The trek to the holy lake of Gosainkunda is one of the shortest treks that you can take in the Himalayas. This trek has a cultural and religious element attached to it as the lake is considered holy for Hindus. Many Nepalese go on a pilgrimage to the lake to bathe in the pristine rivers to cleanse their sins.
However, don’t think that this is just a religious trek. The beauty of the Gosainkunda region is also legendary. Beautiful mountain views including those of the Lantang mountain range, Lantang Ri, and Ganesh Himal can be enjoyed along the trek. This trek only has three days of trekking; however, we do reach quite an altitude at 4380m. This trek, therefore, is the best for beginners, and even if you’ve got some trekking experience, it acts as an easy trek to do when you don’t want to exert yourself.
The Hindu Puranas tell the story of how Lord Shiva created this sacred lake by piercing a glacier with his trident weapon Trishul (Trident) to drink water after he drank the Great Poison created by the churning of the Cosmic Ocean Kshirasagara. Because Shiva ingested this poison, the entire cosmos was spared from its devastating effects. In order to obtain the nectar of immortality, the Devas and the Asuras (Gods and Titans) had begun to churn the ocean. Many shamans gather to display their shamanic rituals in order to make a traditional claim here also. The majority of visitors to the lake arrive during the festival of Janai Purnima.
You can add the Lantang and Helambu trails to your itinerary if you like to extend the trip.
Come with an Accessible Adventure on a thrilling Himalayan journey to Gosaikunda Lake Trek that will do wonders for your spirit.
The best times to hike to Gosainkunda Lake are in the fall (September to November) or spring (March to May). The months of spring and autumn are respectively March and May. Hiking through the mountains and forests in the late fall or early spring is a wonderful experience due to the mild temperatures, clear skies, and abundance of vegetation. More flowers, including rhododendron, line the paths in the spring, adding to their aesthetic appeal.
This hike is possible in the winter months of December, January, and February. Considering the time of year, winter clothing is recommended in case you encounter any freezing temperatures or snowfall. In contrast, trails become too muddy for hiking during the monsoon season. However, the full moon in August is the best time to visit the Lake if you want to take the trip more as a religious-cultural tour, as this is when a festival honoring Lord Shiva takes place.
Accessible Adventures is a reputable travel company that has been organizing treks and excursions in the Annapurna area for more than a decade. We are easy to work with, adaptable, and will fulfill all of your needs. In addition, Accessible Adventures operates a hotel in Kathmandu where we can customize rooms to meet your individual needs.
Our guides have completed a range of training programs in which they practice and prepare for the trip during the tourist off-season, noting the terrain and routes in the region. This is to guarantee that our guests have the best experience possible during the busiest season.
Other benefits of booking your trip via Accessible Adventure include:
With over 30 years of personal travel experience, including peak climbing and visiting Nepal's most popular tourist spots, we are aware of the difficulties that may arise for both you, the traveler, and the guides and porters that we employ, throughout your journey. Because of our personal experiences in a variety of locations, including EBC, ABC, and others, we have been able to customize trips and make the adventure seem more comfortable and private. We offer the greatest professional services while treating each client like family.
Breathtaking mountain vistas
Many snow-capped mountains will be seen as you make your way to Gosaikunda. A panoramic view of the mountains in the Langtang region as well as parts of the Annapurna mountain range will be seen.
Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters), Langtang Lirung (7,227 meters), Changbu (6,251 meters), Kinshung (6,781 meters), Yobra (6,264 meters), Yala (5,500 meters), Dorje Lakpa (6,966 meters), Langshisa Ri (6,427 meters), Ganchenpo (6,387 meters), Naya Kanga (5,844 meters), and Paldor Peak will all be visible (5,903 meters).
Rare animals and plants
Within the boundaries of Langtang National Park is the lake of Gosaikunda. Therefore, while hiking you could see some uncommon and endangered animals and flora. The red panda, which is endangered, and the snow leopard are the region's most well-known animals. Additionally, there are musk deer, leopard, and Himalayan tahr species. You will also go by the lovely and vibrant rhododendron woodland.
