Ghangri Circuit Trek: An off the beaten trail to Gosainkunda
Immerse yourself on an adventurous and spiritual journey in the land of God and the hidden valley of the Himalayas with more freshwater lakes with spiritual importance.
per person from USD 1150
Best Season | March to May and September to November |
|---|---|
Trip Duration | 11 Days & 10 Nights |
Trip Difficulty | Moderate |
Accomodation | Hotel in city and tea houses, lodges and homestays during the trek |
Max. Elevation | 4620 m (15,157 ft. ) |
Trip Highlights
- Trek to the known Gosainkunda via the off-the-beaten path and unknown trail to many.
- Trek with a chance to witness more lakes than any other trek in Nepal.
- A completely new trekking route to the holy lake of Nepal, Gosainkunda through Nuwakot’s Hyolmo Settlement.
- Untouched and unexplored trekking route of Nau Kunda Valley with the nine lakes.
- An opportunity to retrace the trail taken by the Lord Shiva Parbati to the holiest Gosainkunda
- A glimpse of the village lifestyle of ethnic groups.
- Possible encounters with wildlife including the rare Red Panda during the trek
Introduction
Ghangri Circuit Trek: An off-the-beaten trail to Gosainkunda
Ghangri Circuit Trek offers an authentic experience of discovering off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal. The trail that follows takes you along an entirely new, untouched trekking route to Gosaikunda Lake, the most sacred lake in Nepal. The trek provides a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the renowned Gosaikunda Region via a brand-new trekking path via Nuwakot’s Hyolmo Settlements. Hyol and Mo are the roots of the word Hyolmo. Mo signifies goddess, while Hyol is the area covered with tall hills. The Hyolmo Community worships the natural world. Another term derived from Hyolmo is Helambu. Nepal’s Helambu region is well-known for trekking. The term “Ghangri” means the Himalaya and people who reside in its foothills are the Ghangmi Hyolmo people.
The Gosainkunda trek is the most popular trekking destination in Nepal, behind the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and Langtang Trek. There are several ways to complete the Gosainkunda trek, including the Shivapuri Gosainkunda trail, Sundarijal, Dhunche, and Melamchhigyang Helambu. Despite being so close to Kathmandu, most trekkers and trekking guides are unaware of this new circuit trek route to Gosainkunda, which takes only eleven amazing days.
Many of us know about the Gosaikunda Region. In fact, it is the third most popular travel destination of Nepal but sadly many of us do not know about the Naukunda Valley and the route via Nuwakot. This new trail called the Ghangri circuit is believed to be the route followed by Lord Shiva and Parbati to reach the Gosaikunda Region. This region is also home to the Hyolmo and Tamang people. One can experience a unique blend of Bon and Buddhist philosophies along with the cultural exposure of the Hyolmo people.
Almost all trekkers head back without knowing that there are about nine more lakes on this side of the trail. These lakes are Lamu (Lamo) Kunda, Raja Kunda, Rani Kunda, Nau Kunda, Sera Kunda, Ekle Kunda, Agni Kunda, Jhyakung Kunda & Sagar Kunda. All of these have their own myths, beliefs, and beauty. And with monsoon, these lakes bloom with beautiful varieties of wildflowers.
Continue ReadingThe trekking trail o this trek climbs through a variety of alpine, sub-alpine, and subtropical flora types. Along the trail, several species of alder, rhododendron, mountain oak, birch, and juniper provide a serene atmosphere accompanied by chirping birds. Additionally, if you’re fortunate, you might come across the adorable and rare Red Panda. Trekking through deep forests, rugged terrain, and steep slopes offers breathtaking views and an exciting adventure.
Trekkers can encounter a mysterious land like never before along this path, which passes through more than two dozen freshwater lakes. Numerous breathtaking viewpoints along the trail provide a broad perspective of the Himalayan peaks, including Rolwaling, Jugal, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal. The trekkers will also have the opportunity to witness the customs and way of life of the Tamang and Hyolmo ethnic communities.
Dupcheswor Mahadev Temple, a Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage place, is where the journey begins. It is thought that Lord Shiva Parbati traveled via the Dupcheshwor temple, Sagar Kunda, Nau Kunda Valley to the Gosainkunda Lake after ingesting the lethal kaaljut poison.
