Before you attempt to cross Ganja La pass, you make the ascent to Kyanjin Gompa and take the detour to Tserko Ri. Both of these activities will help you acclimate to the high altitude. After that, the hike continues in a direct direction into the valley of Helambu over Ganjala Pass Trek, also known as the Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek, is widely considered to be one of the most exciting treks in all of Nepal. The Ganjala Pass Trek stands out as one of the most challenging and time-consuming treks in the Langtang region, despite the fact that there are a number of different treks from which to choose. Nevertheless, hikers of average physical and mental fitness should be able to complete the journey. If you want to go mountain trekking but don't have a lot of time or money, the Ganjala Pass Trek is a great alternative to the more popular Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Both of these treks take you to the base camp of one of the world's tallest mountains.
The path follows the same general outline as the traditional one to the Langtang Valley up to Kyanjin Gomba including to Kyanjin Ri or Cherko Ri. We make our way back to Kathmandu after descending from Tarke Gyang, which is the intersection where the Ganja La Trail and the Helambu Valley Trail meet after crossing the Ganja la pass.
Along a rocky trail that leads to the west, one can get expansive views of the mountain ranges of Himal Chuli (7893m) and Manaslu (8156m). If the conditions are just right, you may even be able to make out the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna range as they rise above the valley's horizon. Ganesh Himal, which is located to the south of the valley, has an elevation of 8,516 meters, while Langtang Lirung, which is located to the north of the valley the more challenging but also more exciting Ganja La pass. The Ganjala Pass Trek includes not only increased solitude but also some of the most picture-perfect villages in the world, as well as breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Join us on this incredible adventure as we make our way through the Langtang region, and you will emerge on the other side feeling amazed and motivated.
A representative from our company will meet and greet you at the airport as soon as you land in Kathmandu. We will see to it that your travel requirements are met once you are in our care. Given that there are no planned activities for the day, we will assist you in checking into your chosen hotel. You have the option of taking a stroll around the neighborhood or relaxing in each of your rooms.
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 is 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.
Waking up early and grabbing breakfast we drive northwards from Kathmandu to Syaprebesi through a road. We take the Trishuli Highway which snakes the Trishuli river. Many villages and towns are crossed en route. We grab lunch at Trishuli Bazaar, a famous town in the region. After crossing the bazaar, we reach a checkpoint. The road becomes narrow as we ascend the offroad track. Then we reach the Army check post at Dunche where we get the entry permit for the Langtang National Park. From here we travel to Syaprebesi. We explore the town of Syaprebesi and stay over for the night.
After we wake up in Syaprebesi, we grab breakfast and officially begin our trek. Crossing a bridge, we can take either the trekking trail or the main road. The short trekking trail is quite risky as a stone falls and landslides are quite common here thus we take the main road as it's much safer. Walking along the road we see numerous waterfalls decking the road. We see hydropower construction going on in the region and take the trekking trail from where the main road stops. After crossing through a scenic waterfall we reach Dovan via Pairo. Here the routes to Thulo Syapru, which leads to Gosain Kunda and Lantang separate. We take the route to Lantang. After walking for some time we reach Bamboo a riverside village, where we take lunch for the day. Along the route, we can see cliffsides with large honey bee hives. Walking through forest trails we ascend to a suspension bridge and going up and down we reach Rimche. Around Rimche are lots of Langur monkeys around. Walking further along a similar trail we reach Lama Hotel. The accommodations in Lama Hotel are very basic as it lies within the core Lantang Conservation area.
From Lama Hotel, we grab an early breakfast and ascend forest trails and walk beside the Langtang River. The trail initially today is also similar to the trail we took yesterday Along the route is the River View Tea Shop, which lies next to the river between two ridges. Grabbing tea and refreshments we move ahead. Ascending further, the closed tree line opens up to a shrubby area where most vegetation is low. Further, we reach Ghoda Tabela where we see amazing views of Langtang I and Langtang II along with Ganchenpo ahead. We grab lunch here at the village and reach Thyangsyap where the view of the Langtang valley is very picturesque. If we weren’t hungry at Ghoda Tabela we can grab lunch at Thangsyap instead. We also see Changbu Peak. After walking further we cross a small village called Sherpa Danda and reach Langtang Village. A memorial commemorating the lives lost during the avalanche caused by the 2015 Nepal Earthquake are found here. If we choose to stay overnight at Mundu instead, we need to walk further for around half an hour and climb another 150m altitude. Yak cans be seen grazing in the village of Mundu. You can spend the rest of the day exploring Mundu or Langtang Village. We stay overnight here.
