Langtang, Gosainkunda -Holy Trail of Northern Nepal

The Langtang region's varying altitude and temperature can often take its toll, but enjoying the wilderness is enjoyable. Popular since the ancient times, the region also possesses a holy site for Hindus -Gosainkunda. Langtang has been declared safe by the Trekkers Association of Nepal (TAAN) & Nepal Tourism Board. The region is open to visiting tourists.

Gosainkunda -Pilgrimage Site

Gosainkunda is an oligotrophic lake located inside Langtang National Park
. It is a holy site for Hindus. Situated at an elevation of 4,380 m/14,370 ft, it experiences throngs of devotees making a strenuous trip to the location and taking a holy dip in the lake every year.

Gosainkunda is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva (one of the Hindu Trinity God) and Goddess Gauri, and the mythological evidence supports the fact that the lake was dug up by the Holy Trident of Lord Shiva!

<a href="https://www.regulusnepal.com/langtang-gosainkunda-helambu-trek makes it possible for trekkers to make a trip to this very site. A large exodus of Hindu devotees, as pilgrims, from the whole of Indian Subcontinent arrive during August, making it the busiest time in a year for the locals. Many of them open make-shift shops, diners and accessory stores on the premise of the lake to cater arriving pilgrims. Generally, winter here freezes the lake for 6 consecutive months, making it the coldest time to travel.

Langtang National Park

Langtang National Park (420 km2 /160 sq mi) is the fourth largest national park in Nepal. Established in 1976 as the first Himalaya park, the region has been used by many holidaymakers as a recreation spot. Approximately 25% of the park is forested. Some of the majestic peaks dominating the regions are; Langtang Lirung (7,246 m/23,773 ft), Yala Peak (5,520 m/18,110 ft), Dorje lakpa (6,966 m/22,854 ft), Morimoto (6,570 m/21,555 ft) and Dragmarpo Ri (6,578 m/21,581 ft).

The park is also a protected area. Around 4,500 people inhabit the region, depending upon wildly available reserves for sustenance. Himalayan black bear, Himalayan Tahr, Rhesus monkey and Red Panda are few of the faunas exclusively found here. It also exhibits a high diversity of 14 vegetation types in 18 ecosystem types. Cherko Ri (5,150m/16896ft) is the highest elevation one can reach during the trek.

Photos: thirdrockadventures