Langtang Circuit Trek

Useful Information

Itinerary Disclaimer

At Mountain Ram Adventures, we understand that sometimes, plans need to be adjusted to accommodate unforeseen circumstances and individual preferences. We value your preferences and understand that you may have specific requirements for your Langtang circuit trek. If you wish to make any changes to our standard itinerary, kindly inform us during the trip confirmation process. Please be aware that alterations to the itinerary may impact the overall package cost.

Likewise, trekking in the majestic Himalayas is filled with surprises, and that also includes potential uncertainties like poor weather conditions, road blockages, and the risk of altitude sickness. Additionally, there can be unexpected political disturbances and natural disasters. These things are out of our control and could temporarily affect the planned trekking route.

In the event of unforeseen challenges or disruptions, our experienced trek leader will make well-informed decisions for the safety and well-being of the entire trekking group.

Airport Pickup and Drop

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our dedicated representatives will warmly welcome you at the airport. Likewise, when your trek comes to a close, we will ensure you reach the airport comfortably and on time for your departure. This service is included at no extra cost as part of our comprehensive trek package.

To guarantee your comfort and convenience, we arrange private vehicles for your airport transfers. These vehicles are well-maintained, ensuring a hassle-free commute between the airport and your accommodation in Kathmandu.

Safety and Security

Our office team will assist in booking safe and reputable hotels in Kathmandu for your stay before and after the trek. We are available to help you with any inquiries or assistance you may need while in the city. Likeiwse, you will be accompanied by our expert and experienced trekking guides, who have an in-depth knowledge of the region. They are not only your trail navigators but also your reliable companions, ensuring your safety throughout the Langtang circuit trekking.

Tips:

1. While Nepal is generally a safe country for travelers, be careful of your surroundings and avoid walking late at night, especially in the mountains.
2.  If you ever feel uncertain about any section of the trail, do not hesitate to seek assistance from your guide.
3. Keep your essential documents, cash, and emergency funds easily accessible in a secure pouch or bag. Also, make photocopies of your travel documents (passport, permits, etc.) and store them separately as a backup.

Minimum Age

There is no strict minimum age requirement for embarking on the Langtang circuit trek 21 days. However, if you intend to trek with individuals under the age of 18, it is necessary to have an identified guardian accompany them on the trail. Regardless of age, anyone planning to undertake the Langtang circuit trek should be in good physical and mental health.

Solo Travelers

You can do a Langtang circuit trek solo or any other trek in the Langtang region solo. From April 1st, 2023, trekking solo in the Langtang and Annapurna regions has been prohibited. Both regions require a TIMS Card, and you can only obtain it from the Nepal Tourism Board with the help of a licensed trekking company like us.

You can do a private trek with us or join our fixed departure groups. We regularly organize group departures, allowing solo travelers to join and trek alongside like-minded individuals from around the world. If no scheduled departures align with your preferred trekking dates, we can help pair you with other solo trekkers or find a few fellow trekkers to create a group for your journey.

Langtang Circuit Trek Cost

Our Langtang circuit trek package is competitively priced to ensure you receive the best experience without breaking the bank. The Langtang circuit trek cost starts at USD 1,500 per person and goes up to USD 2000 per person. The price of the package varies as per the group size. Group trekking lowers the cost of the package.

We take pride in offering great value for your investment in the Langtang Circuit trek. By choosing Mountain Ram Adventures as your trekking partner, you can rest assured that you will receive top-notch service, expert guidance, and a memorable trekking experience at a competitive price!

Accommodation on the Langtang Circuit Trek

Langtang circuit trek involves guesthouse accommodation. It means you will basically spend nights in the homes of the locals. The locals of the Langtang region live a very simple lifestyle, and you can see that in their homes. The accommodation will be basic, with twin shared rooms and a common washroom. Some places offer private washrooms, too. While in Kathmandu, you will spend the nights in a three-star hotel.

1. Single room: Single rooms are not available throughout the trail and may cost a bit additional money. Let us know in advance if you would like to get single rooms during the trek. We will try our best to arrange it throughout the route.
2. Sleeping gear: To ensure a good night's rest, bring a high-quality sleeping bag suitable for the trek's conditions. A pillow is optional but can make your nights more comfortable. If needed, you can also request extra blankets from the teahouses for a small additional fee.
3. Dining area: The dining areas in guesthouses along the Langtang circuit trek often serve as communal spaces where you can mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Take advantage of this opportunity to exchange stories and experiences while enjoying your meals.
4. Toilet supplies: Carry an ample supply of toilet paper & tissues along with other essentials, as these may not always be readily available in the teahouses.

