Langtang Helambu Trek - 17 Days
This Langtang Helambu trek combines three major areas north of Kathmandu along the border of Tibet: Langtang, Gosainkunda and Helambu.
Trip Highlights
- Explore the serene Langtang valley.
- Hiking up to Kyanjin Ri at 4,350 m.
- Visiting the sacred lakes of Gosainkunda.
- Crossing over Laurebinayak Pass at 4,610 m.
- Explore Helambu Valley.
Trip Overview
This classical trek combines three major areas north of Kathmandu along the border of Tibet: Langtang, Gosainkunda, and Helambu. Langtang is a narrow valley that lies just south of the Tibetan border. It is sandwiched between the main Himalayan range to the north and a slightly lower range of snowy peaks to the south. This trek offers an opportunity to explore villages, climb small peaks, and visit glaciers at a comfortably low elevation. You can trek to Langtang by returning to Kathmandu via the holy lakes of Gosainkunda at 4,380 m.
Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit the lakes during the full moon festival in August. The lake is also sacred to Buddhists. Gosaikunda is actually the largest of the three main lakes. The other two are Saraswati Kunda and Bhairab Kunda. Hindu legend has it that the lakes were formed when the God Shiva plunged his trident (Trisul) into the ground in order to obtain water. The Trisuli River has its source in the lakes; thus the name.
Helambu valley is very famous for its natural beauty and wonderful climate with superb views of magnificent snow-covered mountains. The area covers typical highland Sherpa villages along with beautiful rhododendron forests. This region extends from the north to Taramarang to the Gosaikunda Lake and the lower Jugal Himal from the north. The valley is approached from Trishuli River valley, north of Kathmandu.
Short Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m). Overnight at a Hotel.
Drive to Syabru Besi (1,503 m) on a Private Tourist Vehicle– 8 to 9 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Lama Hotel (2,500 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Langtang village (3,430 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (3,830 m) – 4 to 5 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Kyanjin Gompa Exploration Day. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek Back to Lama Hotel (2,500 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Thulo Syabru (2,150 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Sing Gompa (3,330 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Gosainkunda (4,380 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Cross the Laurebinayak Pass (4,610 m) and Trek to Ghopte (3,530 m) – 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Melamchi Gaon via Tharepati Pass (2,530 m) – 6 to 7 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Tarkeghyang (2,600 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Shermathang (2,590 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Trek to Melamchi Pul Bazaar (870 m) – 5 to 6 hours. Overnight at a Guesthouse.
Drive from Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu on a Private Tourist Vehicle – 4 to 5 hours. Overnight at a Hotel.
Transfer to the International Airport for Your Final Departure.
Note
Our standard itinerary might differ slightly due to unpredictable happenings and events out of our control. Factors such as unfavorable weather, natural calamities, newly implemented government rules, political affairs, trekkers’ health conditions, etc., are possible. Evaluating the situation’s possible solutions allow the trekking to resume as much as possible based on the best alternatives. In these times, we look for your cooperation and flexibility.
It is advised you arrive a day before the trip starts, so you can rest and it also gives you time to buy clothing equipment and gear required for the trek. Also, it is best if you book your international flights with spare days in Nepal before and after your trek in case of any flight delays or cancellations. Moreover, you have options to customize this trip where you can add on a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, other adventure sports or day trips around the country before or after the trek.
Departures & Availability
Our groups are small with maximum 14 people. We create groups of independent travelers, friends and families which maintains close interpersonal connection, engage more and get into depth of the journey. Choose a date from the calendar to reserve your spot.
We do not have fixed departure date for this trip. This trip can only be organized upon your request. There is an option of private and tailor-made journey best suited for you, your family and friends. We have price discounts according to the group size, the bigger your group, the bigger your group discounts. We allow complete flexibility on your departure date, please choose your preferable date.
Price Includes
- All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle
Standard twin-sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 2 nights including breakfast
Guesthouse accommodation during the trek in mostly twin-share and occasionally dormitory-style rooms for 14 nights only
- All your standard meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) including seasonal fruits
- Experienced, first-aid trained, government licensed, English speaking, and locally recruited Ace the Himalaya's trekking guide (2 guides for group size more than 7 people)
- Langtang National Park permits and TIMS permit for trekking
- Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients)
Private tourist vehicle transfer from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi and from Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu
- Purified drinking water during the trek using Water Filter or water purification tablets.
- Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
- 1 Ace the Himalaya’s duffel/kit bag, trekking map, sun hat, Buff (Neck Gaiter) and trip completion certificate
- A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal
- All administrative expenses and government taxes
Price Excludes
- Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
- International flight fare and airport departure tax
- Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
- Travel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
- Tips to trekking staff and driver
- Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
- Personal Trekking gear and equipment
- Any expenses other than the Price Include section
Detailed Itinerary
Expand AllDay 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
One of our officials will greet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, upon your arrival. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting at the office with our trekking guide in the afternoon.
Note: If you happen to arrive after 4 pm you would be briefed about the trip by our guide, this will be the pre-trip meeting for you, so please make sure that you ask all the questions. But if you arrive earlier than 4 pm, your pre-trip meeting would be on that very day at our office. During the meeting, we will introduce your trek leader/guide.
For the meeting, please make sure you bring the passport, three copies of passport-size photos and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy. During this meeting, please clear the due balance, if any, and sign the legally binding trip form as well as the non-liability disclaimer.
Day 02: Drive to Syabru Besi on a Private Tourist Vehicle
Early in the morning, we drive from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi which takes about eight hours on a private tourist vehicle. Driving through scenic foothills and ridgeline vistas to Syabru Besi passing Dhunche, we’ll get a glimpse of Ganesh Himal after driving along the mighty Trishuli River. Terraced green hills and lush forests make the drive very pleasurable. Parts of the road though may be bumpy and under construction.
Day 03: Trek to Lama Hotel
The first part of the trail crosses through the Bhote Koshi River and follows the Langtang Khola. This trail gradually ascends up to Bamboo (1,970 m) passing rugged paths. Afterward, our trek climbs gently to Rimche (2,400 m). We can have lunch at this place and at the end of our trail is the Lama Hotel. En route we could see red pandas, monkeys and bears if we are lucky.
Day 04: Trek to Langtang village
The trek route follows Gumanechok at Ghoda Tabela which literally means the Horse Stable. After this the trail climbs gradually to the beautiful valley with yaks about. Langtang is a typical village and one of the oldest along this trekking route. The views of the mountains are spectacular and become more imposing as we trek closer.
Day 05: Trek to Kyanjin Gompa
It is shorter walk today, but adequate for acclimatizing. There are some interesting things to explore, especially the famous cheese factory – don’t forget to try some locally produced cheese as fresh as you could get. This beautiful valley is on the lap of the Langtang Lirung. This is the spot where we can explore the valley and climb several small peaks (hillocks).
Day 06: Kyanjin Gompa Exploration Day
Today is a day to rest as we explore the area. You can visit the monastery and the cheese factory, walk up the moraine to see the spectacular ice faces and tumbling glaciers of Langtang Lirung, or ascend Kyangjin Ri (4,773 m) which is the highest point of this trek, directly behind the village, for a breath-taking panorama of the Langtang peaks.
Day 07: Trek Back to Lama Hotel
Day 08: Trek to Thulo Syabru
The beginning of the trail gently descends and then goes steeply up to Thulo Syabru. En route we could see red pandas, monkeys and various species of birds. Thulo Syabru is a wonderful village from where we can enjoy the amazing land feature and the magnificent nature with splendid views of Ganesh Himal (7,110 m) and Langtang Himal (7,234 m).
Day 09: Trek to Sing Gompa
The trails from Thulo Syabru to Foprang Danda (3,200 m ) follows a steep ascent path passing through Dursagang (2,660 m) along with the views of Langtang Himal and Ganesh Himal. Now the path gently ascends for a while and then it follows a flat level to Sing Gompa. There is a well managed local cheese factory and a Buddhist Monastery. Sing Gompa provides panoramic views, exhilarating nature and a yak cheese factory. The cheese manufactured here is considered the best in Nepal.
Day 10: Trek to Gosaikunda
The first part of the trail emerges and we steadily climb up to Laurebinayak. With a steep ascent all the way to Gosaikunda, we follow a rugged trail with dramatic views of the Manaslu range, Ganesh Himal range, Tibetan peaks and Langtang Lirung.
On a clear day, even the Annapurna range can be seen rising up behind. You pass a few huts in the high pasture of Laurebinayak, cross a small ridge and have your first views of the holy lake of Gosainkunda.
There are about a dozen lakes in the Gosainkunda Basin – the three most important ones are Saraswatikunda, Bhairabkunda and Gosainkunda. According to legend, Gosainkunda was created by Lord Shiva when he pierced a glacier with his trident to obtain water to quench his thirst after swallowing poison that threatened to destroy the world.
Day 11: Cross the Laurebinayak Pass and Trek to Ghopte
The trail leaves Gosaikunda and climbs through rugged country, past four small lakes to the Laurebinayak Pass (4,610 m), the highest point of this trek. Keep looking back at the spectacular views of Manaslu and the mountains of the Ganesh Himal, as well as the now familiar Langtang Lirung. We then descend steeply to camp near Gopte.
