Introduction to Langtang Valley
The Langtang Valley, nestled within the confines of the Langtang National Park, situates itself in the Rasuwa district of the Bagmati Province in Nepal. The Langtang Valley trek in November is the perfect time to witness the sharpest views of mountains, enjoy clean air, and explore the green valley. The Langtang trek earns its reputation as Nepal’s third most popular trek. Despite being one of the shorter treks, it delivers breathtaking views, remote mountain villages, and exposure to local Tamang cultures.
Table of Contents
The Langtang Valley trek is easily one of the nearest and most accessible treks from the Kathmandu Valley. Every year, numerous domestic and international trekkers visit this area. Many people choose to trek the Langtang route for acclimatization as before they trek to the Everest Base Camp (EBC) and Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) treks. In autumn, the Langtang trek showcases stunning scenery with colorful leaves, fresh mountain air, and clear skies, making it a memorable adventure.
Highlights of Langtang Trek in November
- The trek traverses Langtang National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity.
- Trek through the glacier-carved valley, famously known as the Langtang Valley.
- Marvel at the mountain range under clear blue skies.
- Marvel at the mountain range under clear blue skies.
- Explore ancient Buddhist landmarks like Kyanjing Gompa and Langtang Gompa.
- Rest in cozy tea houses while on the go.
- Ascend Tserko Ri to witness its awe-inspiring views.
- Explore the local cheese factory in Kyanjin Gompa.
- Trek amidst Nepal’s national flower, the Rhododendron forest.
Temperature and Weather Conditions
November marks the end of autumn, making it the perfect time for trekking in Langtang. Late November brings a taste of winter alongside mild weather. During the autumn season, temperatures on the Langtang Trek range from 10°C to 20°C during the daytime. As days shorten, nights can bring freezing temperatures ranging from 1°C to 5°C. It’s the peak season for trekkers, meaning you won’t be alone even if you embark solo.
In November, Langtang National Park featured moderate humidity, averaging 65% relative humidity, a description fittingly coined as humid but cool. Autumn boasts stunning blue skies, crisp mountain vistas, and lush green valleys, making it the peak season for Langtang Valley trekking. The stable weather throughout autumn makes it ideal for trekking.’
The attraction of Langtang Valley Trek
- Langtang Valley: Trekking through the Langtang Valley offers a mesmerizing journey through a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers. This rugged landscape features tall mountains, waterfalls, and thick forests. The unique beauty of this glacier-carved valley makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
- Langtang National Park: Nepal established Langtang National Park as its first Himalayan national park in 1976. It boasts expansive high meadows serving summer habitats for various ungulate species like musk deer and Himalayan tahr. The park’s renown stems from its diverse wildlife, which includes red pandas, Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, wild dogs, Goral, Serow, and over 250 species of birds.
- Kyanjin Gompa: Builders constructed this renowned monastery on a rock resembling camel ribs, with “Kyan” meaning “camel” and “jin” meaning “ribs.” Scholars believe it to be around 300 years old. A small local cheese factory in Kyanjin village offers some of the finest cheeses in the Langtang area. Kyanjin Gompa, the final tea house along the Langtang Trek, offers excellent hiking trails from there.
- Gosainkunda Lake: Gosainkunda Lake is approximately 4,380 meters in Nepal’s Langtang National Park. It is a sacred site honored by both Hindus and Buddhists. It remains frozen during winter and is known as the Frozen Lake of Nepal. Many tourists enjoy skating in the frozen lake.
Things to Consider
Limited accommodation and food options exist.
Since November is the peak trekking season in Langtang, finding accommodations and meals can be challenging due to the limited number of hotels in the area. Pre-booking your accommodations before starting the trek is essential, as you may even need to share a room with fellow trekkers of the same gender.
Crowded routes
November is a busy month for trekking, with many adventurers hitting the trail. Due to the high number of trekkers, the trails can become crowded, resulting in potential delays and wait times, especially when attempting to capture the perfect photo amidst the stunning scenery.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is a common concern for Langtang trekkers, as the trek reaches altitudes above 3000 meters. With increasing elevation, there’s a higher risk of altitude sickness, making it essential to carry appropriate medication. Also, the cold temperatures can make breathing harder, so it’s essential to be careful while trekking.
Managing your budget
Individuals or animals transport food to higher altitudes in the Langtang region due to the lack of proper roadways. As altitude increases, prices tend to rise, resulting in higher costs for both food and accommodation in mountainous areas. ATMs are also unavailable, so carrying enough cash is vital before the trek begins.
Snow-covered paths
Snowfall is possible in the last two weeks of November as winter approaches. During this time, nighttime temperatures drop, resulting in snowfall. This can create difficulties for trekkers navigating the snowy trails.
How can I prepare for the Langtang Valley Trek?
- Prioritize hiring a reliable trekking agency to ensure a well-organized and safe trekking experience.
