Trip overview
Pangsang La Pass Trek – Hidden Trail in the Ganesh Himal Region
The Pangsang La Pass Trek is one of the least explored and most rewarding short treks in Nepal. Nestled in the heart of the Ganesh Himal region, this adventure takes trekkers through remote valleys, ancient villages, and pristine forests before crossing the magnificent Pangsang La Pass (3,842m). Unlike the busy Everest and Annapurna routes, this journey is quiet, raw, and culturally rich, making it ideal for those who want to experience the authentic side of the Himalayas without crowds.
Located north of Kathmandu, between the famous Langtang and Manaslu regions, the Ganesh Himal is a true hidden treasure. The region is named after Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed Hindu deity, as the peaks resemble the shape of an elephant. Trekking here is a journey through untouched landscapes where traditional lifestyles are still alive, and mountain hospitality welcomes every visitor. The 7 Days Pangsang La Pass Trek is designed for trekkers who want a short Himalayan adventure packed with incredible scenery, diverse cultures, and rewarding experiences.
Natural Beauty of the Ganesh Himal Region
The Ganesh Himal range is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in Nepal. As you begin the trek, you walk past terraced farmlands, green hills, and rushing rivers. The lower parts of the trail are dotted with fields of maize, millet, and rice, where local villagers work with traditional farming tools.
Climbing higher, the scenery changes to dense rhododendron, oak, and pine forests. In spring, these forests are covered with bright rhododendron flowers, turning the hills into a canvas of red and pink colors. Birdsong and the sound of waterfalls accompany trekkers as they ascend gradually.
Crossing the Pangsang La Pass is the highlight of the trek. Standing at nearly 3,842 meters, the pass offers panoramic views of some of Nepal’s greatest peaks. To the north rises the majestic Ganesh Himal, whose snow-clad ridges dominate the skyline. To the east, the Langtang Himal glistens under the sun, while the Manaslu range towers to the west. On clear days, trekkers may even catch glimpses of the distant Annapurna peaks. The feeling of standing on the pass with mountains surrounding you in all directions is both humbling and uplifting.
Rich Culture and Villages Along the Way
While the mountains provide breathtaking scenery, the cultural encounters on this trek make it truly unforgettable. The Ganesh Himal region is inhabited mainly by Tamang and Gurung communities, who have preserved their traditions, language, and lifestyle for centuries. Their culture is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, and small monasteries, prayer flags, and chortens (Buddhist shrines) decorate the trail.
Villages such as Gatlang, Tipling, Chalish, and Jharlang are living museums of Tamang heritage. The houses are built of stone and wood, often clustered on terraced slopes. Colorful festivals and rituals are part of daily life, and trekkers are often invited to share a cup of local millet beer (chhaang) or butter tea with families.
Hospitality is warm and genuine here. In Chalish Gaon and Tipling, trekkers may have the chance to stay in traditional homestays, where simple but hearty meals are cooked over open fires. Sharing stories with villagers, observing their farming practices, and learning about their customs creates a deeper connection to the land and its people.
Why Choose the Pangsang La Pass Trek?
One of the biggest advantages of the Pangsang La Pass Trek is its tranquility. While Everest and Annapurna see thousands of trekkers each year, Ganesh Himal remains quiet and relatively untouched. This means you can walk for hours without encountering another group of trekkers, making the journey more personal and peaceful.
For trekkers with limited time, this 7-day route is an excellent choice. It combines high mountain views, cultural immersion, and adventure without requiring weeks of walking. At the same time, it provides a taste of everything Nepal is famous for: towering peaks, diverse landscapes, and welcoming villages.
Another highlight is the altitude. At 3,842 meters, the Pangsang La Pass is relatively moderate compared to other high passes in Nepal. This makes it suitable for trekkers with average fitness levels and those who want to experience a Himalayan pass without extreme altitude challenges.
The Journey Experience
The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, the gateway to both the Langtang and Ganesh Himal regions. The road winds along the Trishuli River, offering glimpses of snow-capped peaks and rural Nepali life. From Syabrubesi, the trail climbs steadily through forests and terraced slopes, reaching Gatlang, a traditional Tamang settlement.
As you move higher toward Somdang and the pass, the environment becomes more alpine. Rhododendron and pine forests give way to open meadows with grazing yaks. Somdang itself is a beautiful valley surrounded by high ridges and is often covered in mist during mornings and evenings, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Crossing Pangsang La Pass is the most memorable moment. The path winds up the ridge before opening to an expansive viewpoint where mountains stretch endlessly in every direction. Prayer flags flutter in the wind, and the silence of the high Himalayas adds to the spiritual feel of the place. Many trekkers spend extra time here simply soaking in the beauty.