There are a total of 14 different plant species spread throughout 18 different habitat types, from alpine scrub to perpetual ice, and from the upper tropical forest below 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) of elevation. Also present are oka, chir pine, maple fir, hemlock, and other species. Marijuana is also present in several areas of the park.
The locals in this area utilize marijuana for personal or equine health purposes. Locals often use marijuana to treat acidity, discomfort in the hands or feet, and stomach aches.
Villages have distinct cultures and tradition
You will pass through a number of villages on the walk to Gosaikunda, each with its own unique culture and customs. There are communities where Tamanags and Sherpas live that have Tibetan influences on their way of life. You will learn about the culture of these people who have been living in this way without access to modern conveniences for generations.
Trekkers can access Gosaikunda through a number of different routes. Okay, so this is the route that hikers often use. Typically, the walk begins at Chisapani or Dhunche. But the path with the most traffic is Dunche. From Kathmandu, you may take a bus to Dunche. Then, after a lengthy bus ride, you might wish to rest. Remember to obtain your Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card as well. You will then hike from Dunche to Cholangpaty.
You might need to travel all day to get there so you can stay at Singompa (Chandanbarri), a lovely village with a number of lodging options. So, wherever you decide to go, Gosaikunda will be your next stop. You will go to Sing Gompa after exploring the lovely Gosaikunda lake.
You will experience the pleasant rhododendron woodland on this trek as well as stunning vistas of the Manaslu range, Hiunchuli, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, and other many peaks. From Sing Gompa, you will go to Dunche, where your treks come to a close and you may celebrate your accomplishment.
As soon as your plane touches down at Kathmandu International Airport, a representative of our company will be there to meet and greet you in the airport's arrivals section. Once you are in our care, we will make sure that all of your travel needs are attended to in a timely manner. Since there are no activities scheduled for the day, we will assist you in checking into the hotel that you have chosen given that there are no planned activities for the day. You can choose to unwind in any of your rooms or go for a stroll around the neighborhood. Either way, the choice is yours.
In the wee hours of the morning, we shall set out on our journey. Our tour leader will pick you up at the hotel after breakfast, and then we'll catch a ride to Dhunche on the bus. We can also arrange a private vehicle for you, but that will cost extra. Beautiful towns and fields await us along the way. It will take us about 5-6 hours to reach Dhunche via a beautiful scenic route and alongside the enormous Trishuli river. Dhuncle is at the peak of a hill, and we must pass through several police and tourist checkpoints to get there.
Dhunche is the district capital of the Rasuwa District and a small settlement area. When we first arrive in Dhunche, we'll take a stroll through the village and then go on an expedition in the surrounding area. After a fantastic evening with the locals, we'll retire for the night to a comfortable tea house.
Today is the first day of our trek. After grabbing a heart breakfast at Dhunche we head out on trail. Walking for approximately 2 hours takes us to Deurali, located higher than Dhunche. It is a small settlement and we can break for tea here. Passing from there through beautiful forests along streams we reach Dhimsa. We can grab lunch at Dhimsa and continue. The route after Dhimsa is quite a steep uphill to reach the village of Chandanbari also called Sing Gompa.
Sing Gompa has a monastery we can explore and also has a Yak Cheese factory where we can taste Yak cheese. After our exploration of the village, we head into our lodge for a night of rest.
Today is the main day of our trek and also the more difficult. We will reach Gosainkunda today so best get ready early in the morning for breakfast. The trail is mostly ascending today and gets more rugged and wild. The temperature can be felt to be colder as we climb higher and higher.
After around a two hour hike, we reach a place called Cholangpaty. The trail opens up to give us wonderful views of Lantang Lirung, Lantang Ri, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. After grabbing tea, we walk for around two hours more to reach Laurininayak where we grab lunch. Lauribinayak is at 3900m of altitude.
