A cluster of 108 sacred alpine lakes at 4,380m in the Langtang region, Gosaikunda is where Lord Shiva is said to have thrust his trident into the mountainside to create water after consuming poison to save the world. During the Janai Purnima festival (August), thousands of Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims make the trek to bathe in the freezing waters. The rest of the year, you'll have these stunning high-altitude lakes almost entirely to yourself. The trek from Dhunche takes 3-4 days through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows. The main lake is a perfect turquoise oval surrounded by rocky peaks — at certain angles, devotees claim to see a Shiva lingam shape in the rock formation beneath the water surface. Can be combined with the Helambu trek for a 7-10 day circuit. Basic teahouses available but bring warm gear — nights are bitterly cold.
Posted by Yalamber Subba · 4/28/2025