Day 12: Trek to Melamchi Gaon via Tharepati Pass
The first part of the trail slightly descends and then begins to ascend through the rhododendron forests until Thearepati, after which we climb down to lower altitude. Before climbing to Tharepati, you can see settlements of cattle herders (mainly huts and mud houses) at 3,579 m as we cross a stream after coming through rhododendron, oak and juniper forests. From Tharepati the trail gradually descends through pine and rhododendron forests with good views of the Helambu valley and across to Jugal Himal and Numbur in the Solukhumbu. Melamchi Gaon is surrounded by beautiful forests, which is mainly inhabited by Sherpa people with their distinctive culture. There are also some Buddhist monasteries along the way.
Day 13: Trek to Tarkeghyang
The early part of the trek descends until we cross the Melamchi stream. We trek gently up to Tarkeghyang passing through Sherpa settlements. Tarkeghyang is a beautiful Sherpa village with one of the oldest and biggest monasteries.
Day 14: Trek to Shermathang
Today the trail is quite easy through flat land with beautiful forests on the way. We trek on crossing some small streams on the way. Situated in a beautiful village on the half way to Shermathang, another picturesque Sherpa village where we can visit many ancient monasteries. Jugal Himal range can also be seen from the north face of Shermathang village.
Day 15: Trek to Melamchi Pul Bazaar
The trail gradually descends all the way to Melamchi Pul Bazaar through meadows and cultivated fields. Along the way, we come across several old villages with their own particular traditions. Walking today is quite pleasant with mountain views and the possibility of interacting with the friendly locals.
Day 16: Drive from Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu on a Private Tourist Vehicle
After breakfast, we travel along a bumpy gravel path up to Lamidanda and then follow the metalled road up to Kathmandu.
Day 17: Transfer to the International Airport for Your Final Flight Departure
The trip concludes – our airport representative will drop you to Kathmandu’s Tribhuwan International Airport for your flight departure from Nepal.
Gears and Equipment
Here is a list of what you might want to pack for the hike. Please take this as a starting point. You’ll need layers of warmer clothing during the winter. We provide a 75 liter duffel bag for you to use for the trek. It will be given to you during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffle bag is yours to keep. Also, you can rent sleeping bag and down jacket with us at the additional fee of USD 35 for each once you are in Kathmandu.
General
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (We have rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
- Puffy down jacket (We have rental jackets available for an additional USD 35)
- Daypack (35-45 liters recommended) with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
Upper Body
- Sun hat or cap (We'll provide you with a free Ace the Himalaya baseball cap.)
- Knitted hat/Beanie
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
Torso
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Technical fabric short (2) and long sleeve (2) shirts
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Fleece jacket or pullover
Lower Body
- Technical fabric base layer (light for warmer months, heavy for colder months)
- Hiking pants (2)
- Comfortable pants for inside the teahouses
- Waterproof, windproof shell
- Hiking shorts
Hands
- Wool or technical fabric liner gloves
- Hard-shell outer gloves (insulated for colder months)
Feet
- Wool or technical fabric warm socks
- Hiking socks
- Liner socks (optional such as silk)
- Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
- Ice Cleats /Micro Spikes (For trekking from November to March, it's recommended to include Ice Cleats/ Micro Spikes to prevent slipping on icy or wet surfaces.)
- Casual shoes
- Gaiters (lightweight for dust or heavy for snow in colder months)
Undergarments
Note: The quantity of each article of clothing can be adjusted to suit the preferences of each participant.
- Technical fabric/quick drying is best for underwear (opportunities to launder during the trip)
- Sports bras (women)
- Pajamas or sleeping clothes
First Aid Kits and Medications
- (Note: Guides carry medications and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are highly recommended.)
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- ointment
Other Essentials
- Passport
- Extra copies of passport-sized photos
- Reusable water bottle
- Toiletry kits
- Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you plan to treat water)
- Hydration bladder
- Towel
- Pillowcase
- Toilet paper (2 rolls)
- High protein snacks (such as protein bars or nuts)
- Waterproof/dry bags for carrying important documents and money
- Airline tickets (Please leave a copy at our office in Kathmandu. This can be useful if there is a change in the date of the flight.)
Optional
Once in Nepal, if you have the time, you can purchase supplies and gear for hiking. Thamel, Kathmandu’s tourist hub, is home to many shops where you can get a variety of reasonably priced trekking equipment.
- Power bank or extra batteries
- Cameras and mobile phone
- Cards/book
- Binoculars
- Trekking poles
- Whistle
- Thermos for hot water
Important Information
- We give you a free duffel bag and baseball cap during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be used to pack your trekking supplies.
