Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu: A Complete Traveler’s Guide

Langtang Valley trek is a scenic journey into the heart of Nepal's Langtang region. It is a moderate trek that starts and ends at Syabrubesi (1,460m), a village northwest of Kathmandu. Before that, you drive to Syabrubesi along Pashandg Lhamu Highway for 6-7 hours covering 122 km. The trek follows the Langtang Khola river, passing through forests, alpine meadows, and scenic Tamang villages in Langtang National Park. Langtang National Park is popular for a wide diverse flora and faunas and rare red pandas. The Langtang Trek offers spectacular views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), and Yala Peak (5,520m).

Trekking to Langtang Valley takes you through key points like Lama Hotel (2,480m), Langtang village (3,430m), and Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m). Kyanjin is the highest overnight camp on the trek. From there, you can ascend to Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) or Tsergo Ri (4,984m) to get a glimpse of the Himalayas. These optional climbs are steep but worth it. The toughest section is from Kyanjin Gompa to Tsergo Ri due to high altitude and rocky trails.

Langtang trekking trail is properly marked and mostly composed of forest trails, stone steps, and suspension bridges. You will be walking approximately 65–70 kilometers round trip from Syabrubesi to Syabrubesi. The entire trek is about 6 to 7 days of walking, which totals about 35–40 hours. Langtang trek is suitable for beginners as well as seasoned trekkers with good physical conditioning.

Teahouses en route provide basic but comfortable accommodation and hot meals during Langtang Valley Trek. Dal bhat, noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread are typical fare. There is also tea, coffee, and snacks. Most teahouses have hot showers and charging facilities for a small fee.

The Langtang Valley Hiking is best in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Both seasons have clear skies, settled weather, and great mountain scenery. Snow in winter makes higher parts difficult.

You require a TIMS card and a Langtang National Park entry permit for Langtang Valley Trekking. It is advisable to hire a licensed guide and porter for safety and assistance. Guides also improve your knowledge of local culture and routes.

A jeep or local bus takes you from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (122 km) with the usual 7–8 hours via Pashang Lhamu Highway. The return journey is the same road back from Dhunche to Kathmandu. Langtang Valley trek is a perfect short Himalayan experience with good culture and dramatic mountain scenery.

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu offers a stunning trek through the forest, alpine meadows, and Himalayan peaks. Starting and ending the trek formally in Syabrubesi (1,550m), the trek plunges into the heart of Langtang National Park. The trek follows the Langtang River through Lama Hotel (2,480m), Langtang Village (3,430m), and Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m). Every village gives a glimpse of local Tamang culture and traditional highland lifestyle.

Total trekking distance between Syabrubesi and Syabrubesi is about 65 kilometers (40 miles). It will take 6 to 7 days of trekking, covering around 5 to 7 hours per day. The highest point of Langtang Valley Trek is Kyanjin Ri (4,773m), a viewing point for excellent panoramic views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), and Yala Peak (5,520m). Or, if you go to Tserko Ri (4950m), it will be the highest point of Langtang Vlaley Trekking.

The most challenging section of Langtang Valley Trekking is between Langtang Village and Lama Hotel, which has steep slopes and thin air. The trail comprises stone paths, forest paths, and narrow ridges but is not technical. The Langtang trekking trail is accessible for beginners and seasoned trekkers with an average fitness level.

Food and lodging in Langtang Valley Trek are basic but sufficient. There are teahouses with dal bhat, momos, noodles, and soups available. Rooms are basic with common toilets and just a few hot showers. Wi-Fi and charging facilities for a fee.

The Langtang trek begins with a bus or jeep ride from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, which is a distance of about 122 kilometers. The trip passes through Galchhi (800m), Trishuli Bazaar (870m), Betrawati (1,000m), and Dhunche (1,950m) to finally arrive at Syabrubesi. Buses and jeeps leave Machhapokhari (Balaju Bus Park) daily morning between 6:00 and 8:00 am. It will take 7 to 9 hours depending on road conditions.

It is mandatory to obtain the Langtang National Park Entry Permit and TIMS Card before you set of along the Langtang treail.  hiring a A licensed guide is now compulsory , and hiring a porter is highly recommended to ease the trek to Langtnag Valley.

Best time for Langtang Valley Trek is March to May and September to November. These are best times with good weather, stable climate, and best mountain views. The whole Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu to Kathmandu is about 284 kilometers round trip. Langtang trekking route is still one of Nepal's best and easy Himalayan outings.

