Ganja La Pass Trek

13 Nights | 14 Days

Group Size

Min 01 Pax

Trip Grade

Grade B: Moderate Grade B: Moderate
Grade B: ModerateThe moderate grade includes a 1-week to 15 days trek itinerary. It can reach up to 5000 meters altitude range. So we advise you to have some experience of walking. like 5/6 hrs a day but the trails will be moderate (nor easy, nor tough). High altitude may matter to your physical fitness and walking speed and distance. You need to have acclimatization over 3000 meters.

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Price From

US $900 (All-inclusive price)

Trip Highlights

  • Ganja La Pass: The trek's namesake and one of the main highlights, Ganja La Pass, stands at an elevation of approximately 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). Crossing this high-altitude pass is a challenging and rewarding experience, offering panoramic views of the Langtang Range and surrounding peaks.

  • Remote Wilderness: The Ganja La Pass Trek takes you through pristine and relatively untouched wilderness areas. You'll experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas, passing through alpine forests, high mountain valleys, and rugged terrain.

  • Langtang Valley: Explore the beautiful Langtang Valley, known for its lush rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife, including the elusive red panda.

  • Kyanjin Gompa: Visit the picturesque Kyanjin Gompa, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located at an altitude of 3,870 meters (12,697 feet). The monastery provides insights into the local culture and offers breathtaking mountain views.

  • Cultural Encounters: Interact with the Tamang and Sherpa communities along the trek. You'll have the chance to learn about their unique customs, traditions, and daily life in the high mountains.

  • Stunning Mountain Views: Throughout the trek, you'll be treated to stunning views of prominent Himalayan peaks, including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, and even glimpses of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges.

  • Gosaikunda Lake: Depending on your itinerary, you may have the option to include a side trip to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake. This holy alpine lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and has cultural significance for both Hindus and Buddhists.

  • Teahouse Accommodation: Similar to other treks in Nepal, you'll stay in comfortable teahouse lodges along the route. These lodges provide warm meals and a cozy place to rest after a day of trekking.

  • Adventure and Challenge: The Ganja La Pass Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its high-altitude pass crossings, steep ascents and descents, and variable weather conditions. It's an adventure for trekkers looking to test their skills and endurance.

  • Peace and Solitude: Compared to more popular trekking routes, the Ganja La Pass Trek is relatively less crowded, offering a sense of peace and solitude in the Himalayan wilderness.

  • Seasonal Variations: The trek offers different experiences based on the season you choose. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, while autumn offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

Ganja La Pass trekking at an altitude of 5122 meters is one of the popular trekking in the Langtang Region located to the north of Kathmandu valley and just to the south of Tibetan border. Trekking to Ganja La Pass also called as Laurebina Pass  bids you with the most panoramic Himalayan views of Langtang Lirung (7245 meters), Ganesh Himal (7406 meters), Dorje Lakpa (6966 meters), Yala Peak (5500 meters), Naya Kanga (5846 meters), Gauri Shanker and Shisha Pangma (8013 meters) including the Annapurna Himalayan range.

One of the main spot to explore around while you are here on this trek to the Ganja La Pass is the Kyangjin Gompa (3870 meters & 12697 feet) – one of the ancient monastery. People living here in this region are mostly Sherpa and Tamang with a mixture of some minor ethnic group. On this adventurous trek, along with viewing the spectacular mountains, you also encounter various wildlife like Himalayan Thar, pika, deer, birds, etc. and different kinds of floras’ of this region.

Ganja La Pass trek begins from first sightseeing Kathmandu valley first and following a drive to Syrabusi enjoying the Himalayan views with terraced fields and rural villages. We then pass through the dense forest following the Langtang river and as crossing several suspension bridges, our trails are bit challenging as moving upwards and downwards throughout the trail. After reaching the Mundu village, we trek through the dense forest to reach the Langtang valley – from where we get the picturesque view of Langtang Lirung.

