Gosaikunda Trek

Nestled high in the Langtang National Park of Nepal, the Gosaikunda Lake is a serene alpine freshwater body revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and trekkers make their way to this sacred site not just for its religious significance, but also for its surreal natural beauty. The Gosaikunda Holy Lake Trek is a compact yet fulfilling Himalayan experience that combines spiritual depth, panoramic mountain vistas, and cultural immersion within a few days.

Whether you’re planning the Gosaikunda Trek 3 days, Gosaikunda Trek 4 days, or even combining it with the extended Langtang Gosaikunda trek itinerary 7 days, this guide offers a comprehensive insight into the trek's cost, route, seasonality, and other important details.

Where is Gosaikunda Lake Located?

Gosaikunda Lake Nepal is located in Rasuwa District within the Langtang region, approximately 140 kilometers north of Kathmandu. Perched at an altitude of 4,380 meters (14,370 ft), this sacred lake is surrounded by other glacial lakes such as Saraswati Kunda, Bhairab Kunda, and Surya Kunda. On the map of Nepal, Gosaikunda lies close to the Tibetan border and inside Langtang National Park.

Why is Gosaikunda Famous?

Gosaikunda is a place of spiritual pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is believed that Lord Shiva created the lake to cool his burning throat after swallowing poison during Samudra Manthan. Every year, during the Janai Purnima festival (August full moon), thousands of devotees trek to this holy site to take a dip in the lake’s icy waters, which are believed to cleanse sins and cure ailments.

Aside from its religious prominence, the lake’s natural beauty, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and tranquil alpine settings, has made it a beloved trekking destination.

Gosaikunda Trek Route from Kathmandu

The journey typically starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche, a bustling town in the Rasuwa District. The Kathmandu to Gosaikunda distance is approximately 140 km, but due to hilly terrain, it takes about 6 to 8 hours by road.

From Dhunche, trekkers start the uphill trail through forests of rhododendron and pine, gradually moving toward alpine zones. The most common Gosaikunda trek route from Kathmandu includes:

Day 1: Kathmandu to Dhunche (by road)

Day 2: Dhunche to Chandanbari (Sing Gompa)

Day 3: Chandanbari to Gosaikunda Lake

Day 4: Return to Dhunche and drive back to Kathmandu

Alternatively, for time-bound trekkers, the Gosaikunda Trek 3 days itinerary is also available.

Gosaikunda Trek Route from Dhunche

If you are already in Dhunche, the Gosaikunda trek route from Dhunche is direct and rewarding. Here is the popular 3-day outline:

• Day 1: Dhunche to Chandanbari

• Day 2: Chandanbari to Gosaikunda

• Day 3: Return to Dhunche

The Dhunche to Gosaikunda trek distance is about 18 kilometers one way, and it usually takes 6–7 hours of moderate hiking per day. The trek involves a steady climb through forests, yak pastures, and open ridgelines with increasing altitude.

Gosaikunda Trek 3 Days Itinerary

Perfect for those on a tight schedule, the Gosaikunda Trek 3 days itinerary offers a fast yet intensive Himalayan trekking experience.

Day 1: Kathmandu to Dhunche – Drive (1,950m)

Early morning drive to Dhunche (6–8 hours). Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 2: Dhunche to Gosaikunda (4,380m)

Early start and a full day trek passing through forests, Deurali, Chandanbari, and Lauribina. Reach Gosaikunda by late afternoon. Overnight at a tea house.

Day 3: Gosaikunda to Dhunche and drive back to Kathmandu

Early morning descent to Dhunche and return drive to Kathmandu.

Gosaikunda Trek 4 Days Itinerary

This version allows for a more gradual ascent and better acclimatization.

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche

Same as in 3-day trek. Overnight in Dhunche.

Day 2: Dhunche to Chandanbari (Sing Gompa)

Trek for 4–5 hours through rhododendron forests. Visit the local monastery and cheese factory.

Day 3: Chandanbari to Gosaikunda

The most scenic day of the trek. Trek up via Lauribina Pass. Overnight near the lake.

Day 4: Return to Dhunche and drive back to Kathmandu

This itinerary is ideal for trekkers who wish to enjoy more time in the mountains.

