Langtang is
the closest trekking area to Kathmandu. It is
located in the central Himalayan region with Tibet
and Himalayan peaks to the north and high green
hills to the south. Langtang offers some excellent
treks from a week's easy hike to treks of many
weeks. It is among the top three trekking areas
in Nepal, yet compared with other popular areas
such as Everest and Annapurna, it is not over
ruined by tourist activities. Langtang national
park has preserved its rich flora and fauna and
includes
the
unique culture of the Tamang people who follow
Tibetan Buddhism. Tamangs, along with their neighbouring
Sherpas, provide the largest number of people
working in the mountains as climbing guides, trekking
staff and tour organizers.
The Gosainkunda Lake, situated in the Langtang
area, is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites
for Hindus, Buddhists and followers of Himalayan
Shamanic traditions. In addition, the existence
of several old monasteries reveals the interesting
Buddhist tradition of the area. Recently the
remote area of Rasuwa gadhi has been opened
to trekkers, giving opportunities to tourists
wishing to explore the ancient Tibeto-Tamang
culture. Langtang is in fact a natural amphitheater
housing a unique history and culture which can
be experienced just a short distance from the
modern city of Kathmandu.