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Itinerary
Cost Includes
- All necessary airport arrival departures as per the itinerary.
- 2 night’s hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis on the BB plan.
- Transportation from Kathmandu to Hung Village for clients and guides in a private 4WD jeep.
- Transportation from Ramti Bazar – Kathmandu for clients and guides
- 3 meals a day during the trekking (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Tea, or coffee during the trek (3 times a day).
- 9 days best available rooms during the trekking in lodge & tea house, homestays, and camping
- Professional government license holder English speaking trekking guide and his salary.
- The required number of porters to carry the luggage during the trek (We assign one porter for every two guests)
- Langtang National Park permit fee and special permit
- Trekking permit (TIMS).
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Insurance for Nepali staff
- All government and local taxes.
- Trekkers Paradise’s appreciation of the certificate after the successful trek.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/ from Nepal.
- Nepal Entry Visa Fees for multiple Entries on arrival at Tribhuwan Internationa Airport- (15 days – $25-30, 30 days- $40-50 and 90 days- $100-110)
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Insurance covers medical, emergency evacuation, loss, etc.
- Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boiled bottle water, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee), extra porters, etc
- Hot shower during the trekking.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- Additional costs or delays caused by out-of-management control, for example, landslide, weather conditions, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc.
- Tips and gratitude provided to staff.
Train Yourself
The best physical condition is required to trek in Nepal’s high altitude. It can be hard without some pre-trek training or a good level of basic fitness. We suggest running, walking, hiking on the hill, and climbing stairs rather than elevators to prepare for the trek. Include swimming, rowing, and biking in your daily base training.
Basic further experience and strength required for Trekking
- One should be able to hike for 5-6 hours a day.
- One should be able to carry 6 kg themselves in a backpack for preparation.
- We suggest you run about 3/4 miles in the home for the preparation with some load on your back for one month to make your climbing much easier. Or use a treadmill for everyday running and walking.
- If you have an uphill location/mountain then once a week you should go hiking with a loaded bag pack on your back. If you do not have mountains and high hills then use stairs to go up/down than the elevator.
- Regular swimming, biking, and rowing are also good ways to maintain your physical strength.
- Fuel your body well with small but frequent healthy foods and drink plenty of water.
- Go through a trek grading and know what type of trekking is suitable for you. The treks are graded as easy, moderate, hard, and challenging treks.
- Go after what you want and what your physical capabilities will allow you to. Do not push yourself too hard. Trekking is not a competition. It is relaxing and rewarding.
- Walk at a pace you are most comfortable with. An assistant guide will be always walking at the back of the group so you don’t have to rush to catch up with the faster walkers at the front.
- Using trekking poles reduces the body and backpack’s weight on the legs and makes walking easier on inclines.
- Invest in the comfortable full trekking boot with ankle support and a sturdy Vibram sole that suits your foot to avoid blisters.
Equipments
We will meet you at the airport and pick you up
We organized Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) airport pick up and drop service. Upon your arrival, you are welcomed and greeted at your arrival gate (Holding your name on the company pamphlet- Trekkers Paradise) by our representative member from a company, then transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. For departure transfer, we will come to pick you up at your hotel in Kathmandu and take you to the airport for your international flight.
Passport and Visa
All foreigners except Indian nationals must have a valid visa to enter Nepal. Visa is available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport upon entry in Kathmandu, Nepal, and at Nepal borders of India and Tibet. Visa can be easily extended to the central immigration office. www.immigration.gov.np Visa application requires a passport with at least 6 months until expiration and one passport-size photo.
The current cost of a visa for 15 Days – 30 USD, 30 Days – 50 USD, and 90 Days – 125 (to be paid in cash) Other currencies are also accepted although rates may differ. Other nationalities should check entry requirements. Visitors are requested to specify return flight tickets, and the time intended to stay in Nepal.
Visa Extension Fee: Tourist visa extension is done for a minimum of 15 days with USD 45 and USD 3 per day for additional days. In the case of a delay of less than 150 days, an additional USD 5 per day as of late fine.