Suggested Blog Post for Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu: Distance

• The Langtang Valley Trek starts from Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft).
• Road distance from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,460 m / 4,790 ft) is 122 km (76 miles).
• It takes around 7 to 9 hours by jeep or local bus.
• From Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2,470 m / 8,104 ft), it is 11 km (6.8 miles).
• Then, from Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (3,430 m / 11,253 ft), it is 12 km (7.5 miles) in length.
• Then, from Langtang Village to Kyanjin Gumba (3,870 m / 12,697 ft), the path is 7 km (4.3 miles) in length.
• The total distance of trekking from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Gumba one way is 30 km (18.6 miles).
• The round trip from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Gumba and returning is 60 km (37.2 miles).
• From Kyanjin Gumba to Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m / 15,659 ft), it is a 3 km (1.9 miles) one-way walk. This is adding a 6 km (3.7 miles) round trip to the trek.
• From Kyanjin Gumba to Tserko Ri (4,984 m / 16,348 ft), the ascent is 5 km (3.1 miles) one way.
• The round trip from Kyanjin Gumba to Tserko Ri adds 10 km (6.2 miles).
• If you hike from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Gumba and return, and ascend both summits, the total hiking distance is 76 km (47.2 miles).
• The entire round trip by road and trail from Kathmandu to Kyanjin Gumba and return is about 244 km (151.6 miles).
• This equates to 122 km (76 miles) driving there and back and 60 km (37.2 miles) hiking Including the ascents to Kyanjin Ri and Tserko Ri, add 16 km (9.9 miles) extra.
• Therefore, the total round trip from Kathmandu with both peaks is about 284 km (161.5 miles).

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu: Itinerary

Langtang Valley Trek Itinerary (8 Days)

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu : Transportation 

Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi to reach the point of departure of the Langtang Valley trek. The town lies about 122 kilometers north of Kathmandu. The drive goes along the Trishuli Highway (Pasang Lhamu Highway) via Galchhi and Dhunche. Another road that can be taken is the Tokha–Suryachaur–Kispang–Nuwakot road, which is shorter but rough and seasonally impassable.

From Syabrubesi to Kathmandu, it is 7–9 hours of travel depending on road and weather conditions.

Transport Modes:

Local Bus: Buses leave from Machhapokhari Bus Park (near Balaju). They leave early morning, usually between 6–8 AM. The cost is NPR 800–1000. It is slow but cheap.

Sharing Jeep: Jeeps also leave from Machhapokhari. They also charge NPR 1200–1500 per head. They leave early, around 6–7 AM, and are faster than buses.

Private Jeep: For more comfort and convenience, use a private jeep. One-way cost is NPR 18,000–25,000 depending on the type of vehicle and road condition. Reserve through local travel agencies or Thamel hotels.

Private Car: Not recommended due to bad roads. Cars struggle beyond Bidur or Trishuli.

New Option:

Nowadays, travelers can go directly to Langtang Hydropower Station, closer to Lama Hotel. The road has been extended so that jeeps can come here. It's 140–150 km from Kathmandu and takes 9–10 hours. It will cost NPR 20,000–25,000 in a private jeep. Sharing facilities may be limited.

Return Journey:

Take the same means of transportation from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu. Buses and shared jeeps leave early in the morning. Reserve seats always a day ahead. Make reservations at local ticket counters or get help from hotels.

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu: Foods and Accommodation

Food and Meals along the Drive (Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and Return)

• Eat at highway roadside restaurants near Trishuli, Dhunche, or Betrawati.
• Eat dal bhat, momo, chow mein, fried rice, tea, and snacks.
• Meal costs are between NPR 250 and NPR 600 per person.
• Pack light snack food like chocolate, nuts, fruits, or energy bars.
• Clean restaurants are rare; stop early to avoid crowds.
• Drink only sealed mineral water or hot boiled water.
• Biscuits, noodles, juice, and soft drinks are sold by shops on the way.

Food at Teahouses and Lodges (Langtang Region)

• Teahouses offer food on a fixed menu.
• Toast, omelet, Tibetan bread, porridge, pancakes, and tea are available for breakfast.
• Dal bhat, fried rice, noodles, thukpa, and pasta are offered for lunch and dinner.
• Enjoy yak cheese, garlic soup, tsampa porridge, and Tibetan momo.
• Menu includes spring rolls, macaroni, spaghetti, and chapati with curry.
• Teahouses have tea, coffee, hot lemon, ginger tea, and beer.
• Food costs go up with altitude (NPR 500–1,200 for a meal).
• Avoid the meat from Syabrubesi onwards because the storage is poor.

