How Difficult is Langtang Trek?

Most people always do ask the question, ‘How difficult is Langtang Trek?’ before planning their trek. To answer the question shortly, it is a moderate trek and demands no previous experience.

The Langtang trekking trail is a range of uphill and downhill routes with some steep parts. The difficulty level depends on the topography of the route and the season in which you choose to trek.

If you plan to trek in Spring( March-May) and Autumn (September- November) months then you will have much easy time trekking in the region. The moderate temperature and the stable weather conditions on the dry trails ease the treks.

Whereas, the unexpected snowfall or rainfall, harsh winds, and freezing temperature in Winter (December- February) and Monsoon(June – August) may add to the difficulty of your trek.

Despite the rugged terrains and the rocky trails, you can overcome the Langtang trek difficulty if you come prepared physically and mentally with proper packing. Also, if you are a novice trekker then you can choose to trek in the best trekking season to reduce the trek difficulty.

About Langtang Valley

Langtang Valley, a pristine valley located 61.8 km north of Kathmandu, is a land of glacial lakes and the beautiful typical villages. As Bill Tilman, a British mountaineer and travel writer quotes ‘one of the world’s most beautiful valleys’, Langtang valley is a serene landscape on the lap of Himalayas.

On this Langtang trek, you get to explore the amazing bond of the Tibetan-influenced culture and the crisp mountainside sceneries. On walking through the valley the hospitality of Tamang people and the architectural beauty of monasteries will entice you. And, the lush rhododendron forests on the backdrop of mesmerizing sight of the Himalayas will accompany you all along the trek.

The earthquake of April 2015 had a devastating effect on the Langtang valley. It not only caused the loss of many lives but also destroyed parts of the trekking trail. It led to the closing of the trekking valley for some time. But, the valley is now restored and safe for trekking. You will find new trails for the ones that destroyed with the preservation of its natural beauty.

And, different teahouses are re-built with earthquake-resistant technologies and the number is also increased. So, you will have a much easy time finding a safe place to spend the night. After the reconstruction of the village and the trails, it is a safer place for the trekking enthusiasts.

Langtang Trek Route Difficulty

Langtang trek is a moderate trek where you have to walk for many days with gradually increasing altitudes. If you are planning to do your first trek in Nepal, Langtang trek would be a perfect choice. Because you can hike on the terrains of the Langtang valley even without prior experiences.

Your trekking route starts after you reach Syabrubesi which is at an altitude of 1550m. On your first day, some parts of the trail are steep but the walk on this day is easy. You will gain an altitude of 800m after walking 7-8 hours to reach Lama Hotel, 2560m.

The trekking route, the next day, continues to be uphill most of the time. Your destination for the day is Langtang village, 3430m with a walk of 6-7 hours.

The third day of your trek will be to Kang Jin Gompa (3900m), the highest point of the trek. Your walk on this day will be pleasant as you can reach your destination in about 3-4 hours. On this day, you will walk past water mills, inscription carved stones, the largest mani wall in Nepal etc.

On the second and third day, you will mostly be climbing uphill, so walk on your own pace to make it easy. Drink plenty of water throughout your trek so that your body is not dehydrated. Dehydration will make you weak and make the climb even more difficult. It also increases the risks of altitude sickness. So, do not forget to fill your water bottle with safe water.

After the third day, you will be walking downhill up to Lama Hotel. Your knees will feel a lot of pressure. Please wear your kneecaps and use your trekking poles on this day. You need to walk properly as you will be walking 6-7 hours down a steep trail.

Some parts of the Langtang valley trek are quite tougher with the difficult slopes and rocky path. At such points, you must walk slowly and carefully. Rest of the trekking trails are quite easy with the enticing nature views on your side.

Difficulty In Different Seasons

With the change in season, the weather and climatic conditions on the trekking trails also change. And this change in the weather conditions affects the difficulty of the trek route.

If you trek during Spring and Autumn, you’ll experience the favorable weather but you may face difficulty in finding a place for accommodation if you do not book in advance. In these seasons, the weather is warm as the temperature is in the range of 10°C-15°C (50°F-59°F) in the daytime. So, many trekkers opt for these seasons trek.

