Sacred alpine lake at 4,380m – where mythology meets the Himalayas
A sacred pilgrimage route leading to a cluster of high-altitude lakes shimmering at 4,380m amid rocky peaks. Revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike, Gosaikunda is especially magical during the Janai Purnima festival — a rare blend of natural beauty and living spiritual tradition.
The route climbs steeply from Dhunche through forests of rhododendron and oak before emerging onto a stark alpine landscape dotted with sacred ponds and ancient stone shrines. A deeply spiritual and visually striking journey.
Pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists – 108 glacial lakes, Lauribina Pass, and Tamang culture.
Langtang / Rasuwa
4,610 m (Lauribina Pass)
7–10 days KTM–KTM
~75 km trekking
Moderate to Strenuous
Steep ascent, high lake
Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Rhododendrons or clear skies
Gosaikunda Lake · Lauribina Pass · Langtang Lirung · Tamang villages · 108 holy lakes
From Lauribina Pass (4,610m), see Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu and more.
| Peak Name | Height (m) | Range / Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Langtang Lirung | 7,227 | Highest in Langtang region |
| Ganesh Himal | 7,422 | Distinctive twin-summit |
| Manaslu | 8,163 | 8th highest (distant view) |
| Dorje Lakpa | 6,966 | Between Langtang & Rolwaling |
| Shishapangma | 8,027 | Only 8,000er entirely in Tibet |
| Gaurishankar | 7,134 | Sacred to Hindus & Buddhists |
| Naya Kanga | 5,844 | Popular climbing peak |
Kathmandu → Dhunche → Gosaikunda → Lauribina Pass → Sundarijal.
Gosaikunda lies inside Langtang National Park – not Annapurna. Obtain permits in Kathmandu or Dhunche.
| Permit | Cost (NPR) | Cost (~USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Langtang National Park Permit | 3,000 | ~$23 | One-time, available at NTB or Dhunche office |
| TIMS Card (Green) | 2,000 | ~$15 | Required for all trekkers |
| Total ~$38 – No restricted area permit, guide optional. | |||
| Style | Cost (USD) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| 🎒 Independent (budget) | $165–210 | Local bus, basic teahouses, no guide |
| 🚐 Standard (agency + guide) | $450–600 | Private jeep, guide, permits, Pokhara hotels (if extended) |
| ✨ Luxury (private + premium lodges) | $700+ | Best lodges, private transport, extra days |
Transparent breakdown for Gosaikunda trek.
Nights at Gosaikunda (4,380m) can drop below freezing – bring a warm sleeping bag (-10°C).
Gosaikunda is above 4,000m – proper acclimatization is essential. Rest day at the lake is built in.
Headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite. If severe (vomiting, ataxia): DESCEND immediately.
Drink 3–4 liters of water daily. Dehydration mimics and worsens altitude sickness.
Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills above 3,000m – they suppress breathing.
"Bistari bistari" – Nepali pace. Never rush on the ascent to Gosaikunda.
Must cover helicopter evacuation up to 5,000m+. Rescue from Gosaikunda costs ~$3,500.
Consult doctor – 125mg twice daily can help prevent AMS. Start the day before ascent.
Hindus believe Lord Shiva created the lake to cool his throat after drinking poison. Buddhists also revere it.
Dhunche → Chandanbari → Gosaikunda → Lauribina Pass → Ghopte → Chisapani → Sundarijal
Book your Gosaikunda trek with Lila – stunning mountain views, spiritual lakes, and authentic Tamang hospitality.