A push of two more hours we reach a temple that is venerated by Hindus and Buddhists alike. From here it’s a one hour hike to Gosainkunda. Along the way many other smaller lakes called Saraswati Kunda and Bhairav Kunda can be seen. We explore the lakes the entire remaining day after seeing the sunset retire at a teahouse nearby.
Today we wake up to a beautiful sunrise in Gosainkunda. After a short visit saying goodbye to the lake, we head back on a long trail today as we walk all the way to Dhunche. After breakfast, we head down the same way we got up through Lauribinayak, Dhimsa to finally reach Dhunche. Since we'll be going down, the hike should be less strenuous and more enjoyable. Since we'll be less tense, we may also be able to spot some rare birds in the woods.
Our trip outside Kathmandu comes to an end today. When we awake from our restful night in one of Dhunche's many teahouses, we'll be ready for breakfast. After breakfast, we'll board a bus to Kathmandu, where we'll have the opportunity to take in the views of the vast Trishuli River, rolling meadows, and quaint towns along the way.
As soon as we land in Kathmandu, we'll be picked up in a private vehicle and driven to our hotel.
Today, in one of Kathmandu's many restaurants, we can toast the successful conclusion of our trip.
Visit to cultural and religious sites of Swayambhunath, called the monkey Temple, Pashupatinath, one of the largest temples in Nepal and Bouddhanath, the large stupa are in our itinerary today.
Pashupatinath Temple: One of the oldest Hindu temples, Pashupatinath Temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as the "Lord of All Beings." Lord Shiva is the embodiment of the universe's destructive aspect. The Pashupatinath complex is traversed by the revered Bagmati river. For those who pass away on the banks of the river, cremation rites are performed by the majority of Hindus in the Kathmandu Valley.
Swayambhunath Stupa: The Swayambhunath stupa is one of the most revered buddhist stupas in Nepal. It is thought to have materialized when, in ancient times, the Bodhisattva Manjushri carved a canyon at Chhobhar using his flaming sword to drain the waters of the huge lake that was Kathmandu.
Bouddhanath Stupa: Lord Buddha's four pairs of eyes are positioned in the four cardinal directions atop the 2500-year-old Buddhist stupa in the Valley, which was erected in the fifth century. This stupa keeps a constant watch over people and their actions. Buddhist pilgrims from Tibet may be seen spinning prayer wheels as they round the stupa.
You can also walk around Thamel and Asons around the vicinity of your hotel selling handicraft items and locally made trinkets and clothes. Ason, the oldest market in Kathmandu also lies a few hundred meters from your hotel. You can shop for spices, tea, brass statues, and decorative jars in this market.
It's time to say goodbye to Nepal after finishing the journey to the holy Gosainkunda Lake. You will be transported to the international airport three hours before your next scheduled international flight, which will take you to your subsequent destination. We sincerely hope that your time spent with us in the Himalayas in Nepal has provided you with memories that will last a lifetime. If you would like to visit all of the fascinating places that Nepal has to offer, you can extend the length of your stay here in the country. We sincerely hope that you will be able to look back on the time we spent together with fondness and that you will think of us when your friends and family plan a trip to Nepal to go trekking.
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Picking up and dropping off at the airport by private vehicle.
Public bus fares from Kathmandu to Syabrubensi and Syabrubensi to Kathmandu
Duffle Bag, Sleeping bag, and Down jacket for Use during the trek
Three-night twin-sharing accommodation in a deluxe 3-star category hotel (Kathmandu Suite Home or similar) in Kathmandu
Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, including private vehicle
Daily Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek
Accommodation at the best available lodge during the trek
1 highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porter (1 porter for 2 people), and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and insurance.
A permit from Langtang National Park
T-Shirt, trekking map, and trip achievement certificate
TIMS fee: Trekkers Information Management System (please bring your three passport photos).
Government taxes and office service charges
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
All drinks hot and cold
Your travel insurance
Personal expenses, including bottled drinks
Added night/night accommodation in Kathmandu and also because of early arrival, delayed departure, early return from mountain (due to any cause) than the programmed itinerary
All kinds of drinks (alcoholic, hot, or cold)
Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 30 for 15 Days USD 50 for a 30-day visa and USD 125 for 90-day visa)
Personal Trekking gear and equipment
Personal expenses such as phone calls, bar bills, laundry, battery recharge, bottle or boiled water, hot shower, extra porters, etc.
