Langtang Valley Trek

Best Season for the Trek

Like any other adventure in Nepal, this high-altitude exploration of Himlayan can be during all four seasons; however, the best time for this adventure is considered to be during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Both of these seasons are the peak seasons for the high altitude trekking and mountaineering expeditions in the country.

Spring, in particular, is famous for its pleasant and stable weather, warm temperature, and blooming of the wildflowers throughout the trail that multiples the beauty of the Langtang Valley by several folds. In this season, the beauty of the third most popular trekking route in Nepal is in full swing, covering the trails with lush greenery and the scent of the exotic flowers of the region, making it a perfect time to admire the beauty of nature. The temperature of the Langtang region is around 10°C to 20°C during the day and can drop 5°C at night time.

Similarly, autumn is another popular season that has stable weather, mild temperature, and vibrant foliage and landscapes nourished by monsoon rain. This less humid and dry season is best known for the sharp and perfect clear views of the Himalayas without any obstruction. The mild temperature, followed by cool and chilly breezes in the morning and evening, makes it the perfect time for an outdoor adventure. The day temperature of the Langtang region stays around 10°C to 15°C during the days and can drop upto 0°C to 5°C at night.

You could also do the Langtang Valley Trek during the monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February). However, the climatic conditions and temperatures during these seasons can be a challenge for many. Monsoon aligns with the summer season of the country, so you can expect the temperature to spike up to 30°C, which makes it a challenging day’s trek at the lower elevations. Furthermore, the challenges that the monsoon seasons bring, like muddy trails, leeches in the lower routes, blockage, and risk of landslides, can be hard to overcome for a beginner trekking enthusiast.

Likely, the winter season is known for its harsh weather that can drop up to 6°C to 9°C during the daytime and drops to minus degrees at nighttime. Although the snowy trails and freezing weather of the region can add up the challenging factors, with the right gear and protective wear, the Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days is also possible in the winter.

Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days Difficulty

Immersing in the absolute beauty of the Himlayas in the vicinity of the massive towering natural snow-clad figurines can certainly be a magical experience. However, often, the challenges imposed by these high-altitude adventures can be a bit too much for many. But rest assured, Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days isn’t among those physically exerting adventures that push you to the maximum level of your endurance point. In fact, this scenic exploration of the valley of glaciers is one of the easiest mountain expeditions in the country and is graded at a ‘moderate’ difficulty level.

That’s why this beautiful trekking expedition is popular among both beginners and seasonal adventurists alike. However, it doesn’t mean that you could do this trek without any preparation; regardless of its lower difficulty level, it is still a high-altitude adventure, so you will need to be careful about several factors while doing this trek.

Altitude Gain:

Starting your adventure at Syarubesi (2,380 meters), you will move along the highest elevation point at Tsergo Ri (5,033 meters). As there is a risk of altitude sickness in this high-altitude adventure, you will need to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and follow other precautionary methods to prevent altitude sickness.

Trekking Route:

This trek covers an approximate distance of 60- 80 km, and you will need to walk about 6- 7 hours on average per day during the expedition. The rugged, rocky, and dirt trails are challenging factors of this adventure, with added difficulty during the steep segments. Thus, you need to make preparation properly to overcome this difficulty for a more enjoyable experience.

Remoteness:

You have to accept that Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days trek is a remote exploration; you will not be able to enjoy the luxuries of exotic vacation destinations in this adventure. You will have to get by with a basic to moderate level of services during most parts of the trek, and the trekking route has a limited number of facilities along the route. Thus, you will have to mentally prepare for these factors and keep yourself motivated to complete this beautiful expedition.

Some Helpful Tips to Reduce the Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days Difficulty

• Always do proper research about the region you are about to explore; don’t shy away to take tips from experienced trekkers or trekking forums
• Pack the right clothes and footwear ideal for the high and low-altitude climatic zone
• If you are on any kind of prescribed medication, make sure to pack enough for the expedition
• Use trekking poles and other trekking gears that will reduce the strain of a long day’s walk on your body
• Do light warm-up exercises daily before starting your trek
• Always stay on the guided path and don’t stray far away; consult your guide before any side detour
• Enjoy a slow-paced adventure and keep taking short breaks every hour while trekking
• Stay hydrated throughout the expedition, carry a water bottle in your hand, or use a strapped bottle so you don’t forget to drink
• Pack snacks and dried fruits; you might want to take a light bite during your breaks to recharge your energy level

You may also like:

• Langtang Valley Trekking
• Tamang Heritage Trekking
• Langtang Gosainkunda Trekking

Training for the Langtang Valley Trek 7 Day

Even though the Langtang Valley Trek is not strenuous and physically draining as other high-altitude adventures in Nepal, it is still nothing like a walk in the park either. You may not have to spend a significant amount of time over an altitude of 4,000- 5,000 meters in this remote exploration, but you will still need an adequate amount of training. Generally, it is recommended that you should start your preparation for the high-altitude trekking adventures at least 8- 12 weeks prior to the expedition. But, depending on your physical ability, you could adjust the training program according to your need.

