Sightseeing · Gosaikunda
Gosaikunda Lake
The sacred main lake at about 4,380m in Langtang, holy heart of the high alpine basin.
Gosaikunda lake is the sacred heart of the high basin — an alpine lake at about 4,380m in Langtang National Park, Rasuwa, revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. It is the largest of more than a hundred tarns scattered across the upper basin, and the focus of the dramatic August pilgrimage that draws thousands of devotees up to its icy shore.
Why it matters
According to Hindu tradition the lake was created by the god Shiva, who struck the mountainside with his trident to produce its water; a rock said to be his form rises from the surface. The whole basin has a powerful, austere atmosphere, framed by bare ridges and, for much of the year, snow. During Janai Purnima in August, pilgrims and shamans gather here for a holy dip — a remarkable sight on shores that are otherwise silent and empty.
How to visit
The lake is reached on foot, usually after a drive to Dhunche and a few days' climb via Sing Gompa (Chandanbari) — see our guide to how to get to Gosaikunda. Take your time on the way up to acclimatise, and read our altitude sickness in Nepal guide before you go.
Good to know
- The water is sacred and bitterly cold — treat it with respect, keep the shore clean, and do not swim for recreation.
- Spend a full day at the basin to explore the smaller pools nearby, including the holy Surya Kunda and Bhairav Kunda and the quiet Saraswati Kunda.
- Conditions are cold and changeable year-round; carry warm clothing and a good sleeping bag.
Gosaikunda is the sacred standout among the best lakes in Nepal. Plan it around our Gosaikunda travel guide and the best time to visit.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is Gosaikunda lake sacred?+
It is a major Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site associated with the god Shiva. Tradition holds that Shiva struck the mountainside with his trident to create the water, and a rock said to be his form rises from the surface. Pilgrims bathe here for blessing during Janai Purnima.
How high is Gosaikunda lake?+
The main lake sits at about 4,380m within Langtang National Park, ringed by rocky ridges and snow for much of the year. At that altitude the air is thin and cold, so careful acclimatisation on the way up is essential.
Can you see Gosaikunda lake without a long trek?+
Yes, relatively. Unlike the great Everest and Annapurna lakes, Gosaikunda is reached on a trek of roughly a week from Kathmandu, usually starting with a drive to Dhunche and a few days' walk up via Sing Gompa, making it one of the most accessible high sacred lakes in Nepal.
Is Gosaikunda frozen in winter?+
Much of the lake freezes over in winter, and deep snow can bury the surrounding trail and close the Lauribina La pass. The clearest, safest seasons to see open water and sharp peaks are autumn (October to November) and spring (March to May).