After that, we will be trekking to Kyangjin Gompa - passing over the several chortens (stupa) surrounded by the prayer wheels, watermills with amazing views of the mountains and also the cheese factory run by the Swiss Association for Technical Assistance. After that, we will be visiting some villages and cross the yak pastures and then head to Tserko Ri (5000 meters & 16404 feet) for sunrise views. Crossing the river, we ascend through the dense forest of rhododendron to Ganja La Phedi and finally will be trekking to Ganja La Pass but would be a strenuous hike.

Ascending down to the several villages of Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung and lastly reaching the Melamchi Pul Bazaar, we finally drive to Kathmandu in our private vehicle. This is one of the daring treks requires a special trekking gear of the Langtang Region but well organized with experienced professionals of the Redrose Travel  and also we provide all the necessary gears required.

This trekking can be best relished in spring and fall seasons where you get the picture perfect views of the landscape and mountains. For further detail about this trek to the Ganja La Pass, please feel free to email or contact us. We also customize the itinerary according to your vacation schedule and even prolong or minimize it according to your needs.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Kathmandu: Arrival Day

Upon arrival and as soon as you complete the customs formalities of the airport, you can spot our staff member of Redrose Travel holding a placard of your name outside the exit terminal. After meetings and greetings, we will then transfer you to the hotel booked for you. You can rest for the remaining part of the day or visit nearby places. We will have a meeting in our office and a welcome dinner in the evening.

Meals: Welcome Dinner.

Accommodation: A 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu.

Airport Pickup in a Private Car.


Day 2 - Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu and Trek Preparation

Today we will be visiting some of the UNESCO enlisted heritage sites of Kathmandu which includes the historical palace, sites of archeological and cultural importance. Some of them to be mentioned are the Pashupatinath temple, the Swayambhunath stupa, the Boudhanath stupa and Durbar Squares in Basantapur, Patan, and Bhaktapur. We also have some discussion in between and later do some preparation for the trek. We will return to the hotel for night stay.

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: A 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu.

Sightsee Kathmandu Heritage Site in a Private Car.


Day 3 - Drive to Syabrubesi

The starting point of our trekking journey is Syabrubesi. It will take us about seven hours to reach by bus. The scenic drive will pass through Trishuli Bazaar and Dhunche where we will stop for taking food and refreshment. Syabrubesi is a small town to the north west of Kathmandu having only a are few guesthouses.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.


Day 4 - Trek to Lama Hotel/Changthang

The trekking starts on the fourth day from Syabrubesi. On this first day of trekking, there will be a series of ascents and descents as we move passing through forests along Langtang Khola (river). Few suspension bridges will be crossed during the trekking over streams and ridges. After walking for 5.5 hours, we will reach Lama Hotel in Chingthang at 2480 meters altitude. Overnight stay will be in the hotel or a guesthouse.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.


Day 5 - Trek to Langtang Village

After breakfast, we continue our journey along the path surrounded by lush vegetation, trees, and bushes. As we move to the higher altitudes, vegetation gets thinner and Langtang Lirung peak comes into view. Tibetan influence can be experienced in the prayer wheels, flags and chortens as we approach Langtang village. The 5-hour long trek comes to rest at an altitude of 3541 meters in a guesthouse of Langtang village.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.


Day 6 - Ascend Chorka Ri, walk to Kyanjin Gompa

Today, we will gain more altitude. We will be trekking beside the Tibetan styled prayer walls including the largest Mani wall to ascend Chorka Ri at 5050 meters. Another 3.5 hours of the trek will take us to Kyanjing Gompa - a popular monastery. The views of numerous mountains including Naya Kanga (5846 meters), Ponggen Dopku (5930 meters), Mount Langtang Lirung (7245 meters ), Yala peak, Dorje Lakpa (6966 meters), Urkeinmang (6387 meters), Loenpo Gang (6979 meters) and Kangchenpo can be enjoyed from the monastery. Overnight stay will be in a guesthouse.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.