Gosaikunda Trek Cost for Nepali

The Gosaikunda Trek cost for Nepali is quite affordable, especially if done independently. On average:

• Transportation (Kathmandu–Dhunche–Kathmandu): NPR 800–1500 (local bus) or NPR 10,000–15,000 (private jeep)

• Accommodation: NPR 500–800 per night

• Food: NPR 400–800 per meal

• Permit: Langtang National Park Entry – NPR 100 (for Nepali citizens)

So, the total Gosaikunda Trek 3 Days price for a Nepali citizen may range from NPR 6,000 to NPR 10,000 depending on the mode of transport and food preferences.

Gosaikunda Trek 3 Days Price for Foreigners

Foreign trekkers need to pay more due to permits and accommodation costs. Approximate costs include:

• Permits:

  • Langtang National Park Entry – NPR 3,000

  • TIMS Card – NPR 2,000

• Transport: NPR 3,000–6,000 round trip (public or shared jeep)

• Accommodation: NPR 800–1500 per night

• Food: NPR 600–1000 per meal

Total estimated Gosaikunda Trek 3 Days price for foreigners ranges from USD 150 to USD 250 depending on services.

Gosaikunda Lake Temperature

Gosaikunda lake temperature varies significantly with the seasons:

• Spring (March–May): Daytime 10–15°C, nighttime 0 to -5°C

• Summer/Monsoon (June–August): Daytime 15–20°C, nighttime 5–10°C

• Autumn (Sept–Nov): Daytime 10–15°C, nighttime -5 to 0°C

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Daytime 0–5°C, nighttime -10 to -20°C

In winter, the lake often freezes over completely, adding a magical touch for adventurers but requiring appropriate gear.

Gosaikunda Trek Best Season

The Gosaikunda trek best season is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). During these months, the skies are generally clear, the mountain views are stunning, and the temperature is moderate. Janai Purnima Festival in August is also a spiritual highlight, though the trail can be crowded.

Monsoon season (June–August) brings landslides and leeches, while winter (December–February) brings snow and cold, making the trail challenging but very peaceful.

Gosaikunda Trek Difficulty

Many ask: Is Gosaikunda Trek difficult? The answer is: moderate. While it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, the trek includes steep ascents and high altitude. Beginners with a reasonable level of fitness can complete it, especially the Gosaikunda Trek 4 days option which allows better acclimatization.

How Long Does the Gosaikunda Trek Take?

• Shortest: 3 days (Kathmandu – Gosaikunda – Kathmandu)

• Standard: 4–5 days

• Extended: 7–10 days (including Langtang Valley or Helambu)

The Langtang Gosaikunda trek itinerary 7 days includes Langtang Valley before crossing Laurebina Pass to Gosaikunda.

How to Reach Gosaikunda Lake?

To reach Gosaikunda lake, follow these steps:

Take a bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Dhunche

Begin trekking from Dhunche to Gosaikunda

Optionally, return via the Helambu route or retrace your steps

Those coming from Pokhara to Gosaikunda distance will need to first travel to Kathmandu (6–7 hours) before continuing onward to Dhunche.

Gosaikunda Lake Trek Map

A Gosaikunda lake trek map is essential for navigation and understanding terrain. Key waypoints include:

• Kathmandu

• Trishuli

• Dhunche

• Deurali

• Chandanbari (Sing Gompa)

• Lauribina

• Gosaikunda

Several online and physical maps detail elevation profiles and lodges along the trail.

Where is Tilicho Lake Compared to Gosaikunda?

Tilicho Lake lies in the Annapurna region at 4,919m and is considered one of the highest lakes in the world. While Gosaikunda is more accessible and sacred, Tilicho is remote and takes a longer, more challenging trek.

A Sacred Himalayan Escape

The Gosaikunda Holy Lake Trek is not just a trekking journey—it's a spiritual experience that immerses you in nature, culture, and devotion. Whether you’re a religious pilgrim, adventure seeker, or nature lover, Gosaikunda offers something truly profound. With flexible options like the Gosaikunda Trek 3 days, Gosaikunda Trek 4 days, and customizable itineraries, it suits all levels of trekkers.

From practical aspects like Gosaikunda Trek cost for Nepali, Gosaikunda Trek 3 Days price, and routes from Kathmandu or Dhunche, to seasonal guidance and cultural insights, Himalayan Adventure International Treks is your ideal partner for this unforgettable journey.

Plan your Gosaikunda trek today with Himalayan Adventure International Treks and experience the blend of spirituality, Himalayan wilderness, and local hospitality.