The trail leaves the top of Dhunche, crosses the road and climbs through farmland and then thick forest. The first stretch to Deurali, at about 2,690 m, is steep on stone steps and takes 3 hours or so; a few tea houses offer a rest. Above Deurali the gradient eases a little and the trees change from oak and rhododendron to hemlock and silver fir, hung with lichen.
This is red panda country, and while sightings are rare, langur monkeys, pheasants and Himalayan black bear signs are more common. In April the rhododendrons flower red and pink. The trail is busy with pilgrims in August, when it is also wet and leech-ridden, but quiet and fragrant in October and spring. Total walking time is 5–6 hours for most people.
You arrive at Chandanbari, also called Sing Gompa after its monastery, at about 3,330 m. There is a small cheese factory and lodges in a forest clearing. Gaining 1,370 m in a day is a lot, so walk slowly, drink plenty of water and tell your guide if you develop a headache. Some pilgrims break the climb with a night at Deurali.
Good for
- Pilgrims
- Groups
- Solo
- Couples
Questions travellers ask
How hard is the walk from Dhunche to Sing Gompa?
It is a demanding day: about 1,370 m of ascent over 5–6 hours on stone steps and forest trail, from 1,960 m to 3,330 m. There are no technical sections. Fit walkers manage it comfortably with breaks. Older pilgrims or those unused to hills can split it with a night at Deurali, around 2,690 m.
Are there leeches on the Gosaikunda trail?
Yes, from roughly June to September the forest between Dhunche and Chandanbari has many leeches, especially after rain. Wear long trousers tucked into socks, use leech socks or salt, and check your legs at rest stops. They are harmless but unpleasant. Outside the monsoon there are almost none.
Can I see red pandas near Dhunche?
Red pandas live in the bamboo and fir forest between Dhunche, Chandanbari and the Langtang Valley, but they are shy and seen only occasionally. Walking quietly in the early morning with a local guide gives the best chance. Spring and autumn, when bamboo shoots and leaves are fresh, are the likeliest seasons.
