Ganja La Pass Trek

Langtang Ganja La pass trek offers a classic adventure just north of Kathmandu. It forms an extension to our Langtang Valley Trek, turning it into a true wilderness adventure, with obligatory camping for three nights. On a clear day, the scene from the top of Ganja La (5106m) offers unparalleled views of the 150km Himalayan panorama that stretches from the 8000m Annapurna range in the far west to Langtang Lirung (7227m) in the “foreground,” Shisha Pangma (8013m) to the north in Tibet and on towards the east Langpogang (6733m) or Jugal Himal  (6535m) and views to the south include Naya Kanga (5846m)

Board an early morning bus at the central bus station in Kathmandu, and the adventure begins with the 7-8 hrs.142km scenic drive through typical Nepalese villages, countless rows of carefully tended terraces and dramatic mountain and valley views. These friendly people will help you immerse yourself in their culture and traditions. The trail gradually climbs alongside the Langtang Khola, passing through forests of bamboo, maple, oak and pine. These forests are inhabited by langurs, musk deer, bears and the endangered, shy, red panda. Birds are constantly heard, more seldom seen in Ganja La pass trek Nepal. 

Our Ganja La pass trekking offers new sights and experiences as you gradually ascend, over many ridges, to the village of Kyanjin Gompa – and a rest day to explore Ganja La pass region. Walk slowly from Kyanjin Gompa to Ngegang as you climb to over 4000m and then rest, in your tent, before tackling the 1000m climb up the Ganja La (5106m) and 800m drop to sleep “low” again. Ganja La pass trekking route descends continue Tarkeghyang is the first Sherpa town. It means “100 houses.” In 1727, a Lama established a monastery and requested that 100 houses be built there as his reward. The temple was rebuilt in 1969, in the Bhutanese style. Enjoy the hospitality of these friendly people. Trail then continues along the hills, through Sherpa settlements bright with prayer flags, to the road head at Melamchi: and the bus back to Kathmandu.

Ganja La pass trekking Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Day 02: Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Day 03: Kathmandu – Dhunche (1950m /6435ft) 7-8 hrs drive, 117km

Day 04: Dhunche – Thulo Syabru (1900m /6270ft): 5-6 hrs.    

Day 05: Thulo Syabru – Lama Hotel (2470m /8104ft): 5-6 hrs.

Day 06 Lama Hotel- Langtang (3430m /11253ft): 5- 6 hrs.

Day 07 Langtang - Kyanjin Gompa: (3870m /12697ft): 4-5 hrs.

Day 08 Kyanjin Gompa: Day explore Exploration and acclimatization day

Day 09: Kyanjin Gompa – Ngegang (4100 m): 4-5 hrs.

Day 10: Ngegang – Ganja La pass (5106m) - Keldang (4270 m): 7-8 hrs.

Day 11: Keldang – Dukpu (4000 m): 5-6 hrs trek.

Day 12: Dukpu – Tarkegyang (2590 m): 5-6 hrs.

Day 13: Rest day in Tarkegyang and explore Sherpa village

Day 14: Tarkegyang -  Kakani (1750 m) 5-6 hrs trek

Day 15: Kakani – Melamchi Bazar- Kathmandu (1,300 m) 3-4 hrs trek and 3- 4 hrs scenic drive to Kathmandu

Day 16: Drive to international airport and fly to onward destination.

                             "OR"

For more fantastic ideal trip to extend your valued holiday in Nepal, from riding elephant in Chitwan to tours in Tibet and Bhutan, please follow the link.

Trip Cost Include:

• All airport/Hotel transfers
• 2 star Hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights on BB plan
• Welcome and farewell dinner
• City tour by private car
• Full meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek.
• Hot drinks (Tea & Coffee)
• Safe Drinking water
• All mountain accommodation
• An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
• Guide & porter salary, insurance, equipment, food and lodging
• All necessary paper work and permits (National park permit, TIMS )
• A comprehensive medical kit
• All government and local taxes
• Trekking equipment such as four season down jacket, sleeping bag, trekking boots, rain coat, walking 15)stick and many more as per necessity

Cost Excludes:

• Bottle drinks
• City monument fees
• Personal expenses
• Meals in Kathmandu
• Travel insurance & evacuation

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Our MMT(Mountain Mart treks) Airport Representative will be there to greet you outside the Terminal Hall (after you have completed passport, immigration and visa requirements). He will be displaying our Treks & Expeditions logo with your name on it. You will then be transferred to your hotel. Afternoon free.  Evening: a welcome dinner, hosted by our management team, to introduce you to your guide, brief you on the trek and check on necessities.

Day 02: Kathmandu Valley sightseeing & and trek preparation (1,300m/4,264 ft)

After breakfast, your day will start with our guided tour?) to cultural world heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley. such as,This includes the pilgrimage sites of the Hindu s Temple Pashupatinath; the world’s biggest Stupa at Bouddhanath; and visit the Swoyambhunath Stupa - also known as the monkey temple. After exploring the surrounding areas, we visit the historical Patan Durbar Square & and Kathmandu’s Durbar Square (Freak Street) with its temple, unique ancient art, architecture s, museum and Kumari (living goddess). Evening meeting for pre-trip counseling to ensure you have all necessary trekking gear, medical kit and legal requirements (including permits, TIMS and etc.).