But, the teahouses on the trekking trails are limited in number. So, if there is a heavy inflow of the trekkers in the region then you may face difficulty in finding rooms and you may have to adjust the room with the fellow trekkers. Plus, if you love solitude, then you may feel the trails quite crowded in the peak season.

In Winter and Monsoon, you will face less difficulty in finding accommodation. But, in Winter, there are episodes of snowfalls, blizzards, harsh winds, etc. The temperature during daytime is in the range of 6°C-10°C (42.8°F-50°F). At night, the temperature can drop to -3°C (26.6°F).

In monsoon, the trails become slippery due to the rainfall. You can also get leeches stuck on your skin during this season. So, it is wise to carry insect repellents and table salts during the trek.

Yet, with proper preparations, you can lessen these difficulties and have a pleasant trek. And, you can trek to the Langtang valley any time of the year.

Physical Fitness Required

Langtang trek is a moderate trek which does not demand physical training and trekking skills. But, you need to be mentally and physically prepared for any inconveniences and delays on the route.

If you want to make your trek easier, you can start by exercising before you go for your trek. You can go on day hikes with some uphill/downhill climbs. It will prepare you for the varying route on the trekking trail.

Altitude Sickness

One of the major issues that people worry about when they trek to higher altitudes is altitude sickness. You may have heard of it but may not know actually what it is. It is important you understand the symptoms so that you can help yourself and others. Here are the symptoms of altitude sickness:

• A headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Heart rate increment
• Difficulty in sleeping

If you find yourself feeling these symptoms on your trek, please do not pretend that you are okay. Do not think that these symptoms will pass. Make sure you let your group and your guide know about your health condition. If you feel such symptoms, here are some of the measures that you can take.

• Walk back to a lower altitude if possible.
• Do not smoke or drink.
• Take some medicine.
• Drink lots of water. Hydration is the key.
• Do not stress your body or walk until you feel better. You might have to take rest for the next 48 hours.

Your health always comes first. So, do not compromise on your health conditions wherever you go.

Tips To Make Langtang Trek Less Difficult

You already know that the difficulty level of Langtang trek is moderate. Here are some tips that will help you lessen the difficulty level of the trek for you.

Do some warm up

For any trek, warming up a lot will help you a lot. You can start by doing a day hike, swimming and exercising regularly. This will increase your stamina and help you develop endurance power. Once you do so, your body will not feel the stress of the trek on the first day.

Make sure your shoes are comfortable

On a trek, you will walk for days. So, your shoes are a crucial part of your journey. Make sure you walk on your shoes before you wear them on your journey if they are new. You need it to be of your size. If they are too tight, it will cause a lot of pain and even make some wounds on the way.

Get proper clothing and gear

The weather in high altitude is unpredictable. In higher altitudes, the temperature may drop swiftly below the freezing point. The cloud and the unexpected rainfall may make the trail difficult. So, you must pack properly looking forward to the weather that may go unpredictable any time.

You can use waterproof/windproof clothing despite the season you are trekking. Also, whichever season you are trekking, it is a good idea to carry the four-season sleeping bag and trekking poles.

Eat Properly and Maintain Hydration

While on a trek, you will be walking every single day. You need to have proper food and drink at least 2 liters of water every single day to sustain yourself. You must consume enough food that contains protein and carbohydrates. You can carry light snacks and protein bars to eat while on the trails. With proper diet and enough water, you can overcome any health issues on the trek.

Stay on The Trekking Trail

Trekking itself is an adventure. You will experience the wildlife up close in person. Do not try to add danger to your situation by getting away from the trail. Enjoy the walk and do not find any shortcuts unless your guide directs you.

Langtang Trek Itinerary

We plan a different itinerary according to your convenience. It can be a 5-days, 7-days or 11-days plan. Please do note that the number of days, irrespective of your itinerary plan, may increase due to unfavorable weather conditions in higher altitudes.

Our itineraries are customizable where you can increase or decrease the number of days on your trek. If you want to spend more time on the trekking trail and minimize the Langtang trek difficulty, then you can share us your preferences.