Ganjala Pass Trek
Ganjala Pass Trekking is a challenging and thrilling adventure located in the upper Langtang Valley, extending into the Helambu region in central northern Nepal. Known for its demanding terrain, this trek requires not only physical fitness but also proper mountaineering equipment such as climbing boots, crampons, harness, helmet, fixed ropes, and snow bars.
Ganjala Pass Trekking is a challenging and thrilling adventure located in the upper Langtang Valley, extending into the Helambu region in central northern Nepal. Known for its demanding terrain, this trek requires not only physical fitness but also proper mountaineering equipment such as climbing boots, crampons, harness, helmet, fixed ropes, and snow bars. Due to the technical nature of the climb, trekkers spend several nights camping in tents, offering a raw and immersive wilderness experience.
The route offers spectacular natural beauty, with pristine rivers, dense forests, and towering Himalayan peaks forming a breathtaking backdrop throughout the journey. Along the trail, trekkers encounter the Tamang people dressed in traditional Tibetan attire, providing a unique cultural insight into the indigenous communities of the region.
Starting from Syabrubesi, the trek follows the Langtang Valley up to Langtang village before heading towards the Naya Kanga Base Camp. Since there are limited tea houses along this part
Trip Facts
Group Size
02 to 15 pax
Maximum Elevation
5100m
Location
North part of Nepal – Langtang National Park
Route
KTM-Shyabru Besi-Kyanjin- Ganjala pass- Melamche Pul Bazar-KTM
Grade
Strenuous
Best Season
Autumn (Sep. to Nov.) and spring (March to May)
Accommodation
Hotel/ Lodge/ Camping
Transportation
Drive to Shyabru besi/ from Melamchi Pul Bazar to KTM
Crossing Ganjala Pass is the central challenge and thrill of the trek. This high-altitude pass, often snow-covered, demands a short technical climb with mountaineering gear like crampons, ropes, and helmets. It offers a true sense of alpine adventure for experienced trekkers.
Due to the absence of tea houses in the higher sections of the trail (especially around Naya Kanga Base Camp, Ganjala Pass, and Keldang), trekkers will spend three nights in tented camps. This provides a raw, immersive experience in nature, away from modern comforts.
Throughout the trek, enjoy spectacular views of Himalayan peaks including:Langtang Lirung (7246 m)Ganesh Himal (7460 m)Naya Kanga, Yala Peak, Langshisha RiDistant peaks like Shishapangma and even the Annapurna and Everest ranges from certain passes
Experience the distinct Tibetan-influenced cultures of the Tamang people in the Langtang region and the Sherpa communities in Helambu. Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries like the one in Tarkeghyang and observe daily life in traditional mountain villages.
Explore Kyanjin Gompa, the spiritual heart of Langtang, with its monastery, cheese factory, and stunning views of surrounding glaciers. An optional side trip to Tserko Ri (4984 m) or Kyanjin Ri (4050 m) offers breathtaking panoramic mountain vistas.
Walk through forests rich in biodiversity expect to see Himalayan deer, monkeys, and a variety of birds such as Himalayan pheasants. The trek also passes through pine, rhododendron, and bamboo forests, especially in the lower Langtang and Helambu regions.
Follow river valleys like the Langtang Khola, cross suspension bridges, trek through deep gorges, alpine meadows, and walk near the Langtang glacier all contributing to the dramatic and varied terrain of the route.
Unlike the more commercial Everest or Annapurna regions, the Ganjala Pass trek remains off-the-beaten-path. You’ll enjoy solitude, untouched nature, and authentic experiences with fewer tourists on the trail.
- Accommodation during the trekking: Single/Twin-sharing room with wooden beds, foam mattresses, and blankets (bring a sleeping bag for extra warmth/hygiene). Most of the place have shared toilets (usually Asian-style squat or Western toilets). Some of the place has attached toiled. Hot showers available (on extra cost). Higher up, hot water is scarce.
- Breakfast: Porridge/Oatmeal (often with honey, fruits, or nuts), eggs (fried, scrambled, or omelets with veggies), Pancakes or Tibetan Bread (served with jam, honey, or peanut butter), Muesli/Cornflakes (with hot or cold milk), Tea/Coffee (black, milk tea, or ginger lemon honey tea) etc.
