Ganjala Pass Trek
Ganjala Pass Trek
Ganjala Pass Trek

Ganjala Pass Trek

Duration11 Days
Trip GradeDifficult
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude5033 M
Group Size1-12
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesHiking/Trekking
Best TimeMarch to May & September to December

Ganjala Pass Trek Highlights

  • Snowcapped peaks of Langtang, Ganesh Himal and Manaslu (8,163m) region including Mt. Shishapangma (8,027m)
  • Flora and fauna of Langtang National Park, the first Himalayan conservation area of Nepal
  • Less crowded trails
  • Tamang Cultural Heritage trek and Sherpa ethnic villages
  • A government-run cheese factory, Kyanjin Gompa, Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) and Tserko Ri (5,033m)
  • Cultivated farmlands of the Langtang Valley
  • Ganjala Pass (5,306m) connecting Langtang Valley with Helambu Valley
  • Combination of Camping and teahouse trekking in Nepal

Ganjala Pass Trek Ovierview

Ganjala Pass Trek moves along Langtang Valley to Helambu Valley. Ganjala Pass (5,122 m) is one of the high passes of the Himalayas that connect these two valleys. This trek gives you the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the Langtang region.

This trek is moderately challenging close to the Kathmandu Valley. By exploring the biodiversity of Langtang Valley, you reach Kyanjin Gompa. Kyanjin Gompa Acclimatization Day lets you visit a few interesting landmarks.

Langtang Valley is popular for the Tamang and Sherpa cultural villages. These people follow the Tibetan Buddhist culture and tradition. As this region lies in Langtang National Park, you will observe the amazing biodiversity as well.

While walking through the pine, oak, and rhododendron forests, you come to see a large variety of wildlife. Different species of birds and animals are protected in this Himalayan conservation center.

It is best known for around 2,000 flowering plants of different species. If you make the Ganjala Pass trek in spring, the entire region looks no different from a bride on her wedding day. The farmlands cultivated with various crops and vegetables are worthy of visiting.

Moving along the Himalayan settlement areas, you come to cross Kang La Pass. As it is above 5,000 m, this pass makes this trek more challenging. The trail is a bit hard as it remains slippery almost throughout the year due to snowfall.

After exploring the Helambu Valley, you will drive back to Kathmandu from Melamchi Bazaar. Within two weeks, you will have a lifelong experience of the Himalayas of Nepal and the Tibetan Plateau as well. Mt. Shishapangma (8,027 m) is also seen from Kyanjin Ri apart from the snowy peaks of Langtang region.

Ganjala Trek Itinerary

You can find multiple blogs regarding the Ganjala Pass Trek itinerary. You can find such an itinerary from 11 days to even longer. But 14 day’ itinerary is the perfect Nepal Trekking package to explore the natural and cultural wonders of this region.

You know, there is always the possibility of extending or stretching the itinerary. If you can walk a little longer every day than the duration proposed here, it can be shorter. Similarly, avoiding the acclimatization is another way to cut it short.

If you have previous experience of trekking in Nepal, it may not be problematic. However, it is challenging for those who are beginners. Nepal Trekking along the steep uphill and downhill trail higher than 2,500 m is not a joke!

But, we suggest you book the Ganjala Pass Trek 14-day itinerary. Nepal trekking means a leisurely activity to explore the landscape, snowy capped peaks, and bio and cultural diversity of a particular region.

Ganjala Pass Hiking Difficulty

The Ganjala Pass trek is moderately challenging in the Langtang region.  The trails up to Kyanjin Gompa are comparatively comfortable as they are frequently traversed. Climbing Kyanjin Ri (4,773 m) may be quite challenging but is rewarding.

From this top, you will have the lifelong experience of the Himalayan valleys and the mountains. Then, you gradually ascend towards Ganjala Pass. The trail to the top of this pass may be difficult as it remains slippery due to snowfalls.

Once you reach the top by crossing the ice-covered trail, your eyes remain wide open! You have the magnificent vistas of the Himalayas of Nepal and the Tibetan Plateau. During this trek, there is a chance for altitude sickness as well.

Walking along the route above 2,500 m is not everyone’s cup of tea! However, you can do this trek by taking a few precautions. Keeping yourself fully hydrated, walking slowly, and avoiding cigarettes and alcohol are some of them.

Taking a first aid box is another important safety measure. In addition, as soon as you feel any of the symptoms of AMS, you should consult with the guide. The Nepal trekking guide helps you avoid any accident that may sometimes result into death as well.

On average, you have to walk for about 5 hours every day. For the experienced trekkers, it may not sound difficult. But for beginners, it is not easy to cover the specified distance within the given duration.

Next, you have an acclimatization day at Kyanjin Gompa. It is the highest point of the Langtang Valley trek. You can not only acclimatize here but also hike to Kyanjin Ri Tserko Ri or the Langtang Lirung Glacier.

Best Season for Ganjala Pass Hiking

The Ganjala Pass trek in winter may not be a good idea. As you have to cross a high pass above 5,000 m, it is unsurpassable. It is because of the heavy snowfalls that block the Nepal trekking route.

The lower section of the Nepal trekking route may be muddy and slippery in the monsoon season. Apart from slippery trails, leeches are the other challenge in rainy season. Next, the weather cannot be predicted easily.

Therefore, the best season for Ganjala Pass Trek is spring and autumn. In Nepal, spring falls in March, April, and May while autumn falls in September, October, and November. In these seasons, the days are fine with clear visibility.

Due to the favorable weather, you can have the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas. In spring, the entire region is covered by the colorful flowers. Similarly, in autumn, you can also observe the major feasts and festivals of this region.

Ganjala Trek Map

The Ganjala Pass trek starts by driving along the Pasang Lhamu Highway from Kathmandu. From Syabrubesi, you formally begin this challenging trek. Walking along the Langtang River Valley having Sherpa and Tamang ethnic villages, you reach Kyanjin Gompa.

Langtang Valley is popular for the Tamang Cultural Heritage Trek and Langtang Valley Trek. You can have firsthand knowledge about their lifestyle, culture, and tradition. Besides, you will also see the biodiversity of Langtang National Park.

Spending a day at Kyanjin Gompa, you move further towards Ganjala Pass. Walking slowly and carefully along the slippery trail, you cross this pass. You continue the trip after enjoying the magnificent view of the valleys and mountains.

Staying at the Sherpa ethnic villages of Helambu Valley, you reach Melamchi Bazaar. From here, you travel in a private jeep or a local bus to Kathmandu. If you want you can continue further to Panch Pokhari Trek from here as well.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand All

Welcome at the Kathmandu Airport by the NTR crewmember and hotel transfer. You can visit Thamel on your own after you become fresh. In the evening, the trekking guide gives you briefing about Langtang Valley Ganja La Pass trek itinerary.

 

Max Altitude: 1350 M Accommodation: Deluxe Hotel

Driving along the Pasang Lhamu Highway, you reach Syabrubesi. It is the gateway to Langtang  Valley trek, Ganesh Himal trek or Kailash Mansarovar tour.

While in the vehicle, you come to see the stunning view of the snowy peaks of Langtang region and Manaslu region. High altitude villages surrounded by the green forests and the small trading centers are also seen.

Max Altitude: 1600 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 8 Hrs Drive

Today’s trail runs through the Langtang Khola Valley. Then, it moves through the steep uphill and downhill in the dense oak and rhododendron forests. By crossing a bridge over the Langtang Khola and walking the sloppy trail, you reach Lama Hotel.

Max Altitude: 2470 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

Moving ahead, you see a lot of natural waterfalls sprouting from the mountain landscapes. By crossing the green pasturelands,  you reach Ghore Tabala. From here, you have the glimpses of the mountains of Langtang region.

Then, you walk across the seasonal cattle settlement areas built by the herders to keep them in summer. If you make Ganja La Pass trek in spring, the entire forests are covered with the colourful rhododendron flowers. At the end of the day, by walking past a local Buddhist monastery, you reach Langtang village.

 

Max Altitude: 3430 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

The rugged path leads you across some small villages and alpine meadows serving the best Himalayan Views. Mt.  Langtang Lirung and Ganchenpo Peak are clearly seen in fine days.

By crossing several small streams and moraines, you reach Kyanjin Gompa. Kyanjin Gompa is a small village famous for a government-operated cheese factory. You can take a visit around the village to see the beauty of the village and for acclimatization purpose.

Max Altitude: 3870 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

In Kyanjin Gompa vicinity, there are few interesting things to do for a lifelong memory. Kyanjin Gompa, a cheese factory, a glacial lake and the Langtang Lurung Glacier are the sites to visit. Kyangjin Ri (4,773m.) located nearby the village is the best vantage point of entire Langtang Valley trek.

Kyanjin Ri hike rewards you with the splendid vistas of the snowcapped peaks of Langtang region. Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Changbu (6,251m), Yala Peak (5,500m), Langtang Ri (7,205m) and Langtang Yubra Peak (6,035m) are the peaks seen from here.

If you want something more challenging and interesting, you can climb Tserko Ri (5,033m). Tserko Ri is the pass of Tserko Peak (5,749m) that connects Langtang Valley with Kerung of Tibetan Autonomous Region.

On fine days, you can also see the snow-clad peaks of the Tibetan Plateau including Mt. Shishapangma (8,027m) from here. If you want to enjoy all these places around Kyanjin Gompa, you had better add up a couple days to the itinerary.

Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

When you cross the Langtang River, you enter into the dense rhododendron forests of Langtang National Park. Moving further along the steep rocky trail, you reach Ganja La Phedi in about 6 hours. If you make this trip in winter, it may take longer due to the slippery trail caused by the snowfalls.

 

Max Altitude: 4300 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tent/CampingDuration: 6 Hrs

Today is the most remarkable day of the whole trekking itinerary. You begin the trek early in the morning to cross Ganja La Pass (5,122m). Following the steep trail, you complete the challenging trek to the top of the highest pass of Langtang Valley trek.

Once you reach the top, the rewards are really awesome! You will see the jaw-dropping view of the Himalayas of Langtang region and as far as Tibetan Plateau. Mt. Shishapangma (8,027m) is also visible from here on fine days. Then descending along the Yangri Khola Valley, you go across some pasturelands to reach Keldang.

Max Altitude: 4250 M Via 5122 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tent / CampingDuration: 10 Hrs

Don’t forget to pack some food items and water bottles before starting today’s trekking. You will be walking along the landscapes that have no human settlement areas.

Following the up down trail along the ridge, you reach Dukpu to end the trek. You will enjoy the alluring outlook of the green pasture lands, green alpine forests and the Himalayas en route.

 

Max Altitude: 4080 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tent / CampingDuration: 6 Hrs

You descend in the beginning and then, climb a 4,100m-high-pass. From here, you have the welcoming view of Dorje Lakpa (6,812m), Numbur Peak and Everest region. Then the trail takes you through the dense forests of pine and rhododendron and some huts for seasonal settlement.

Suddenly, the track descends through Ama Yangri Danda (3,771m) and then Gekye Gompa. Enjoying the 360-degree view of the Helambu Valley, you reach Tarke Gyang, a purely Sherpa Village.

 

Max Altitude: 2590 M Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 7 Hrs

You walk past a Sherpa village called Ganyul where people follow Drupa Kagyu Buddhism, the national religion of the Kingdom of Bhutan. By crossing dense forests and some small streams, you walk past a local gompa of Chumnik.

Finally, you end up today’s trek in Sermathang. You can visit the local monastery in the village. You can talk with the people to know more about their lifestyle, culture and tradition.

 

Max Altitude: 2610 M Meals: B.L.D.Accommodation: Tea HouseDuration: 6 Hrs

This is the final day of trekking of Ganja La Pass Trek. You will descend by crossing a few Sherpa villages like Nigale, Gyalsha and Raithani Gyang. You have to trek for about 4  hours to raeach Melamchi Bazaar Pul.

From here, you catch a private jeep or a local bus to arrive in Kathmandu. By travelling along the blacktopped and off-road, you arrive here in 2 hours. Then, the crewmember transfers you to the hotel.

You can go for shopping around Thamel or spend the day by taking rest. In the evening, the agency invites you to farewell dinner at a restaurant. You will enjoy the cultural show and typical Nepali food items.

 

Meals: B.L.DAccommodation: Hotel in KathmanduDuration: 8 Hrs

In this way, you have come to the end of the trekking package this time. Delegate of NTR accompanies you up to the Tribhuvan International Airport according to the flight time.

Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
Included
  • Airport pick-up and drop off service,
  • Trekking Guide and Trekking porter (Two participant=1 porter =Maximum 25 kg of luggage )
  • Camping Equipment
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, accommodation during the trekking
  • Three Star level or equal level hotel  in Kathmandu
  • Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags and trekking sticks (if required)
  • Trekking permit of National park,
  • TIMS (Trekking Information Management System )
  • Round  Transport ( Kathmandu to Trekking starting point to Kathmandu )
  • Insurance and equipment for the trekking staffs
  • First aid kit
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with cultural program in typical Traditional Nepali resturant
Excluded
  • Personal expenses
  • Drinks, beverages, hot shower, extra accommodation in kathmandu
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Meals & hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (with out itinerary)
FAQs

Ganja La Pass (5,306m) lies in Langtang Valley in the northern side of the Kathmandu Valley. It is one of the highest passes of the Nepalese Himalayas. It joins the Langtang Valley with The Helambu Valley. Although the trail to this pass is quite challenging, the rewards from the top are incredible. You can have the magnificent view of the Langtang Valley, Helambu Valley and the Himalayas of Langtang and Tibetan Plateau. You can also see Mt. Shishapangma (8,027m) from this top as well.

Yes, you have a day’s acclimatization at Kyanjin Gompa. On this day, you can visit some places nearby the gompa. You can visit a government-run cheese factory and the Kyanjin Gompa. Similarly, there is the Langtang Lirung Glacier nearby the gompa. Besides, you can go to a glacial lake situated about 3 hours’ walk from here.

Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) is the must-not-miss natural landmark for the wonderful view of the Himalayas. The Langtang Valley seems really awesome from the top of this peak. If you want more challenge, you can climb Tserko Ri (5,033m) located between Langtang Valley and Kerung of Tibet. From here, you can see the mountains of Tibetan Plateau including Mt. Shishapangma (8,027m) as well.

Yes, of course! You can extend the proposed itinerary or cut it short as well. Langtang Gosainkunda trek, Langtang Yala Peak climbing, Langtang Paldor Peak climbing, Langtang Helambu Valley trek and Langtang Ganesh Himal trek are some treks in Langtang Valley.

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