     “OR”

Day at leisure, to follow your own interests.

Day 03: Kathmandu – Dhunche (1950m /6435ft) 7 /8 hrs. drive, 117KM

Drive on a northern highway that twists and climbs ridges to Trishuil Bazar. The journey will take 7-8 hours through picturesque landscapes, Himalayan sceneries and local villages. On the way we have magnificent views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Tibetan mountain range including Mt. Kerung.. Overnight Dhunche.

Day 04: Dhunche – Thulo Syabru (1900m /6270ft) 5-6  hrs.

Trek starts through bumpy off road to Thulo Bharku a little Tamang village.about 2 hour and ascent gradually through rhododendron forest. There is fantastic lunch spot in the apple field with marvelous view of Ganesh Himal and Tibet range Mountain. After lunch trail leads moderately flat and descend down. Approximately 2 hours walk finally you will arrive a large Tamang heritage village to Thulo Syabru. Overnight at Tamang family

Day 05: Thulo Syabru – Lama Hotel (2470m /8104ft) 5-6 hrs

Trail descend down to Langtang river through the Syabru village crossing the suspension bridge to the ridge. Continue walk descend to Langtang river reunite a trail from Syabru Besi where we will end our trek. You eill enjoy the walk through oak, rhododendron and bamboo forests. There is also a variety of wildlife in these forests: yellow-throated martens, wild boars, gray languor, red pandas and Himalayan black bears. Overnight in Lama Hotel.

Day 06: Lama Hotel- Langtang (3430m /11253ft) 5- 6 hrs

After having breakfast you will continue your trek to your next destination Langtang. Trail gradually ascends through upstream left side of Langtang River crossing landslides along the big forest hemlocks, maplean rhododendron.to Ghora Table (2970m /9801aft) The trail enters gradually to deserted windy area. Continue ascending into a valley to cross a stream and climbs past several water-driven mills and prayer wheels to the large settlement of Langtang .Overnight in Langtang

Day 07: Langtang - Kyanjin Gompa: (3870m /12697ft) 4-5 hrs.

The trail continues through the Tibetan village, stone-built houses and climbs to a Chorten and passed a huge Mani along a gentle path of the hill. The valley relocates to a U-shaped one as you enter into a level of riverbed. It only takes morning; afternoon explore surrounding, acclimatizes and afternoon visit Kyanjing Glacier depends of energy level. Kyanjing Gomba has monastery and famous for Yak cheese factory and yogurt. Overnight in Kyanjin Gompa

Day 08: Kyanjin Gompa: Day explore

Both Kyanjin Ri (4,850m/16,005ft) and Tserko Ri (5,000m/16,500ft) are the best viewpoints in this area. After the breakfast visit Tserko Ri (5000m) for spectacular view of the langtang Lirung, Langtang range, Kinshung, Yansa Tsenji, many more and the foot of the huge Lirung Glacier. Back to guest house, Lunch and walk around the Kyanjing valley. Overnight in Kyanjin Gompa.

Day 09: Kyanjin Gompa – Ngegang (4100 m): 4-5 hrs.

Day 10: Ngegang – Ganja La pass (5106m) - Keldang (4270 m): 7-8 hrs.

Day 11: Keldang – Dukpu (4000 m): 5-6 hrs

Day 12: Dukpu – Tarkegyang (2590 m): 5-6 hrs.

Day 13: Rest day

It's another scheduled rest day. Late breakfast after a long sleep and explore the Sherpa heritage in the afternoon. TarkeGhyang has two beautiful monasteries on Bhutanese style which can be seen only into Helambu valley.

Day 14: Trek from Tarkeghyang to Shermathang (2620m /8645ft) 4-5 hrs

Today is easy day of the trek. The flat trail continues through hillside. The forested trail cross some small streams and typical villages with ancient monasteries as their identification. To add your pleasure Shermathang is another pretty nice Sherpa village with monasteries. North of Shermathang village has superb view of Jugal himal range, Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishankar and Tibet range Himalayas. Overnight Shermathang.

Day 15: Trek from Shermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar & drive back to Kathmandu (845m /2790ft) 5-6 hrs

Trail continues flat to the mountain view point where is the fantastic golden painted Guru Rmpoche image on the hillock. Keep following the moderate flat for 45 manures and drop down to Kakani via pine tree forest. The trail continues descending along the meadow and fertile field with several typical villages with their particular cultures and traditions. Trek on this day is quite scenic and interaction with local children and people approach Melamchi Pul across Melamchi River. Drive back to Kathmandu and transfer to your Hotel about 5 hrs drive.

Day 16: Final departure

Transfer to international airport and fly to onward destination.

            "OR"

For more fantastic ideal trip to extend your valued holiday in Nepal, from riding elephant in Chitwan to tours in Tibet and Bhutan, please follow the link.