Food on the Langtang Circuit Trek

Along the trail, you'll find a range of dishes to choose from. Some of the most common include Dal Bhat (a nutritious staple Nepali meal), Tibetan bread, paratha, thukpa, thenduk, chow mein, and momos. While meat items are available, inquire about the freshness of the meat before ordering.

Breakfast options typically include toast, eggs, jam, butter, soup, porridge, parathas, and oats. Since there are limited tea shops on the trail, prices for snacks can be high. We recommend packing your favorite snacks, energy bars, and beverages to sustain you during the trek.

Access to safe drinking water varies along the trail. In lower-altitude areas, you can typically get free boiled drinking water at guesthouses. However, in higher-altitude regions, you may need to purchase boiled water, which can cost between USD 1.5 to 2 per bottle.

To ensure the safety of your drinking water, carry water purification tablets. A 2-liter water bottle is recommended for your convenience. You can use one water purification tablet for every two liters of water to make sure it's safe for consumption.

Transportation

We use private vehicles to drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and vice versa. The vehicle will be arranged as per the group size and our itinerary. Likewise, during the guided tour in Kathmandu, we also provide a private vehicle. All the transportation will be provided, as per our itinerary, and a request for any additional transportation support will cost you extra money. 

Langtang Circuit Trek Permits

 The Langtang circuit trek requires a TIMS card, a Langtang National Park entry permit, and a Shivapuri National Park permit.

TIMS card cost for SAARC countries: USD 6 excluding VAT per person
TIMS card cost for other nationals: USD 20 excluding VAT per person
Langtang National Park permit cost for SAARC countries: USD 15 excluding VAT per person
Langtang National Park permit cost for other nationals: USD 30 excluding 13% VAT per person
Shivapuri National Park permit cost: USD 5 excluding VAT per person

Documents needed for the permits:

1. Photocopies of your passport (with at least six months validity)
2. One scanned photograph (to be uploaded for Nar Phu Valley RAP's online form)
3. 1-2 passport-size photos
4. Travel insurance papers (includes helicopter evacuation of up to 6,000 meters)
5. Nepal tourist visa

Langtang Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Langtang circuit trek is a challenging trek in the Langtang region. It is a long trek that traverses many steep and isolated parts of the Langtang region. The trek crosses a high mountain pass and spends many nights in the mountain. You have to be physically fit with high endurance to survive bare minimum facilities throughout the journey. Your mental resilience is also quite important.

The best time to do the Langtang Circuit Trek

You can do the Langtang circuit trek in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These are the peak times for Langtang circuit trekking. Other seasons do not have needed weather conditions and climate for hassle-free trekking.

Spring (March to May):

1. Optimal time: Spring is one of the best times for the Langtang circuit trekking. During these months, you can expect pleasant weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures.
2. Scenic beauty: The spring season brings vibrant colors to the region, with blooming rhododendron forests and lush green landscapes.
3. Wildlife sightings: It's an excellent time to spot a variety of wildlife and enjoy unobstructed mountain views.

Autumn (September to November):

1. Recommended time: Autumn is another prime trekking season in Langtang. Expect clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall.
2. Panoramic views: This season offers some of the most breathtaking mountain vistas as the skies are usually crystal clear
3. Festivities: Nepalese celebrate their biggest festivals in the autumn seasons, so you may get to participate in some of them.

 Summer/Monsoon (June to August):

1. Off-season caution: The summer and monsoon months are considered off-season for the Langtang circuit trek.
2. Weather challenges: This period is marked by heavy rainfall, which can lead to landslides and disrupted trails. The weather can be unpredictable, and visibility may be limited.
3. Thriving vegetation and rivers: One perk of summer/monsoon season is the Langtang region sees abundant flora and fauna. The vegetation and rivers are thriving.

Winter (December to February):

1. Off-season warning: Winter is another off-season for the Langtang circuit trek.
2. Extreme Cold: Winter brings freezing temperatures, and the biting cold can be challenging to endure. Proper insulation and warm clothing are essential for survival.
3. Heavy snowfall: Heavy snowfall can obstruct the trail, making certain sections more difficult to navigate.
4. Reduced visibility: Fog and cloud cover can obscure the stunning mountain views, particularly in the morning hours.
5. Cost savings: Winter trekking in the Langtang region provides the advantage of low cost for accommodations and meals.
6. Winter wonderland: The landscape transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, with snow-covered vistas creating a picturesque setting.

