Trekking · Gosaikunda
Gosaikunda to Helambu Trek
Cross the Lauribina La pass from the sacred lakes down to the villages of Helambu.
The Gosaikunda to Helambu trek is the natural extension of a visit to the sacred lakes: instead of returning the way you came, you cross the high Lauribina La pass at about 4,610m and descend west and south into the green, terraced country of Helambu, home to Hyolmo (Sherpa) and Tamang villages. It turns a there-and-back walk into a satisfying high-mountain traverse that finishes within reach of Kathmandu.
The route
From the Gosaikunda lake basin the trail climbs to the Lauribina La pass, the crux and highest point of the route, then drops a long way down past high camps such as Phedi and Ghopte toward Kutumsang, Chisapani and finally Sundarijal, on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley. The full traverse from Dhunche to Sundarijal takes roughly a week to ten days. For the southern half of the walk in detail, see our national guide to the Helambu trek.
Difficulty and timing
This is moderately strenuous. The trail is non-technical, but the pass is a long, high day followed by a big descent, so good acclimatisation and a settled forecast matter. Aim for autumn or spring, when the pass is reliably open — see the best time to visit Gosaikunda. In winter the col is often blocked by snow.
Plan it well
- Only cross the pass in clear, settled weather, starting early for the long descent.
- Be properly acclimatised at the lakes first; read our altitude sickness in Nepal guide.
- A licensed guide is required; permits for Langtang National Park are arranged in Kathmandu.
The crossing is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region. For kit and fitness advice see the Nepal trekking guide, and for an alternative extension consider the Langtang Valley combination trek. Plan the rest of your trip from the Gosaikunda travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Gosaikunda to Helambu trek?+
Crossing from the lakes over the Lauribina La pass and down through Helambu to Sundarijal usually takes about four to five days, on top of the climb up to Gosaikunda. The full Dhunche to Sundarijal traverse runs roughly a week to ten days.
How hard is the Gosaikunda to Helambu trek?+
It is moderately strenuous. The crux is the Lauribina La pass at about 4,610m, a long high day, followed by a big descent. The trail is non-technical but the altitude and length make good acclimatisation and clear weather essential for the crossing.
Where does the Gosaikunda to Helambu trek end?+
It typically ends at Sundarijal on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley, from where it is a short drive back into the city. Some itineraries finish a little earlier at villages like Kutumsang or Chisapani depending on time and transport.
When can you do the Gosaikunda to Helambu trek?+
Autumn and spring are best, when the Lauribina La is reliably open and the weather is settled. In winter the pass is often blocked by snow, and the monsoon brings cloud and rain, so the crossing should only be attempted in clear conditions.