Accommodation in Langtang Valley Trek

• Basic twin-sharing wood rooms with blankets are available in lodges.
• Private bathrooms are limited above Lama Hotel.
• There are few but possible luxury amenities at Syabrubesi and Kyanjin Gompa.
• Expect squat or western community toilets higher up.
• Roomy rooms charged NPR 500–800 a person a night.
• Kyanjin Gompa has few better lodges with improved beddings.
• Sleeping bag to carry for more warmth at the higher lodges.

Hot Showers and Comfort

• Hot shower facilities available in most teahouses up to Kyanjin Gompa.
• Charge for hot shower: NPR 300–500 a shower.
• Solar-heated or gas-heated water systems employed.
• Higher-elevation lodges may have bucket showers.
• No heating in room, so warm clothes and sleeping bag to bring.
• Power outlets and charging are additional (NPR 200–400 per unit).
• Wi-Fi in some lodges (NPR 300–500 per day).

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu: Required Permits

To trek the Langtang Valley from Kathmandu, you will need two permits. They are:

TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System)

Langtang National Park Entry Permit

1. TIMS Card

There has to be a TIMS card carried by every trekker for safety tracking. It is mandatory.

For SAARC nationals:

NPR 600 (approximately USD 4.5)

For foreign nationals:

NPR 2,000 (approximately USD 15)

You can purchase the TIMS card in Kathmandu. Visit the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office in Bhrikutimandap or TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal) office in Maligaon.

2. Langtang National Park Entry Permit

This entry permit lets you enter Langtang National Park. You should carry it with you at all times.

For SAARC nationals:

NPR 1,500 (around USD 11)

For foreign nationals:

NPR 3,000 (around USD 22)

You can get this permit at:

Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office in Kathmandu

Dhunche entry checkpoint (on the trek to Syabrubesi)

Best Way to Get Permits

The most convenient way is to obtain both permits in Kathmandu. This saves time on the trek. The Nepal Tourism Board issues both permits from one counter. It is open every day (except public holidays) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If you book your Langtang Valley trekking via local agency in Nepal, they arrange permits in your name. It is very convenient and easy.

Documents Required

Bring the following documents to submit:

One passport size photo

Your passport (valid)

Passport photocopy

Travel insurance documents (optional but helpful)

No guide is needed to obtain the permits. Free independent trekkers can submit the application directly.

How to Apply

Visit NTB or TAAN office. Complete the short form. Leave your passport, photo, and fee with staff. Your permit will be issued immediately. Each permit takes 15–30 minutes.

Keep both permits throughout the trek. Rangers are allowed to examine them along checkpoints. Failing to produce permits is sure to incur penalties or time delays.

Original permits must be brought along. No electronic copies function.

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu: Guide and Porter Information

You must hire a licensed guide for the Langtang Valley Trek. You may hire a guide from registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu or book one online. The guide must have a Trekking Guide License from the government of Nepal and be a member of TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal).

A porter is not required but highly recommended if you are unable to bring your backpack. A porter will only be able to carry a maximum of 18–20 kg. Guide and porter can both be arranged from the same agency or hotel in Kathmandu

A guide assists with navigation, permits, lodging, food, and transport. They also handle risks, including altitude sickness and weather conditions. Guides provide extensive local culture, flora, fauna, and mountain peak knowledge. They also interact with locals in the Tamang villages.

Your heavy backpacks are carried by porters, making your trekking experience comfortable and enjoyable. Most porters speak basic English and follow in front or behind you.

A guide will cost USD 25–30 a day, and a porter will cost around USD 15–20 a day. Some even employ a porter-guide, who will do both for USD 20–25 a day.

It is safer and gives a more cultural experience to employ a guide. If you are uncertain about carrying loads, employ a porter too. Always employ through licensed agencies to avoid fraud and to offer assistance if needed.

Book ahead in the high season to avoid being out. A good porter and guide will make your trek safe, educational, and more enjoyable.

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu: 10 Important Preparations

Organize private jeep or local bus to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu to begin Langtang Valley Trek.

Jeeps from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi are more convenient and quicker. Local buses are slow, lower in cost, and packed.

1.Ask road condition from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi

The road is narrow and occasionally rough. Monsoon will block the road by landslides.

2.Depart early for Kathmandu–Syabrubesi drive

The drive involves 7–9 hours. Early departure shuns evening jam and delay on the road.

3.Obtain TIMS card and Langtang National Park permit

Obtain permits in Kathmandu or at the park gate. Carry passport photos and cash.

4.Bring layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons

Temperatures vary with elevation during Langtang Valley Trek. Mornings and evenings are cold; afternoons may be hot.

5.Carry rain gear year-round

Rain showers occur suddenly, even in non-monsoon season. Carry a poncho or rain jacket.

6.Break in trekking boots before trek

New boots can blister. Break them in on training hikes.