Langtang Circuit Trek Tips

1. Internet: In some villages, you will get WiFi services for a few extra bucks. For a better internet experience, we recommend using a Nepali tourist sim. The network may fluctuate along the trail. Because of the remoteness of the area, the network is not available everywhere, but you will still get ample opportunities to connect with your friends and families.

1. Hot Shower: You can take hot showers in the guest houses by paying a few bucks. Do note that hot shower service will be a scarcity at the upper part of the Langtang circuit trail. You can expect to pay USD 5 to 7 each time. To keep yourself refreshed, you can use baby wipes.

1. Charging: Charging your devices in the tea houses along the trail typically incurs a fee ranging from USD 2 to 4. To minimize your reliance on paid charging services, carry a solar charger, spare batteries, and power banks.

1. ATM: There are no ATMs along the Nar Phu Valley trek route. Therefore, ensure you have sufficient Nepali cash with you before starting the trek.

1. Luggage: Each trekker is allotted a duffel bag with a maximum weight limit of 10 kilograms. In addition to your duffel bag, you are allowed to carry a backpack with a maximum weight limit of 5 kilograms. Your backpack is where you should keep essentials such as personal items, money, and important documents. If you have luggage that is not needed during the trek, store them in our office or your hotel's locker room for free of cost.

Guides and Porters during the Langtang Circuit Trekking

While trekking with us, Mountain Ram Adventures in Nepal, you'll have the privilege of trekking alongside experienced native guides and porters. Our trekking guides are native to the region and possess a profound understanding of the area and its local culture. They are well-versed in the unique nuances of the Langtang circuit and can provide you with valuable insights and information throughout your journey.

Trekking with us means you don't have to worry about the logistics or challenges of the trek. Our guides are dedicated to ensuring your safety, comfort, and enjoyment in the mountains. You can rely on them for guidance, support, and assistance in every aspect of your Langtang circuit trek, as they are trained in wildlife survival, first aid, group leadership, and more.

Tipping the porter and guide

Tipping guides, porters, and drivers is customary practice when trekking in Nepal. Our Langtang circuit trek costs do not include tips for these service providers. Therefore, you have the freedom to tip according to your satisfaction level and the quality of service you've received.

While the amount you choose to tip is ultimately at your discretion, below are some general guidelines that many trekkers follow:

1. For trek guides and porters, a common practice is to tip approximately 10% of the total trek package cost. It is divided among your trek guide and porters. Or, each member in the group can contribute USD 100 and tip collectively as a group.
2. You can tip USD 5 to the tour guide.
3. USD 2 as a tip for the driver is a good number.

Is Insurance needed for the Langtang Circuit Trek?

Trekking in areas like the Langtang region, which are not easily accessible and have limited healthcare facilities, requires comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical bills and emergency air evacuation. This coverage ensures that if any unforeseen medical issues or emergencies arise during your trek, you have the financial support needed for evacuation and medical treatment.

*Note: You need to give us the travel insurance documents before the trek begins. We will use this document to provide you immediate medical assistance in an emergency.

Risks During Langtang Circuit Trek

Trekking in the Himalayas involves risks of injuries and altitude sickness because of rugged terrain and high elevation. So, you have to be extra careful while walking. In the event of any medical emergency, our guide is equipped to provide basic first aid as needed. Whether it's a minor illness or injury, you can rely on their expertise to address the situation promptly, as they are trained to do so.

*Note: If you have any known allergies or pre-existing medical conditions that could potentially be triggered during the trek, please inform us in advance.

Stomach Problems

Encountering stomach problems during the Langtang Circuit trek is not uncommon due to changes in environmental factors such as air, water, and food. Before embarking on the Langtang circuit trek, consult your doctor and get general medicines to carry with you as a precautionary measure. In the mountains, consider sticking to a vegetarian diet. Vegetarian meals are less likely to cause stomach upset compared to meat-based dishes.

Preventing Altitude Sickness (AMS)

Altitude sickness is a standard concern when trekking in high-altitude regions like the Langtang, given the significant elevation changes. To prevent altitude sickness and ensure a safe trekking experience, follow the below guidelines:

1. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body adequately hydrated. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
2. Maintain a gradual and steady pace. Avoid rushing and overexertion, as these can increase the risk of altitude-related symptoms.
3. Make sure you get ample sleep during your trek to help your body acclimatize to the changing elevations.
4. Pay attention to your diet.
5. Refrain from alcoholic drinks and smoking during the trek. 

