Gosaikunda trek
Preface
Gosaikunda trek, which lies in the Langtang region in Nepal, is an amalgamation of both beauty and spiritualism. This is one of the magnificent trekking trails for all the trekkers. Gosaikunda is said to be a network of 106 lakes famous for their religious significance. You will get tremendous, splendid views of the Himalayas.
The name ‘Gosaikunda’ is derived from a glacier lake which has significant importance to Hindu pilgrimage. The trekking trails are challenging and include long, steep descents. Temperature sub-alpine deep forest, sky blue gentians, epiphytic orchids. This is one of the magnificent trekking trails for all trekkers. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike or a chance to immerse yourself in Nepalese culture, the Gosaikunda Trek is sure to exceed your expectations.
In addition to its religious significance, Gosaikunda is also renowned for its cultural and natural heritage.
The Gosaikunda trek is a popular choice for both nature travelers and pilgrims alike. Although the trek is located at high altitude of 4300m. it provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley. For those who are interested in learning more about Nepal, the trek offers an excellent opportunity to explore the country’s culture and history. The trip culminates with a visit to Gosaikunda itself, where you can admire the beautiful lakes that give the area its name.
The Gosaikunda Trek holds great religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists, each with its own history and mythology surrounding the area. According to Hindu beliefs, Lord Shiva created the lake with his trident when he became thirsty after ingesting poison. Buddhists, on the other hand, believe that Guru Rinpoche meditated here over 600 years ago, attracting many followers seeking enlightenment. This experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to set your journey of refreshment.
Location
Gosaikunda Lake is situated in the northern part of Nepal, between Helambu and Langtang Valley in the Rasuwa district. It covers an area of 13.8 hectares (34 acres) and stays frozen for around six months, from October to June. This lake was listed in the Ramsar area on September 29, 2007.
Lakes in Gosaikunda
There are a total of 108 lakes that can be found in the Gosaikunda area. Gosaikunda is known for its collection of stunning lakes, each with its own unique charm.
Gosaikunda, there are several other lakes in the area, the most famous among them is Saraswati Kunda, Bhairav Kunda, and Surya Kunda These lakes are smaller size but equally beautiful. They are often visited by pilgrims and trekkers who seek a peaceful and spiritual experience.
The lakes in Gosaikunda are not only visually captivating but also hold great religious significance. Taking a dip in the holy waters of these lakes is believed to cleanse sins and bring blessings. The surrounding landscape adds to the allure, with snowcapped peaks, lush forests, and alpine meadows creating a picturesque setting.
Attraction
Gosaikunda is a beautiful and sacred place in Nepal, known for its natural beauty and religious significance.
Gosaikunda lakes: The main attraction the pristine Gosaikunda lake, which is believed to be created by Lord Shiva. The turquoise-colored lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers breathtaking views.
Religious significance: Gosaikunda holds immense religious importance, especially for Hindus. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri, many pilgrims visit the lake to seek blessings and cleanse their sins.
Trekking and hiking: Gosaikunda is a popular trekking destination, offering stunning trails and panoramic views. The trek takes you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and traditional villages, providing a memorable experience for adventure enthusiasts
Gosaikunda pass: located at an altitude of around 4380m. the gosaikunda pass offers a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience. It provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Challenges between the Trails
The Gosaikunda trek is a relatively easy trek to do. It is a moderate trek. It can be a little demanding for the first-time trekkers. The highest altitude of this trek is 4380m which is Gosaikunda although if you also want to visit Surya Kunda which is situated at 4610m it will become the highest altitude in this trek. It will take around 2 hours from Gosaikunda to reach there. The hardest path in this trek is between Lauribina and Buddha temple, it is a two-hour straight ascend. This trek is done in above 2500m so there will be a chance to get altitude sickness. A first aid box is necessary for this journey. Forcing your body to do this trek even after getting symptoms of high altitude sickness is dangerous for your health.
Some of the religious rituals performed during the Gosaikunda festival.
