Tamang Heritage & Langtang Valley Trek

Intrepid Travel · 15 days

4.4

20 Reviews

View Map

Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

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).

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

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Public bus

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Kathmandu , Nepal

Finishes

Kathmandu, Nepal

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Walking & Trekking

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu

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 - Everest Scenic Flight (240 USD)
Kathmandu - Home Cooking Class Urban Adventure (57 USD)
Kathmandu - Rickshaw Night Explorer Urban Adventure (49 USD)
Kathmandu - Spiritual Nepal Experience Urban Adventure (59 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Syabrubesi (1460 m/4790 ft)

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)

Day 3: Goljung – Gatlang (2238 m/7742 ft)

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.

Included Activities:

Gatlang - Tamang Monastery (Tatopani)

Accommodation:

Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Gongang – Tatopani (2607 m/8553 ft)

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)

Day 5: Thuman (2338 m/7670 ft)

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)

Day 6: Briddim (2239 m/7345 ft)

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)

Day 7: Lama Hotel (2420 m/7939 ft)

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)

Day 8: Langtang National Park (3500 m/11482 ft)

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.

Included Activities:

Langtang - Langtang National Park

Accommodation:

Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Kyanjin (3830 m/12560 ft)

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)

Day 10: Kyanjin (3830 m/12560 ft)

You can choose how to spend your time today. After breakfast, go for an optional walk to Kyanjin Ri (4700 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.

Optional Activities:

Kyanjin - Kyanjin Ri Hike - Free
Kyanjin - Hike to Glacier - Free

Accommodation:

Teahouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Lama Hotel (2420 m/7939 ft)

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)

Day 12: Thulo Syabru (2130 m/6988 ft)

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)

Day 13: Dhunche – Nuwakot

After breakfast, walk a couple of hours to Thulo Bharku (Dhunche), then transfer to Nuwakot in a private vehicle. You’ll accompany your leader to the old Nuwakot Durbar (Palace) to explore.Your relaxing accommodation for tonight is set on an organic farm and in the evening enjoy dinner at this heritage propery using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to support sustainable farming practices.

Included Activities:

Nuwakot - Nuwakot Durbar (Palace)

Accommodation:

Farmhouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Kathmandu

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)

Day 15: Kathmandu

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 - Spiritual Nepal Experience Urban Adventure (59 USD)
Kathmandu - Panorama Hike Urban Adventure (74 USD)
Kathmandu - In Focus: Handmade Kathmandu (93 USD)
Kathmandu - Explore Patan & Bhaktapur Urban Adventure (104 USD)

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $1,795

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

Discover sacred culture and incredible natural landscapes as you venture deep into Tamang hinterland along the quiet Tamang Heritage Trail (restricted until 2004).

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 09 May 2026

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Kathleen

Traveled, November 2023

11/17/2023

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.

4.0

Emily

Traveled, November 2023

11/12/2023

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.

Tour Operator

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

Book Now