Day 7 - Kyanjin Gompa to Nguegang

From Kyanjin Gompa, we will first walk down to Langtang Khola. After crossing it, the trail goes up passing along forests of juniper, fir, and rhododendron. After seven hours, we will reach Nguegang at the altitude of 4520 meters. Nguegang is mostly known for its Yak pastures (Kharka) where yaks can usually be seen grazing in the grass fields. As there are no guesthouses and permanent settlements here, we will have to stay in tented camps.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Camp.


Day 8 - Cross Gonja La Pass & Trek to Keldang

This day is a very important and tough day as we make a sharp ascent to the Gonja La Pass -  the main highlight of this trekking. The high altitude path is rocky and barren with few streams. The view from the pass at 5130 meters is amazing. After spending some time there, we descend down to Yangri river valley and finally reach Keldang. The total walk on this day will be around 7 - 8 hours. We will stay overnight in a tent.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Camp.


Day 9 - Down to Dukpu

After reaching the highest point of our trip, the journey now will be mostly downwards. But the trail is full of ups and downs. We will pass few villages to reach Dukpu. It will require 6.5 hours of walking to reach Dukpu at 4040 meters height. For the last time in the journey, we stay in tented camps.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tented Camp.


Day 10 - Trek down to Tarke Gyang

Today we ascend to a small pass and then make steep descent. Forests of rhododendron and pine trees can be seen again as we reach the lower parts. Today, we will come across another monastery called Gekye Gompa. After six hours of trek -  we will reach Tarke Gyang - a Sherpa village at an altitude of 2600 meters. It is significantly lower than yesterday’s camping point. There we can stay overnight in a guesthouse.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.


Day 11 - Rest day in Tarke Gyang

Sherpa villages, traditional houses, fields and household, agricultural activities - after all these days of full-day trekking - we now need to take rest before moving any further. So this day is for taking rest in Tarke Gyang. But if you are not satisfied yet, you may explore the Sherpa village observing the traditional houses, people working in their households and agricultural activities in the fields. Today also, we will stay in the same guesthouse.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.


Day 12 - Walk to Sermathang village

After a day of rest, we continue trekking as we are getting closer to the end of our trip. As we enter the Helambu region, you can see the beautiful landscape of the Helambu village and valley. Villages like Gangyul and Chumik will be crossed as we move through the denser forests and a number of streams. Finally, after a 6-hour of trek, we reach the major village of Sermathang situated at 2590 meters altitude. A guesthouse will serve as accommodation for the last time during the trek.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.


Day 13 - Final trek to Melamchi Bazaar

This is the last day of trekking. We will descend significantly, more than 1700 meters in altitude. Several villages such as Nigale, Gyalsha, Raithani Gyang and Dubha Chaur will be crossed. As we reach the lower altitudes, pine trees can be seen in abundance. After about four hours of downhill walk, we will reach Melamchi Bazaar at just 880 meters above the sea level. It is the end point of our trekking. From there, we will take a three-hour drive to Kathmandu and stay overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.

Meals: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner.

Accommodation: A 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu.


Day 14 - Departure day

We have now completed our trekking. If you wish to engage in more activities such as trekking, rafting, tour you may extend your stay. If not, our staff will drop you to the international airport for your onward flight. We hope to see you again in the future.

Meals: Breakfast.

Airport Drop Off in Private Car.

Inclusions

  • All the transportation between airport and hotel
  • A 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu
  • Standard lodges/tea houses during the trek
  • Welcome and farewell dinners
  • All accommodation and meals during the stay in the trek
  • All domestic flight fares and airport taxes
  • An experienced English speaking guide and one porter for 2 persons 
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (National park permit, TIMS)
  • All government and local taxes

Exclusions

  • Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
  • Tips for guides and porters

Essential Info

Hotel and Lodge on Ganja La Pass Trek:

Redrose Travel  arranges it’s best for comfortable and pleasant accommodation and also provides you nourished hygienic food. We will be staying at the standard hotel (rating of 2 – 3 Star) in Kathmandu whereas, in the remote areas, we will be staying at a tea house or a local lodge. We can also arrange luxurious rooms from 4 – 5 Star hotels in the cities with an additional charge but the remote mountainous regions have no such facilities.