- For every two participants, we assign one porter. The duffel bag, which should weigh around 10 kg/22 lbs, will be carried by the porter throughout the walk.
- To carry your daily necessities like cash, crucial papers, a water bottle or bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, clothing, etc., you must have your own daypack (with a waterproof cover).
- You can store your luggage (non-trekking items) at the hotel in Kathmandu.
- Down jacket with a hood is a must for altitudes above 4,000 m to keep warm. You can rent a down jacket for USD 35. Please note that in case of loss or damage, you need to reimburse the cost of USD 200 per item.
- You can rent a 4-season sleeping bag for USD 35. Please note that in case of loss or damage, you need to reimburse the cost of USD 200 per item.
Note: Some clothing, especially form-fitting, figure-hugging items made of elastic material (like yoga pants), may offend locals. Therefore, if you choose to wear these clothes for comfort, please make sure to wear something over them.
Trip Video
FAQs for Langtang Helambu Trek
General
Why trek with Ace the Himalaya?
Ace has a reputation for successfully leading treks with knowledgeable leaders and staff taking care of all your travel needs. We are a certified sustainable travel company that also endorses the idea of giving back to the community by participating in various philanthropic activities. Here are 17 reasons why you should choose Ace the Himalaya for your next adventure!
Is Nepal open to travelers following the Covid-19 pandemic?
Indeed, Nepal is entirely open. Travelers are welcome in Nepal without any restrictions. Arriving travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at the Kathmandu airport as well.
What are the conditions to travel to Nepal post Covid-19?
Traveling to Nepal is now hassle-free. You don’t need a vaccination certificate or negative PCR test, but check with your airlines and transit countries for any specific requirements.
We suggest you look at the Nepal immigration site https://www.immigration.gov.np for the most up-to-date information.
What additional documents do I need?
- Two passport-sized photos (2×2 inch) to give to our office staff
- A copy of your international flight ticket to give to our office staff
- A copy of travel insurance to give to our office staff
What should I know about booking my flights to/from Nepal? Do I need to plan extra days in case of delays?
The best course of action is to add a day or two before and after your intended trek days in case of flight delays or cancellations. It also gives you time to buy clothing equipment and gear required before your trip.
Please be aware that Ace the Himalaya is not responsible for any inconveniences or missed international flights resulting from unforeseen events like airport changes, flight delays or cancellations, etc.
Is hiring a guide necessary even if I have trekking experience?
A guide is there to assist you in going forward and making alternative plans and arrangements when unanticipated occurrences happen or when things get difficult. Our hiking leaders are qualified experts. When talking about their trip, our guests frequently remark on how much fun they had and how crucial their guide was to making it successful.
Can the guide speak English?
Our guides are fluent in English. All the guides that we assign speak and understand English. They’ll share with you the fascinating stories, traditions, and folklore of the mountains. The guides will also help you communicate with the locals since many shopkeepers and hosts of teahouses don’t speak English.
Weather and Temperature
What is the best season for this trek?
Our trekking season extends from mid-September to May. From early September the monsoonal rains decrease. The weather is usually stable from September to December, with mild to warm days and cold nights. February, March, April, May, June, October, November, and December are the best time to do this trek.
What is the weather & temperature like in Langtang and Helambu region?
One of the most unpredictable elements of the mountain is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns, and volatility of the conditions in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation. Here are some weather basics to help ensure that you come to the Himalayas as well-equipped and prepared to face anything.
Generally speaking, the nights are much cooler than the daytime hours. Many first-time trekkers are surprised to learn about the incredible range that may occur in a given day. During the day, the thermometer could reach temps as high as 25 degrees C (77 Degrees F), only to dip down as low as -20 degrees C (-4 Degrees F) in less than 24 hours. While there’s no way to know exactly what each day in the mountains will bring, the weather and temperature ranges tend to be somewhat predictable based on the month and season.
Spring – March / April / May / June
Spring happens to be one of the best times of the year to visit the Langtang region, although because of this, it can become somewhat crowded. The beautiful clear blue sky can be seen and the many different species of flower are visible.
During springtime, the average temperature is 20 degrees C (68 Degrees F), with a maximum of 25 degrees C (77 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C (5 Degrees F), in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.
Monsoon – July / August Through Mid-September
This season is not really recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes, below 3500 meters. In areas above 4000 meters, it rains sometimes and although it is also sometimes dry, very few people travel during this season. There are positive sides of trekking during the monsoon months as the excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds.
