Langtang Valley and Ganjala Pass Trekking
Langtang Ganja-La pass (5,150 m.) trekking is one of the most challenging trekking trails in the Langtang region. It follows the same Langtang valley up to Kyanjin Gomba and turns right across the Nayakhang mountainside. This trekking is a mixture of mountain madness and culture together. Until Kyanjing we can make a lodge trek after then we have to go on a camping trek until we arrive at Tarkingyang across the adventure Pass Ganjala. The high pass Gonjala is at 5, 150m altitude. Very few trekkers follow this route that’s why losing the path is highly potential. During the snowy season, we have to have some climbing equipment including 100 meters of fixed rope to cross the col. After the pass, the trail descends through sliding rocky moraine, so you must be very careful from twisting your legs. Follow the yak trail until you arrive at Thulodhunga pasturer field then you can find a nice trail to follow. We would cross several wide areas of pasturing fields, Where (yaks) animals used to bring in the summer season from Melamchigyang, sermanthang, and Tarkighyang. Still old generation is bringing their yaks around here but the new generation is slowly diverting into other occupations. The landscape, wide spreading meadows and mountains are really very beautiful on this side. The trail mostly follows along the ridge side so that the views from left to the right valley are easily visible until you arrive at Tarkegyang.
Essential Notice for Langtang Ganjala Pass Trekking
Accommodations and Food: We will do lodge trekking till the famous Kyanjin Gomba then start complete outfitter adventure trip (Tents, food, professional guide, cook, kitchen staff and porters assist the trek) until we arrive Tarkighyang of Helambu then accommodation and food in the local comfortable lodges and Hotels.
Terrain Conditions: Least trekked and adventurous trekking trail: This trek is considered strenuous due to the high and narrow pass at the cross, steep ascents and descents, possibilities of losing the track along the rocky glacier, and rugged terrain. Mostly, the Ganja La Pass remains covered in snow and ice. And some sections before and after the pass may require technical skills, ropes (50-60m), crampons, and an ice axe, especially during colder season. Since some Years there is less snow on the pass due to the global warming problems.
High Altitude: The highlight is crossing Ganja La Pass, which is around 5,122m to 5,130m. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.
Varied Trails: You'll encounter rocky paths, switchbacks and challenging until crossing the pass then it arrives into the beautiful highland yak’s pastures side of Hyolmose (People from Helambu). The trail often lead the trek along the panoramic ridge towards downtown and joins to the well-managed trekking trails or drive to KTM
Best Time to Trek into the Langtang and Ganjala Pass
Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times with stable weather and blooming rhododendrons.
Autumn (September to November/early December): Another excellent period with clear skies and moderate temperatures, offering the best mountain views.
Monsoon (June to August): We do not recommend in the late Monsoon because the trails become rainy, slippery, muddy, and leeches and difficult to find the track due to the heavy thick clouds.
Winter (December to February): The pass is often closed due to heavy snowfall, making it inaccessible and dangerous.
Permits Required
Langtang National Park Entry Permit: This is mandatory as the trek passes through the national park. The cost is around NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals (excluding 13% VAT) and NPR 1,500 for SAARC nationals.
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System Card): It cost $ 20 for indiidual and $10 for acompanied, While some sources suggest it's no longer required for Langtang but it is still undecided. So that it is better to have
Shivapuri National Park Entrance Fee: If your trek route includes the Gosaikunda-Helambu section from Chisapani, you may also need this permit that cost Rs.1000 Per person.