Tea houses and local lodges in the remote region will have a usual bed with usual mattress and a pillow. Only a few of them have electricity but the rest rely on lanterns or candles lights. Booking of the room is done prior to the starting of the trek. If in case we are not able to book the room in advance, we can book it upon reaching there as these areas have ample of lodges and tea houses. If for some reason, we aren’t able to book a lodge/teahouse - we can easily set a camp which will be the most adventurous part of the trek itself.

 



Food and Drinks for Trekking to the Langtang Ganja La Pass:

Redrose Travel focuses on client’s safety and health and gives it the foremost priority. We make sure that each and every client get the same portion of clean, hygienic and nourishing food which is a very necessary - especially while trekking.

During the trek - all the meals i.e. breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided inclusive in our package. But in the city, either breakfast or dinner is included. Please go through the detailed itinerary for each day to see which meals are included. During the trek, breakfast and dinner will be served in the same lodge where we spend overnight and our expert trek leader will be taking you to the clean hotels/restaurants for lunch on the way to your destination.

Normal water will be provided free of cost but we suggest you carry water purification pills to purify the water. If you prefer to drink packaged bottled mineral water, you will easily get in shops or tea houses, but the expense should be paid by the client as it is not included in the package.

 



Best Seasons:

The flawless seasons for touring/trekking is in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). One can travel in winter if you are well adapted to cold. We strongly recommend the clients not to trek on monsoon in June, July, and August because of heavy rains & extremely blazing heat in the afternoon.

 



Luggage/Backpack:

Our porters will carry your major luggage while you carry a backpack with items very handy while trekking such as water bottle, towel, tissue or toilet paper, camera or any other stuff which you feel is necessary during your trek. Gears and clothes not needed during your trek can be left in the hotel safe deposit box properly locked without any extra charge. Domestic airlines of Nepal do not allow more than 15 kg including your hand baggage. If your baggage exceeds more than 15 kg, an extra charge will cover that up but isn’t included in our package.

 



Guide/Porter on Trek:

Redrose Travel  provides honest porters and well experienced first aid certified, altitude sickness trained trekking guides who will be handling all your issues on the trip. All our staffs are very cordial and sincere. The porter will be carrying up to 10 kg luggage of each client. While trekking in a bigger group i.e. more than 10 people - an additional guide will be provided and the group also can be split according to the number of people in the group. 

 



Group Size, and Crew Member:

Redrose Travel  arranges trekking to Ganja La Pass with a minimum of 2 clients to a maximum of 8 in a group. The larger group we will be arranged by dividing the groups into two or more according to the number of people. However, although you might be staying in the same lodge - but during your trek - you might be having a different guide.

 



Personal Expenses on Trek:

Personal expenses totally depend upon how extravagant are you in nature. Our package includes the cost of accommodation and meals during your trek as mentioned in the itinerary. Besides that, you are liable to pay for additional meals, table drinks, snacks, hot shower (accessible in some places), alcoholic drinks, entrance fee (around US $ 25 ) for visiting heritage sites of Kathmandu, meals in Kathmandu (around US $ 5-7), tips for driver, guide and porters, etc. Tips to the guides, porter or any other members are not mandatory. You can tip them if you are satisfied with their service.

 



Available Gears/Equipment:

Trekking equipment is readily available in the stores of Kathmandu at a very reasonable price or it can also be hired with a minimal charge per day. So, you don’t have to buy or carry from your hometown.

 



A Usual Day on Trek:

These are the approximate guidelines for a trek on each day which may differ according to the itinerary or schedule or your pace while trekking. 

Normally, you are required to trek for 4-6 hours each day. We start our trek after breakfast and stop for the lunch. We trek for 3-4 hours after lunch to reach our destination. If we reach our destination in afternoon, you can spend rest of the hours relaxing, take shower or just wander around.

 



Greetings at the Airport:

After booking and confirming your Ganja La Pass Trek of the Langtang region with us, we suggest you flow all the information such as - your number of days of stay, departure date, returning date, & international flight details (arrival time, flight number). After getting this information, a representative of Redrose Travel can easily pick you up from the airport on time.