7.Train with hill walking and cardio

The trail includes steep climbs. Fitness prevents fatigue and altitude risk.

8.Pack a basic first-aid kit and personal medication

Medical facilities are scarce on the trail. Pack bandages, painkillers, and altitude meds.

9.Carry cash from Kathmandu for the whole trek

There are no ATMs past Dhunche. Teahouses accept cash, not cards or apps.

Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu: 10 Essential Pack List

1.Trekking Boots

Wear sturdy boots to cushion your feet and hold your ankles stable on rough terrain.

2.Warm Jacket (Down or Synthetic)

Pack a warm jacket to keep warm in cold mornings and evenings at high elevations.

3.Sleeping Bag (Rated -10°C to -5°C)

Use a proper sleeping bag for insulation, as teahouse blankets may not be adequate.

4.Water Purification Tablets or Filter

Treat stream or tap water to avoid stomach upset and save money on bottled water.

5.Rain Jacket or Poncho

Bring a rain jacket to stay dry in sudden mountain showers or snows.

6.Layered Clothing (Base, Fleece, Outer)

Have layers on to be able to quickly adapt to changing temperatures on the trek.

7.Headlamp with Extra Batteries

Use a headlamp during nighttime bathroom trips or power outages in teahouses.

8.Trekking Poles

Trekking poles reduce knee strain and improve stability on steep uphills and downhills.

9.First Aid Kit with Personal Medications

Carry a kit to treat blisters, small cuts, and altitude issues quickly.

10.Passport and TIMS/Permit Documents

Carry permits and your passport for checkpoint verification along the Langtang trail.

Some Important Faqs Related To Langtang Valley Trek and Their Replies

How long is the Langtang Valley Trek?

Langtang Valley Trek generally takes 7 days of trek from Syabrubesi to Syabrubesi via Kyanjin Ri. The total trip duration between Kathmandu to Kathmandu from Langtang Valley Trek is around 8 days, including rest days in Kyanjing Gumba.

Total walking distance is around 65-70 kilometers from Syabrubesi to Syabrubesi, on the basis of side trips like Kyanjin Ri. The average walking hours are 5-7 hours per day, 8-12 kilometers of walking per day. Total walking hours for 7 days are around 40-45 hours.

Day 1: Road journey from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (7-8 hours).

Day 2: Trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (6-7 hours, 11 km).

Day 3: Langtang Village Trekking (6–7 hours, 12 km).

Day 4: Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (3–4 hours, 7 km).

Day 5: Hike to Kyanjin Ri (4–5 hours round trip, 5–6 km).

Day 6: Return to Lama Hotel (6–7 hours, 18 km).

Day 7: Return to Syabrubesi (5–6 hours, 11 km).

Day 8: Drive to Kathmandu (7–8 hours).

Leave 1–2 buffer days for rest or bad weather. Trekkers are recommended to spend 10 days in total on this trek.

Most trekkers with all ages find Langtang Valley trek suitable. Trekkers have gradual altitude gain and observe mountain landscape. The Langtang Valley trail traverses forest, rivers, and Tamang villages. Kyanjin Ri offers spectacular Great Himalayan views. Leave adequate days for acclimatization, rest, and safe traveling.

Is Langtang Valley Trek difficult?

The Langtang Valley Trek moderately difficult but is achievable with practice. The Langtang trek starts from Syabrubesi (1,550 m) and reaches as high as Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m). A side trek to Tserko Ri (4,984 m) challenges trekkers with steep climbs and thin air.

The primary difficulty lies in rapid height gain, low temperature, and irregular terrain. Altitude sickness is a major issue above 3,000 m. Trekkers may get headaches, nausea, or fatigue. Weather can worsen very quickly, especially in spring and autumn. There are slippery trails and landslides in monsoon.

There is no age restriction for Langtang Valley trek. However, children and elderly people must prepare well. Children above 10 years can try it if physically fit and determined. Elderly people who are physically fit, have no heart or lung conditions, and have prior trekking experience can also do it.

Daily walking hours in Langtang Valley Trek is 5 to 7 hours. Rocky ground, woodland paths, and suspension bridges are included. Oxygen levels go down by 40% at high altitude. Acclimatization, fluid intake, and gradual climbing are essential for Langtang Valley Trek.

Train beforehand the trek to make Langtang Valley Trek successful and more exciting. Cardio, strength, and endurance exercises at least 4–6 weeks prior are advisable. Take warm clothes, trekking poles, good hiking boots, and altitude sickness medicine. Hire a guide or porter for safety and support.

