Trip Fact

Destination

Langtang

Duration

14 Days

Difficulty

Moderate to Challenging

Group Size

2-16 Persons

Max altitude

5130m.

Best time

Spring and Autumn

Activities

Trekking / Hiking

Accommodation

Hotel & Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

Private

Start from

Kathmandu

End at

Kathmandu

Langtang Ganja-La Pass Trek overview

Welcome to the land of adventure – the Langtang Ganja-La Pass Trek. This challenging journey crosses the high Ganja-La Pass to the beautiful Helambu Valley, following a unique and less-traveled wilderness route in the Langtang-Helambu region.

The trek takes you through magnificent valleys, lush evergreen forests, cascading waterfalls, and bright green hills, with panoramic snow-capped mountain views as a backdrop. Along the way, you’ll encounter villages inhabited mainly by the Tamang and Helamo ethnic groups, offering insights into their culture, traditions, distinctive dress, ancient trading styles, and the daily challenges of rural life.

Journey to the Langtang Ganja-La Pass

The trek begins with a scenic 120 km drive northwest from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi. From here, the trail winds through alpine forests rich in flora and fauna, leading gradually into the Langtang Valley.

Langtang Village – the largest Tamang settlement in the region — is known for its Tibetan-influenced culture and stunning mountain and glacier views. The trail then ascends to Kyanjin Gompa (3,800 m), famous for its yak cheese. After a day for acclimatization and exploration, we tackle the Ganja-La Pass.

The pass offers breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung and the Tibetan peaks, including Shisha Pangma (8,013 m). On clear days, you can also spot Naya Kanga (5,846 m), previously called Ganja-La Chuli, along with other majestic peaks to the south and west.

The descent from the pass can be more challenging than the ascent, with steep scree slopes and snow-covered paths. From here, we descend through alpine basins, waterfalls, and eventually into the charming Helambu Valley. Passing through villages such as Tarke Ghyang, Sermathang, and Kakani, we finally reach Melamchi Pul Bazaar before returning to Kathmandu.

Langtang Ganja-La Pass Trek highlights

  • Crossing the high-altitude Ganja-La Pass (5,130 m) – a challenging and scenic adventure.
  • Stunning panoramas of Langtang Lirung, Shisha Pangma, Naya Kanga, and other Himalayan giants.
  • Culturally rich villages of Tamang and Helamo ethnic groups.
  • Visits to Kyanjin Gompa and the famous yak cheese factory.
  • Wilderness trekking through untouched alpine landscapes.
  • Diverse ecosystems — rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, waterfalls, and glaciers.
  • Remote trails far from the commercial trekking routes.

Langtang Ganja-La Pass Trek itinerary

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, one of our representatives will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle.

Early in the morning, we drive from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi — an eight-hour journey through scenic foothills and ridgeline vistas. The route passes through Dhunche, offering glimpses of Ganesh Himal and the Trishuli River. The journey is enriched by terraced green hills and lush forests, though some road sections may be bumpy or under construction.

The trail begins by crossing the Bhote Koshi River, then follows the Langtang Khola upstream. We gradually ascend to Bamboo (1,970 m) through rugged paths before climbing gently to Rimche (2,400 m). After lunch here, we continue to Lama Hotel. Along the way, lucky trekkers may spot red pandas, monkeys, or even Himalayan black bears.

Today’s route follows the trail to Ghoda Tabela, meaning “Horse Stable.” The path then ascends gradually into a beautiful valley where yaks graze freely. Langtang Village is one of the oldest and largest Tamang settlements along the route, offering spectacular views of surrounding mountains and glaciers.

A shorter walk today allows for acclimatization. We pass through scenic landscapes to reach Kyanjin Gompa, famous for its yak cheese factory. Located at the foot of Langtang Lirung, this picturesque village provides opportunities to explore the valley and climb nearby hills.

Spend the day exploring Kyanjin Gompa and its surroundings. Options include visiting the monastery and cheese factory, hiking up the moraine to view the glaciers of Langtang Lirung, or ascending Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m) for panoramic views of the Langtang peaks.

The trail ascends steadily through natural alpine vegetation. This is a remote section with no villages or lodges, so we camp overnight.

A challenging and strenuous day as we cross the snow-covered Ganja-La Pass. From the top, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung, Shisha Pangma, and other Himalayan peaks. The descent involves steep and sometimes icy slopes, requiring caution.

A long day trekking along ridges and grasslands, with uninterrupted Himalayan vistas. We camp overnight in the forest.

The trail descends slightly before climbing over a 4,100 m pass, offering spectacular views of both the Annapurna and Everest ranges. We then descend through pine and rhododendron forests, passing a small herder settlement before reaching Tarkeghyang — home to one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries and a charming Sherpa village.