Tips for guides and porters (tip is expected but not mandatory)
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This majestic and sacred location is becoming well-known for its domestic trekking trail. People may ask what the ideal time is to hike the stunning Himalayan range's lap.
Thus, the weather map of Nepal is marked by the four different seasons Winter, Summer, Autumn, and Spring. For the hike, however, spring and fall are the best times to go. You may discover the expansive view of the mountains and legends during this season.
The local flora and animals, as well as the alpine plants, may be abundant in the month of April. You can be fascinated by pink or other colored woodlands with a fragrance of pine and mountains.
With temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius, the climate is still warm. The weather is suitable for your walk. Since it is monsoon season, there may be 400 to 500 mm of rainfall every month throughout the summer, when temperatures typically range from 22 to 33 degrees Celsius.
Summertime brings out the natural world much more clearly; the surroundings are lush and beautiful. This may be a distinctive walking adventure with a lovely view of the mountains and pastureland.
Trekking is also said to be the finest during the autumnal months. The average temperature during the window between October and November ranges from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. This season will be good for a journey with reliable weather because of the temperate temperature.
The Langtang mountain range and other minor hills and mountains are magnificently seen under the pure blue skies. Although you might get to enjoy snow in December, the paths might get slick and make walking difficult.
The greatest views of snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and snowfall are during the winter months. So use caution while you prepare your belongings and depart in search of Gosaikunda Lake.
Yes, we can all agree that trekking is a wonderful experience. However, when it comes to Gosaikunda, our experiences and challenges may vary. The issues listed below are some of them and they apply to other hiking routes as well.
Altitude Sickness
When there is not enough oxygen in the air, hypoxia is a condition that develops. To put it another way, altitude sickness is a disorder that occurs when your body does not get enough oxygen and changes how it responds.
The term "altitude sickness" is not new among hikers and mountain climbers. The oxygen level starts to decline along with the ambient level at a height of roughly 2500 meters above sea level. The primary cause of altitude sickness is rapid, maximal height gain, which makes it challenging for individuals to travel without getting enough oxygen.
On the right hand, altitude sickness might not be as dangerous. But if left unattended, this might develop into a crisis.
The symptoms might range from catching a cold to experiencing headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and appetite loss, all of which could eventually result in death. If specific considerations are made, these requirements may be overcome;
These are some of the main recommendations to ensure that you don't get altitude sickness. Be patient and don't panic. If required, you may always get medical assistance.
They launch their assaults from both trees and water sources. We could then be interested in learning what might be done to stop them.
Leech Issues
People especially go there during the Janai Purnima festival, which takes place during Nepal's rainy season, since it is a sacred spot. It may be challenging for some individuals to go on a trek during the monsoon season, even though it is unquestionably one of the most picturesque times of year in Nepal. Leeches, which may suck your blood and have potentially fatal results if you don't notice them right once, may be encountered when hiking.
They launch their assaults from both trees and water sources. We could then be interested in learning what might be done to stop them. The majority of them use their fingers to remove the leech from your foot, therefore it could be in your best interest to learn how to avoid them.
Both Hindus and Buddhists in Nepal revere Gosaikunda as a sacred site. You might not be aware of the various myths and realities associated with this lake.
The sacred lake has a maximum depth of 4380 meters, is oligotrophic, and is essentially unaltered. According to Hindu mythology, this body of water is known as Samundra Manthan, which means "ocean churning." After consuming the poison, it is stated that Lord Shiva used his "Trishul" to puncture a glacier, forming the lake where he and Goddess Parvati now reside.
Two Nepali holidays, Janai Purnima and Gangadashara, draw a lot of tourists, particularly from the Indian population. During Janai Purnima, swimming in the Gosaikunda is said to wash our sins away. Since Gangadashara, the river Ganga is said to have become stagnant.
