Trekking is one of the most popular activities for tourists in Nepal. However, the earthquake in 2015 made a massive impact on the tourism industry. It also affected a number of trekking and climbing trails. Many of these trails remained closed for months before being declared safe for trekking. Among them, Langtang valley trails which are open now to tourists and trekkers.

Langtang Valley Overview

The Langtang Valley is located close to the Kathmandu Valley with only a few hours’ drive separating the two. The Langtang Valley is certainly one of the most beautiful regions of Nepal. In spite of being located close to Kathmandu, there is a huge difference between the two valleys in terms of culture and landscape.

Where Kathmandu is more urban, the Langtang Valley still retains its wildness. The valley is idyllic and the landscape is rural. It is reminiscent of the Tibetan highlands in more ways than one. Moreover, the people here are the actual descendants of Tibetan settlers. As a result, the Langtang Valley offers a fascinating glimpse into the Tibetan lifestyle.

The beauty of the valley is simply astounding. Different varieties of rhododendrons grow here in profusion. You can also walk among bamboo forests and enjoy the rushing waters of glorious waterfalls. Of course, the majestic snowcaps of the Himalayan Mountains are never far from your view. In short, the Langtang Valley is perfect for a rewarding trek.

The Aftermath of the Earthquake

Due to its proximity to the epicenter of the 2015 earthquake, the effects have been particular harsh on the Langtang Valley. Much of the trail has been destroyed due to the tremors and the subsequent landslides. The trails have been restored somewhat but there is still much work left to be done.

Many lodges on the route have managed to reopen and they are more than ready to provide their services to trekkers. Others are in the process of being restored. In many sections of the routes, the rubble and other signs of the devastation remain.

In spite of the destruction, the Langtang Valley is still a beautiful place. It will certainly be worth the visit. Moreover, by visiting or trekking across the valley, you will be able to provide the much needed incomes to the people living here so that they can rebuild their lives.

Details of the Damage

Here are some of the areas on the Langtang Valley trekking trail which have been significantly impacted.

The Starting Point: You need to use the high route of Khanjim and Sherpa gaun as the lower one that passes by the Bamboo (Langtang River) has been heavily affected by landslides.

Pairo and Bamboo: These two places are totally destroyed by the landslide including the trails.

Ghoda tabela: This place has been completely destroyed by the landslide. You cannot use the old trail to visit Ghoda tabela.There is opened the alternative trail from the otherside of the valley.

Langtang Village: The Langtang village was one of the visual delights of this trek. However, the village has undergone total devastation at the hands of an avalanche caused by the earthquake.The villages of Thangsyap, Chyamki and Gompa Danda just before Langtang also totally destroyed. But people started to rebuilt teahouses at Thangsyap and Gompa Danda now.

You can certainly trek around Langtang Valley. However, make sure that you find out all necessary facts before attempting it.