Langtang National Park was established in 1976. It sprawls over an area of 1,710 square kilometres. The park lies in the Central Himalayas, just to the north of Kathmandu, and comprises scenic landscapes ranging from subtropical forests that go as far as alpine meadows. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, from the rare red panda to the elusive snow leopard. Langtang is rich not only in its natural biodiversity but also in its cultural heritage, where ancient monasteries and villages of traditional Tamang people exist.
Langtang National Park Location
Photo: Bharat2 / Wikimedia Commons
Langtang National Park is located in north-central Nepal. It was established in 1976 as Nepal’s first Himalayan national park.
How To Reach Langtang National Park
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You can reach Langtang National Park by air, bus, and rail, making it a popular choice for travellers arriving at this park.
By Air: The nearest airport to Langtang National Park is the Bharatpur Airport. From here, you can travel to the national park by taxi or bus.
By Bus: Local buses offer a budget-friendly, comfortable, and time-efficient way to travel from different locations to Langtang National Park.
By Rail: Kathmandu Junction Station is the closest to Langtang National Park. From there, tourists can rent cars or travel by bus to the park.
Places To Visit Around Langtang National Park
There are a variety of Langtang National Park, Nepal activities beyond its beautiful parks. Here’s a list of places to visit around Langtang National Park.
1. Thamel
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Thamel is the lively tourist hub of Kathmandu. This place is bustling and contains every type of shop, restaurant, and bar around. There are boutique stores with traditional handicrafts. This location is also known for its lively eateries, which are full of Nepali and international dishes. The cobbled, narrow streets are perfect for endless hours of stroll. Tourists can also purchase unique and worth-picking souvenirs that line here and there. Thamel is undoubtedly a lively place to enjoy the energy of an evening in Kathmandu, making visiting this place one of the most famous things to do in Kathmandu.
Timings: 24*7
2. Bhaktapur
Photo: Alexander Shafir / Wikimedia Commons
Bhaktapur is one of the ancient towns located in the vicinity of Kathmandu. This town is proud of its mediaeval architecture and rich historical past. The Bhaktapur Durbar Square boasts large, beautiful temples and palaces, with the famous 55-Window Palace featuring Newari workmanship. Furthermore, the streets that consist of narrow alleys with rows of house units, richly decorated with fittings and carvings, and lively squares provide a good walking experience. The reputation of Bhaktapur encompasses its beautiful pottery and local festivals performed in unique Newari-style costumes, which are a reflection of the nation’s cultural heritage.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: NPR 250 – NPR 500, ₹156.27 – 312.55
3. Kathmandu Durbar Square
Photo: Alexander Shafir / Wikimedia Common
Kathmandu Durbar Square is an ancient city centre holding examples of traditional Newari architecture and craftsmanship. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has several intricately carved temples, ancient palaces, and bustling courtyards. The Kasthamandap Temple, which is hewed from a single tree, and the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, which has ornate wooden balconies, are some of the top attractions in this location. Traditional festivals, cultural performances, and last but not least, the lively bazaars around the square give glimpses of Kathmandu’s rich history and high-spirited ambience.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Starts from NPR 100, ₹62.51 (other costs may vary)
4. Pashupatinath Temple
Photo: Shadow Ayush / Wikimedia Commons
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the major Hindu pilgrimage sites lying on the banks of the Bagmati River. Pashupatinath temple is consecrated to Lord Shiva and attracts pilgrims from across the world. This holy complex, with its fine pagoda-style architecture, is well-known for its beautiful carvings and rich rituals. The ghats that surround this temple give an insight into Hindu traditions. During the evening, the Aarti ceremony against the backdrop of musical music is a memorable experience in itself, making exploring this shrine one of the best things to do in Kathmandu.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
5. Garden Of Dreams
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The Garden of Dreams is an enchanting, serene oasis right in the middle of Kathmandu city. It was designed in the early 20th century. This beautifully restored neo-classical garden creates serene pathways with elegant fountains and lush greenery. The garden offers people a peaceful retreat to sit, take leisurely walks, or enjoy a meal in its on-premise café. It is also a romantic and historic atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and reflection. Visiting Garden of Dreams is one of the top choices for visitors in Kathmandu as this place gives tourists a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Duration: 1-2 Hours
Entry Fee: NPR 50 – NPR 150, ₹31.25 – ₹93.76
Where To Stay
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Langtang National Park has many nearby accommodations that suit different budgets and tastes. Some recommended places are Sunrise Guest House, Glacier Guest House, and Yak Hotels and Lodge. For a good, hassle-free experience, ensure you book in advance, consider proximity to the local attractions, dining options, and public transport, and check on travel websites or apps for current reviews.
Where To Eat
Photo: Subhashish Panigrahi / Wikimedia Commons
Try tasty cuisines and local dishes at Dorje Cafe, Hello Trekkers Home and Lama Restaurant. Visitors can taste local flavours by indulging in regional specialities.
Best Time To Visit Langtang National Park
Photo: Photo Saurav / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Langtang National Park is from September to November when the weather is clear with mild temperatures. This is the most suitable time to explore the national park and the nearby attractions. Also, find out about the Langtang National Park timings.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Nancy Collins / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The trip cost to Langtang National Park varies based on travel style, accommodation, dining, and activities. The Langtang National Park ticket price ranges from NPR 1500 – NPR 3000 (₹943 – ₹1875); however, costs may vary depending on other facilities. It ranges from ₹6,000 to 12,000 (₹3774 – ₹7549).
Tips For Travellers
- To plan your visit, book in advance and pack accordingly with light, breathable clothing and essentials.
- Do not disturb wildlife while taking Langtang National Park photos.
Langtang National Park is an ultra-beautiful destination where nature is blended with cultural richness. Whether you satiate the adventure with the park’s rough landscapes or elicit serenity from nature in the calm valleys, this park has a unique, unforgettable experience waiting in store for you. So what are you waiting for? Plan your dream getaway with TripXL and explore this stunning park.
Cover Photo: Santosh Yonjan / Wikimedia Commons