Booking and Payment Process
Trekkers Paradise is a government-authorized, registered, licensed, and bonded trekking and touring operator in Nepal. The company registered number is 221608/076/0677. We are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN), and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Therefore, book the Trekkers Paradise trip with confidence as we are reliable.10 percent of payment in advance and other necessary documentation like passport copy, passport size photos, travel insurance policy, and arrival, and departure flight details can be made later but must not exceed within two weeks’ period from the booking date. Payment is to be made by bank transfer, Western Union. The remaining trip cost can be paid whether in cash or by bank transfer when you arrive in Nepal. Furthermore, we put forward the necessary modes of payment details at your convenience by mail.
Trekkers Paradise Crw
During the Ghangri Circuit Trek, you will be accompanied by our local best-trained and well-experienced guides/Sherpas to make your journey even more comfortable and memorable. All guides are well-trained trained licensed with prior experience they have spent years trekking/climbing peaks all over the world. Porters will also be assigned to carry your luggage. Two members will be assigned one porter, combined luggage should not exceed more than 20 kg. We provide basic accommodation for our guides and porters or tents with sleeping gear and we also provide them food and warm drinks.
- Intensive Wilderness First Aid
- Authorized certificate of Trekking Guide Training
- Fluency in speaking English and other major Languages
- Rock climbing
- Conservation and biodiversity
Tipping
Tipping is not included in the salaries of your guides, porters, or crew, but it is greatly appreciated. In Nepalese culture, tips are accepted and a lovely way of saying thank you (“Dhanyabada”) for good service. Normally the tips are offered at the end of the trek and this is best done as a group. Most groups will give the trips on the last day of the trek.
Accommodation during the trek
11-day Ghangri Circuit Trek includes a 7-night lodge and homestays including 1 day camping stay at a mountain and 2 nights at the hotel in Kathmandu, where we use the best available lodge and select the best accommodation in the Langtang region.
You can find some teahouses and lodges with good services on the trekking routes during your trekking days. But as you ascend higher they become more basic. Rooms are basic, almost every room consisting twin-bedded with two beds with a mattress, a pillow, and blankets. You can share a room with a fellow trekker with whom you feel at ease.
Although, each lodge has its own set of standards, please do not anticipate luxurious accommodations, particularly in the mountains. Most teahouses offer hot showers, boiled drinking water, extra blankets, charging stations, and WIFI for an additional fee. The price of teahouses is determined by the location and the facilities/services they offer.
Meals during the trek
Our trek takes us to high altitudes near the world’s highest point, which means your body will need enough starch, protein, and nutrition, as food is the body’s fuel for hiking on such massive Himalayan trails.
All the meals including breakfasts, lunch, and dinner are served during your stay in Kathmandu and the trekking journey. Usually, breakfast and dinner are served at the same hotel where we stay overnight and lunch is served en route to our destination during the trek.
The services are basic, with some of the popular Western, Asian, or Nepalese menus being the most popular and consumed. The most popular and common menu items include the Dal-Bhat set, which consists of rice, lentils, and vegetables, as well as meat, rice, and noodle items, spaghetti, pasta, momo(dumplings), Tibetan bread, chapatti, local tsampa porridge, potatoes, sandwiches, macaroni dishes, pizza, Sherpa stew, steaks, vegetable curry and so forth. The Dessert Items (Rice Pudding, Apple pie), Hard Drinks Steaks, etc.) are available on the menu as well during the trek.
However, you cannot compare them with the choices available in large cities. Usually, local agricultural products are used to prepare meals. Other ingredients are purchased from the market if they cannot grow at a particular elevation.
Breakfast and dinner orders are taken in advance to save time; breakfast orders are taken the night before and dinner orders are taken as soon as you arrive at the teahouse. Depending on your schedule for the day, your typical day will begin. Breakfast is served in your lodge each morning, after which you leave for the next stop. A guide will notify the next tea house or lodge of your arrival each day. Around noon, you’ll stop for lunch at any nearby lodge on the way. You will arrive at your destination shortly after lunch. You can unwind or explore the nearby attractions when you arrive. You will dine around 7 to 8 pm.