A relatively easy day on mostly flat trails through beautiful forests and streams. Along the way, we pass a village before reaching Shermathang, another picturesque Sherpa settlement with ancient monasteries and views of the Jugal Himal range.

We descend gradually through meadows, cultivated fields, and traditional villages, each with its own unique customs. The pleasant walk is accompanied by distant mountain views.

After breakfast, we drive along a bumpy gravel path to Lamidanda, then follow a paved road to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Your journey concludes today. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.

Are you interested in planning a custom trip with us? It’s quick, easy, and takes only 2 minutes.

What’s Included

  • All international and domestic airport transfers by tourist vehicle.
  • Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Twin-sharing and occasionally dormitory-style accommodation during the trek in the Langtang Region.
  • All standard meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) including seasonal fruits.
  • A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal.
  • Purified drinking water during the trek (using a water filter or purification tablets).
  • Private tourist vehicle transfers from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi and Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu.
  • Experienced, first-aid-trained, government-licensed, English-speaking, locally recruited Adventure Friendship trekking guide.
  • Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients).
  • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medical coverage for all staff.
  • Langtang National Park Entry Permit.
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.
  • 1 Adventure Friendship duffel/kit bag.
  • Comprehensive first aid kit, including an Oximeter to check pulse and oxygen levels daily in the mountains.
  • All administrative expenses and government taxes.

What’s Not Included

  • Nepal Entry Visa (easily obtainable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu — USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, USD 125 for a 90-day visa).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • International flight fares and airport departure taxes.
  • Travel insurance (must include high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage).
  • Any beverages, including bottled or boiled water.
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver.
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment.
  • Any expenses not mentioned in the Cost Includes section.

Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!

Langtang Ganja-La Pass Trek cost & dates

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Additional Information

Trekking Gear List

Clothing:

  • Base layers (thermal tops & bottoms)
  • Fleece jacket / down jacket
  • Waterproof & windproof outer shell (jacket & pants)
  • Trekking pants & shirts
  • Warm hat, sun hat, buff/scarf
  • Gloves (inner + waterproof outer)

Footwear:

  • Sturdy trekking boots (broken-in)
  • Camp shoes / sandals
  • Trekking socks (3–4 pairs) + warm socks (2 pairs)

Equipment:

  • Backpack (40–50 L)
  • Sleeping bag (–15°C comfort rating)
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)

Other Essentials:

  • Refillable water bottle / hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Personal toiletries & quick-dry towel
  • Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF 30+)
  • First aid kit & personal medications
  • Snacks & energy bars

Photos

Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek
Langtang Trekking
Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Langtang Ganja-La Pass Trek?

This trek is classified as strenuous due to the high altitude (up to 5,130 m), steep ascents and descents, and remote wilderness sections. You should have good physical fitness, stamina, and preferably prior trekking experience.

What is the best time to do this trek?

The ideal seasons are:

  • Spring (March–May) – Clear skies, warm days, blooming rhododendrons.
  • Autumn (September–November) – Stable weather, crystal-clear mountain views.
    Monsoon (June–August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, landslides, and slippery trails. Winter (December–February) can bring extreme cold and heavy snow on Ganja-La Pass, making it risky.

How many hours will we trek each day?

On average, you will trek 6–7 hours daily. Some days, such as the Ganja-La Pass crossing, may require up to 8–9 hours of walking.

Is prior trekking experience necessary?

While not mandatory, previous high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended. The trek includes technical challenges like snow slopes and steep descents from the pass.

What type of accommodation is available?

  • In Kathmandu – 3-star hotel with breakfast.
  • On the trek – Teahouses/lodges up to Kyanjin Gompa and after Tarkeghyang.
  • Between Ngegang and Dukpu – Camping due to no permanent settlements.

What kind of food will be served during the trek?

You will have three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) at teahouses or prepared by the camping crew. Meals include Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and some Western dishes, along with seasonal fruits.

Do I need a special permit for this trek?

Yes. You will need:

  • Langtang National Park Entry Permit
  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
    Both are included in the package.

Will there be altitude sickness risks?

Yes. The trek goes above 5,000 m, so altitude sickness is a possibility. The itinerary includes acclimatization days to reduce the risk. Our guides carry an oximeter and are trained in first aid and altitude illness management.

How is drinking water managed?

We provide purified drinking water during the trek using water filters or purification tablets. You should carry a refillable water bottle or hydration bladder.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. It is mandatory to have travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation.

What happens in case of bad weather on Ganja-La Pass?

If weather conditions are unsafe, the pass crossing may be postponed or rerouted for safety. Our guides will decide the best course of action based on real-time conditions.

How is my luggage handled during the trek?

A porter will carry your luggage (1 porter for every 2 trekkers). You can carry a small daypack for essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.

What should I pack for this trek?

You will need layered clothing for cold conditions, a warm sleeping bag, sturdy trekking boots, and other essentials. We provide a detailed gear list before departure.

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