Common symptoms of altitude sickness include:

1. Headache
2. Loss of appetite
3. Breathing difficulties
4. Vomiting
5. Nausea
6. Insomnia

Personal Expenses

Our Langtang circuit trek package includes services such as permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and guides/porters as outlined in our itinerary. However, there are many things that our package cost does not cover, and you have to make an additional budget for them.

Things like international airfare, travel insurance, tips, shopping, additional services in the tea houses while trekking, etc, are not covered in our package cost. By being aware of what is included and what is not in our package, you can budget effectively and ensure that you have the financial resources needed for a comfortable and enjoyable Langtang circuit trek.

Arrival Complications

From flight delays to baggage issues and even difficulties in connecting with our team at the airport can happen. Though we hope you won't encounter these situations, it's wise to be ready for unforeseen circumstances.

Here's how to handle possible arrival complications:

1.  If your flight experiences delays, please inform us as soon as possible. This allows us to make necessary adjustments to your airport pick-up and hotel reservations to accommodate your new arrival time.
2.  In case you don't immediately spot our team at the airport, don't worry. You can get in touch with us using the airport's WiFi facilities or request call support from local authorities if needed.
3. To make obtaining the visa process smooth upon your arrival in Nepal, ensure that you have all the necessary visa documentation readily available. This includes having the required visa fee on hand for a quick and efficient visa application process.

Emergency Contact

Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance to us, and we are here to support you throughout your Langtang circuit trek in Nepal with us. We will make sure you have access to assistance in case of emergencies or unexpected situations. To provide you with peace of mind, we offer a dedicated 24/7 emergency contact number that you can reach out to at any time without hesitation.

Emergency Contact Number: +977 9851074270

This contact number has both WhatsApp and Viber, making it convenient for you to connect with us no matter where you are on your journey. Our team is always on standby to assist you promptly and effectively.

Visas and Entry Requirements

Nepali travel visas are easy to obtain. You can get it from the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office in your country or upon arriving at any entry point in Nepal, including the Tribhuvan International Airport. Travelers from many countries can apply for on-arrival visas, but there are a few exceptions. So, it is better to check your Nepali travel visa status for your country.

*Note: There are a few countries that are not eligible for on-arrival Nepali travel visas, so be sure to confirm your eligibility in advance.

Essential documents for obtaining a travel visa:

1. Passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the day you enter Nepal.
2. Visa application form: If you choose to obtain your visa upon arrival, you will need to submit a visa application form. These forms are readily available online, at the airport, and at border crossings for your convenience.
3. Passport-sized photos: Carry a few recent passport-sized photos with you.
4. Trek confirmation letter: We will provide you with a trek confirmation letter. This letter will serve as a valuable document that you can use to obtain your travel visa for Nepal.

Laundry

It is better to pack enough trekking clothes to last the duration of your journey and not rely on washing clothes and drying them. Opt for trekking clothes made from quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabrics. These materials are not only comfortable for trekking but also easy to wash and dry in unpredictable mountain weather.

Hand washing clothes is common. Carry biodegradable soap for hand washing your clothes in an emergency and a few resealable plastic bags to store damp clothes separately. Once you are back in Kathmandu, you can put your clothes in the laundry for a fraction of the cost.

Money Exchange

In Nepal, we use the Nepalese Rupee (NPR) as an official currency. Notes are available in various denominations, including 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 rupees. Before your trek starts, you can exchange your currency (e.g., USD, EUR, GBP) for Nepalese Rupees at banks or money exchange counters in Thamel, Kathmandu. This will ensure that you have local currency to cover your expenses during the journey, as the Langtang circuit trail does not have ATMs.

Credit and debit cards are accepted in many restaurants, cafes, and shops in Kathmandu and other major cities, but you cannot use them in the mountains. You have to carry ample Nepali cash for personal expenses. Using your credit or debit card internationally may include transaction fees, so contact your bank and learn about it.

Tips:

1. Compare rates before making any currency exchange transactions.
2. To avoid scams, exchange your currency at authorized money changers or banks.
3. To make purchases in local shops and for tipping, carry a mix of small and large denomination notes.
4. US dollars are widely accepted in Nepal. Keep some US dollars on hand as a backup.
5. Estimate your daily expenses and ensure you carry enough cash to cover additional costs for snacks, drinks, and extra services at tea houses while trekking.