At high altitudes, we strongly advise drinking hot liquid drinks in addition to fresh vegetable foods and fruit drinks. Drink plenty of water, not all a once but regularly on a time intervals.
It is best to avoid smoking cigarettes, consuming alcohol, non-vegetarian foods like meat, caffeine-containing foods, hot chocolate, and dairy and cheese products on high-altitude treks. These things increase the chances of getting altitude sickness and diarrhea.
Safe Drinking Water
The availability of drinking water is not an issue. Bottled mineral water is available in most places for purchase, but there is no provision to dispose of plastic bottles. We encourage guests to do what they can to protect the environment. We do not recommend purchasing single-use plastic bottles. You can buy or bring your own Nalgene bottles on the trek which makes the trail free from bottles and rubbish.
Filling your water bottles in tea houses is another option for getting drinking water. Several guesthouses have the Euro-guard filters water. Boiled filter water is also available in tea houses that are completely safe to drink but may be inexpensive for the duration of the trek.
River water is generally full of glaciers and sand and may be contaminated with animal urine and toilet run-off, so do not drink it. The tap water in the lodges is piped from high up, away from rivers and clean glaciers, so it is better, but it still must be treated.
Use iodine drops (3 per liter) locally known as Lugols solution, available at Thamel supermarkets in Kathmandu. The chlorine-based tablets are another choice, but they do transmit a taste to the water. Alternatively, you could purchase a Steripen, which uses UV to kill the bacteria but is a bit fragile to carry during the trek.
The best option is the water purification tablet Aquaprove, which uses cutting-edge technology. Most importantly, it works against all pathogens in impure water. It’s light, simple to use, has no taste, and is all-natural.
Waste Management during the trek
Leave No Traces, Only the Footprints! Pack out your own waste. We practice responsible eco-tourism and organize eco-friendly trips to support sustainable tourism.
The trekking trail in Nepal has suffered significant damage as a result of not having a strong policy on waste management. Act and travel responsibly. We prefer that all of our clients bring their trash keep it in a container or bag, and dispose of it properly at a specific spot or dustbin.
How to avoid acute mountain sickness?
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the most deadly risk of trekking. Anyone can get a victim of this sickness when their body is exposed to a higher elevation in a short period of time and the body is unable to adapt to the changing atmospheric pressures. As you ascend higher, the oxygen and air pressure decrease. Our bodies are capable of handling the change, but they require time to gradually adapt. If it is not treated in time, it can be severe and result in death. You can take a few preventative measures to avoid it.
- Not to climb too high too fast.
- Climb slowly and attain the height gradually.
- Take it easy and climb at your own comfortable pace.
- Reduce your walking hours as you reach 2000 meters and walk slowly.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Get plenty of rest. If you feel like your body needs more rest, get it.
- Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
- Meditation and warm-up exercise each day before starting the trek.
- Allow an acclimatization day for every 1000m of elevation gain.
There are two more serious but less common severe forms of altitude sickness. Both have the potential to be fatal. You must descend immediately to receive medical care.
High-altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) causes the lungs to swell with excess fluid, which makes breathing difficult even when at rest. You experience extreme exhaustion, weakness, and perhaps a sense of suffocation. A dry cough, nose breathing, shortness of breath, fever, chest tightness, rapid heart rates, congestion, swelling, and fainting are the symptoms of HAPE. If HAPE is not promptly treated by lowering the altitude or using oxygen, it can be fatal.
High-altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) is characterized by an accumulation of fluid on the brain that results in swelling. Confusion, poor coordination, and possibly violent behavior could occur. Hallucinations, loss of consciousness, fever and fatigue, photophobia, hypertension, coma, shortness of breath, and inability to walk are some more symptoms of HACE. HACE can result in death if it is not treated immediately.
The early signs of altitude sickness can be relieved by immediately descending. However, if you are experiencing severe acute mountain sickness symptoms, you should see a doctor.
The drug acetazolamide can ease heavy breathing and lessen the effects of altitude sickness. You may also be given the steroid Dexamethasone. But you are never recommended to take such drugs as far as possible until the situation is harsh.
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