Langtang 2026
At the Edge of Glaciers
Langtang, Climate & Glacier journey
Join a unique trail experience this Autumn
This trek is rooted in my Great Himalayan Trail journey, and takes you through Langtang Valley, a region I return to for its exceptional landscapes, long-standing friendships, rich mountain ecosystems, and the visible vulnerability of its glaciers. It’s also home to the best high-altitude bakery I’ve ever found.
More than guiding on lesser-known trails, this is about moving through mountain environments with attention, and sharing what I’ve learned from crossing the Himalayas and climbing the highest peaks in a way that stays grounded and accessible.
Designed for a small group who care about nature and adventure, at a reasonable pace.
Fastpacking or trail-running sections are possible if the group is keen.
Above all, this is about taking time to understand a valley and its communities, not just passing through.
Duration: 9 days
More than a hike.
Beyond Records Mountain Learning Programme
Integrated throughout the trek, our Learning Programme offers a deeper understanding of the Himalayas through observation, discussion, and shared experience.
The programme includes:
Glacier Observation Sessions
Mountain Ecosystem Interpretation
Climate & Water Conversations
Mountain Story Evenings
Beyond Records Documentary Insights
The programme is designed to be accessible, engaging, and rooted in the landscape itself. There are no lectures or classrooms, learning happens through experience, observation, conversation, and immersion in the mountains.
Fitness
The most important requirement for this trek is mindset, curiosity, resilience, and a positive attitude will take you much further than speed or strength. Physically, you need a basic level of fitness: the ability to walk comfortably for around 10 km with a small backpack over hilly terrain at sea level.
If you’re fit, healthy, and enjoy being outdoors, you’re ready to go.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu (1,324m) | Briefing
Private transfer to the hotel. Afternoon briefing with Carole introducing the journey: Himalayan climate systems, glacier retreat, acclimatisation, and how to read mountain landscapes. Welcome dinner.
Day 2: Into Langtang National park
Kathmandu (1324m) → Syabrubesi (1,503m) → Bamboo Lodge (1,970m)
Distance: ~7 km
Elevation Gain: ~600m
Drive to Syabrubesi and begin the journey along the Langtang River through forested valleys and traditional lodges.
Day 3: Langtang Village | Memory, Recovery & Mountain Communities
Bamboo Lodge (1,970m) → Langtang Village (3,430m)
Distance: ~15 km
Elevation Gain: ~1,500m
Ascend through changing vegetation zones into the upper valley and reach Langtang Village, rebuilt after the 2015 earthquake.
Day 4: Kyanjin Gompa | Monastery, Culture & Glacial Landscapes
Langtang Village (3,430m)→ Kyanjin Gompa (3,850m)
Distance: ~6 km (+400m)
Elevation Gain: ~400m
A shorter acclimatisation day to Kyanjin Gompa, with time to visit the monastery and surrounding viewpoints. Climate change workshop in the evening.
DAY 5: Tserko Ri | High-Altitude Viewpoint
Kyanjin Gompa (3,860) → Tserko Ri (4,985m)
Distance: 12 km
Elevation Gain: ~1100m
Ascent of Tserko Ri for panoramic views of Langtang Lirung, Yala Glacier and the surrounding peaks.
Day 6: Glacier Moraine Walk | Climate Field Session
Kyanjin Gompa (3,860m) → Glacier hike (4,500m) (check glaciers from the moraine)
Distance: ~12 km
Elevation Gain: ~700m
Walk across high rangelands and moraine terrain to observe the glacier from a safe distance.
Day 7: Descent to Bamboo | Forests & Transitions
Kyanjin Gompa (3,860m) → Bamboo Lodge (1,970m)
Distance: ~21 km
Descente: ~1900m
Descend through alpine and forest zones toward Bamboo Lodge.
Day 8: Return to Kathmandu | Debrief Dinner
Bamboo Lodge (1,970M) → Syabrubesi (1,503m) → Kathmandu (1,324m)
Walk to Syabrubesi and return by road to Kathmandu. Evening debrief and closing dinner.
Day 9: Kathmandu Buffer Day / Departure
Recommended buffer day for weather, road conditions and international travel. Optional cultural visits.
Gallery
What awaits you!