During Monsoon, the average temperature is 22 degrees C (71.6 Degrees F), with a maximum of 30 degrees C (86 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -5 degrees C (23 Degrees F), in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.
Autumn – End of September / October / November
Similar to springtime, autumn in the Langtang region is also a crowded season, but it’s one of the best times to trek. The beauty of flowers, and the clear blue sky can be seen, affording incredible views from just about every angle.
The average temperature during the fall is 17 degrees C (62.6 Degrees F), with a maximum temp of 20 degrees C (68 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C (5 Degrees F), in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude.
Winter- December/ January/ February
Winter start from mid December till mid February. People still like to trek in this month due to fewer crowds. View is still good but foggy so having extra days is highly recommended during this period.
The average temperature during the winter is 10 degrees C (50 Degrees F), with a maximum temp of 17 degrees C (62.6 Degrees F), during sunny days and a minimum of -20 degrees C (-4 Degrees F), in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude.
The above temperature is based on the outside of the guesthouse temperature. No need to worry about the cold temperature as we provide the sleeping bag plus the extra blanket to ensure our clients are warm enough during their time of need.
What is the temperature rating of the sleeping bag that you lend to trekkers?
The temperature rating of the sleeping bags that we rent to trekkers is about -10°C (14°F). Also, our guides can obtain extra blankets if needed at the teahouses.
Arrival and Visas
Is it possible to obtain a visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport?
Yes, you can obtain a Nepal visa upon your arrival at the airport. There are kiosks in the arrival hall that you use to complete the necessary forms. The cost is USD 30 for a 15-day tourist visa, including numerous entries, or USD 50 and USD 125 for a 30-day or 90-day tourist visa including numerous entries respectively. You should carry cash (USD) with you to pay your visa fees quickly and easily, as digital payments are frequently unavailable.
To save time, we recommend filling out the online visa application form in advance. Applying online 2 weeks before your arrival will expedite the process at the airport. For detailed guidelines, please refer to our blog titled Guidelines for Online Tourist Visa Form in Nepal.
Who will come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?
Our staff will be waiting for you outside the airport terminal with our signboard (Ace the Himalaya). You will be accompanied to a hotel in a private tourist vehicle.
Payments and Extra Costs
How much additional money do I need per day?
Typically, USD 15 to 20 per person per day will be sufficient. This is to purchase water, tea/espresso, snacks, and hot showers in the mountains and for lunch or dinner in Kathmandu. Additionally, if you want to buy souvenirs or native Nepali goods, you can bring extra cash with you.
Is it possible to use credit cards in the places I visit during the trek?
Nepalese Rupees cash is preferred to charge cards while trekking in the mountain region. Exchanging your cash into Nepali Rupees in Kathmandu before the beginning of the trek is ideal. This can be accomplished at the airport, at banks, or at your hotel. Please note the hotels will exchange up to about USD 100 for each transaction only.
Is it possible to reserve a trip now and pay a deposit later, or do I have to pay a deposit at booking/reservation?
When you book, you must pay a 30% deposit to secure your itinerary. The remaining balance can be paid upon your arrival at Kathmandu or before arrival. US Dollars cash and credit cards (Visa, Master, and American Express) are accepted once in Nepal. Please note a 4% transaction fee will be added for all credit card transactions.
How do I pay the remainder of my balance upon arrival in Kathmandu? US Dollars cash or credit card?
You can make payments via US Dollars cash or credit card (Visa, Master, and American Express). A 4% transaction fee is added if paying with a credit card. Thus, we encourage you to pay with USD cash if you are planning to pay upon your arrival in Kathmandu.
We prefer you pay with larger bills (USD 50 or 100). Please note that the cash should not be older than 2009 and in good condition, as banks do not accept worn, torn, or crumpled bills.
How are the ATM and money exchange facilities in Kathmandu?
There are ATM and money exchange facilities almost every few meters in Thamel, where you will be staying in Kathmandu. So, you can easily use your cards to cash out limited sum of money to which a minimum charge is deducted by the ATM facility itself. You can easily exchange your foreign currencies in currency exchange centers for an exact rate.
Who Can Trek?
Do I need prior trekking experience?
Previous trekking experience is not required if you are physically healthy and have enough enthusiasm for the trek.
Are there any age requirements for mountain trekking?
Our treks have no age restrictions if members are healthy and willing. We have had families with kids as young as 5 years do the treks along this region, and our oldest adventurers have been in their late 70s.
Is trekking to mountain regions safe for solo female travelers?
It is safe for a female to trek alone in Nepal. Nepal is usually regarded as a safe nation for female visitors traveling alone. It is entirely safe for a solo woman to trek with Ace the Himalaya on any of our treks.
