Michael and Lynette Feenaghty
In December 2017 and January 2018, the two of us completed a 13-day trek in the Langtang Valley, Gosainkunda, and Helambu regions of Nepal. We booked this trip with A One Nepal Trek, and the service provided—from the moment we contacted Mr. Rajendra by email with our enquiries to our final drop-off at the airport—was excellent in every way.
We were picked up at the airport by Mr. Rajendra and taken to our hotel. The next day, he met with us to review our paperwork and itinerary, hand over our sleeping bags and gear, and answer all our questions. His professionalism right from the start made us feel completely at ease. Over the next 13 days, we quickly realized how knowledgeable Mr. Rajendra is, drawing from over 20 years of experience in the trekking industry across Nepal and Tibet.
Since our trek took place in winter (outside peak season), we were fortunate to have Mr. Rajendra as our guide alongside Mr. Mangal as our porter. Nothing was ever too much trouble for either of them. We chose a jeep to travel to the trek start at Syabrubesi, which proved to be a great decision on the rough roads compared to the local bus.
Langtang Valley & Kyanjin Gumba
The scenery and culture during our 3-day trek to Kyanjin Gumba were fascinating. The tea houses were welcoming and comfortable, and we really enjoyed connecting with our hosts. The sleeping bags supplied by A One Nepal Trek were rated to -20°C and in great condition, with extra blankets available at the tea houses if needed. Meals were high-quality, offering a varied selection of both Western and Nepalese food. We also discovered Masala tea and couldn’t get enough of it!
On our fourth day—a rest day at Kyanjin Gumba—Mr. Rajendra and Mr. Mangal guided us up Tsergo Ri (4,984 m). This was a major highlight, offering sweeping views of snow-capped peaks stretching into Tibet. The return journey down the Langtang Valley was just as enjoyable, providing a fresh perspective on the landscape, local villages, yaks, horses, and even monkeys on our first day.
Gosainkunda Lakes & Lauribina Pass
While the main Langtang track had other trekkers, the route toward Gosainkunda was wonderfully quiet, giving us the trails and tea houses to ourselves. As we climbed toward Laurebina and Gosainkunda, temperatures dropped, but the views were incredible.
We spent half a day enjoying the frozen sacred lakes of Gosainkunda before crossing the Lauribina Pass (4,610 m) the following day. The high altitude made walking challenging, but surrounded by pristine snow and ice, the views were worth every step.
Helambu Region to Kathmandu
Entering the Helambu region, we enjoyed breathtaking views south over the foothills. We spent the night at Thadepati on a high ridge, enjoying warm hospitality around the kitchen fire while our hosts prepared dinner.
Over the next two and a half days, we trekked through foothill villages where rebuilding was still underway following the 2015 earthquake. Our final day was a peaceful downhill walk through Shivapuri National Park to Sundarijal, followed by a short one-hour drive back to Kathmandu.
Final Thoughts
This was an amazing trip of a lifetime. Mr. Rajendra’s excellent English and deep expertise made our holiday safe, smooth, and memorable. Both Mr. Rajendra and Mr. Mangal showed outstanding commitment to our well-being throughout the entire journey.
Lynette & Michael Feenaghty
Australia
Email: lfeenagh@bigpond.net.au