This magnificent trek combines the beauty of mountain scenery and the pleasure of meeting the Sherpas, whose kindness and hospitality is well renowned. This itinerary, through pine, oak and rhododendron forests, is less frequented than others, and will appeal to mountain lovers who want to get off the beaten track. The 8-day trek passes by the sacred lakes at Gosaikund and the Laurebina pass (4610m). The 7-day trek leads along both sides of the Melamchi Khola river and can also be done in winter. It is advisable to plan an extra day, which can be spent in Melamchi Gaon, a Sherpa village, which is sure to charm you.
Trip Duratuion: 07 Days
Difficulty: Moderate
Maximum Altitude: 4610 m
Itinerary
DAY 01 Katmandu - Sundarijal (1400m) by bus - Chisopani (2300m) in 3h trek.
From Mulkharka (1890m) we can enjoy an extraordinary panoramic view over the Katmandu valley. Afterwards, the trail goes through fir tree and rhododendron forests.
DAY 02 Chisopani - Gul Bhanjyang (2130m) in 5hrs.
DAY 03: Gul Bhanjyang - Mange Kot (3150m) in 5hrs.
We head northwards following the Yurin Danda ridge trail. Glimpses of the summits towering above the Langtang and Gosaikund.
DAY 04: Mange Kot - Tharepati (3500m) - Melamchigaon (2530m) in 5hrs.
After Tharepati we descend steeply primarily through rhododendron forests. In spring the area is a mass of red flowers, dotted with white and pink. Melamchigaon is a picturesque Sherpa village and you will surely have long chats with its warm and welcoming villagers.
DAY 05: Melamchigaon-Gangjwal (2500m) in 5hrs.
We plunge into the valley and lose 700m in altitude before scrambling up the equivalent height to Tarke Gyang. The ridge walk to Gangjwal offers splendid views of the Melamchi valley
DAY 06: Gangjwal - Kakani (1800m) in 5hrs.
We continue along the hillside, with open views in all directions and the southern foothills of Nepal fading towards the planes of India. The trail now starts to descend into the valley.
DAY 07: Kakani - Melamchipul (890m) in 3h trek - Katmandu (bus).
The descent to Melamchipul is a knee-wobbling experience as we lose altitude rapidly descending to the Melamchi Kola river.
