The Langtang Ganja La pass trek is a challenging trek in the Langtang region of Nepal, which is located just north of Kathmandu. The trek takes you through the Langtang National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife and vegetation, including rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and alpine meadows. Along the way, you'll pass through small villages and have the opportunity to learn about the local culture and way of life.
One of the highlights of the Langtang Ganja La pass trek is the crossing of the Ganja La pass, which sits at an altitude of 5,122 meters (16,800 feet). This high-altitude pass can be difficult to traverse, but the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys are well worth the effort.
The Langtang Ganja La pass trek typically takes around 12 days to complete, depending on the route and the pace of the trekker. It is recommended to be in good physical shape and to have some prior trekking experience before attempting this trek. It is also important to be properly acclimatized to the high altitude before attempting the pass. As with any trek in Nepal, it is important to be properly equipped and to follow safe trekking practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 02: Kathmandu drive to Syabrubesi (1460m)
Day 03: Syabrubesi trek to Lama Hotel (2340m)
Day 04: Lama Hotel trek to Langtang Village (3330m)
Day 05: Langtang village to Kyanjing Gompa (3730m)
Day 06: Ascent Tsergo Ri (5033m), back to Kyanjing Gompa
Day 07: Kyanjing Gompa to Ngegang (4000m)
Day 08: Ngegang to Keldang (4270m) via Ganja-La Pass (5122m)
Day 09: Keldang to Dhukpa (4040m)
Day 10: Dhukpa to Tarkegyang (2740m)
Day 11: Tarkegyang to Sermanthang (2590m)
Day 12: Sermathang to Melamchi Bazar (870 m), drive to Kathmandu
Free airport shuttle
2 nights hotel Kathmandu
Sharing high altitude porter (1 porter for 2 visitors) to carry your belongings during the trek.
Well experienced, government registered, fluent English speaking and friendly guide
Foods (B-L-D) during the trek
Lodge accommodation in trekking
Tea or coffee and fresh fruits during the trekking
Langtang National Park Entrance permit and TIMS Card
Camping foods and camping arrangement during Ganja La Pass
All bar bills,
Personal travel insurance, international air ticket, Nepal vis
Personal wages in trekking
Gratitude and tips for your support crew
Making a historical journey toward Kathmandu is significant. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International airport (TIA), you are greeted by a representative from Destination Himalaya Treks & Expedition. After undergoing and completing your customs formalities (Visa, etc.), our representative picks you up from the arrival gate. You are then transferred to Hotel. Later in the evening, you will accompany us for a "Welcome Dinner" hosted in your honor followed by a soulful Nepalese cultural program winding up your memorable journey with a purpose. Overnight in a hotel.
The next day dawns with something new on the horizon awaiting us, after an ideal breakfast we drive past the northwestern hills of Kathmandu. As the vehicle briskly speeds across the paved roads, the astounding Himalayan views at the backdrop are wonderful. Local people engaged in their daily activities in their carefully carved terraced farms and fields on the outskirts of their villages are tremendous. Ideally, our journey comes to a short halt at the impressive Trishuli Bazaar for much-needed lunch and then we head towards Dhunche and then descend to Syabrubesi. Overnight in Syabrubesi. One can also choose to travel in a private jeep.
The next day a long enduring walk leads us through the Langtang Khola Valley passing through a deep forest and into the Lama Hotel. We catch a steady glimpse of the Langtang National Park nestled with diverse flora and fauna. As we move on further, we come across a place filled with vibrant rhododendrons and other vegetation and retire for camping at the significant Lama Hotel. It is engulfed amidst a tranquil and calm forest suited for adventurers having an intense affinity for the varied wilderness. Overnight in Lama Hotel.
This morning brings in an uphill task of traversing along the rhododendron forests home to numerous wildlife, such as Musk Deer, Himalayan Thar, Ghoral, and Red Pandas engaged along the indifferent sound decibels of pristine rivers and waterfalls. A splendid place providing an excellent opportunity to get a closer glimpse of the exciting Langtang Mountain range (7,200m). After being thrilled by this stupendous view, we get time to mix with the local Tamang communities and get acquainted with their traditional rituals and moods. This marks the end of our day. Overnight in Langtang village.
