Holiday Treks & Expedition

Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra

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US$ 850
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Max. Elevation
4200 m / 13779 ft
Group size
Min 2+
Level
Moderate
Transportation
All ground transportation as per itinerary
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accomodation
3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea house / Lodge during the trek
Meals
BLD
Trip Route

Highlights

  • Visit the holy Gosaikunda Lake, a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, believed to be created by Lord Shiva himself.
  • Participate in spiritual rituals and prayers at the lake, which attracts thousands of pilgrims during the annual Janai Purnima festival.
  • Embark on a scenic trek through the Langtang National Park, passing through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages on the way to the lake.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks such as Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu while trekking to Gosaikunda.
  • Engage in traditional Hindu rituals at Gosaikunda, including holy dips in the lake believed to purify sins and provide spiritual healing.
  • Immerse yourself in the culture of the Tamang and Sherpa communities, known for their hospitality and spiritual connection to the land.
  • Experience the serenity of the high-altitude landscape, with stunning alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and clear skies offering a peaceful retreat for reflection and spiritual rejuvenation.
  • Trek through rhododendron and pine forests, offering vibrant landscapes, and encounter diverse wildlife, including red pandas and Himalayan tahr.
  • Visit these scenic villages and monasteries along the way, offering further insight into local culture and spiritual practices.
  • A transformative journey that combines adventure, spirituality, and cultural exploration, allowing you to connect deeply with the sacred traditions of the region.

Overview

Gosaikunda Yatra is an important pilgrimage in Nepal, especially for followers of Hinduism and Buddhism. The Gosaikunda Yatra combines religious devotion with adventure and natural beauty, making it a memorable experience for pilgrims and trekkers. Gosaikunda is located at an altitude of 4380 meters north of Kathmandu. That lake is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva when he pressed his Trishul to fetch water in the mountains so that he could cool his stinging throat after swallowing poison. In the center of the lake is a large rock said to be the remains of a Shiva shrine. People often claim to see Shiva lying in water. Devotees gather here in large numbers on the full moon night of August for the sacred dip in the lake. The sacred lake is a two-day trek from Dhunche, accessible from Kathmandu via an adventurous 118 km mountain road via Trishuli Bazaar. Here’s some information about it:

Location:
Gosaikunda is a high-altitude alpine lake located in the Langtang National Park of Nepal, at an altitude of about 4,380 meters (14,370 feet) above sea level.

Religious Significance:
According to Hindu mythology, Gosaikunda is believed to be the abode of the Hindu deities Shiva and Gauri. It is particularly revered during the festival of Janai Purnima (also known as Raksha Bandhan), when thousands of pilgrims visit the lake to take a holy dip.

Trekking Route:
The trek to Gosaikunda usually starts from Dhunche or Syabrubesi in the Langtang region, which are accessible from Kathmandu by road. The trek takes around 5-7 days round trip, depending on the starting point and pace of the trekker.

Natural Beauty:
Besides its religious significance, Gosaikunda is known for its stunning natural beauty. The trek offers views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and diverse flora and fauna.

Cultural Experience:
During the trek, trekkers often encounter the unique culture of the Tamang and Sherpa ethnic groups who inhabit the region. Lodges and teahouses along the trekking route offer insight into the local way of life.

Challenges:
The high altitude of Gosaikunda means trekkers need to be prepared for altitude sickness. Weather conditions can also change rapidly, so it's important to be equipped with proper gear and to trek with a guide if unfamiliar with the area.

The Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra is a sacred journey to the holy Gosaikunda Lake, located at an altitude of 4,380 meters (14,370 feet) in the Langtang National Park of Nepal. Revered by Hindus, Gosaikunda is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and the lake is a significant pilgrimage site, especially during the Janai Purnima festival, when thousands of devotees trek to the lake to take a holy dip and seek blessings. The Yatra is not only a spiritual journey but also an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Langtang region. Surrounded by towering peaks such as Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu, the area offers trekkers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas while they immerse themselves in the religious significance of the site.

The trek to Gosaikunda is challenging, with steep climbs and high-altitude terrain, but it is an incredibly rewarding experience for pilgrims seeking both physical and spiritual renewal. The Yatra typically starts from Dhunche, a village in the Rasuwa District, which serves as the starting point for the trek. From Dhunche, pilgrims trek through lush forests, past waterfalls, and traditional villages to reach the holy lake. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy the natural beauty of the Langtang Valley and interact with the indigenous Tamang and Sherpa communities. Once at Gosaikunda, pilgrims take part in rituals and bathing in the sacred waters, believing that doing so will cleanse them of their sins and bring spiritual peace. Holiday Treks & Expedition ensures that all aspects of the journey are taken care of, from guiding pilgrims through the trek to assisting with permits and providing support along the way.

Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra Permits
To undertake the Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra, trekkers must obtain certain permits. The primary permit required is the Langtang National Park Permit, as Gosaikunda is located within the protected area of Langtang National Park. This permit helps fund conservation efforts and ensures that the natural environment is preserved while allowing trekkers to enjoy its beauty. The Langtang National Park Permit can be obtained in Kathmandu or Dhunche before starting the trek. The cost of the permit is reasonable, and it is essential for all visitors to the park.

