Langtang Valley Service Trek
Packstock or Porter Supported
21 Days, 20 Days 56.8 MI / 91.4 KMTrip Highlights
Join Backpacker Magazine and Wildland Trekking on a life-list trek in Nepal and help with this unique service opportunity. Since 2019, Backpacker and Wildland Trekking have partnered to send multiple teams to Nepal. We hope you will join us!
Participants will:
- Join a Backpacker Ambassador and Backpacker readers on a special trip combining volunteer work and world-class trekking.
- Support communities in need. After a 2015 earthquake devastated Nepal, thousands of schools, health clinics and villages were damaged or destroyed. This is a unique opportunity to serve and aid the people and infrastructure of Nepal — no skills required; training will be provided.
- Wildland donates $500 on behalf of each guest that joins this trip
- After the service project, trek through the world’s highest mountains on a 10-day journey on the Langtang trek, where we’ll visit remote villages and ancient monasteries. As you hike near the Tibetan border, you’ll be immersed in a truly incredible part of the world.
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Service project in Nepal
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Join Forces with BACKPACKER
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Himalayas' Massive Mountains
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Local Cuisine & Culture
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Build Community & Make a Difference
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Langtang National Park
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Giant Rivers & Glacial Valleys
Book This Trip
Trip Details
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Trip Type
Packstock or Porter Supported -
Trip Length
21 Days, 20 Days -
Daily Hiking Distance
Up to 11.2 mi -
Group Size
2-12 Participants
- day by day itinerary
- logistical and travel information
- gear and clothing lists and more
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Is This Trip Right For me?
Two considerations earn this trip a Level 4 difficulty. The first is high elevation – a maximum of 15,655 feet, which makes hiking quite strenuous. Second is the significant elevation gains that we tackle, with the highest gain being at 4,100 ft. Also of note is the significant elevation loss, with one day dropping 4,625 ft.
Trip Itinerary
Please Note: We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.
Day 1
On this Nepal hiking and service trip, we will pick you up from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal and transport you to our hotel in Thamel (tourist section of Kathmandu). We will have some down time to rest, have showers, and eat. This evening, we will meet for team introductions and orientation followed by a dinner at our favorite, local Nepalese restaurant. Be sure to drink plenty of water enroute, as flying and traveling will certainly dehydrate you. Self-care begins immediately.
Day 2
This morning, we enjoy our first Nepalese breakfast at our hotel in Thamel. We then visit the famous “Monkey Temple” Swayambhunath on a hilltop in Kathmandu. Once we are ready to leave Swayambhunath, we travel to the largest Buddhist stupa in the world, Boudhanath. After our temple tours, we travel back to Thamel for lunch and then will have free time to wander the streets of Thamel, purchase last minute trekking and service project supplies and rest at the Hotel.
Days 3-9: Kakani Service Project
Day 3: Time to get to work! We will make the 1.5-hour drive in our private vehicle from Kathmandu to the town of Kakani, where our service project is based. We’ll get settled into our “luxury, safari-like” tents and enjoy lunch. Thereafter, we’ll have an orientation and have time for some work before dinner.
Days 4-8: We will then spend Days 4-8 working on the building project for 8 hours each day. Training and tools will be provided. All meals are included during this time. All protective gear will be provided, but please bring work gloves and work clothes for these days.
Day 9: Today is a well-earned rest day in preparation for tomorrow’s trek. Explore the village of Kakani and bask in all the beauty that Nepal has to offer before setting off on the next chapter of your trek. The village of Kakani boasts the Lauke and Fung Fung waterfalls with their crystalline cascades as well a local industry of strawberry and radish farming. As this is our last day in this wonderful community, we may have the opportunity for a cooking lesson!
Day 10
- Drive Time: 8-9 hours
Today marks the beginning of the second phase of our trip as we make the drive from Kakani to Gatlang. As we head northwest downwards to the Trisuli bazaar with views of the Manaslu Massif (the eighth tallest mountain in the world) with its snow-covered peaks, Ganesh, Langtang, and Jugal Himal. Make sure you’re strapped in as from Trisuli onward we’ll encounter 4×4 terrain! The road continues onward to our eventual stopping point for the evening: a Nepalese teahouse in Gatlang village.
On our trek over the next week, we may have the opportunity to see red pandas, Ghoral or mountain goats, and grey Langur monkeys.
Day 11
Hiking Distance: 6.2 mi (10 km)
Elevation Gain: 2845 ft (867 m)
Elevation Loss: 1600 ft (487 m)
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
This morning has us squaring up to what is considered the the toughest day of our trek. The trail starts by descending gradually along a ridge to the Bamdang Khola, then onto the Chilime Khola which takes us to the town of Chilime. A suspension bridge and a sustained climb bring us to the village of Gongang where we’ll take our lunch for the day. After lunch we’ll have a more gradual ascent to Tatopanni or “Hot Water,” where one can cleanse in the natural hot springs. The locals believe that the waters have a healing quality that soothes your aches and pains. We’ll stay the night in a lodge here in Tatopanni.