Departure Dates for Ganja La Pass Trek

Body wear:

T-shirt, long sleeve, half pant, long trouser, warm Jacket, fleece Jacket, Gore-tax windproof Jacket & trouser, warm trouser, rain Jacket, sleeping bag, down jacket

Head wear:

Sun hat, woolen hat/fleece hat, sunglass & scat

Hand wear:

Gloves

Foot wear:

Warm woolen socks, trekking boots & sandal

Accessories:

Personal toiletries, personal first aid kit, sun block, lip guard, shampoo, soap, shavers, moisturizer, passport copies, pocket knives, flash light, camera & film, tawel, water bottle, music & books.

What you carry for the trek:

Please, bring the equipment listed above and pack your gear for the trek into a duffel bag or rucksacks, and small day bag for you. The larger bag with your kit will be carried by the porter to meet you each evening. You should bring a day pack to carry by yourself for water, rain jacket, hat gloves, camera money etc. The weather in mountain is changeable so you will need some warm cloths with you on your day pack.

What to do about the left over baggage:

One day before your departure for the trek you could leave the valuable things which you do not need on the trek such as passport, visa card, flight tickets, in our safety box, and the rest of the things you could store it in our store room.

What is a tea house trek? Accommodation and food facilities!

Tea house trek mean staying and eating in the local lodges. We stay in double room, rooms are basic but comfortable mattress, normally just a bed and pillow. Most of them have electric light and all have and all have specious dining room –lounge. Mostly in tea houses there are common bathroom. Hot shower also available on the tea- houses but the hot water depend on weather conditions and to pay to get the shower.  We eat at tea- house, though food is usually potential and delicious, menu is not extensive. They offer variety of potato rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup. You could choose food from the menu what you could choose the food from the menu what you would like to have. You would be able to eat the food as much as you like but you would not able to order more than enough and left the food.

Health:

It’s very important not to get sick while you are going on the trek and you need to be careful about what you eat and drink.  You need to stay healthy and avoid getting sick in order to have a successful trek.

Some tips for staying healthy:

Avoid drinking or brushing your teeth with tap water. Drink only sealed bottled or proper boiled water or use water purification tablets. During the trek avoid the temptation to test your fitness through fast walking at altitude.

Medical kit

Your guide will bring normal medical kits with him while on the trek. It is recommended that you also bring a small personal medical kit including pain killers, sore throat, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular mediation you need to bring those medicine with you and do not forget to bring extra supply if somehow one pack is lost.

The trails:

The trekking trail of Nepal vary from wide, rode-like avenues to narrow, slippery paths built out over enormous drops. In many places, a fall from the trail would be final. One most pay attention at all the time to where you are placing your fact. Be specially  careful not move while looking through the view finder of your camera.

The weather:

Nepal has the wildest altitude range of any country of the earth. Each altitude will have its’ own weather problem, from typical heat to arctic cold. In the main trekking season in the spring and fall, the weather is often stable and even the high passes may be free of snow and relatively easy to traverse at times. Those trekkers who encountered an easy at altitude nasty spread the word that boots and warm clothing are not required. This is a mistake. That sudden storm can occur at any time, dumping one or two meter of snow on the passes. At that point, any one with simple running shoes will not be able to processed and may even be stranded for a number of days. Frostbite is a constant risk if one walks in snow at high altitude.

If you trek in the winter, you most be prepared for cold and snow. If you trek in the monsoon you might be face with slippery trails and difficult rivers crossing. You are heading into the world highest mountain range. Be prepared for changes in temperature and weather.

Altitude and preventing altitude:

Being in a hurry in the mountain of Nepal can be deadly. Acclimatization is the word used to describe the adjustments your body makes as it ascends. Ascend slowly and drinking lots of water is one of the best ways not to get high altitude. You should not plan to go to high altitude if you have know heart disease, difficulty to breathing at sea level or are pregnant. For other chronic medical conditions its better to consult your doctor. Sleeping pills, alcohol, smoking should not be used at altitude as they tend to decrease breathing and lead to Acute Mountain Sickness. It comes that during 3-4 liters of fluids (Water, Soup, etc) per day to avoid dehydration helps in the acclimatization process.

Tipping and cash requirement

On the trekking route do not forget to bring Nepalese rupees for drinks bottled water drinks/alcohol that might purchage on the way. The sum of amount to carry on the trekking route depends on the day and area you are going to trek in. Tipping is now common in Nepal but there is no certain rules how much should be tips and it’s not the must to tip.

Photographing people:

During a trek you will have many opportunities to photograph local people and amazing society. You could usetons of films taking amazing natural scenery but talking the picture of people it’s a good idea to ask before taking. Some people do not like you to take the picture of them. So always ask before taking the pictures.

Considering Environment:

While trekking you have to consider on the environment not to destroy the environment. There are so many ways you could help not to polluted the environment of the area such as pick up papers, film wrappers, burn all your toilet paper and bury your farce, do not make camp fire.

Insurance:

All tour participants should obtain their own personal insurance which covers accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss or damage to personal effects.