Weather and temperature are crucial in a Himalayan Trek like the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. In fact, the weather in the higher region can get unpredictable. The sunny day can suddenly change into a stormy one. You must also understand the weather and temperature to determine the packing list. Not only that, but they are also important in determining the best time for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. Let us break down each season:
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek in Spring Season ( March to May)
Spring is one of the most enjoyable times for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. The average daytime maximum temperature ranges between 10°C and 20°C in lower elevations like Syabrubesi. At higher elevations, however, it can reach up to -6°C at night. The Langtang region receives low to moderate rainfall, especially during May (the pre-monsoon month).
Sunlight lasts 7 to 9 hours daily. The skies are usually clear, offering clear views of the Langtang Himal Range. Wind speeds are moderate at 10-115 km/h, with the higher regions being windier. The overall weather is stable and predictable, making it the best season for the Gosaikunda Langtang Trek. Here are some reasons why you should consider this trek in the spring season:
- In Spring, rhododendrons and wildflowers bloom, creating a colorful trail.
- You can witness clear mountain views of Langtang Lirung and the surrounding peaks.
- The temperature is mild, so it is comfortable for trekking at all altitudes.
- You will get the chance to experience local festivals like Buddha Jayanti in Spring.
However, the trek route can be crowded during Spring, one of the best seasons for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek.
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek in Monsoon/Summer Season (June to August)
Monsoon or Summer season is considered the off-season for Langtang Gosainkunda Trek because of the hot and humid weather it brings. The daytime temperature in the lower region can reach up to 31 degrees, which is its highest temperature. The lower temperature is recorded in high-altitude regions, such as Laurebina Pass, at around 4°C at night. Since it is the monsoon season, Langtang and gosaikunda receive the maximum rainfall.
The daylight hours are minimal during the Summer, so it is better to start early to avoid the afternoon sun and sudden downpours. The humidity is highest as it is the monsoon season. Winds are light at 5 to 10 km/h but may get strong during storms. Here is why you should choose the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek in the Summer/Monsoon season:
- You can witness lush green landscapes and vibrant vegetation after rainfall in the summer season.
- There will be fewer trekkers on the trail. Hence, the summer trek offers solitude.
- The temperature is warm in the higher region, so walking is comfortable.
- You can witness waterfalls and active streams in full flow.
- Experience the crowds of devotees in Gosaikunda during Janai Purnima.
However, the trails might be slippery and full of leeches since it’s Summer. There is also a high chance of a landslide blocking the path.
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek in Autumn Season (Semptember to November)
Autumn is another good time for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. Like Spring, the temperature is moderate, and the weather is predictable. The average daytime temperature at lower elevations, such as Syabrubesi, is approximately 20°C. However, nighttime temperatures in regions like Gosaikunda can reach as low as -3°C. Since Autumn is the post-monsoon season, there is minimal rainfall.
The sunlight hours are about 9 hours, which is maximum in any season. The speed of the wind is mild at about 10 km/h. The views are crystal clear, offering unobstructed mountain views. Here are a few reasons why you should choose the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek in the Autumn Season:
- Trekking is comfortable because of pleasant daytime temperatures with crisp, cool evenings.
- The autumn season offers crystal-clear mountain views and stable weather conditions.
- It is a peak trekking season with well-maintained trails and open lodges.
- The festive season, including Dashain and Tihar, falls during Autumn.
However, you might consider booking accommodation beforehand, as it is the peak season.
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek in Winter Season (December to February)
Like Summer, Winter is considered the off-season for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. Even in the lowest region, the temperature averages about 10°C during the daytime. At night, the temperature in regions like Kyanjin Gompa can reach up to -10°C and even below. The upper regions receive heavy snowfall, making the path difficult to navigate.
The average sunlight hour is about 7 hours. The wind speed is about 15 to 20 km/h in the exposed areas. The humidity is lower, so the atmosphere is dry. Here are a few reasons why you should consider this trek during Winter:
- The mountains and landscapes are covered in snow, which is a sight. You will also get to witness the frozen Gosaikunda Lake.
- There will be very few trekkers, offering a quiet and serene experience
- Langtang Gosaikunda Trekking in Winter is challenging, so any adventurers seeking an adrenaline rush can choose this season.
However, since the path is covered in snow, it’s hard to navigate it, and the chances of slipping by stepping on ice increase. Accommodations in the upper regions might be closed due to severe freezing temperatures.
Season-wise Temperature Table for Langtang Gosaikunda Trek
The table below provides the approximate average temperatures at different elevations you will come across on the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek:
Location |
Altitude (m) |
Temperature in Spring (°C) |
Temperature in Summer (°C) |
Temperature in Autumn (°C) |
Temperature in Winter (°C) |
Max |
Min |
Max |
Min |
Max |
Min |
Max |
Min |
Syabrubesi |
1,460 |
18 |
7 |
24 |
16 |
20 |
8 |
10 |
2 |
Lama Hotel |
2,480 |
15 |
5 |
20 |
12 |
16 |
6 |
6 |
0 |
Langtang Village |
3,430 |
12 |
2 |
17 |
10 |
13 |
3 |
2 |
-8 |
Kyanjin Gompa |
3,870 |
10 |
0 |
15 |
8 |
11 |
1 |
-2 |
-10 |
Thulo Syabru |
2,210 |
16 |
6 |
22 |
14 |
18 |
7 |
8 |
1 |
Sing Gompa |
3,250 |
11 |
1 |
17 |
9 |
13 |
2 |
0 |
-6 |
Gosaikunda |
4,380 |
8 |
-4 |
12 |
5 |
9 |
-3 |
-5 |
-15 |
Laurebina Pass |
4,610 |
5 |
-6 |
10 |
4 |
6 |
-4 |
-8 |
-18 |