There are basically two areas you should focus on during your preparation for the trek; strength and cardiovascular training. Both of these training exercises will enhance your endurance and stamina level making this Himalayan exploration a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Here are some exercises you could add to your training regime:

Strength Training:

• Squat
• Plank
• Weighigfitng
• Deadlift
• Bicep curl
• Push-up
• Lunges
• Tricep dips
• Squats
• Bench press
• Shoulder press

Cardiovascular Training:

• Aerobics
• Burpee
• Lateral shuffle
• Cycling
• Jogging
• Rowing
• Rope jumping
• Swimming

**Note: You could add hiking on natural trails with trekking boots and carrying a backpack with significant weight as well as stair climbing to overcome the steep segments of the trail.**

Food and Accommodation

Although the Langtang Valley trek may not be well facilitated like other mainstream trekking routes in the country, the third-most-popular trekking route in Nepal does offer a basic to moderate level of service to its guests. For accommodation, you will generally use shared bedrooms with 2- 3 beds per room ratio, depending on the teahouses. You will be provided with a bed, pillow, blanket, and mattress in every teahouse, but many trekkers still prefer to carry sleeping bags with them. As for the bathroom facilities, you will share the bathroom with other guests and can enjoy hot showers at lower elevations.

As for the food, the Langtang Valley trek offers several traditional Tibetan-influenced and continental delicacies to the trekkers. Depending upon the service grade of teahouses along the trail, you will also be able to pick from an extensive menu option. Here are some dishes you can expect during your Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days expedition.

For Breakfast

• Boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, omelet
• Tea, coffee, juice
• Bread and toast
• Oats
• Pancakes
• Porridge
• Chapati
• Paratha
• Soup
• Sandwich
• Chips
• Salad

For Lunch and Dinner

• Daal Bhaat Tarkari (steamed rice, lentils, and vegetables)
• Pasta
• Macaroni
• Pizza
• Noodles
• Chowmein and spaghetti
• Momos
• Thukpa
• Pies
• Fried rice
• Yak stew
• Yeak steak
• Rildk
• Shyphale
• Riki Kur

For water, although you will be able to buy bottled water throughout the expedition or purify the water from local taps, the safest way to drink water is to use boiled water at the teahouses. You can use purifying solution or tablets to stay on the safe side.

**Note: Both vegan and vegetarian meals are available in all the teahouses throughout the trek, you just have to make the request, and they will prepare the meal right away. There are a significant number of vegetarians in Nepal, so almost all eatery facilities provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meal options.**

Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days FAQs

How long is the trek to Langtang Valley?

The Langtang Valley trek, in general, last from 5- 7 days, depending upon the itinerary plans. You will cover an approximate distance of 77 km throughout this trekking adventure and will walk about 6- 7 hours on average per day.

Is the Langtang Valley trek difficult?

The Langtang Valley trek has been graded at a ‘moderately difficult’ level, which means that it is not a difficult trek that requires experience or technical skills. If you have a basic fitness level and sound health, you will be able to complete this adventure without a hitch with sufficient preparation.

How much does Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days cost?

The general price margin for the Langtang Valley Trek 7 Days is around US$ 700 to US$ 1,500; however, the price factor majorly depends upon the amenities and the number of itineraries, so the cost may even cross the median margin.

How far is Langtang from Kathmandu?

Langtang National Park is quite close to Kathmandu and is the closest Himalayan exploration from this beautiful capital; Kathmandu is about 61 km away from Langtang National Park and takes about 4- 5 hours to drive.

Is there a risk of altitude sickness in the Langtang Valley Trek?

As there is a risk for altitude sickness in altitudes over 2,500 meters, there is a risk for altitude sickness in Langtang Valley trekking route as you will be ascending over an altitude of 2,500 meters. However, unlike other mainstream trekking routes that significant amount of time at higher elevations, the risk of catching altitude sickness is relatively low in the Langtang Valley trek, but make sure to stay hydrated and enjoy a slow-paced adventure to minimize the risk.

Do I need a sleeping bag for Langtang Valley Trek?

Although the Langtang Valley Trek is a teahouse trekking expedition in Nepal, which means that you will be using the accommodating and eatery services of local teahouses along the route. It is recommended that you should carry your own sleeping bag during the trek; your room in the lodges will be accommodated with blankets, pillows, and a mattress, but still carrying a sleeping bag will provide an overall better experience.

Can I get internet on the Langtang Valley Trek?

Yes, you will be able to use the internet services at the teahouses along the routes of the Langtang Valley Trek, and for the higher altitudes where there is no coverage or bad connection, you could use the internet service provided by the mobile network operators like NTC and Ncell.

When is the best time for the Langtang Valley Trek?

The best time for Langtang Valley Trek is considered to be during autumn (September, October, November) and spring (March, April, May). During these seasons, the weather is stable, warmer, and with perfect visibility best-suited for the high Himalayan adventure.

Is there an ATM machine along the route?

No, there isn’t an ATM machine along the Langtang Valley Trek route, as it is remote Himalayan exploration and does lack infrastructure; unlike other mainstream trekking routes like the Everest Base Camp trek, you will have to carry enough cash from Kathmandu. There are also limited options for currency change in the remote villages along the route, so make sure to change to the local currency as well.

Do you need a guide for the Langtang Valley Trek, or can we trek by ourselves?

Nepal Government has set a new rule since 1st April 2023 that doesn’t allow any solo venturing of the Himalayan region; thus, you won't be able to do the Langtang Valley Trek without a guide from a registered and certified agency.