Gosainkunda Lake is an alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake situated at Langtang National Park of Nepal. it is located at an elevation of 4380m in the Rasuwa district with a surface of 13.8 ha. The oligotrophic freshwater lake is fed by melting glaciers and is one of the highest lakes in Nepal accessible by visitors.
History of Gosainkunda Lake
Gosainlunda Lake is the most sacred lake in Nepal dedicated to lord Shiva, It is a holy and special place for Hindus and Buddhist people. It was here where Shiva satisfied his thirst after consuming poison. It is believed that after drinking poison lord shiva came here and thrust his Thrishul hard into their mountains in pain due to which lake appeared.
Sharmans perform spiritual songs and dances during the trek at the beginning of their journey until they reach Gosainkunda and on the day the ‘Junior Jhaakri’ obtain their graduation from their masters.
It is believed that Shiva is the creator of the lake because when he thrust his Trishul into the mountain to extract the water to drink so that he could cool his stinging throat after he had swallowed poison.
It is also said that once you take a bath in the holy lake, all your pain, sorrows, and sins are washed off. In Hindu mythology, Gosainkunda is a place of residence of lord Shiva and Gauri.
According to the Hindu scriptures Vishnu Purana, Bhagavata Purana, and the epic of Mahabharat, Ramayana refers to Samundra Manthan, which is related to the Gosainkunda.
Gosainkunda Lake Trek
Gosainkunda Lake Trek is a famous trekking destination in the Langtang region of Nepal. The trek is moderately challenging and takes about 7 days to complete. The trail begins from Kathmandu. While trekking trekkers will pass through stunning views of the Langtang Himal. Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Tibetan peaks, and other mountains.
It is a popular pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is located at an altitude of 4380 meters. During this trek, you will pass through terraced fields, meadows, and forests as the trial starts changing character as you will pass through warm, terraced, and populated areas to the higher, and refreshing cooler, temperature, and sub-alpine zones. Visitors will pass through the beautiful blooming rhododendron forest.
Gosaikunda Lake Trek
The Gosaikunda Trek will take you to the holy site of both Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims. Several legends exist concerning the formation of the lake. The trail is not so hard but sometimes the climb is very steep making it more adventurous. This trek is moderate but in some places, the trail is a bit challenging.
Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of the Langtang region. You will be able to explore the villages along the trail which are home to the Tamang, sherpa people who have a unique culture and way of life.
This Gosainkunda lake trek is a beautiful and rewarding trek that is perfect for those who are looking for a moderate trek with beautiful views. From the above information, visitors can able to experience the culture and ancient traditions of the local community.
Gosainkunda weather
The weather in Gosainkunda is unpredictable and can be changed in a minute. The weather is always wet so before travelling to Gosainkunda, arrange all the necessary stuff which will be needed during the time to trek.
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Keep warm clothes, hiking boots, walking steak, gloves, water bottle, sunglasses, raincoat, medicine and other stuff.
The best time to visit Gosainkunda Lake
The best season to visit is spring (march- May) and Autumn( September- November ). In spring, the hade increases, the national flower of Nepal, the rhododendron blooms, and the sky will be blue and clear.
This sacred glacial lake offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in breathtaking mountain scenery, embrace spiritual traditions, and find peace and rejuvenation amidst pristine Alpine environments. Whether you come to trek the scenic trails, pay respects at the Hindu temples, or simply bask in the serene beauty, Gosainkunda promises an unforgettable experience connecting you with nature’s grand majesty. A journey to this remote lake is a highlight for any adventurer seeking an authentic taste of the mighty Himalayan world.
Things to do at Gosainkuda Lake
1. Take in the breathtaking views: Gosainkunda is a stunning high-altitude lake surrounded by towering mountains. Just sit and soak in the natural beauty all around you.
2. Go hiking: Several hiking trails around the lake offer incredible mountain vistas. You can explore the area on foot at your own pace.
3. Visit the Hindu temples: Hindus consider Gosainkunda a sacred place. There are several temples around the lake where pilgrims come to pay respect.
4. Camp under the stars: With permission, you can camp right beside the lake and sleep under the brilliant night sky full of stars.
5. Enjoy the glacial waters: The brave can take a dip in the icy cold waters of the glacial-fed lake, believed to have spiritual powers.
7. Attend festivals: During Janai Purnima and other Hindu festivals, thousands of pilgrims flock here, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
The main draws are the pristine natural beauty, spiritual significance, and chance to unplug from the busy world.
