There are several advantages of the Langtang Valley Trek. It offers a variety of highlights, a standard route, and a flexible itinerary. While the trekking itinerary includes a few overnight stopovers, it can also be altered to fit your personal schedule. You’ll also find helpful tips on choosing accommodation and food during your trip.
Highlights
Peak trekking season is from December to February. During this period, lodges close and reopen in late February and March. However, you can also enjoy the valley during other seasons, such as spring and autumn. While these seasons are less popular than the others, these two seasons are prime for hiking and trekking. From March to May, you can enjoy the pristine beauty of the valley, while October to December is the monsoon season, when the landscape is covered in clouds and rain. The monsoon season also provides the best views of the mountain landscape, but you must be prepared for the chilly weather.
One of the most striking features of this trek is its breathtaking scenery. You will pass through lush lowland jungles and rhododendron forests, as well as scattered Tamang settlements. You will be able to see yaks roaming freely in the fields as you ascend.
Best time of year
Autumn is one of the best times to trek Langtang Valley. The weather is pleasant and stable, and the scenery is spectacular. The valley is dotted with colorful rhododendron flowers, which enhance the natural beauty. The mornings and evenings are cold but not unbearably so. Moreover, the autumn season is a great time to see a large variety of plants and animals.
Although autumn is a popular time to trek the Langtang region, it is not ideal for the whole trip. Although it is less crowded, bad weather can cause hike delays. You can also take advantage of the lower crowd level and get a discount at the teahouses.
Accommodation
Accommodation on the Langtang Valley Trek varies according to the location and altitude. In the lower areas of the valley, there are teahouses, which provide food and lodging. The facilities may vary, but you can usually expect a hot shower and bedsheets. Some places also have Wifi and charging stations. The remoteness of the area and difficulty of transportation also play a part in the service offered.
For those planning to trek in the Langtang Valley, the accommodations available are limited. During peak seasons, you may even have to sleep in the dining hall. The tea houses provide free hot water and blankets, but you won’t have the option of using your own sleeping bag. You can charge your phone in the dining room, but you’ll have to pay for electricity at the lower parts of the trek. You can also find solar power banks at tea houses to charge electronic gadgets.
Food
If you’re planning to Langtang Trek, you should be prepared for varied food options. Meals are usually vegetarian, but they are not rare to see meat or fish in their menus. The trek organizers bring canned fish and meats to fill protein needs, and they often serve fruits and other items as dessert. You can also expect to find tea, coffee, and other hot drinks.
The cost of food will increase as you climb higher in altitude. Be prepared to pay up to $6 or $7 for the same plate of food. You’ll also have to bear in mind that the teahouses have limited transportation facilities. In some cases, they can only get goods by helicopter or mules. The teahouses will likely charge more for their food services.
Altitude sickness
To prevent altitude sickness during the trek, make sure to drink plenty of water. It is also important to eat a healthy diet and get more sleep. You should also wear the right clothing, and apply UV protection to protect your skin. Avoid alcohol or substances that dehydrate you. If you are prone to altitude sickness, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Hiring a porter to help you with your luggage can greatly reduce the difficulty of the trek. Porters will be able to carry heavy items off your back, thereby taking some of the weight off your shoulders. The biggest challenges during the Langtang trek are weather and altitude. While these challenges cannot be avoided completely, proper acclimatization and preparation will go a long way toward helping you avoid altitude sickness.