According to myth, sins can be forgiven by taking a bath in the river, the Ganga, or any other holy lake, and by worshiping a deity. The 10 sins that were destroyed are the reason why this day is known as Dushera. Ten sins are broken down into three basic categories—physical, mental, and verbal—by virtual actions carried out on the same day.
For Buddhists, even this lake is of similar value. Most Buddhists, according to the Tamang residents of the area, go to the lake to offer prayers for the betterment and well-being of their loved ones' souls in the hereafter. On the night before Janai Purnima, a procession of Jhankris makes their way toward the lake while singing and reciting hymns.
Amar Singh Thapa, the Nepali commander of the western front during the Anglo-Nepal War, traveled to Gosaikunda where he passed away on the way, and the cave bears his name in his honor. He has a cave nearby that is dedicated to him as a token of appreciation for his contribution to our country.
Even if you are a novice or seasoned trekker, you must understand the essentials to improve your experience. Let me lead you to a brief but important instruction starting with the things to pack. So without further ado, let's get started with the list of necessary hiking equipment.
Backpack (Travel Bags)
Have a nice trekking bag that can accommodate all of your necessities for the hike. Make sure to take a sizable, comfortable backpack if you intend to transport all of your equipment. Verify the waist and shoulder straps that are adjustable. The duffel bag can hold about 80 liters and will be waterproof. However, the structured daypack, which is around 30 L, can be much more comfortable. Everything you need for the day is included in this.
Traveling Essentials
The first step in every journey is to pack the necessities. Pack minimally because carrying too much gear will complicate your travel.
Clothes like lightweight jackets, long pants, and closed-toe footwear are appropriate. Consider wearing innerwear, gloves, warm jackets, and hiking shorts. These are the apparel necessities that are most crucial.
You could choose to spend money on quality trekking shoes for your footwear. Examine the comfort and safety of your shoes. Long hikes up in boots with high cut-off ankle support are highly advised. Make sure you carry high-quality socks and maintain dry, comfy feet.
Luxury Goods
These things could be useful in some way. But I strongly advise you to travel light and efficiently. However, if you can find room for these things, your trekking journey will include more memories as a result. The things listed below are designated as luxury items for your expedition.
Accessories
Additionally, you'll be sure to provide room for travel necessities. Make a list of everything you need, from sunscreen to sunglasses, and carry it.
Toiletries
Toilet paper, a toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, sunscreen, and a towel are necessities. Face masks and hand sanitizer are now essentially necessities.
Sanitary Waste
Be careful to return to the location where you may properly dispose of your waste with your sanitary napkins in hand. Carry all of this waste in a zip-locked bag.
Box of First Aid
For your protection, don't forget to bring your first aid kit. Only the absolute necessities must be contained in the little box.
The use of Digene, crocin, knee caps and muscle relaxants is required. If you have any digestive problems, you may want to carry ORS.
You have several meal alternatives, so don't worry about it. from consuming genuine cuisine like Dal-Bhat (which is a mixture of white rice along with watery mild spiced lentils, potato curry accompanied with pickles ). This will be a memorable, enjoyable experience.
A somewhat tough hike is the Gosaikunda trek. Therefore, you may easily get ready for this walk even if you are a beginner. But first, be sure your level of fitness complies with the trek's standards. You might be unsure about how to start a fitness regimen.
Let us assist you in easing your travel. Discover your body type first, then start building your cardiovascular endurance to begin your fitness journey.
You'll need a lot of strength and endurance for your expedition. You can effectively and gently mark your route. Start off by jogging and walking quickly. Then, using a combination of long and short sprints, raise the pace and ratio.
The initial goal was to cover 5 kilometers in around 40 minutes. Increasing your running speed gradually can help you reach the 5-kilometer mark in under 27 minutes. However, if you are over 45, be cautious to speak with a doctor before making travel plans for a trek.
If you enjoy swimming or cycling, you may incorporate these into your workout regimen as well. These are one of the main aerobic workouts to greatly increase your degree of endurance.