During this trekking, we catch a spiritual glimpse of age-old prayer stones believed to make wishes come true. The villages still follow the traditional method of survival engrossed and leading their daily life on farms and domesticating animals. Their entire life depends on and revolves around Yak herding and grazing. It is a source of livelihood for the entire local community and products are made out of Yak Cheese and Butter. Another fascinating view awaits us is that of Langtang glacier in the vicinity of Langtang Lirung. Next, we move on to a village called Kyanjing Gompa, the final frontier of our trek. We get a fair amount of ideas about typical Tamang heritage and crafty monasteries. Overnight in Kyanjing Gompa.
An exploration and acclimatization day at Kyanjing. We prepare to ascent Tsergo Ri which is at an elevation of 5033m, the highest point of the trek. Slowly ascend admiring the natural scenery around. Upon reaching the top, enjoy the superb views of Langtang ranges, Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, and other surrounding mountains. Create some memories by clicking pictures. After spending some time, descend to Kyanjing. Rest for a while. Later, explore the nearby cheese factory and monastery. Overnight in Kyanjing.
Enjoying the vegetation scenery climb through the trail. Traverse a bridge over Langtang river and reach Chhana Lake. Keep walking further and after a few hours reach Ngegang. Set a tent for an overnight stay.
One of the most challenging walks of the day. We walk slowly maintaining the pace on a steep trail towards Ganja-La-Pass. Upon reaching the summit, get stunned by the breathtaking views of Dorje Lakpa, Yala Peak, and Langtang Ranges. From there, slowly trek downhill. The trail is steep so must be careful. Arrive at Keldang and overnight in a tented camp.
Walk on the trail which consists of many ups and downs. After walking for several hours, walk on an easy trail on grassland. Reach Dhukpa and set up a tent. Overnight in a tented camp.
The trek starts walking downhill for a few hours. Then, start to climb uphill and walk along the forested trail of rhododendron, and pine and reach Tarkegyang. Explore the old monastery there and nearby places. Overnight in Tarkegyang.
Walk on a forested trail that consists of several ascends and descends. On the trail, walk enjoying the view of breathtaking Langtang ranges. Arrive at Sermathang for an overnight stay.
Walk past the forested trail of Sermathang and arrive at Kakani. Admire the picturesque beauty of the surroundings. Have lunch and continue to trek to Melamchi Bazaar. Upon reaching there, take a public vehicle ride to Kathmandu. Overnight in a hotel.
Accommodation
During the Langtang region trek, teahouses or guesthouses are the means of accommodation that are basic but comfortable. The room with an attached bathroom in the lower regions and room sharing at the peak seasons and in the higher regions. One must pay an extra charge for the use of Wi-Fi, charging electronic devices, hot water buckets, and laundry.
Meals
The 3-course full meals are served during the entire trek in the Langtang region. The meals are simple but with good energy portions for the trekkers to trek. Nepali Dal-Bhat is a good energy source for trekkers. Besides this, noodles, soups, fresh green vegetables, hot tea, etc. are served. It is always a good idea to carry some light snacks and choco bars with you.
Drinking water
Drinking water in the Langtang region is easily available. One can fill up the water at the teahouses paying an extra amount or purchase bottled water. It is convenient to carry a water bottle and water purifying kits for safety.
Communication
The internet connectivity and phone networks are stable in the lower regions whereas it is hard to find the networks in the higher Langtang region. For the use of Wi-Fi, pay an additional charge at the teahouses or purchase a local sim with a data pack. And for emergencies, there is a satellite phone facility.
Transport
The Langtang region is located just north of Kathmandu, and the best way to get there is to take a bus or private jeep from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi. The bus fare costs approx. NPR 800-1000. Whereas a private jeep fare costs slightly higher than a local bus. If one wants a comfortable ride, opt for a jeep ride.
