary stipulates tent camping is necessary on some nights. Teahouses are simple, locally-run guesthouses with twin-share or single rooms. Toilets and showers are of varying standards. Typical food available for lunch and dinner is Nepali rice & lentils, pasta, potato dishes, soups or pizzas. Delicious pancakes, porridge, toast and eggs are the main breakfast fare, while tea, coffee and hot chocolate are always available. You will probably be pleasantly surprised by the variety of food at the lodges.
What about our luggage: One porter will be shared between two trekking clients. Porters will carry a maximum of 12kgs per client. If you wish to, you may keep excess clothing and items in a storage room at your Kathmandu hotel.
What will the temperature be like: The weather obviously varies considerably by season and may also change drastically within a single day, particularly at high altitude. If your itinerary takes you above 3,000m need to be prepared for conditions that may range from -10 to 25 degrees on any day. Some useful weather data is available here: https://bit.ly/3vi7rHX You will also need good protections from sun and wind exposure. Contact us for a suggested trek packing list to suit your itinerary.
How much money should we bring: You will need to carry Nepali Rupee to pay for things not covered by your itinerary package. This may include bottled water; evening hot showers; additional food treats; additional hot drinks; equipment replacement or repairs; battery charging and gifts and tips. Shopping can also be done on your last day in Thamel. Talk with us in our office before departing on your trek and we can provide more advice and currency exchange.
What about Acute Mountaineering Sickness (AMS): AMS is essentially impossible to predict. Some people are affected, and other not. Only a very small percentage of people suffer serious effects. Effects may become apparent at any altitude, not just at the extremes of your itinerary.
Signs of AMS includes:
Prevention of AMS:
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