Emergency Fund

As you prepare for your Langtang circuit trek, it's wise to anticipate unexpected expenses that may occur along the way. These can range from medical emergencies to unforeseen accommodation changes or transportation delays due to weather conditions. To safeguard your journey, dedicate an emergency fund. This fund should be separate from your planned trek budget.

*Please be aware that your emergency fund is intended solely for genuine emergencies and should not be used as your everyday expenses.

Learn Useful Nepali Phrases & Etiquette

Learning about the locals, their language, and etiquette before traveling to a new country will help you a lot. It will make your journey much more meaningful and lovely. You can confidently say hello to the locals in respectful manners and mingle with them.

Nepalese are very hospitable and welcoming folks. Seeing your little efforts will win their hearts, and they will treat you like their own. So, we strongly recommend learning a few Nepali phrases and etiquette while preparing for your trip to Nepal.

You can start from below-

Basic phrases:

1. Namaste (नमस्ते): Hello/Greetings (with folded hands, a common way of greeting in Nepal).
2. Dhanyabad (धन्यवाद): Thank you.
3. Kripaya (कृपया): Please.
4. Sundar (सुन्दर): Beautiful.
5. Kasto Cha? (कस्तो छ?): How are you?
6. Maaph garnuhos (माफ गर्नुहोस्): Excuse me/Sorry.
7. Khana khanu bhayo? (खाना खानु भयो?): Have you eaten?
8. Ke ho? (के हो?): What is this?
9. Maile bujina (मैले बुझिन): I don't understand.
10. Ghar (घर): House/Home.

Etiquette and cultural tips:

1. Respect for elders: Use "dai" (for men) and "didi" (for women) as a sign of respect when addressing older individuals. In Nepali culture, respecting your elders is considered good manners.
2. Take off your shoes before entering someone's home, a temple, or a monastery.
3. Dress modestly: Dress modestly, especially in rural and religious areas. While urban areas are more cosmopolitan, it's respectful to be mindful of your clothes for a better impression on the locals.
4. Circumambulation:  When visiting temples or stupas, always walk clockwise around them as a mark of respect.
5. Using your right hand: Use your right hand for handing items, giving and receiving, and shaking hands, as it's considered cleaner and more respectful.
6. Tipping: Tipping is quite common in the travel industry of Nepal. It is expected at the end of the service provided by drivers, guides, and porters.
7. If offered food or drinks, it's polite to accept, even if you take only a small amount.
8. Public displays of affection: Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Keep physical affection modest and private.
9. Be mindful of photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in more remote or traditional areas. Respect their privacy and cultural beliefs.

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Packing Tips

 The following tips will help you a lot while packing for trekking in Nepal.

1. Follow our packing checklist provided after the booking confirmation.
2. Pack every little thing that you may need while trekking. You will not find most of the things in the mountains.
3. Pack light but smart.
4. Get your trekking boots early and use them a few times to break into them. This will help you avoid blisters of new shoes while trekking.
5. Pack trekking clothes suitable for all kinds of weather and layer them as needed.
6. In Kathmandu, you can buy or rent trekking clothes, gear, and essentials at a fraction of the cost. The market carries top-notch clothes and gear, so you do not have to bring everything from your home.

 Below, we have made a general packing list for you to provide you an overview of things you need to get for Langtang circuit trekking.

1. Essentials: Sun cap, scarf, gloves, woolen cap, hat, raincoat, cotton socks, woolen socks, clothing (4-5 pairs of each item), dry tees, underwear, trekking shirt and pants, down jacket, fleece jacket, windbreaker, thermal wear, rain pants, daypack and rain cover, backpack and rain cover, duffle bag (provided by the company), water bottle, water filter, sleeping bag & liner, trekking poles, stuff sack, hiking shoes or boots
2. Personal kit: Toilet paper, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, lip balm, sanitizer, wet wipes, cold cream, face cream, comb, sunglasses, toothbrush & paste, hand wash
3. Personal Medical kit: Insect repellent, paracetamol, band-aid, Vomistop, antifungal cream, cotton, ORS or electoral powder, antiseptic cream, bandage and spray for sprained joint, necessary medications
4. Electronic Gadget: Charger, spare batteries, power bank, camera, headlamp/LED torch
5. Documents: Permits, passport, visa, photo, identity card, travel insurance documents