In addition to the Langtang National Park Permit, trekkers must also obtain a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card. The TIMS card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal and helps authorities monitor the movement of trekkers in remote areas to ensure safety. The card can be obtained through a trekking agency like Holiday Treks & Expedition, making the process easy and straightforward. These permits and cards ensure that trekkers can legally and safely explore the Gosaikunda region while supporting sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. Holiday Treks & Expedition handles all the permit requirements for the Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra, ensuring a hassle-free experience for pilgrims.

Best Time for Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra
The best time for the Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions for both the pilgrimage and the trek. During spring, the temperatures are mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, and the skies are generally clear, offering excellent visibility of the surrounding mountain ranges. The flowers begin to bloom, and the forests are lush and green, creating a picturesque atmosphere for the trek to Gosaikunda. Spring is an ideal time for pilgrims to enjoy the beauty of nature while also performing their spiritual rituals at the holy lake.

Autumn is another excellent season for the Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra. The weather is crisp and dry, with clear skies and great visibility of the Himalayan peaks. The temperature is cool but manageable, and the trails are dry, making trekking conditions ideal. Autumn is also the season when most pilgrims undertake the Gosaikunda Yatra, as it coincides with the Janai Purnima festival in August, which is one of the most significant religious events for Hindus. During this time, the trek is filled with religious fervor, and the lake is visited by large numbers of devotees. While winter (December to February) can be harsh with cold temperatures and snow, and summer (June to August) brings the monsoon rains, spring and autumn remain the most favorable times for the Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra, ensuring a comfortable and spiritually enriching experience.

Holiday Treks & Expedition
Holiday Treks & Expedition is a leading trekking and tour company in Nepal, known for organizing a wide range of adventure and pilgrimage tours, including the Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra. With a team of experienced guides and staff, Holiday Treks & Expedition ensures that every aspect of the journey is taken care of, from acquiring permits to providing safe and comfortable accommodations. The company is committed to offering a hassle-free experience, allowing pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey while they take care of the logistics.

For the Gosaikunda Pilgrimage Yatra, Holiday Treks & Expedition provides professional guides who are not only knowledgeable about the trek but also well-versed in the religious and cultural significance of the pilgrimage. The company ensures that trekkers are fully prepared for the journey, offering assistance with physical preparation, packing, and making sure all necessary permits are obtained. With their comprehensive services, travelers can expect a smooth, enjoyable, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage to Gosaikunda, all while enjoying the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Langtang region. Whether you are seeking a peaceful spiritual journey or an adventurous trek, Holiday Treks & Expedition offers the perfect opportunity to experience the wonders of Gosaikunda.

Important Note

Trip Itinerary

We trek from Sundarijal to Chisopani. It goes through the Shivpur watershed and nature reserve. The first settlement you come across is Mulkharka, home of the Tamang people. The route goes along the ridge through the oak and rhododendron forest Chisopani (2300 m). 

Overnight in Chisapani.

The road descends from Chisopani on a good, sometimes flat road that crosses meadows and green fields. Descend through Pati Bhanjyang to Gul Bhanjyang. The path climbs the ridge to another pass at Gul Bhanjyang at 2620m. The meadows are well camped and then descend to Kutumsang at 2470m in the saddle at the top of the ridge. 

Overnight at the lodge or camp.

The trek continues north along the Yurin Danda ridge, offering views of the summit. The road climbs above Kutumsang on a steep and eroded path through cypress and rhododendron forests with no real habitat. The road descends to Magen Goth. 

Overnight at the lodge or camp.

The trail commences with a steep climb, continues upward and descends through forests, flower meadows, and river crossings. When you reach Tharepati there are many goths and lodges. From the top of this famous ridge, the road climbs through the forest and descends through a ravine that crosses the head of the valley, above which is a huge rock tower. 

Spend the night in a lodge or camp.

Meadows covered with dense stands of bamboo and rhododendron trees lead up the path. The road climbs to Pedi (3,500m). The path goes up along the river passing between the alpine trees. After this the track becomes a bit rougher and crosses a moraine but is well marked with fog. 

Spend the night in a lodge or camp.

On the northwest side of the lake there are several small rock shelters for pilgrimage. Hundreds of people come here every August during the full moon festival to worship and bathe in the lake. You can witness some black and white rocks in the lake with a unique story of Lord Shiva and his creations. 

Overnight in a cabin or campsite.

The trail briefly ascends gently through various chortens and small Shiva temples. After that we go down to Laure Binayak and then to Sing Gompa. The Gompa with the statue of Green Tara is one of the famous trekking destinations. Here you will find small cheese factories and several lodges. Further, the road takes us through dense forest to Chandanbari. Overnight in a cabin or campsite.

You walk along a gradually descending path. Along the way, you will also walk through several forests and villages. Overnight in a Lodge or campsite.

After an early breakfast, take a bus from Dhunche to Kathmandu. It takes about seven hours. It's a pleasant ride back to Kathmandu.

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Includes

  • A trekking guide
  • Porter/s (1 porter carries the luggage up to 25 kgs of 2 participants)
  • Entry permit for Langtang National Park
  • All meals 3 times a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Accommodation in teahouses (lodges) during the trek
  • Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
  • All land transportation
  • Sleeping bag and down jacket if required
  • Rescue Assistance
  • Necessary insurance for trekking staff
  • First Aid kit

Doesn't Include

  • Nature of personal expenses
  • Drinks, beverages, hot shower, etc.
  • Tips
  • Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu
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Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal