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.