- Lunch: Dal Bhat (Nepali staple: lentil soup, rice, vegetable curry, and pickles—unlimited refills!), Noodles/Pasta (fried noodles, garlic pasta, or ramen), Momos (dumplings stuffed with veggies or meat), sandwiches (egg, cheese, or tuna), soup (garlic, mushroom, or veggie—popular for warmth and hydration) etc.
- Dinner: Dal Bhat, Curries (veggie, potato, or chicken with rice or chapati), Thukpa (local noodle soup), Pizza, Pasta, Fried Rice/Noodles, Desserts (apple pie, rice pudding, or Snickers rolls etc.).
- Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Shyabrubesi
- Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu by Jeep/Bus.
- Langtang National Park entry permit.
- Trekking Guide: A First Aid and Eco trained & Government licensed holder professional equipped English-speaking guide.
- Support Sherpa: if the group size more than six persons, we provide one extra Sherpa to support the group.
- Porters: One Porter between each 2 members while on trek (Maximum weight for a porter is 25 Kg). If you are single booking the porter cost need to pay extra, please add the cost add on option.
- Accommodation, meals, daily salary, equipment, transportation & Insurance of Asian Hiking Team staffs (guide, Sherpa, porter).
- Trekking Map /Itinerary: Asian Hiking Team provides free a copy of trekking map /trekking Itinerary to our client.
- Sleeping Bag: Asian Hiking Team provide sleeping bag, the sleeping bag is (-20 degrees). If you are planning high passes trekking/ camping trekking or climbing you should be need to bring your own which is -30.
- T-short: Asian Hiking Team provide the company T-short for a souvenir.
- Certificate: Asian Hiking Team provide Trekking/Hiking/Tour/Climbing success certificate for your memory and awardees.
- First Aid: First aid is the immediate assistance given to someone who is injured or ill until professional medical help is available. Its goal is to preserve life, prevent further harm, and promote recovery. Asian Hiking Team staff carry the basic first aid. You need to bring your own personal medicine with you. If you are trekking in high altitude should be bringing Diamox for acclimatization (125 mg tabs recommended; enough for a week or more). You can buy here in Kathmandu any pharmacy.
- Farewell dinner: Asian Hiking Team provide a farewell dinner with Nepalese cultural programs the last day of the trip.
- Travel & Rescue arrangement service: You should bring insurance, must include emergency air ambulance/helicopter rescue services.
- Personal trekking gears & clothing (some of the equipment is possible to rent in Kathmandu): please check in check list for equipment list
- Internet / Wi-Fi/Telephone: There are almost all trekking reason you can buy internet/ Wi-Fi service in the hotel. It is also possible to buy the NCAL or NTC Sim card for telephone or use data.
- Insurance: Medical evacuation in case of emergency, expenses incurred due to mishaps, landslide, strikes, political unrest etc. in such case extra will be charged as per actual.
- Accommodation: If you stay an additional day, you need to pay an extra cost.
- Hot drinks: Tea/ Coffees/ Hot water, hot showers etc.
- Cold/soft drinks: All cold drinks, alcohol drinks, beer, bottle water etc.
- Snacks: Pack energy bars, nuts, chocolate, or local chyura (beaten rice) for quick energy boosts between meals.
- Personal trekking gears & clothing (some of the equipment is possible to rent in Kathmandu): please check in check list for equipment list
- Internet / Wi-Fi/Telephone: There are almost all trekking reason you can buy internet/ Wi-Fi service in the hotel. It is also possible to buy the NCAL or NTC Sim card for telephone or use data.
- Insurance: Medical evacuation in case of emergency, expenses incurred due to mishaps, landslide, strikes, political unrest etc. in such case extra will be charged as per actual.
- Kathmandu: During the sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara the entry fees for Temple or Monastery, Durbar Square are not includes in the cost.
- The tip for guide or porter: It's a way to show appreciation for good service and is often left as a small present or in addition. Tips are a common practice in many cultures and are often expected for services. It is not fix amount, so you can own decide.
- Porter: Asian Hiking Team provide one porter between two members. If you want to hire the additional porter, the cost in not includes.