- Choose experienced guides and porters to assist you during your trek, ensuring a smoother and safer journey.
- Ensure you have all the necessary trekking gear and equipment for your adventure.
- Be aware of altitude sickness and prioritize acclimatization during your trek to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Ensure your permits and documents, including your Nepal visa and other necessary documentation, are ready before embarking on your trek.
- Carry backup funds for emergencies during your trek.
- Get a SIM card primarily for communication, as internet access is unavailable, especially outside your accommodation area.
Langtang Trekking Permits
TIMS Card
The Trekkers’ Information Systems (TIMS) Card is a mandatory permit for all Nepal trekkers. One can get this card from the TIMS check post in Pokhara and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) offices or Tourist Association Trekking Agencies of Nepal (TAAN) in Kathmandu and Pokhara. In Nepal, there are two TIMS cards: green and blue. The green card is for trekking in non-restricted areas like the Langtang Valley, while the blue card grants access to restricted regions such as Upper Mustang and parts of Manaslu.
The fee for each TIMS card varies based on your trekking plans. Independent trekkers pay around USD 20 per person per entry, while those traveling with authorized tour operators pay approximately USD 10.
Langtang National Park Permit
You must get the Langtang National Park permit along with your TIMS card. The permit cost varies depending on the trekker’s nationality.SAARC citizens pay half the Langtang Valley Trekking Permit fee, around NPR 1,500 (USD 12.50) per entry. Meanwhile, authorities charge other foreigners approximately NPR 3,000 (USD 25) per entry. You do not need other permits to trek in Langtang Valley. However, you need an extra permit to extend your trek towards restricted regions such as Tserko Ri and Ganja la Pass
Types of equipment and Supplies for Langtang Valley
Clothes
- Waterproof jackets
- Down jackets
- Trekking pants
- Woolen trousers
- T-shirt
- Gloves
- Headscarf
- Muffler
- Thermals
- Sunglass
- Thick socks
- Hiking boots
- Sports shoes
Documents
- Copy of Passport, Citizenship
- Passport size photo
- TIMS card
- Trekking permit
- Copy of Travel Insurance
- Valid Passport
Medical equipment
- First aid kit
- Cough and cold medicine
- Painkiller tablets
- Hand sanitizers
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Tissue paper and wet wipes
- Antiseptic tapes
Additional equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Traveling bag
- Pen and notes
- Map and guidebooks
- Water bottles
- Power banks
- Camera, memory cards
- Energy bars
- Torchlight
- Trekking stick
Accommodation during Langtang Trek
You’ll stay in three-star hotels in Kathmandu and cozy tree houses during the treks, which are tiny guest houses run by locals. Tea houses in the lower parts of the Langtang region offer better services than those in the upper part of the trail. These days, the tree houses are comfortable and provide basic amenities for trekkers to enjoy a pleasant stay surrounded by nature. These accommodations offer a resting point during your Langtang trek and an opportunity to connect with locals and fellow trekkers.
Food during Langtang Trek
While visiting Nepal, be sure to try Thakali Khana and Momo. These are the must-try Nepali foods. Additionally, you can sample authentic Nepali cuisine like Dhindo and Gundruk during your Langtang trek. The Langtang Trek may not offer multiple food options, but you can find high-calorie foods to provide enough energy during the trek. Dal bhat is the go-to meal during your trek. Yak cheese, Nepali curd, and Selroti are famous in Kyanjin Gompa. Besides that, you can also try Tibetan Noodle Soup (Thukpa) on a cold day during the trek.
Itinerary for Langtang Trek
| DAY | OUTLINE |
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu |
| Day 2 | Kathmandu sightseeing |
| Day 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi |
| Day 4 | Trek from Kathmandu to Lama Hotel |
| Day 5 | Trek to Langtang Valley |
| Day 6 | Trek from Langtang to Kyanjin Gompa |
| Day 7 | Acclimatization and Exploration of Tserko Ri |
| Day 8 | Trek from Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel |
| Day 9 | Trek from Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi |
| Day 10 | Drive back to Kathmandu |
| Day 11 | Final Departure |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the hike to Langtang?
Solo trekkers find the hike to Langtang short and manageable, making it suitable for exploration.
How difficult is Langtang Trek?
Experts grade the Langtang trek as moderate, indicating its suitability for those with a basic fitness level.
Can you still hike the Langtang Valley?
Yes, you can still hike in Langtang Valley. Several trekking routes allow you to explore different regions of the Valley.
Conclusion
To sum up, Langtang Valley Trek offers a breathtaking trekking experience with its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Furthermore, trekkers can experience the rich cultural heritage of the Langtang Valley while undertaking the trek. Despite the challenging conditions, trekkers are ultimately rewarded with the unforgettable memories they create during the trek. Whether trekking through the lower valleys or climbing higher altitudes, Langtang Valley promises an adventure filled with natural beauty and cultural experiences.
