Tamang Heritage & Langtang Valley Trek
Experience Overview
Discover sacred culture and incredible natural landscapes as you venture deep into Tamang hinterland along the quiet Tamang Heritage Trail (restricted until 2004). On this 15-day trek, you’ll explore the wilds of Langtang National Park, uncover surprisingly verdant midlands and stay in villages that will teach you about the local culture. Connect with locals, share stories and fill your days with exhales (both in exhaustion and in awe). All this, paired with the soaring views of Manaslu Massif, Ganesh, Langtang and Jugal Himal. This trek is perfect for the adventurous and active traveller looking for something different well off the tourist trail. ALTERNATE ITINERARY: Due to the nature of trekking in Nepal, please be aware that this trip will operate on an amended itinerary in the event of high-risk weather conditions.
Highlights
- Discover forests filled with monkeys, scenic ice-capped peaks, plateaued grasslands and epic mountains in Nepal’s seldom-seen Tamang hinterland.
- Follow trails that run through villages and local communities, instead of teahouses built for tourists, which means you’ll gain real insight into what life’s like in these remote areas.
- Stay overnight in a family-run homestay in Briddim, sharing stories, feasting on traditional home cooking and sleeping in a comfortable wooden home.
- Hike to a 100-year-old monastery in the village of Gatlang, then head out to find Parvati Kunda – a sacred lake revered for its apparent powers of fertility.
- Learn about the Himalayas from your experienced local crew, and hike easier in the knowledge that you’re with a company who takes the safety and ethical treatment of trekking guides seriously.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2172
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle,Public bus
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: HNXV
Starts: Kathmandu , Nepal
Finishes: Kathmandu, Nepal
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Demanding
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (1),Accommodation: Hotel (2 nights),Teahouse (11 nights),Farm House (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1,800 ($120 /day)
Itinerary
Namaste! Welcome to Nepal. Your adventure begins in Kathmandu. This capital city is a mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and with its rich artistic and cultural heritage, it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life, and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats, and sacred cows. You’ll meet your group leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting at 2 pm this afternoon. After, maybe head out with your group to one of the Kathmandu’s local restaurants.
Optional Activities:
- Kathmandu - Rickshaw Night Explorer Urban Adventure (49 USD)
- Kathmandu - Home Cooking Class Urban Adventure (60 USD)
- Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight (240 USD)
- Kathmandu - Spiritual Nepal Experience Urban Adventure (59 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up bright and early and drive northwest through Balaju. Make a steady climb to the rim of the Kathmandu Valley, eventually arriving at the pass at Kakani. As you wind upwards to the Trisuli Bazaar, you’ll get views of the Manaslu Massif, Ganesh, Langtang and Jugal Himal. Prepare yourselves for a few humps and bumps, because the road from Trisuli onwards begins to deteriorate. You’ll be driving in these conditions for around 50 km (31 mi) to Dhunche and then another 15 km (9 mi) to Syabrubesi. When you arrive at tonight’s teahouse, settle in and relax.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today starts early with an ascent via a slew of switchbacks that mark the beginning of the trail. It’s all worth it when you reach a vantage point with views of Ganesh Himal, the Gosainkunda range and Langtang Lirung. Along the trail, you’ll see numerous Buddhist Chortens and mani walls, which all add another dimension to this picturesque landscape. After descending for around 45 minutes, arrive at the little Tamang village of Goljung for a lunch break. Then, continue trekking to another Tamang village called Gatlang (2238 m). Besides the town’s cultural richness and scenic location, Gatlang also boasts a 100-year-old Tamang monastery and the secret lake, Parvati Kunda. Legend has it that this lake was discovered in ancient times while the King of Gatlang was on his way to find a missing hunting dog. It’s now revered by women for its apparent power to increase fertility.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today will most likely be the toughest day of the trek, but the rewards far outweigh the gruelling journey! You’ll descend gradually along a ridge to the Bamdang Khola, which turns north along the Chilime Khola until you reach the town of Chilime. After crossing a suspension bridge (always fun) you’ll begin an arduous climb of around 450 m to the village of Gongang. It’ll take around 1.5 hours of steep uphill climbing, but there’s a lunch break when you arrive. The next section is much less physically strenuous, as you continue the ascent until you reach Tatopani (2607 m).