Physical Fitness
How challenging is the trek?
This trek is suitable for average people who are moderately fit. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, and hiking are recommended before you embark on your journey. Persons suffering from a pre-existing medical condition or disease must seek medical advice before considering the trek.
How quickly do you walk on the trail?
The average walking speed for a reasonably fit person is 4 kilometers per hour. At higher elevations, it is highly recommended that you walk slowly to help with acclimatization.
What kind of physical training is necessary for trek preparation?
For trekking, you must prepare your body to walk over uneven, hilly landscapes while carrying a backpack. Walking at an incline, jogging, cycling, and going for long-distance hikes are all good ways to exercise. You should work out for at least one hour four to five times a week for at least two months before trekking.
What are the physical standards that I need for the trek?
Participants in good physical condition should be able to complete this trek. If you are not physically active, we advise starting an exercise regimen two months before the trek that includes at least an hour of walking at an incline, running, or biking four to five times a week.
Incorporating hiking into your workouts is ideal. It is advised to speak with a doctor before making travel arrangements if you have any health conditions that could affect your ability to complete the trek.
Trek Preparation and Packing
What are the procedures after I make my deposit?
After making the deposit, one of our staff will email you for further information. We will require a copy of your passport photo page and your arrival/departure flight details. We will also provide you with additional trip information.
What sort of insurance do I need? How can I obtain a policy?
Travel insurance is mandatory for our hiking itineraries. We require your policy have medical evacuation coverage for the maximum elevation of your itinerary. Insurance may also cover additional costs in the event of a flight delay or cancellation caused by bad weather, medical costs, theft, loss, and damage to your items while traveling.
Travel insurance can be obtained online by one of several travel insurance companies. Please note that insurance obtained from an airline at the time of booking your flight may not cover medical evacuation coverage.
What are the necessary items that I should pack for my trip?
You can find the necessary items to pack for the trek in the Equipment Section of this trek. Gear and equipment can be bought or rented upon your arrival in Kathmandu. If you plan on buying or renting gear in Kathmandu, please allow extra time.
Do you provide sleeping bags or down jackets for rent?
Yes, we do provide sleeping bags or down jackets for rental costs of USD 35 each. Do let us know before initiating the trek and we shall provide items. You can view the photos of the gear at this link: Photos of the Gear.
What type of bag will the porters carry?
We provide you with a free duffel bag of 70 to 80-liter capacity that our porters will carry. The maximum weight that porters can safely carry is 30kg, and each porter is assigned to two people.
What type of daypack should I bring?
We suggest a 30 to 40-liter capacity daypack. Wider straps and hip belts are recommended to assist you in carrying weight evenly and reduce pain.
What about my passport, medications, and belongings?
Bring copies of your passport, insurance papers, and other essential items in your carry-on during your flight. If you need to take medications daily, keep them in your daypack with your other essential possessions. You can store other non-trekking essentials in the office of Ace the Himalaya or at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Accommodation
What kind of lodging is available in this trip?
In Kathmandu, we use three-star hotels including breakfast. We use Hotel Thamel House, Gaju Suite Hotel, Hotel Jampa, or comparable-class lodging in Kathmandu. Teahouses with clean rooms are used during the trek. For further information see Teahouses in the Langtang region trek.
Is it possible to have private rooms while trekking or while in Kathmandu?
A private room in the teahouses cannot be guaranteed during peak season. During the non-peak season, the teahouses may provide a private room without any additional cost. The accommodation during the trek will remain very basic with twin sharing rooms and occasionally dormitory rooms for our trekkers.
We can arrange for a private room while in Kathmandu for an additional cost of USD 35 per room per night.
What happens if I end up staying an extra night/s in Kathmandu due to an unforeseen delay or cancelation?
In case of unforeseen circumstances such as your health, or for any reason you decide to discontinue the trip and arrive early in Kathmandu then you will need extra accommodations in Kathmandu. In such cases, we will arrange your accommodations, but you will need to pay a supplemental charge.
Is it necessary to bring toilet paper for the trek?
You can buy toilet paper in the guesthouses during the trek, but it can be expensive, so we suggest you bring some with you. You also need to bring personal items such as towels, soap, hand sanitizers, and so on.
Are there restrooms along the trail?
There are toilet facilities in the teahouses/lodges during the trek. Trekkers can also find private areas along the trail for emergencies.
What sort of food can I expect during trekking?