- Sherpa/ Guide: If you want personal Sherpa/guide, it is not including on the cost.
Tailored add-ons in Nepal trips refer to customizable essentials that enhance and personalize your travel experience.
Options include:
- Customized Accommodations: Upgrade from standard lodging to luxury hotels or homestays.
- Helicopter/MT Flights: Opt for helicopter transport to your own destination, helicopter flight/ Mountain flight (as for cost, it depends on).
- Adventure Activities: Add paragliding, bungee jumping, or rafting.
- Cultural & Spiritual Journeys: Include visits to Lumbini, Pashupatinath, tours or local festivals.
- Wildlife Safaris: Extend your trip with a safari in Chitwan or Bardia.
- Flexible Scheduling: Adjust dates and durations to fit your needs.
The Ganjala Pass Trek is a challenging adventure requiring proper mountaineering equipment and a short technical climb. It is highly recommended to undertake this trek with an experienced climbing guide or Sherpa due to the demanding terrain and technical sections, especially at Ganjala Pass.
Asian Hiking Team’s Guides/Sherpa are professionals with proven records of honesty and personal integrity, committed to environmentally responsible climbing practices that minimize ecological impact. Our Climbing Guides possess extensive knowledge of all climbing disciplines, local cultures, customs, and religions, and they enthusiastically share these insights with clients. All Guides are fluent in English and speak additional languages upon request.
Asian Hiking Team’s Climbing Guides/Sherpa bring years of experience and exceptional expertise in all facets of Nepal mountaineering. Each holds a Nepal Government License, Mountaineering Association Accreditation, and Summit Certificates for Nepal Himalayan peaks. Our high-altitude Sherpa guides are qualified through rigorous training from NMA, TAAN, and NATHAM.
Every...
This trek is classified as 'Strenuous' due to its demanding terrain, high altitude, and the technical nature of crossing Ganjala Pass. Trekkers should be physically fit and prepared for challenging conditions.
Hotel/ Lodge: Single/Twin-sharing room with wooden beds, foam mattresses, and blankets (bring a sleeping bag for extra warmth/hygiene). Most of the place have shared toilets (usually Asian-style squat or Western toilets). Some of the place has attached toiled. Hot showers available (on extra cost). Higher up, hot water is scarce.
Tented Camping: Tented camping is a classic and essential part of trekking, peak climbing, and expedition in remote areas of the Himalayas where teahouse accommodation is unavailable. Asian Hiking Team provides Tent (2-person or single occupancy Dom and Box tent depends on area and numbers of days), Sleeping mat (foam or inflatable), Dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent (group use - for expedition), Kitchen equipment and utensils (carried by support crew), Power bank or solar charger, heater, Generator (for expedition) etc.
Meals: During the hotel/Guest house trekking, there are international menu so you can choose whatever you like. During the camping,...
Transportation involves a drive from Kathmandu to Shyabrubesi and from Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu by Jeep/Bus. These drives are typically by Jeep or Bus.
Here’s a detailed guide on getting from Kathmandu to Shyabru Besi (Syabrubesi) and Dhunche, the main trailhead towns for treks like Langtang and Gosaikunda and Helambu areas:
Kathmandu to Dhunche / Shyabrubesi 122KM
Public / Deluxe Bus/ share Jeep Departure: Daily from Machhapokhari (New Buspark) north of Thamel between 06:00–09:00 AM Journey time: To Dhunche - 4-5 hours and To Syabrubesi 5-7 hours Shared Jeep: Shared jeeps also leave from Machhapokhari from 07:00 AM to 8AM.
Private Jeep / 4WD Car:
Advantage: Best for Small groups (4–7) or seeking flexibility and comfort. Journey time: To Dhunche - 4-5 hours and To Syabrubesi 5-7 hours Cost: Every season all cost are changeable, so please check by email or WhatsApp for recent cost. Kathmandu to Sundarijal 18KM By Local bus – Ratnapark or Chahabel or...
The best seasons for the Ganjala Pass Trek are Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). These periods offer stable weather conditions and clearer mountain views, ideal for high-altitude trekking.
General Climate
Overview Nepal's climate is incredibly diverse due to its dramatic range in altitude—from the lowland Terai plains (around 60 meters above sea level) to the Himalayan peaks above 8,000 meters. The country experiences five main seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. Each region and elevation zone has its own unique weather patterns.