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Pass through an incredible rhododendron forest clinging to the side of the mountain, where vines and moss-covered trees may be filled with troops of gray langur monkeys. Pass through village of Brimdang, then continue up the side of the highest and steepest part of the trail. One ridge after another offers better and better views of Ganesh Himal to the west and the Langtang range on the east. The ridgeline ends atop the open grasslands of Nagthali Hill (3210 m), where you’ll be surrounded by jaw-dropping views of Langtang Lirung, Kerung, Ganesh Himal and Shishapangma on the Tibetan side, with the Sanjen Ranges before you. Spend time taking in the views, visit the monastery and enjoy the sense of accomplishment, before the 900 m descent through deep woodlands to Thuman, which faces the Shisapangma and Langtang Lirung peaks. A distinct Tibetan influence can be felt in the village, with its Shamanistic beliefs, ancient monasteries and houses covered in woodcarvings.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today’s trek will see you descending through deep woodlands that face the Shisapangma and Langtang Lirung peaks. Pass through rhododendron forests and meadows to reach the Tamang village of Briddim, located in the heart of the Langtang Himal. Briddim marks the end of the Tamang Heritage Trail and is often a highlight for many travellers. Here, you’ll get to experience a teahouse owned by a local family, sleeping overnight in their comfortable wooden rooms. You’ll get a richer understanding of the culture here plus the chance to share stories with your host.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue along the trail through the hilly region of Khangjim and Sherpagoan, learning about the rich culture of the Tamang and Sherpa communities along the way. After several hours of trekking, you’ll reach tonight’s guesthouse – Lama Hotel is the name of a collection of guesthouses that marks the start of the Langtang Valley. The standard of accommodation in Lama Hotel is slightly below the usual standard on this trip, but is still comfortable.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Ascend through Langtang National Park via Gumnachowk and Ghotatabela, finally reaching the village of Langtang. Langtang National Park was established in 1976 to conserve the unique flora and fauna of the region. Rhododendron, Nepalese alder and oak forest thrive here due to the temperate conditions. The park is also home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, snow leopards and more than 250 species of birds. Spend the evening at a newly built guesthouse. Don't forget to refill your water bottles tonight at the newly installed water purifier, installed as part of a joint World Wildlife Fund–Intrepid project.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, follow the trail towards the rebuilt village of Kyanjin. Both sides of the path are flanked by gorgeous views of distant snow-capped mountains. Today, you’ll encounter Tamang and Sherpa inhabitants along the trail as they go about their daily lives. Acclimatise this evening with a short climb above the village for great views of the surrounding valley.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
You can choose how to spend your time today. After breakfast, go for an optional walk to Kyanjin Ri (4600 m) for more mountain views. It’s a tough, 2-hour hike up a switch back trail in the dark, gaining about 750 m of elevation along the way. If you’d prefer, you can sleep in, have a relaxing breakfast, then head out to explore the village and learn more about the lifestyles of the Tamang and Sherpa community. Maybe visit a local cheese factory to taste Nak cheese. Yes, you heard it right, not Yak cheese, it’s Nak cheese (Yak is male!). If the mood arises, you could also take a short hike up to the glacier or try one of the several walks around the village. Tomorrow, it’s a big downhill walk back to Lama Hotel.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, head back down the trail via Langtang and Ghoretabela to Lama Hotel. Take in the scenery as you go and enjoy the lack of ascent as you go. The long walk down will be rewarded with a ‘mountain cold’ Sherpa beer. Tonight is free to relax and rest your muscles.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Embrace another early start today and after breakfast, descend along the trail through corn fields. You’ll cross the Trisuli River via a suspension bridge, then follow the river until you reach your lodge in Thulo Syabru.
Accommodation:
- Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, walk a couple of hours to Thulo Bharku (Dhunche), then transfer to Nuwakot in a private vehicle. Your relaxing accommodation for tonight is set on an organic farm and in the evening, you’ll accompany your leader to the old Nuwakot Durbar (Palace) to explore.
Accommodation:
- Farmhouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise early today for breakfast, then hop in a private vehicle for the drive back to Kathmandu. Spend some further time exploring Kathmandu before joining up with the group for an optional dinner tonight.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no further activities planned, your trip ends today and you’re free to depart at any time after check out. If you plan on spending more time in Kathmandu, let your booking agent know and they can organise more accommodation.
Optional Activities:
- Kathmandu - Panorama Hike Urban Adventure (76 USD)
- Kathmandu - Spiritual Nepal Experience Urban Adventure (59 USD)
- Kathmandu - Explore Patan & Bhaktapur Urban Adventure (108 USD)
- Kathmandu - In Focus: Handmade Kathmandu (93 USD)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Kathleen - Traveled, November 2023
This was an amazing trip! The guides were so knowledgeable and professional. I'm so grateful to have experienced this trek and will cherish the memories long after the trip has ended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Emily - Traveled, November 2023
I had the most amazing time on the Tamang Heritage and Langtang trek. The trekking is tough, so you do need to be fit and train for it. I had the most wonderful experiences, meeting local people, and seeing amaing scenery. Our group got on really well and our Leader, assistant guides and porters made the trip really special.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/12/2023
Jonathan - Traveled, October 2023
I booked this trip just three weeks before it was set to take off when another trip I was on fell through. I couldn't have asked for a more memorable experience. The entire crew was fantastic and impressive. Get ready to climb a lot of steps! It's well worth it...
