Public bus or taxi reach
Dhunche (Park H.Q.) via Trisuli Bazaar from Kathmandu (approx. 7-8 hrs. )
A seasonal road reaches Syabrubensi.
Alternative routes from
Kathmandu are public bus to Sundarijal or Melamchighat . From either
point, trek through Helambu to Gosainkunda via Laurebina pass or cross
Ganja La pass 95122 m) to reach Langtang Valley .
Seasons :
From mid-October to mid
December and from mid-February until mid -April the weather is usually
clear but cold at higher elevation. From mid-April to mid-June, it is warm
but often cloudy with thunder showers; spring flowers are at their best.
Summer monsoon lasts until the beginning of October . During the winter
months daytime temperatures are low and snow may occur even at low levels.
Details About the Park :
Langtang National Park
encloses the catchments of two major river systems' one draining west into
the Trisuli River and the other east to the Sun Koshi River.
Some of the best example of
graded climatic conditions in the Central Himalaya are fond here. The
complex topography and geology together with the varied climatic patterns
have enabled a wide, spectrum of vegetation types. These include small
areas of subtropical forest (below 1000 m.) Oaks, chirpine, maple, fir,
blue pine, hemlock spruce and various species of rhododendron make up the
main forest species. Above these alpine scrub and grass give way to rocks
and snow.
The variations in altitude
and topography along with the existing forest cover (approx. 25% of the
total area) provide habitat for a wide range of animals including wild dog
red panda, pika, muntjac, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan tahr,
ghoral, serow, rhesus monkey and common languor The Trisuli-Bhote Koshi
River forms an important route for birds on spring and autumn migrations
between India and Tibet.
About 45 villages are
situated within the park boundaries , but are not under park jurisdiction,
In total about 3000 households depend on park resources, primarily, for
wood and pasture lands.
Culturally the area is mixed,
the home of several ethnic groups . The majority of people are Tamang, an
ancient Nepalese race. The Tamangs, traditionally farmers and cattle
breeders, are especially well known for their weaving. Their religion is
related to the Bon and the pre-Buddhist doctrines of Tibet. Today this
religion has merged with the newer teachings of Tibetan Buddhism.
The Helambu area, immediately
north of Kathmandu, has many scenic villages inhabited by Sherpas and
Tamangs who emigrated from Tibet.
Over the centuries the
dependence of people on natural resources has influenced the. environment.
Their settlements, cultivation patterns, livestock grazing , and daily use
of resources which, in combination with the diversity of flora and fauna
and views to the Ganesh Himal, make Langtang an attractive national park.
Places of Interest :
The Langtang Valley, which is
reached from the road end at Dhunche or Sybrubensi, offers an opportunity
to explore villages and gompas (monasteries) as well as glaciers, with
magnificent views of the mountains.
Permission from the lamas
must be gained before visiting us gompas and a small donation is expected.
The Langtang Valley is the
most visited part of the park and for those who do not wish to camp,
accommodation in lodges is available.
Gosainkunda, an area of high
altitude lakes, is reached either from Dhunche or from Sundarijal in the
eastern part of Kathmandu Valley. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit these
lakes during Janai Purnima festivals in the month of August. Gosainkunda
lake is believed to have been created by Lord Shiva.
Simple lodging is now
available along the routes from Sundarijal and Dhunche to Gosainkunda.
National Park fuel regulations are strictly enforced so fuel and camping
gear must be carried.
Outstanding views to Langtang
Lirung (7234 m) , Himal Chuli (7864 m) are visible from the trail. The
route from Dhunche passes a Buddhist monastery, Sing Gompa.
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An
alternative route from the Langtang Valley to Kathmandu crosses the
Ganja La pass (5106 m.) This pass is difficult and dangerous when snow
covered. It is generally open from April to November, but unusual
weather can alter its condition at any time. Essentials for crossing the
Ganja La are a tent, alpine equipment, food and fuel as well as guide
who knows the trail.
The Helambu
circuit, from Sundarijal to Tharepati, barely enters the national park but
is nevertheless and interesting route passing through several Bhotia
villages and without ascending to more than 3400 m. From this trail it is
possible to connect with Gosainkunda and eastern parts of the park (Panch
Pokhari).
The park Headquarters is at
Dhunche. All visitors must stop here to pay an Entrance Fee.