Day 12
Hiking Distance: 5 mi (8 km)
Elevation Gain: 1980 ft (603 m)
Elevation Loss: 2845 ft (867m)
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Our trek to Thuman is our longest of the trip starting with a climb up Nagthali Hill. This hill was once a popular meditation location for the local monks and priests. From this pass, the highest in the surrounding area, we’ll be afforded stunning views of the snowy Langtang Lirung, Kerung, Ganesh Himal, and Sanjen Ranges. From this high, open grassland we’ll descend into Thuman, a Tibetan influenced Tamang village. If luck is on our side we might catch sight of a troop of Nepal Gray Langur Monkeys. We’ll stay in Thuman in a lodge and explore the ancient monasteries and houses furnished with ornate wood engravings, a truly unforgettable experience!
Day 13
Hiking Distance: 3.5 mi (5.5 km)
Elevation Gain: 2195 ft (669 m)
Elevation Loss: 2525 ft (770 m)
Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
The village of Bhotekoshi has a pronounced Tibetan influence that is so palpable, it’s in the air! This village boasts ancient monasteries, houses adorned with woodcarvings, and evidence of Shamanistic beliefs. We’ll trod through rhododendron forests and meadows to reach the Tamang village of Briddim, which is nestled in the heart of the Langtang Himal. The village of Briddim marks the end of Tamang Heritage Trail and is a veritable thoroughfare for many travelers. Tonight’s teahouse is owned by a local family and presents us with a chance to gain a richer, deeper understanding of the local culture through conversations and stories from our host.
Day 14
Hiking Distance: 8.7 mi (14 km)
Elevation Gain: 1800 ft (550 m)
Elevation Loss: 1200 ft (365 m)
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Today we’ll continue on into the hilly region of Khangjim and Sherpagoan, learning about the abundant culture of the Tamang and Sherpa communities along the way. Tonight finds us at the Lama hotel which is a collection of guesthouses that signal the start of the Langtang Valley.
Day 15
Hiking Distance: 7.5 mi (12 km)
Elevation Gain: 4105 ft (1080 m)
Elevation Loss: 0 ft (0 m)
Trekking Duration: 7-8 hours
We’ll hike up through Langtang National Park via Gumnachowk and Ghotatabela which will eventually lead us into the village of Langtang. Langtang National Park was established in 1976 to conserve the unique flora and fauna of the region. Thanks to the temperate conditions in the park, Rhododendron, Nepalese alder, and Oak forests thrive here. This national park is home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, and more than 250 species of birds! We’ll catch glimpses of grazing yaks as we meander through this beautiful valley. Eventually the trail crosses a stream and several water-driven prayer wheels to the large settlement of Langtang. This is one of the oldest villages on our trekking route and the views only get better as we get closer to the mountain! We’ll have time to explore the village before settling down in our overnight lodge.
Day 16
Hiking Distance: 4.1 mi (6.6 km)
Elevation Gain: 1080 ft (330 m)
Elevation Loss: 0 ft (0 m)
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
This morning’s hike brings us to the rebuilt village of Kyanjin. Either side of the path gives us stunning views of distant, snow-covered mountains. Today we’ll see Tamang and Sherpa inhabitants along the trail as they go about their daily tasks. We’ll do a short acclimatizing hike this evening and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding valley.
Day 17
Hiking Distance: 3.8 mi (6 km)
Elevation Gain: 3585 ft (943 m)
Elevation Loss: 3585 ft (943 m)
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Today you get to choose your own adventure! You can choose the 4:30 am wake up to begin the trek to the summit of Kyanjin-Ri at 15,655 ft. We’ll be afforded a stunning sunrise and breathtaking panorama of the Langtang Himalayan Range, Kinshung, Yansa Tsenji, and the foot of the tumbling glaciers of Langtang Lirun. Or, you can choose to enjoy a rest day, sleep in and have a leisurely breakfast before exploring the village. Here you’ll be able to learn more about the lifestyles of the Tamang and Sherpa, the local monastery, and yak cheese factory. There are also various walks around the village and a short hike up to the glacier.
Day 18
Hiking Distance: 11.2 mi (18 km)
Elevation Gain: 0 ft (0 m)
Elevation Loss: 4625 ft (1410 m)
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Today is a day we will most appreciate our trekking poles as we tackle the long descent of over 4600 ft! The trail takes us to Langtang and Ghoretabela to the Lama Hotel. Once at the hotel we can celebrate our hike with a cold beverage of your choice.