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/16/2023
Ariel - Traveled, October 2023
This was, by far, one of the best trips of my life! Nepal, its people and nature, are mind blowing, and these two treks combined (Tamang Heritage Trail and Langtang Valley Trek) are such a perfect combination of off-the-beaten path cultural immersion and natural beauty. The Intrepid crew, including Parbati, Arjun, Gurakh and all the porters, were also exceptional human beings who went above and beyond to make sure we had the perfect trip. The treks are physically demanding, but the guides made it very easy to enjoy them in a relaxed way, where everyone could follow their own pace while enjoying every single moment.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/14/2023
Alex - Traveled, October 2023
This trip was a wonderful mix of scenery, challenge and experience! Intrepid organise superbly and have curated a great route & trip. The guides, asst guides & porters were wonderful. Perfect trek for those wanting something organised, safe & ethical.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/20/2023
Evie - Traveled, October 2023
My trip with intrepid has left me with such great memories, bonding with fellow trekkers and experiencing the mountains with a guide enhanced the trek so much!! Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/26/2023
Elizabeth - Traveled, October 2023
My first trip to Nepal and my first trek. It was wonderful, the guides paced it excellently and I felt very well cared for. I would highly recommend it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/20/2023
Angela - Traveled, May 2023
If you have ever wanted to trek in Nepal and experience Nepalese life do not hesitate to book. It’s a tough trek but rewarding with beautiful scenery. Particularly moving to see the site of the earthquake in 2015. All in the safe hands of the great Intrepid Team
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/24/2023
Pamela - Traveled, May 2023
absolutely amazing trek! Everyone one should do it!! well everyone with moderate level of fitness!! word can not describe the amazing scenery and euphoria of the experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/26/2023
Helen - Traveled, May 2023
If you love the challenge of lots of very long steep ups and downs and stairs with the occasional “Nepali Flat” thrown in then this is the trek for you especially on the Tamang trail. I much preferred the Langtang Valley part of this trek as it was more similar in style and scenery to the amazing Gokyo Lakes and Everest Base Camp Trek I did with Intrepid a few years ago. As always we were looked after very well by our team with Parbati as leader and especially by our assistant guides Raj and Subash who worked so hard to make sure we were always happy and well fed and also our awesome smiling dancing porters you all rock!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/24/2023
Wendy - Traveled, April 2023
Not an easy trek but 100% worth it. Stunning scenery of the beaten track away from modern life. Well organised with excellent guides and portering team who make sure all your needs are met. Staying at beautiful Nuwakot at the end of the trek is an excellent finish before the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/13/2023
Owen - Traveled, April 2023
Overall a good Trek. Not too busy. Some of the accommodation very poor - Lama hotel in particular. Assistant tour leader & porters very good.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/28/2023
Kelci - Traveled, April 2023
Tamang heritage trail was amazing. If one is interested in the culture, mainly Tibetan, tgis is the trek for you. A full day and nighr in Thuman is highly recommended. Culture is where you need to venture away from your group, explore, and never turn down a villager who invites you to join them.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/29/2023
Nicolette - Traveled, March 2023
This was a fantastic trip and a very well planned itinerary. The beautiful villages and culture of Tamang followed by the incredible scenery of Langtang. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/07/2023
Simon - Traveled, March 2023
A brilliantly planned tour jambed full of excitement and adventures, the diversity of climates and scenery was very welcome
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/07/2023
Carolin - Traveled, March 2024
Was a really great experience some challenging parts due to the altitude but manageable. Great staff always reachable and supporting. Views were stunning in Langtang ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/22/2024
Adam - Traveled, November 2023
Another fantastic experience. Demanding at times but so rewarding. Jimee and his team coped with the demands of our group and made the trip unforgettable. Many thanks and hope to see you again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2023
Samantha - Traveled, November 2023
This trip has everything from breath taking views to seeing and talking to the people of the Lang Tang region I would ?? recommend
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2023
Alice - Traveled, November 2023
This trip was absolutely amazing, I highly recommend it! It felt a bit quieter and less "touristy" than I expected which was just perfect. It was active but not too challenging. Beautiful landscapes, great food but most importantly absolutely wonderful guides/assistant guides. They were kind, caring, fun and so knowledgeable, I feel very privileged to have spent time learning about their country and culture. Thank you Jangbu, Keshu and Subhas!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Shayne - Traveled, November 2023
The Tamang Heritage Trail & the Langtang Valley are exquisite places to visit on our spectacular planet. Come and see it for yourself under the guidance of the highly professional Intrepid teams !!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
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