After you complete the formalities of the airport and come to the exit gate, you can spot Redrose Travel member holding a placard of your name or Redrose Travel waiting outside the terminal. After meeting and greetings, we will transfer you to the hotel in our private car. If you have booked the hotel by yourself, please let us know in advance, so that we can drop you at your respective hotel.

 



Changes in the Itinerary:

Our regular itinerary of the Gosainkunda Trek is 14 days unless you have customized it.  The itinerary has been carefully designed by our operation manager which is very pragmatic & includes the high altitude acclimatizing. These 14 days includes your arrival day, departure and sightseeing Kathmandu. It also may have an extra day which allows flexibility to adjust the delay or cancellation of flight due to sudden changes in the Himalayan weather (applies according to the location).

If you would like to extend more days or lessen some, we surely can do that as per your wish.

 



Safety Measures:

Client’s safety is our main priority and we make sure that each and every client is well taken care of. If by chance anyone gets sick during the trek, we will take you to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. If the condition is serious – we will use the rescue helicopter to take you to the nearest hospital while all the expenses will be carried out by the travel insurance company. We suggest you get insured for up to 6000 meters.

 



Booking and Payment:

After confirming or booking the trip – all we need is the copy of the passport, insurance policy, and the international flight details (ticket). Then, a 20% advance deposit is required for any trip, trek or expedition which is not refundable - used for reservations of hotels and lodges according to the itinerary.

The remaining balance is due when you arrive at Kathmandu and can be paid by any means convenient to you. We prefer payment via cash (to avoid any extra service charge) but bank transfer, credit cards, western union, and pay pal are also the accepted form of payments. 

FAQ

What is the Ganja La Pass Trek, and why is it special?

The Ganja La Pass Trek is a 14-day trekking adventure in Nepal, known for its challenging terrain, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness. It's special because it offers a unique opportunity to cross the high-altitude Ganja La Pass while exploring the remote beauty of the Langtang region.

How long is the Ganja La Pass Trek with Red Rose Travel?

Our Ganja La Pass Trek itinerary with Red Rose Travel spans 14 days, including arrival and departure days, trekking days, and rest days.

What is the highest point of the trek, and what are the challenges associated with it?

The highest point of the trek is Ganja La Pass, standing at approximately 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). Crossing the pass can be physically demanding due to steep ascents, descents, and possible snow conditions. It's essential to be in good physical shape and prepared for high-altitude trekking.

What is the best time to do the Ganja La Pass Trek?

The best time for the Ganja La Pass Trek is during the post-monsoon season (September to November) and pre-monsoon season (March to May). These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions.

Is prior trekking experience required for this trek?

Yes, prior trekking experience, especially at high altitudes, is highly recommended. Participants should be physically fit and prepared for challenging terrain and variable weather conditions

Do I need permits for the Ganja La Pass Trek, and will Red Rose Travel assist with obtaining them?

Yes, you'll need permits for this trek. The necessary permits include the Langtang National Park entry permit and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. Red Rose Travel will assist you in obtaining these permits.

What type of accommodations can I expect during the trek?

Accommodations during the Ganja La Pass Trek consist of comfortable teahouse lodges along the route. These lodges offer basic amenities, including clean rooms and communal dining areas, where you can enjoy warm meals and rest after a day of trekking.

Are there opportunities for cultural experiences during the trek?

Absolutely! The Ganja La Pass Trek takes you through Tamang and Sherpa villages, providing opportunities to interact with locals, visit monasteries, and immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the region.

What should I pack for the Ganja La Pass Trek?

You should pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, sturdy trekking boots, a warm sleeping bag, a backpack, personal toiletries, and a first-aid kit. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.

Can Red Rose Travel customize the itinerary or provide alternative routes?

Yes, Red Rose Travel can customize the itinerary or offer alternative routes to suit your preferences and needs. Our team will work with you to create a tailored trekking experience.

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