Langtang National Park Trek

Langtang National Park

On a clear day Langtang Lirung (7245 m (23,769 ft)) is visible from Kathmandu. It dominates the surrounding area of the same name which stretches from the north of the Helambu to the Tibetan border. The one-week walk through the Langtang National Park leads to the glacier at the foot of the mountain, then to near the base camp and back. On the way there are good views of the Ganesh Himal chain. The countryside is quite thinly populated but it is possible to spend the night in village guest houses. From the lowest point in Trisuli Bazar at 541 m (1775 ft) to the Kyanjin gompa at 3800 m (12,467 ft) the walk cuts through various climatic zones. The Langtang National Park begins in Dhunche and stretches to the Tibetan border. It encompasses a region of 171 sq. km (66 sq. mi.) including the catchment areas of the Trisuli and Sun Kosi rivers and some of the 7000 m (23,000 ft) mountains. The diverse topography and geology of the region together with the different climatic conditions have resulted in a wide variety of flora and fauna. Below 1000 metres there are small areas of sub-tropical vegetation. The different zones of the Langtang National Park range from oak and pine woods through sub-Alpine juniper, larches and birch to Alpine bushes, scree slopes and snow. Animals found here include pandas, muntjaks, musk, Himalayan bears, serows and monkeys.

About 45 villages are located inside the park boundary but are not subject to the park administration. The 18,000 inhabitants are dependent upon the resources of the park, particularly wood and pastureland. The majority of the population are Tamang, followers of the Buddhist or Bon religion.

The distance of 72 km (45 mi.) between Kathmandu and Trisuli Bazar can be covered in four hours by car and in six hours by bus with magnificent views en route. From Trisuli Bazar it is another 50 km (31 mi.) to Dhunche. There is also a direct bus service from Kathmandu to Dhunche, departing from Sorhakhuttepati north of Thamel. For poor bus travellers the twelve hour journey with its many bends can be tortuous.