Getting up early, we are greeted by the mountains in the central Himalaya. We begin after breakfast, walking through the valley and follow the Lantang river. A teahouse is seen en route where we can stop by for Sea Buckthorn juice during the season where it fuitions. Nearby is also a large boulder upon which Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated. Rumous of his footprint are seen here also. We cross the village, and see numerous Yak and goats. We cross a suspension bridge and walk to reach Kyanjin Gumpa. Numerous mani wheels drive by water flow can be seen along the route making it very picturesque. Two stupas are also seen as we climb bigger. An amazing view of the Lantang Lirung glacier is seen from the route right after crossing the suspension bridge. This glacier is where many rookie peak climbers train for their mountain adventures. A small hydropower station is also featured on the trail. At Kyanjin gumba we grab lunch, visit a small bakery and a factory selling real Yak Cheese freshly made. We can also visit the Kyanjin Monastary and take a short walk to see the glacier in its full glory. Tibetan influence and ancestry is apparent in this region. We stay overnight at Kyanjin Gumba.
Today we have two options for our trek, either to Kyangjin Ri or to Cherko Ri. Kyangjin Ri is slightly shorter however views from Cherko Ri are much better. We grab a very early breakfast and begin our ascend.
Option 1: Kyangjin Ri
As we ascend to Kyangjin Ri, we get views of Ganjala Peak, Ganjala Pass, Lantang Peaks and Yala Pass. We also see the Cherko Ri. Towards our back lie the amazing Himalaya when walking. At the top of Kyangjin Ri, we see amazing 360 degree views of the Himalayas that surround us. After taking our fill of the amazing scenery, we return back to our lodge for lunch and explore the monastery and the village.
There are two Kyanjin Ri peaks, the lower Kyanjin Ri lies only at 4200m while the upper goes upto 4600m. The Kyanjin Ri peaks make for amazing short burst hikes that do not take all day.
Option 2: Cherko Ri
Moving towards Cherko Ri, we take packed lunch and go to see the spot the footprint of Guru Rinpoche can be found. We cross a river, climb steeply along the trail as we see amazing backgrounds of Lantang Peak, Ganjala Peak, Ganchenpo Peak, Nayakhang Peak and Lantang Valley. When we reach the top, we see the best 360 view of the Himalaya including Sisapangba, which lies in Tibet and Langsisa, Dorje Lakpa which lie in Nepal. We take our packed lunch amid the wonderful views and can even feed birds that are perch on top of the hill. Descending is quite difficult as the trail becomes slippery in winter. Climbing Cherko Ri is almost impossible during the winter. Most describe the final ascent and initial descent of Cherko Ri as being the most difficult due to the ice and altitude.
We return back to Kyangjin Gumba for the night.
Today we wake up to our second day at Kyanjin Gompa with a beautiful sunrise on the nearby peaks. The trails from here are sparse on vegetation as we increase altitude. After some walking, we cross a suspension bridge over the pristine Lantang river that we have been following till now. Walking further through a gradual steep trail we reach Chhana lake. This glacial lake is pristine and you can fill your cameras with photos here. Moving ahead from the lake we eventually teach Ngegang where we’ll have to stay in a tent and camp as accommodation is unavailable. However sleeping under the stars in a tent in the Himalayas is an amazing experience indeed.
Waking up in our tent amid the Himalayan sunrise is an amazing experience. Today is another climax of the trip as we cross the fabled Ganja La pass today. Today will be a the most difficult day of the trek which will last around 8 hours. The path can be icy and slippery due to loose rock and ice that line the trail Ganja la pass lies at an altitude of 5130m at the views from this height are unrivalled. Excellent views of Lantang Lirung and Sishapangma in Tibet can be seen amazingly here. After filling our cameras and after a feeling of accomplishment, we begin our descent after the pass to reach Keldang where we setup camp and sleep for the night.