Terai Region (Southern Plains)
Climate: Subtropical Summer (May–June): Hot and humid, temperatures often exceed 37°C Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild, temperatures range between 7°C to 23°C Receives significant rainfall during the monsoon (June–September)
Hilly Region (Mid-Hills & Valleys)
Climate: Mild and temperate Cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara experience: Summer: 19°C – 35°C Winter: 2°C – 12°C Pleasant weather year-round with occasional winter chills and summer showers
Mountain Region (High Himalayas)
Climate: Alpine to Arctic Summer: Cool...
You’ll need one main permits:
Langtang National Park Entry Permit Foreigner: NPR 3,000 (USD 25–30) SAARC national: NPR 1,500 Nepali citizen: NPR 100 Validity: One month from issue date. Coverage: Entire Langtang National Park, including trails to Kyanjin Gompa, Gosaikunda, and Tamang Heritage.
Guide Mandatory: Solo trekking is prohibited. All trekkers must hire a licensed guide through a registered agency.
Checkpoints: At Dhunche (park entry), Syabrubesi, and Langtang village (fines for missing permits), Kutungsang, Sundarijal, Sarmangthang. Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park Permit: Cost: Foreigners: NPR 1,000 ($8); SAARC: NPR 600 and Nepali Nrs 100 Check post: Sundarijal, Chisapani etc.
TIMS Card:
No longer required for Langtang / Helambu treks however if need will provide.
Why These Permits Matter:
• Conservation: Wildlife protection (snow leopards, red pandas), trail maintenance, and reforestation. • Community Support: Healthcare, schools, and tourism infrastructure. • Safety: rescue operations during emergencies (e.g., landslides)
Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Trekking in the Himalayas poses risks of Altitude Sickness (AMS). The body needs time to acclimatize to higher altitudes, a process known as acclimatization.
Types of Altitude Illnesses (Acute Mountain Sickness, AMS)
- High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): Fluid in the lungs
- High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): Swelling of the brain
- High Altitude Retinal Hemorrhage (HARH): Bleeding in the retina
Common Symptoms:
- Headache
- Nausea, loss of appetite
- Sleep disturbance
- Dizziness, mild weakness
- Swelling of hands and face
Severe Symptoms (Seek Immediate Descent):
- Severe, persistent headache
- Shortness of breath at rest
- Confusion, loss of coordination
- Bluish lips or face
- Coughing blood-tinged sputum
- Coma or unconsciousness
Prevention Tips:
- Drink 4–5 liters of fluids daily (avoid alcohol)
- Ascend slowly and rest if symptoms appear
- Avoid sleeping at a higher altitude if symptoms persist
- Take Diamox (consult your doctor) before flying to altitude
Food & Water Safety
In Nepal, water and food contamination are common causes of illness.
Do:
- Drink boiled, filtered, or bottled water
- Eat thoroughly...
Phone and internet services may be limited or unavailable in remote sections of the trek, especially during camping nights. Connectivity is generally better in larger villages and towns.
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation is highly recommended for this challenging trek.
At Asian Hiking Team, we believe that every journey should be both transformative for the traveler and respectful to the host environment and communities. Responsible tourism isn’t just a practice—it’s a core value that shapes how we operate, lead tours, and engage with people and places.
Environmental Responsibility
We are committed to minimizing the environmental impact of our operations while encouraging a greener way of traveling.
Our eco-conscious practices include:
- Limiting group sizes to a maximum of 20 to reduce environmental pressure.
- Using stainless steel mugs for tea/coffee to reduce single-use waste.
- Relying on gas for cooking instead of wood fires, preserving forests.
- Carrying out waste from high altitudes for proper city disposal.
- Avoiding the use of soap near natural water sources.
- Using reusable containers and encouraging travelers to bring their own refillable water bottles.
- Leaving campsites cleaner than we found them.
- Encouraging minimal water usage, especially in high-altitude regions.
- Preventing...
Ice Axe/Ice Hammer : Bring a lightweight ice axe or ice hammer, essential for navigating snow and ice sections, particularly when crossing Ganjala Pass. Ensure it is suitable for technical use.
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