Anyone with average physical condition and mental strength can complete Langtang Valley trek. Langtang Valley is ideal for anyone who desires Himalayan scenery without the high altitude. Families with children, solo travelers, and elderly people have all completed it. The trek is culturally rich, with mountain scenery and peaceful trails that justify its worthiness.

How many people died in the Langtang?

• In April 2015, a massive avalanche struck Langtang Valley after the devastating Gorkha earthquake.
• Around 310 people died in Langtang Valley, including villagers, trekkers, and guides. The avalanche buried Langtang village entirely.
• It was triggered by earthquake-induced landslides and icefall and was Nepal's worst mountain disaster.
• Currently, the Langtang region has recovered very well. The path is safe, lodges rebuilt, and the trail well-maintained.
• The local inhabitants greet the trekkers warmly. The region offers guide facilities, mobile phone networks, and helicopter rescues.
• Syabrubesi (1,460m), Lama Hotel (2,470m), Langtang Village (3,430m), and Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m) are among the notable stops for foods and overnight stays during Langtang Valley Trek.
• A moving memorial dominates new Langtang village commemorating lost lives in the disaster.
• It is a peaceful spot that offers reflection and breathtaking Himalayan views. It is an absolute visit for remembrance of the people who were deceased in April Earthquake, 2015.
• The region is now risk-free for trekking during peak times: spring and autumn.
• There are low risks of off-season landslides along the section between Syabrubesi and Lama Hotel due to rain.
• Monitor weather forecasts and avoid trekking during monsoon seasons. Trek with guides for added security.
• Carry a first-aid kit, rain jacket, and power bank; altitude precautions remain in effect.
• There is no section of the Langtang main trail that is closed or highly hazardous at present.
• The government and locals are continuously monitoring and improving trail safety.
• Langtang is not just a trekking gem but also a shining example of resilience.
• Visit Langtang today—support the locals, witness nature's beauty, and walk through living history.
• Langtang region and the Langtang Trekking tail welcomes you with open hearts, safe trails, and unforgettable mountain memories.

Do I need guide for Langtang Valley Trek?

Yes, one does need a guide on the Langtang Valley Trek. From April 2025, the Nepal Tourism Board currently compels visitors to hire licensed guides for safety and upkeep.

A guide will ensure your security and orientation in remote Langtang's mountains. Guides provide support during altitude sickness, landslide situations, or lost trails. Guides serve as mediators between trekkers and residents, respond in emergencies, and act as reservoirs of cultural information. Their presence reduces risks when passing through tough mountain terrain.

You can hire guides from local trekking agencies in Syabrubesi or Kathmandu. Hotels and websites also organize registered guides. Choose licensed guides with good reviews and insurance.

Guides will arrange your transport, lodges, and food during your Langtang Valley Trek. They arrange your jeep to Syabrubesi, the starting point of the trek. They help you get clean teahouses and hot food daily. It is extremely necessary during peak season when lodges are fully booked.

They mention and give information about flora and fauna like rhododendrons, red pandas, and Himalayan monals in Langtang Valley Trek. They note peaks such as Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa. You learn more about the country's natural scenery and the mountains from your guide.

The guides will charge you around $25 to $35 per day without tips. Porters will cost $20 to $25 per day if needed. You may also hire a porter-guide for about $30.

Guides also arrange permits like the TIMS and Langtang National Park entrance. With guides, you're not fined or have issues at checkpoints. Their help makes your trek both legal and hassle-free.

Having a guide enhances safety, learning, and convenience. It's not only required—it's smart.

Final Words

Begin your Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu, the gateway to Nepal's Himalayan grandeur. The trek is 7–8 days long, approximately 65–75 km round trip. Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Syabrubesi (1,550 m) and then start trekking. Trek up through Lama Hotel (2,470 m), Langtang Village (3,430 m), and reach Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m). Climb Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m) for stunning mountain scenery.

You will have a mesmerizing experience of trekking in Langtang National Park with diversest species of flora and fauna. The rare red panda and botanical hub of Langtang National Park is very popular among the trekkers during Langtang Valley Trek.

Make preparations well in Kathmandu before leaving for Syabrubesi to begin the cormal trekking to Langtang Valley and Kyanjing Gumba. Buy TIMS card and Langtang National Park permit. Wear warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy boots. Carry enough money from Kathmandu, as ATMs are absent on the trek. Enquire about weather and road conditions beforehand.

Langtang National Park is paradise for nature lovers, researchers and scientists. It's an oriental botanical garden with very high biodiversity.

Join the Langtang Valley Trek from Kathmandu for tranquility, culture, and scenery. Get intimate with the Himalayas. Peace and inspiration accompany every step in this trekking adventure.