Langtang is one of the most unspoiled national parks of Nepal. Situated North of Kathmandu, it is the most easily accessible highland sanctuary from the capital. Langtang covers 1,710 sq. km. forming the upper catchment areas of two of Nepal's largest river systems - the Trishuli and Koshi. There is great latitudinal variation, starting at 1,500 m. and ascending to the top of Mt. Langtang Lirung at 7,234 m. As a result the park has immense ecological diversity.
Some of the most attractive areas of the park include the Langtang Valley, the holy lakes at Gosainkunda, and the forested hillsides above the village of Helambu.
The deep gorges of Bhote Koshi and Langtang Khola are thickly forested with rhododendron, oak, maple and alder. The stretch of forest around Ghoda Tabela in the lower Langtang Valley and below Gosainkunda is inhabited by the red panda, a rare and threatened symbol of a healthy Himalayan ecosystem. Other animals, common to these forests are wild boar, Himalayan black bear, ghoral, grey langur monkey and leopard.
The rare Himalayan hony guide has been sighted here and the park is also the home for Impeyan, Tragopan and kalij pheasants among others. Larch, a rare deciduous conifer, is also found in the forest of lower Langtang Valley. Further up, Himalayan tahr, musk deer and snow leopard can be found. The upper Langtang Valley is one of he few known breeding grounds of the ibils bills besides the Tibetan snow cock and snow partridge.
Like other Himalayan nature parks, Langtang has to be explored on foot. There are several possible trails to choose from depending on preference and time available. The langtang Valley is easily approached from Dhunche town and park office, which is a day's drive from Kathmandu.
Entry Fee Per Person Per Entry :
For Nepalese Nationals, Free
For SAARC Nationals, Rs. 200/-
For Other Foreign Nationals, Rs. 2000/-
(Note: Entrance fee not required for children under 10 years)
Access :
The high pass out of Langtang, Gang la (5,132 m), can be negotiated only by well prepared hikers with guides, food and camping equipment. The Gosainkunda can also be reached in a few days from Dhunche, making it possible to visit both areas in the same outing.
Parks and Reserves
Annapurna Conservation Area- Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
- Chitwan National Park
- Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
- Royal Chitwan National Park
- Sagarmatha National Park
- Royal Bardia National Park
- Langtang National Park
- Rara National Park
- Shey-Phoksundo National Park
- Makalu Barun National Park
- Royal Shukla Phant Wildlife Reserve
- Parsa Wildlife Reserve
- Koshi-Tappu Wildlife Reserve
- Shivapuri National Park
- Manaslu Conservation Area
