The trail into Langtang crosses the edge of the debris that buried the old village on 25 April 2015. The avalanche fell from the slopes of Langtang Lirung minutes after the earthquake struck, and its air blast flattened trees and houses well beyond the ice and rock itself. The grey boulder field you walk over covers homes, lodges and the remains of many people who were never found.
Near the new village stands a memorial chorten and a wall listing the names of those who died: residents, guides, porters, soldiers and trekkers from many countries. Families come here on anniversaries to light lamps and hold prayers. Your guide can explain what happened that day, how survivors lived in camps in Kathmandu for months, and how they chose to rebuild a short distance up-valley.
Visiting is not voyeuristic if it is done with care. Keep your voice low, do not climb on the chorten or walls, and ask before taking photographs. A small donation at the gompa or lighting a butter lamp is a respectful gesture. Many trekkers say this stop changes how they see the rest of the valley, and lodge owners appreciate visitors who understand the village's story.
Good for
- First-timers
- Solo
- Couples
- Groups
Questions travellers ask
What happened in Langtang in 2015?
On 25 April 2015, the Gorkha earthquake triggered a massive avalanche of ice, snow and rock from the slopes above Langtang village. It buried almost the entire village within seconds. An estimated 310 people died, including about 176 residents and around 80 foreigners, along with guides, porters and soldiers. More than 100 bodies were never recovered.
Is it respectful to visit the Langtang memorial?
Yes, if you behave with care. Villagers rebuilt their lodges hoping trekkers would return, and many welcome visitors who want to understand what happened. Keep voices low, do not climb on the chorten or walls, ask before photographing, and consider lighting a butter lamp or leaving a small donation at the gompa.
Is Langtang village safe now?
The new village was built on ground considered safer, a short distance up-valley from the 2015 debris. No location below big mountains is risk-free, and the valley also sees landslides in the monsoon. The trek has run normally since it reopened in 2016. Your guide will advise on current trail conditions; check current status before you travel.