Day 19
Hiking Distance: 6.8 mi (11 km)
Elevation Gain: 300 ft (90 m)
Elevation Loss: 3150 ft (960 m)
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours
Our hike to Syabrubesi is our last day of hiking, which takes us through a forest trail until reaching Pairo. Here we’ll have a lunch break before continuing on to Syabrubesi.
Day 20
Drive Time: 9-10 hours
After our penultimate Nepalese breakfast we’ll drive back to Kathmandu by private vehicle. We’ll take the rough and tumble road to Trisuli and take a lunch stop there. After lunch we’ll continue our drive to Kathmandu where we’ll be dropped off at our hotel.
Day 21
This is the departure day for which to schedule your outbound flights. As a group we will make our way to the airport and say our fond farewells. Thank you for choosing Wildland!
Trip Dates
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What's Included
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$500 direct donation to the service project
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A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
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Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
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Transportation for the duration of the trip, including airport transfers on Day 1 and 21
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Lodging for the duration of the trip including hotel in Kathmandu, camping during the service trek, and a mix of lodges and tea houses during the trek
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Use of day pack, trekking poles, sleeping bag, and micro spikes
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The majority of meals from Dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 21 (Day 2 lunch & dinner are not included)
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TIMS Card and fees (please bring 1 passport photo and 1 copy of passport)
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Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and emergency communication device
What's Not included
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Transportation to/from Kathmandu, Nepal
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Bar bills, drink bills, telephone bills, Wi-Fi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
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Day 2 lunch & dinner
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Hiking clothes, work clothes, rain gear, and footwear
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Sunscreen, toiletries, water bottles, headlamp and personal items
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All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
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Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-15% of the total trip cost. Please tip your lead guide and they will distribute responsibly to the crew. USD is preferred.
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Trip insurance that includes at least $200,000 in evacuation, repatriation coverage (required in Nepal). Additional travel medical coverage is strongly recommended.
Accommodations
* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.
HOTEL LO MUSTANG
3 NIGHTS
This modern, 4-star hotel in the heart of Kathmandu offers us comfort with instant access to markets and cultural centers. With modern conveniences, clean and comfortable accommodations, and a perfect location, this lodge puts us right in the action to make the most of our time in Nepal’s capital.
NEPALESE TEA HOUSES
10 NIGHTS
Tea houses are inns/guest houses with sleeping rooms and home cooked meals. They vary depending on their remoteness. Lower ones have more amenities, such as flush toilets, showers and nicer dining rooms. As we ascend, they get more rustic with simpler “squat” toilets and more basic amenities. Rooms are communal with 2 or 3 beds.
SERVICE PROJECT
7 NIGHTS
Nights spent during the service project portion of this trip will be in provided glamping style tents in a commercial campground within short walking distance to our project’s location. Full bathroom and shower amenities are available. Limited Wi-Fi will be available. Please plan ahead with sim card and data plan purchases if dependable Wi-Fi is needed.
Trip Logistics & FAQs
How Do I Register?
Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can click here to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.
Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!
Where Do We Meet?
We will meet you at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) on Day 1 and transport you to the first night’s hotel. You may check in as early as 1 pm. We’ll conduct our orientation meeting at 5:00 PM. Please plan for flights to arrive no later than 3:00 PM on Day 1.
Our pre-trip support team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, airport transportation, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.
Travel to/from Kathmandu
BOOKING FLIGHTS
Start/End Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
Closest Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM). Flights to and from Kathmandu are the guest’s responsibility.
Day 1: We will meet you at the airport upon your arrival and transfer you to our hotel. Please be sure to arrive into Kathmandu no later than 3:00 PM. Check in as early as 1 pm and orientation will be at 5:00 PM.
Day 9: You may depart today at any time. Breakfast is included and check-out from the hotel is at 10:00 AM.
Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging
We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Kathmandu as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.
Entry Requirements
For checking entry requirements for this trip, we recommend using this travel tool, Sherpa Travel. Here, you can view what is required to enter the country, including necessary travel documents and visas. If a visa is required, you can apply directly through this service. You may also check for entry requirements for your nationality on consular websites or your country’s foreign travel advisories. Ensuring you have completed all necessary steps to enter the country is your responsibility.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally, we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.
In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.
Guides
Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.
Check out our Meet Our Team page for staff bios.
Age Restrictions
Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:
- 12 and older to join this trip
- 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case-by-case basis
Trip Insurance Requirements
Field evacuation and repatriation insurance is REQUIRED on our trips in Nepal (field evacuation and repatriation minimum coverage is a combined $200,000 USD). Additional travel medical coverage is strongly recommended.
We recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance and policies meet all Nepal requirements. Their Travel LX policy fully covers all requirements in Nepal.
For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please click here.
If you already have the required insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.
Reviews
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Christine H
12 months agoExcellent
Very well-organized trip. Gopal and Chandra were excellent guides and always concerned about our comfort and safety. They went above and beyond to make our Nepalese dreams come true!
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