The Langtang Region is one of the nearest trekking destinations from Kathmandu. Lying just 132 kilometres north of Kathmandu, the region is considered as Nepal’s third largest trekking area. The Langtang Region is rich in biodiversity and scenic beauty. The unique culture of the Tamangs and the people from the Tibetan origin is another attraction of the region. It is accessible without flights. Lanngtang, Gosainkunda and Helambu are the major areas of the region. These routes can be combined in many different ways to make treks lasting from a week to 16 days. A trek to Langtang region offers outstanding close-up mountain views and unique villages with well-established teahouses along the trail. Langtang offers an experience not to be found elsewhere. The region is sandwiched between the major Himalayan range to the north and a range of gigantic peaks to the south. Langtang Lirung (7246m), Gang Chhenpo (6388m), Naya Kangri (5846m), Yala peak (5700m) and Dorji Lhakpa (6966m) are a few peaks to mention. The Tamangs are the principal inhabitants of the region whose religious practice, language and dress-up are much more similar to the Tibetans. Plants like rhododendrons, larch, wildflowers, gentians, primroses, epiphytic orchids, etc are abundantly found in the area. Similarly, birds and animals like hoopoe, cuckoos, barbets, owls, nightjars, laughing thrushes, black-capped sibias, red-billed & yellow-billed magpies, minivet, slaty-headed parakeet, langurs, pikas, etc. dominate the region. Established in 1976, Langtang National Park, the Nepal’s first Himalayan national park is the second largest in Nepal covering about 1,700 sq.km. The region is a home to 15 forests types, 3,000 species of flowering plants, 32 mammals and 283 species of birds. Langtang holds more than 70 glaciers of different sizes. Located about 75km. north of Kathmandu, Helambhu is an ideal place to see the magnificent Himalayas and enchanting Landscapes. This area is inhabited by Yhalmu people who are much more similar to the Sherpa People of Khumbu region. They are rich in their custom and culture.
Similarly, Gosaikunda (Holy Lake at 4381m) is another famous pilgrimage site where gorgeous lakes stand uphill. Thousands of pilgrims pay their homage to Lord Shiva during a full-moon festival in August. Gosaikunda is accessed either from Dhunche or from Sundarijal in the eastern part of Kathmandu Valley.