Langtang National Park envelops a freshwater oligotrophic lake called Gosaikunda Lake in the Rasuwa district of Nepal. The lake is a source of the Trisuli River. There are more than 108 lakes in this area varying from small to medium in size. The Gosaikunda Lake is a religious site of Hindus. As per Hindu mythology, Gosaikunda is a place where Lord Shiva and Gauri dwell. Many Hindu scriptures talk about the lake which is the other reason for its significance. Many pilgrims from India and Nepal flock to the site during Janaipurnima in the month of Shrawan as per the Nepali calendar. It is believed that Lord Shiva dug the land with his Trisul (Trident) to form Gosaikunda.
Gosaikunda Trekking is a rugged trail with fascinating views of Himal Chuli (7,893 m), Manaslu (8,156 m), and Ganesh Himal (7,406 m) on the west. To the north, there lies Langtang Lirung. Passing through Lauribinayak gives the first view of holy lakes. Among dozens of lakes, Saraswatikunda, Bhairabkunda, and Gosaikunda are the three main lakes. The trail offers exciting scenic views of different mountain ranges, green hills, local villages, dense rhododendron forests, and lakes. Besides the gorgeous views, it also provides interactions with the cultural diversities in Nepal as many ethnic groups people reside here such as Tamang, Brahmins, Newars, etc.
Religious Importance
According to the extract of Hindu mythology, to produce the elixir of eternal life god churned the primordial ocean. On the course of churning poison was also produced. To save the world from this poison Lord Shiva drank it but collected the poison in his throat. The reaction of the poison turned the throat blue. To cool down his burning throat, Lord Shiva struck his trident into the land creating three springs which ultimately resulted in the formation of beautiful lakes. And, finally, Lord Shiva drank the water from the lake and got rid of burning.
Gosaikunda lake trekking starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche. The drive may last up to 7 or 8 hours. The other day, trekking begins. Viewing different gompas and local villages, you reach Gosaikunda through Lauribinayak la pass. Enjoying with beautiful nature in the Langtang region, you return back to Dhunche via trekking and then take a return drive to Kathmandu. With many enjoyments, information, and memories, the 6 days journey ended in Kathmandu.
