Langtang is the closest major trekking region to Kathmandu. It lies entirely within Langtang National Park, north of the capital near the Tibetan border. The valley is a narrow gorge lined with peaks, Tamang villages and gompas, and the trek gives you a full Himalayan valley journey without the internal flights.

After a scenic drive to Syabrubesi, you follow the Langtang Khola up through forest to Lama Hotel and then into the wider upper valley at Langtang Village. From there it is a short walk to Kyanjin Gompa (3,830m), the monastery settlement at the head of the valley, under Langtang Lirung (7,234m), Langtang Ri (7,205m) and Dorje Lakpa (6,966m).

A full day at Kyanjin Gompa lets you explore at your own pace. You can try the yak cheese from the local cheese factory, or take on the viewpoint hikes the area is known for, Kyanjin Ri (4,773m) and Tsergo Ri (4,984m). The return follows the valley back down to Syabrubesi and the road to Kathmandu.

A first-aid-trained, government-licensed guide leads the trek, with porters for your bags. Your Kathmandu hotel, guesthouses on the trail, all meals while trekking and the national park permit are included. The trek is graded strenuous and is best from March to early June and mid-September to November.

What's included

Airport transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle; 2 nights twin-sharing in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu; 7 nights twin-sharing guesthouse accommodation on the trek; Standard breakfast, lunch and dinner on the trek; First-aid-trained, government-licensed guide; Porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers; 9 kg per trekker); Langtang National Park permit and TIMS card; Filtered water with meals; Staff wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance and medication; Government taxes and administrative costs; Duffle/kit bag, trekking map and completion certificate

What's not included

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu; International flights and departure tax; Nepal entry visa (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days); Travel insurance; Excess baggage over 9 kg; Extra nights in Kathmandu (early arrival, late departure or early return); Personal expenses (drinks, Wi-Fi, hot showers and similar); Personal clothing and equipment; Tips for guides, porters and staff