Multiple food choices are available in the guesthouses. Options include daal bhat (rice and lentil), bread, eggs, potatoes, noodles, soup, pasta, and pastries. We suggest eating vegetarian during the trip. You will find a great deal of garlic on the menu since it helps with acclimatization. Each meal includes one hot drink. Hot drinks include coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and hot lemon drinks. You can purchase an additional hot drink or sometimes soda at your own expense. You can also purchase candy or cookies (crisps) at your own expense
I'm a vegetarian. Is that a problem?
Most of the teahouses in the mountains offer vegetarian meals. So, being a vegetarian is not a problem. Vegetarian meals are preferable to avoid food poisoning and indigestion.
Is the water okay to drink? Do I need to bring purifying tablets or filters?
Natural spring water or tap water can be found along the trek and in guesthouses but must be treated. We use Katadyn filters or water purification tablets to purify the natural water sources to make them safe to drink. This way, it is sustainable and pocket friendly as you need not buy bottled mineral water. You must carry a water bottle that can hold both hot and cold water and a hydration pack.
If the temperature drops too low for the Katadyn filter to function properly or if any technical issues occur, it is recommended to buy boiled water from the teahouse to ensure safe drinking water as an alternative.
Can we get hot or boiled drinking water? Does it cost extra?
Yes, teahouses do provide hot boiled water for an extra charge of USD 2 to 5 per liter. The cost varies and increases at higher altitudes.
Can I shower/bathe during the trek?
In major places, we arrange guesthouses with proper running showers, especially at lower altitudes. And in the rest of the places (at higher elevations), warm water in the bucket will be provided for showering.
For all the above showers, it would cost you extra of about USD 2 to 4 per shower. The higher you go the hot shower would be expensive.
Are there any laundry services available on Langtang Valley Trek?
Some teahouses provide laundry services for an extra charge. However, it’s not guaranteed that your clothes will dry on the same day. Thus, we recommend you pack enough clothes for your trek and not rely on laundry services.
Can I charge my electronic equipment during the trek?
Yes, you can charge your equipment during the trek for an additional cost. The cost will vary but is around USD 1-5 per charge. Two pins (type C) and three pins (type D) adaptors are highly recommended. Bring these adaptors or purchase them while you are in Kathmandu.
Health and Safety
Do your guides have the trekking guide certificates from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center? Have they received first aid training for high altitudes?
We provide licensed trekking guides with fluent English. Our guides are certified by the Hotel Management and Tourism Center after receiving 45 days of training. Similarly, the guides receive high-altitude training from Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP).
What are safety measures in place? What safety equipment do your guides carry on the trek to deal with sickness/accidents?
Our guides are well trained and certified in first aid. Throughout the journey, our guides will evaluate your condition and your oxygen level using an oximeter. Our head office receives continuous updates on your condition and location through the guides. In places without a phone signal, your situation will be updated through a satellite phone during emergencies.
How do you allocate guides and porters in a group?
We allocate one guide for groups of up to 8 participants. For groups of over 8 participants, we allot an associate guide. As per the size of the group, we may add more guides or divide them into sub-groups.
We provide one porter for every two clients. Two clients’ duffel bags will be carried by one porter. The weight limit is 30kg or 15kg for each client. For an additional cost, we can arrange for one porter to carry one participant’s duffel.
Is Ace the Himalaya's staff insured?
Our company insures all our trekking staff members, including guides, cooks, Sherpa, and porters. Please browse through our legal docment page to view insurance details.
What vaccinations will I need?
While no vaccinations are strictly mandatory for travel to Nepal, it is highly advisable to take precautionary measures to protect your health. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, we recommend the following vaccinations: Routine Vaccines, Malaria, Japanese Encephalitis, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, Cholera, etc.
It is also helpful if you inform us of any medical condition that is relevant so we may convey this information in the event of an emergency. Ace the Himalaya keeps your medical condition confidential unless treatment is necessary.
What if I am very sick in the mountain?
Our guides are 24 hours available for the services during the trek. They are trained to use first aid kit and have knowledge to use Oxy meter. They are very much aware that higher the altitude the oxygen level gets lesser so to get updated on the oxygen level of our client and to know whether they are fit enough or needs extra precautions to continue.
Guides carry local sim cards both Nepal Telecom and Ncell in order to update whereabouts and situation of our every client. During the time of emergency our guides are alert and keeps updated to head office in Kathmandu that is available 24 /7 to arranging from horse to mules or helicopters in the must needed cases especially when client is seriously sick in the mountain and needed to be hospitalized.
How are acclimatization and altitude related?
Air at higher elevations has less oxygen available. To avoid altitude sickness, acclimatization days and slow climbs are recommended at higher elevations. Along the trek, you’ll be assisted by our professional guides in recognizing and preventing altitude sickness.
What kind of trekking boot would be best for the trek?