The Gosaikunda festival is a significant celebration in Nepal. It usually takes place during the full moon day in August. The festival attracts pilgrims from all over Nepal and beyond. People gather at the sacred lake of Gosaikunda to pay their respects and participate in religious rituals. The festival lasts for a few days.
During the Gosaikunda festival, people perform various religious rituals to show their devotion. Some of the common rituals include taking holy dips in the sacred lake of Gosaikunda, offering prayers and hymns, lighting oil lamps, and performing sacred dances and music. It’s a time when people seek blessings, express gratitude, and engage in spiritual practices. The festival holds great significance in Hinduism and is believed to cleanse sins and bring blessings to those who participate.
Weather and temperature
The weather and temperature on the Gosaikunda trek can vary depending on the season you choose to go. Here’s a general overview of the weather conditions you can expect.
Spring( March to May) : spring is the popular time for trekking in Gosaikunda. The weather is usually mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10 (50 F) to 20 C (68F) during the day. However, it can get colder at higher altitudes, so it’s important to pack warm layers.
Summer: (June to August): summer brings warmer temperatures and is also the monsoon season in Nepal. The temperature can range from 15C (59F) to 25C (77F) during the day. However, be prepared for rain showers and muddy trails due to the monsoon rains.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is considered the best time for trekking in Gosaikunda. The weather is generally clear, with mild temperatures ranging from 10C (50F) to 20 C (68F) during the day. The skies are usually clear, surrounding mountains.
Winter (December to February): Winter brings cold temperatures and snowfall to the Gosaikunda region. The temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at higher altitudes. Daytime temperatures range from 5C (41F) to 10 C (50F), but it can get much colder at night. Proper cold-weather gear is essential for winter treks.
Things to see in this trek
Significant views of mountain ranges including Langtang, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna can be witnessed from the Gosaikunda trek. Strolling along the Langtang Himalaya range, rivers with a great forest of rhododendrons, flora, and fauna will give an indelible lifetime moment. Except for lakes, mountain ranges, and forests, you can also witness a beautiful waterfall during the journey. Here are some of the highlights:
Lauribina La pass: This high mountain pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s a great place to take a break and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Sing Gompa: This monastery is located on a hilltop and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a peaceful and spiritual place to visit.
Bhairab Kunda: This sacred lake is named after the fierce deity Bhairav. It’s believed to have healing powers and is a popular pilgrimage site.
Langtang Valley: While not directly in the Gosaikunda region, many trekkers combine the Gosaikunda trek with a visit to the nearby Langtang Valley. It’s known for its picturesque landscapes and traditional Tamang villages.
These are just few of the many incredible sights you can experience during a Gosaikunda Trek. Each step of the journey offers breathtaking views and chance to connect with nature and the local culture.
Cultural Assortment
During your visit to Gosaikunda, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the friendly locals, and witness their traditional way of life. it’s a chance to experience the warmth hospitality of the people and gain a deeper understanding of the customs and traditions. This journey will allow you to explore monasteries, statues of gods, waterfalls, and prayer flags along the way.
There are various other cultural events and rituals are observed throughout the year. These include traditional dances, music performances, and religious ceremonies that showcase the cultural diversity and richness of the region.
Accommodation
I learned that while trekking in Gosaikunda, tea houses are more popular than hotels and lodges. They offer basic amenities such as a hot shower, twin bedrooms, and a charging pot. However, not all tea houses have attached bathrooms. It's important to note that there is no electricity in Gosaikunda due to the high altitude, so tea houses use solar power. As a result, they may charge for Wi-Fi, hot showers, and charging electronic devices.
Duration
Being not that challenging and difficult to do even if you are a first-time trekker makes this trek shorter than any other trek but does not mean that this is not good for trekkers or nature lovers. This will be perfect for any person who wants to create lifetime memories or wants to take a break from their daily life. It can be accomplished in less than a week or can be expanded as per the guest's requirements. If you also want to do a Langtang trek it will be a longer trek to do.