Today is another long day of trekking however we will not be ascending or descending much. After an early breakfast, we collect camp and begin heading to Dukpa. The trail is mainly through grasslands. As we walk for some time and eventually pass one of the very small settlements in the Helambu region. Dukpu, our campsite today lies in a forest we so get an authentic wilderness camping experience.
After breakfast at camp, we begin one of the largest descents as we go from a high altitude of 4000m all the way down to 2600m at Tarke Gyang. As we walk, we see the vegetation start to become bigger and more dense. As we descend we eventually reach Tarkegyang. Hyolmo people inhabit this village and you can explore the village after you reach to learn about their lifestyle. The village also has an ancient monastery which we can go explore. This village is also known as Helambu after the Hyolmo people. The trail has officially joined with the Helambu Valley trek trail and thus we may get to meet many trekkers here.
Today’ s trek is relatively shorter. Have breakfast, and then set off on a ramble into the woods to kick off your journey. Before reaching the Gangyul Sherpa settlement, you will encounter a number of streams and waterfalls. You may take it easy today because much of your route will be downhill and the trail is not too difficult. Along the way, you may also see some tiny stupas. The settlement of Sermathang can be reached after following the path through some very stunning scenery, including rolling hills covered in lush flora.
Sermathang, too, is a beautiful town that you should visit. You'll be able to pass the afternoon exploring the area's monasteries and traditional homes until it's time for dinner.
On our final day of hiking, we get up bright and early. The trails continue down from Sermanthang, first to Dubhachaur at 1500 meters, and then again down to Melamchi at 830 meters, where it meets the road. All modes of transportation, including buses, can be found in this village, making it convenient for visitors to travel to nearby Panchkhal through the Kodari route. We can take a bus to Kathmandu from there.
After finishing the journey through the Helambu Valley, it's time to bid Nepal farewell. Three hours before to your scheduled international flight to your next destination, you will be taken to the international airport. We sincerely hope that our travels in the Everest Himalaya have left you with lifelong memories. You can extend your stay in Nepal if you'd want to visit all of the fascinating places the country has to offer. We sincerely hope you will appreciate the time we had together and recommend us to your friends and family for their trip to Nepal to go trekking.
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Embarking on the Lantang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass was an experience that surpassed all my expectations. From the breathtaking landscapes to the warm hospitality of the local people, every aspect of this trek left me in awe.
The journey begins in the charming Langtang Valley, where the lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages create a truly enchanting atmosphere. The pristine beauty of the surroundings is unparalleled, offering a sense of tranquility and serenity that is hard to find elsewhere.
As the trek progresses, the real test awaits at the mighty Ganjala Pass. While the ascent is demanding, the feeling of accomplishment upon conquering the pass is indescribable. The panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks reward every step taken, making the challenging climb absolutely worthwhile.
Throughout the trek, the support of the local guides and porters was exceptional. Their knowledge of the region, unwavering positivity, and encouragement kept us motivated even during the toughest stretches. The cultural insights they shared along the way enriched the experience, providing a deeper understanding of the local way of life.
The encounters with the Tamang and Sherpa communities added a layer of authenticity to the journey. Their warm smiles, traditional hospitality, and delicious local cuisine made us feel like a part of their extended family. It was truly humbling to witness their resilience and spirit amidst the awe-inspiring mountains that surround their homes.
The Lantang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass is not just a physical adventure but also a transformative journey of the soul. It challenges you, pushes you beyond your limits, and rewards you with a sense of accomplishment like no other. Each day brings new vistas, each step brings you closer to nature, and each moment strengthens your connection with the mountains.
I wholeheartedly recommend this trek to all adventure enthusiasts seeking a remarkable and unforgettable experience. Be prepared to be amazed, inspired, and forever changed by the beauty and grandeur of Lantang Valley with Ganjala Pass.
