Recognized as the pristine Valley of Glaciers, Langtang Valley is one of the closest trekking destinations from Kathmandu, capital of Nepal. As such, many trekking ventures explore this vase stretch of the magical landscape via various routes. Langtang Valley Trek is one such trip that runs through the major attractions of both the Langtang Valley and Langtang National Park. The trekking trail enjoys a vibrant display of natural and cultural heritage in the shadows of the Langtang Himal range. All in all, this trek is best suited for beginner trekkers who want to gain experience in trekking and enjoy the region’s cultural aspect.
Langtang Valley Trek Route
Syabrubesi, the starting point of the trek, is connected to Kathmandu via a 141-kilometer road. As such, a few hours’ drive takes you to Syabrubensi, where you begin the trek. You immediately enter the Langtang National Park and follow the course of the Langtang River upstream. Lama Hotel is the first stop on the trek, followed by Ghodatabela and Thangshyap.
Next, the trail continues with the views of Langtang Lirung (7227m) to settle at Langtang Village. Further, you gradually ascend to reach Kyanjin Gompa. Here, you explore the ancient monastery and have the option to scale Tserko Ri (4984m) or hike to Langshisha Kharka.
Variation in Trekking Terrain and Difficulty
Langtang Valley Trek is a moderately difficult trek with a fair share of variety in trekking terrain. The trek starts at an altitude of 1,500 meters at Syabrubesi and reaches its highest point at Kyanjin Gompa at 3,860 meters. During this change in altitude, trekkers have to traverse steep inclines, rocky trails, and tricky slopes.
However, trekking across these trails might not be a huge challenge if a trekker is physically fit. Alternatively, if you choose to hike to the top of Tserko Ri (4984m), you will require a greater degree of physical fitness and conquer more difficult trails on the way.
Altitude Sickness
Since a large section of the Langtang Valley Trek is well-above 3,000 meters, altitude sickness can be a big threat. Due to the decrease in oxygen density in higher altitudes, trekkers find it difficult to breathe, and their bodies might not function normally. Some of the symptoms of altitude sickness are headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, etc.
If you begin to develop these symptoms, descending should be your first course of action. Additionally, there are ways to prevent altitude sickness, which you should follow on the trek.
Best time to do Langtang Valley Trek
Like most of the treks in Nepal, the spring and autumn seasons are the best time to do Langtang Valley Trek. Spring begins from March and lasts till June, whereas autumn begins from November and lasts till December. Both these seasons offer dry weather and moderate temperature, which are ideal for trekking adventures. Moreover, these conditions are also perfect to relish the scenery of the Himalayas.
During the winter season (December to February), the temperature can drop below 0 degrees Celsius that creates adverse weather conditions to trek. Similarly, summer/monsoon (June to August) experiences massive downpour, which makes the trails slippery and difficult to trek on. So, trekkers usually avoid winter and summer months for the Langtang Valley Trek.
Ways to reduce Langtang Valley Trek Difficulty
There are several ways to reduce the degree of difficulty of Langtang Trek. Firstly, trekkers have to choose the best time to trek for an easier trekking experience. As such, spring and autumn seasons are the time to go on the Langtang Trek.
Similarly, training before the trek is also important. Doing cardio exercises, swimming, jogging, and cycling strengthen your body for the trek. Also, it is of the utmost importance that you maintain an intake of healthy food and hydrate yourself on the trek. Doing all these will reduce the difficulty a trekker will have to face on the Langtang Valley Trek.
Conclusion
Langtang Valley is a land full of promises and prospects for a magical journey. So, Langtang Valley Trek itself is best suited for those who wish to experience the Himalayan voyage in Nepal. However, it is also important to have proper knowledge regarding the trek and its challenges. This way, you can have all the fun minus the unnecessary complexities of a high-altitude trek in Nepal.
