1. It’s a culturally immersive experience
This region borders Tibet and is home to the Yolmo people, this is an ethnic group unique to this region of Nepal, they speak a different language and have held on to their customs and traditions. Their warmth and kindness will bring joy to your heart. The Langtang region borders Tibet and the people of this region are closely aligned with Tibetan culture and beliefs. It is a strongly Buddhist region, you will see Monasteries, gompa’s and prayer flags at every turn. Unlike the more popular Everest and Annapurna Trails, on this trek you will see how the local people live, their farming practices and how they go about their daily lives. This region is a truly special part of Nepal.
2. Gosaikunda Lake
Although the Gosaikunda Lakes are not on the Lantang Valley Trek itinerary, you do have the option of this by choosing to do our Langtang Valley Extended Trek which will take you over the Laurabina Pass and to Gosaikunda Lake. The famous lake is a place of pilgrimage for Hindu’s from India and Nepal. Once a year thousands of people gather at the Gosaikunda Lake as it is believed that Lord Shiva threw his trident into the mountains after he was poisoned, his trident created the lake and he drank from its waters. Hindu’s believe that is you bath in the holy lake all of your sadness, sins and problems will be washed away.
3. Cheese Factory
Who wouldn’t want to visit a cheese factory?!! Yes, this government run cheese factory in what feels like the middle of nowhere is a special place to visit. The factory was established in the 1950’s with the help of the Swiss people who supported and encouraged the production of cheese from the Yaks and Naks of the region. The 2015 Earthquake destroyed the cheese factory, the Earthquake sadly killed 27 herders and 400 yaks, it was a devastating time for the region. With help from the Swiss government the cheese factory was rebuilt better than before. Today, cheese from the Langtang region is considered some of the best cheese in the world, the taste is comparable to Swiss Cheese!
4. Shorter than the other treks but just as spectacular
This trek is perfect for people who are time poor, it’s a 9 day itinerary which is one of the shortest treks we offer. Although it’s shorter it still takes you into the Langtang Himalayan Range and immerses you into the culture of the local people. This is the trek for you if you have less time or if you want to pack more into your time in Nepal. Many people who do this trek then have time left to go to Pokhara or Chitwan.
5. Suitable for families
This trek is ideal for families as it’s not as arduous as the more popular treks, it’s well paced and manageable for children aged 7 and up. We’re big believers in hiking with children as the most wonderful memories will be created for your family. Although you do reach high altitudes, the elevation is not as extreme as on the Everest Base Camp Trek, this will make it much more enjoyable for families. Our guides love trekking with families, be sure to pack a deck of Uno Cards!
6. Less Touristy
This is a big bonus! The Everest and Annapurna Trails can get very busy during peak seasons. This region is much less touristy and feels like a much more authentic insight into Nepal and its people. There’s way more to this trek than just the trek, it’s a cultural and spiritual experience. This area was badly affected by the 2015 Earthquake which is another reason why we think it’s a great idea to get there and support the local people who have rebuilt their lives. There are less shops, bakeries and bars on this trail but we feel that it adds to the experience. Big thumbs up for the Langtang Valley Trek!