| No. of Travelers | Total Cost/ per person (USD) |
| Solo Traveler | 1795.00 |
| 2-3 | 1595.00 |
| 4-7 | 1575.00 |
| 8-14 | 1555.00 |
| 15-21 | 1535.00 |
| 22-35 | 1495.00 |
Oxygen Concentration for the Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass |
| Altitude (m) | Oxygen Concentration (%) |
| 1400 | 21% |
| 1503 | 20.9% |
| 2430 | 19.5% |
| 2610 | 19.0% |
| 3430 | 17.5% |
| 3800 | 16.5% |
| 3600 | 16.8% |
| 3200 | 17.3% |
| 2900 | 18.0% |
As you can see, the oxygen concentration decreases as you ascend in altitude. This is because there is less air at higher altitudes, and therefore less oxygen. The lowest oxygen concentration on the trek is 16.5%, which is at an altitude of 3,800 meters. This is the level at which some people may start to experience altitude sickness. If you are planning to do the Langtang trek, it is important to acclimatize to the altitude by taking it slow and drinking plenty of fluids. You should also avoid strenuous activity at high altitudes.
Here are some additional tips for avoiding altitude sickness:
The best times to go on the Ganjala pass and Lantang Valley trek are in the fall (September, October, and November) and spring (March, April, and May). At these times, the sky is bright and blue, the air is warm, and you can see all the way to the Himalayas. There will be rhododendrons of every color lining the path when spring arrives. The air is crisp, the sky is blue, and the mountains are clearly visible. The autumn season is ideal for hiking because of the mild temperatures, gentle breezes, and lack of precipitation. The temperature is perfect for an afternoon hike, the sun is shining, and the sky is clear, giving you a breathtaking view of the mountains. The lowlands are green and pristine. These times also fall in line with some of Nepal's biggest celebrations, including Dashain and Tihar. Summer and monsoon seasons being rain and leeches and the clouds cover most of the skies making the views less impressive and thus these seasons are not recommended. The Ganjala Pass is closed In winter as the snows block the way making this trek impossible from December to around late March.
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: Best Price for Trip guaranteed No need to spend time meticulously planning trips in a foreign land and getting a headache Book a trip with ease and convenience without hassle Safe trips planned with latest environmental scenario and trail knowledge from experienced guides Get increased security as guides take care of your well being Make your trip socially exciting as guides tell you about the local area, customs and environment and help you communicate with locals. Guides with excellent high altitude emergency training Ethical tourism practices whereby locals are supported by the booking 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 traveller, 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.
The Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass is a moderate to challenging trek. It is a good option for those who have some trekking experience and are looking for a more challenging hike. The trek involves some steep ascents and descents, and the highest point is Ganjala Pass at 4,635 meters (15,203 feet). However, the views from the pass are amazing, and the trek is well worth the effort.
The Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass typically takes 10-12 days to complete. However, the exact duration will depend on your fitness level and the pace of your trek. If you are a slow hiker or if you want to take more time to enjoy the scenery, you may need more than 12 days.
The best time to do the Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). The weather is mild during these seasons, and the trails are less crowded. However, the trek can also be done during the winter (December-February), but the trails may be icy and snowy.
The cost of the Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass will vary depending on the length of your trek, the number of people in your group, and the level of comfort you want. However, you can expect to pay around USD1,000-1,500 for a 10-day trek. This includes the cost of transportation, accommodation, food, and a guide.
You will need to obtain a trekking permit from the Nepal Tourism Board before you start your trek. You can apply for the permit online or at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. You will also need to purchase a TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System) from the Nepal Tourism Board. The TIMS card costs USD20 and is valid for 10 days.
The main health risk associated with the Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass is altitude sickness. Altitude sickness occurs when your body does not get enough oxygen at high altitudes. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
The essential items to pack for the Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass include: A good quality backpack Hiking boots Trekking poles Warm clothing Sunscreen Insect repellent First aid kit Water bottle Snacks Toilet paper Flashlight Map and compass Permits and paperwork
The accommodation options available on the Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass vary from basic teahouses to lodges. Teahouses are small, family-run establishments that offer basic accommodation and food. Lodges are larger establishments that offer more comfortable accommodations and amenities.
The transportation options available for the Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass include: Flight from Kathmandu to Kathmandu Private jeep or van from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi Local buses from Syabrubesi to Langtang Valley Hiking between villages
The Langtang Valley Trek with Ganjala Pass offers the opportunity to experience the unique culture of the Sherpa people. The Sherpas are an ethnic group of Tibetan origin who have traditionally been yak herders and traders. They are also skilled mountaineers and have played a significant role in the development of mountaineering in Nepal.