Starting and Ending points
There are several trek routes in the Langtang region. Most of the Langtang region trek starts from Syabrubesi and ends in Syabrubesi. Some of the trek routes start from Syabrubesi and end in Melamchi Bazaar. Only for Helambu Trekking, the trek starts from Sundarijal and ends in Melamchi Bazaar.
Best Time to trek
The best time to go on a trek in the Langtang region is from September to November (Autumn season) and from March to May (Spring Season). During this time, the weather is dry and the skies are clear. The rainy season (June-July) is quite riskier as the trails are muddy and slippery. During the winter (December to February), this region gets very cold, and snow covers the higher parts of the trek. Many of the guesthouses actually close up for the winter and re-open in late February to March. However, it is possible to trek the Langtang region on the fringe of the season in late February/early March and it can be quite beautiful with snow cover.
Required Permits & its cost
A Langtang National Park permit and a TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System) are required for the Langtang region trek. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the park entrance.
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
Langtang National Park (LNP)
Travel Insurance
Langtang region is a high-altitude trek. The region is mostly remote with off-beat and rough trails. Travel Insurance is very essential for this region. Travel Insurance is very helpful and a safety net for travelers/trekkers. Travel Insurance must cover all medical emergencies, flight cancelations, emergency evacuations, loss of luggage, and altitudes over 3000 m.
Safety and our guides
We assure you 100% when it comes to safety. Our client’s safety is our main concern. Our guides are certified and well-trained with years of expertise in this field. They are technically competent and have excelled in safety performance. They always carry essential safety equipment, gear, and first-aid kits. For the safety of our trekkers, the itinerary is properly scheduled and acclimatization rest days are properly set up to adjust to the high altitude and prevent altitude sickness. If any queries concerning safety, feel free to share them with our guides. We are always there for your services.
Langtang Region Trek Difficulty
The Langtang region trek is moderately difficult. The trails are least developed, off-beat, and rough. There are several ascend and descend which makes it tougher for trekkers to trek. Besides this, high elevations, change in climate, and unavailability of all major facilities are other factors that make this trek difficult. But, with proper planning and assistance before the start of the trek, this Langtang region trek is possible. We recommend you participate in exercises, day hikes, and physical training months before starting the trek. Also, take necessary health tests before trekking to high altitudes. You can completely trust our assistance and guidelines throughout the trekking journey.
Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness
Acclimatization rest is necessary during trekking. So, try to properly utilize the acclimatization rest days and do some short hikes and explore nearby places. It helps prevent altitude sickness and adapt to the environment. Altitude sickness in the mountains is normal. It can happen to anyone. By acknowledging its symptoms and with accurate preventive guidelines, altitude sickness can be cured.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Primary: Headache, nausea, gasping, appetite & sleep loss, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting
Extreme: primary symptoms and hallucinations & unconsciousness
Preventive Guidelines
Shoes: Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals
Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks
Accessories: Sunglasses, Ski Goggles, Hats/Caps, Beanie, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Head Lamp, Pocket Knife, Personal Hygiene &Toiletries
Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag
Medicine Kit: Wash Kit, First-Aid Kit, Blister Repair Kit, Medicines for preventing Altitude sickness, Prescribed Medicines (Personal use)
Rainy season: Waterproof clothes, boots, Raincoat, Anti-leech socks
Winter Season: Woolen clothing items (light)
Extras: Heat/Leak proof water bottles, Water Purifying solution (Iodine based), Water filters, Insulated cup/flask, Map, Binoculars, Travel Documents, Sewing kit, Cash, Extra batteries, Power bank, Pen, Diary, Book, Reusable (spoon, cup, plate), Reusable bags, Large Waterproof Disposable Bags, Snacks (Choco-bars, Mints, Nuts, Granola Bars)
It is best to bring the clothes and essential equipment from your home from the provided checklist. Also, you can buy or rent equipment and clothes in Kathmandu. You can customize the checklist as a necessity.