An important piece of equipment is your trekking boots. Invest in a durable and comfortable pair, preferably with water-proof lining. Boots that provide ankle support on rough ground and have stiff soles are recommended.
What is necessary for sun protection during the trek?
Even when the sun isn’t shining, sun protection is essential. UV rays are reflected by the snow and the harshness of the sun will damage your skin before you notice it at high elevations. Therefore, proper clothing and sunblock are necessary. Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, clothes, etc. are vital for sun protection.
Practical Matters
What is your cancellation policy?
Notice should be provided 20 days before the trip start date in case of cancellation. The trip can be canceled for justifiable reasons. Once the trip is canceled, a fee of 30% of the trip cost is retained for administrative costs.
However, the trip amount is entirely non-refundable if the cancellation is not made before the 20 days as per our terms and conditions. For submitting a claim to your insurance company after the cancellation, we can assist with documentation such as a receipt of monies paid. Refund will not be provided for unused accommodation in case of trip cancellation caused by personal reasons/sickness/weather.
More information about our cancellation policy can be found here in Terms and Conditions page.
Do I need to tip my guide and porter? How much would that be?
Tipping is both expected and appreciated, and it reflects your satisfaction and enjoyment of the trek. We recommend tipping based on the number of participants in your trekking group and the duration of the trek. As a general guideline, consider allocating at least 10% of your total trek cost for tipping. Detailed tipping recommendations for your guides and porters will be provided during our pre-trip briefing in Kathmandu.
Is there any communication while we are trekking?
Yes. The guides carry local cell phones, so you can use their cell phones if necessary and reimburse them. Assuming you have brought your cell phone, you can obtain a local SIM card and use it. Our guides or representatives can help you get a local SIM card after your arrival. There is the availability of Wi-Fi at most teahouses for an additional cost. We utilize satellite telephones for emergencies.
Does it cost an extra amount if I am a solo traveler?
If you are a solo traveler and book one of our published dates, there is no additional fee. If you sign up for a private trip or change the trip date from one of our published trip dates, you will be charged an additional fee.
Is there a provision for a refund policy if I don't accomplish the trek?
Trekkers occasionally fail to complete the journey for medical or personal reasons. In this situation, be aware that we do not issue any refunds for products purchased or unused trek days. We must pay our administration staffs, guides, and porters, purchase trekking permits, and all other booked accommodations in advance, so our expenses remain the same.
Who else will be joining my trekking group?
If there are any, you will be allocated to a trekking group. The details of the personal data of your group members cannot be disclosed. However, feel free to contact us if you have queries about other trekkers in the group and we shall give you a general idea of the ages, nationality, and sex of your group members. Chances are you will be trekking with others unless you have booked a private trip.
Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?
You can extend your trekking trip for an additional cost. Potential arrangements will be made if we get a request from your guide. This is applicable for private or solo trips as the itinerary can be easily adjusted. The addition of extra days is bound by time when you are in a group. Therefore, discuss with your group and guide, what changes can possibly be made.
I want to extend my holiday, any recommendations?
Yes, you can extend your holiday. Ace the Himalaya offers many options and alternatives for your holiday extension. For more information, you can visit our Day trips pages.
Transportation and Flights
Do I need to book my international flights for the travel to Nepal?
Yes, you must book your international flights. We are a local agency and do not make international flight arrangements. You can easily browse through flight tickets in airlines sites to book ones most feasible for you.
What form of transportation do you utilize?
We utilize private tourist vehicles for touring, city visits, and airport pickups. Based on the group size and road conditons, we use cars, minibusses, or vans. We use 4WD SUVs when necessary.
Traveler Reviews
These full and frank reviews are from travelers who have traveled with Ace the Himalaya previously. The reviews and experiences shown here are from reputable travel websites like TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trust Pilot, etc.
Google Reviews
What makes this trip different ?
Our CSR with Sambhav Nepal
- Ace the Himalaya believes in giving back to the communities that surround and support tourism in Nepal. Ace provides logistical support and, if needed, cash donations to the projects of Sambhav Nepal (a local NGO).
- Sambhav Nepal and Ace work together to plan volunteer programs that will bring in foreign volunteers and make use of their enthusiasm, time, and talents in a variety of projects.
Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
- Of the few Travelife Partners in Nepal, Ace the Himalaya is one. We respect the procedures for sustainable tourism. Our excursions are socially and environmentally conscious, leaving the lowest possible impact in the Himalayas.
- About 80% of Ace the Himalaya’s staff members are natives of the regions where our trips are organized. It is one of our sustainable and responsible efforts to help local communities, support small businesses, and promote regional culture and way of life.