From the pass, the trail descends toward Tipling, a vibrant village famous for its cultural festivals and traditional dances. Chalish Gaon, one of the most picturesque settlements on the trek, is another cultural gem where trekkers can interact closely with locals. The final days descend further into Jharlang and then continue by road back to Kathmandu, bringing the adventure full circle.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
The Ganesh Himal region is not just rich in culture but also in biodiversity. The forests are home to red pandas, Himalayan thar, langur monkeys, musk deer, and various bird species. Trekkers walking quietly through the forest may be lucky enough to spot some of these rare animals. Springtime is particularly magical as flowers bloom and wildlife becomes more active.
Because the region is less visited, the natural environment remains relatively untouched compared to busier trekking destinations. This makes the Pangsang La Pass Trek appealing for nature lovers and photographers seeking unique shots of Nepal’s flora and fauna.
The Authentic Himalayan Atmosphere
One of the most cherished aspects of the trek is the sense of authenticity. In many parts of Nepal, tourism has reshaped villages and lifestyles. In the Ganesh Himal, however, daily life continues much as it has for centuries. Farmers still plow fields with oxen, women weave clothes by hand, and festivals are celebrated with traditional dances and music.
For trekkers, this authenticity provides an opportunity to experience Nepal as it was before trekking became mainstream. The connection with locals feels genuine, and the slower pace of life invites travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the moment.
Best Time to Trek Pangsang la Pass
The ideal seasons for the Pangsang La Pass Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, the hillsides are alive with rhododendron blossoms, and the weather is mild. In autumn, clear skies provide the best mountain views, and the harvest season brings cultural celebrations in the villages.
Winter can also be beautiful with snow covering the higher areas, but temperatures drop significantly, and trails may become icy. The monsoon months (June to August) are less favorable due to heavy rains, leeches, and slippery trails, though the landscapes are lush and green.
Who Is This Trek For?
The 7 Days Pangsang La Pass Trek is suitable for:
- Trekkers with limited time who still want a true Himalayan experience.
- Travelers seeking less crowded, off-the-beaten-path adventures.
- Cultural enthusiasts interested in Tamang and Gurung traditions.
- Nature lovers looking for untouched landscapes and wildlife.
- Beginners with moderate fitness (since the altitude is not extreme).
It is not a luxury trek – accommodation is basic, meals are simple, and facilities are limited. But for those who embrace adventure and authenticity, the rewards are immense.
Conclusion
The Pangsang La Pass Trek is a journey into the hidden heart of Nepal. In just a week, trekkers experience stunning Himalayan scenery, cross a panoramic high pass, and immerse themselves in the traditions of Tamang and Gurung communities. It is less about luxury and more about authenticity – the simple beauty of mountain life, the quiet of untouched trails, and the grandeur of snow-capped peaks.
For those who have already seen Everest and Annapurna, or for those who want something different right from the start, this trek offers a refreshing alternative. Short, scenic, and full of culture, the Pangsang La Pass Trek is proof that some of Nepal’s greatest adventures are still waiting beyond the tourist crowds.
Whether it is the unforgettable views from the pass, the warmth of local homestays, or the peace of walking through untouched forests, this trek leaves lasting memories. For trekkers searching for a true Himalayan journey off the beaten path, the Pangsang La Pass Trek is an experience
Short Itinerary
Pangsang La Pass Trek itinerary - 7 Days
Day 01: Kathmandu – Syabrubesi (1,503m) Drive (7–8 hrs)
Scenic drive from Kathmandu through Trishuli Bazaar. Views of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and Langtang ranges. Overnight at lodge/teahouse in Syabrubesi.
Day 02: Syabrubesi – Gatlang (2,337m) Trek (5–6 hrs)
Ascend gradually with views of Ganesh Himal. Pass through Tamang villages, terraced fields, and local monasteries. Overnight in Gatlang village homestay/teahouse.
Day 03: Gatlang – Somdang (3,271m) Trek (6–7 hrs)
Trek through rhododendron and pine forests. Cross Khurpu Bhanjyang pass. Reach Somdang, a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains. Overnight in Somdang.
Day 04: Somdang – Pangsang La Pass (3,842m) – Tipling (2,078m) (6–7 hrs)
Cross Pangsang La Pass with magnificent views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Manaslu, and even the Annapurnas. Trek down to Tipling village, known for its Tamang and Gurung culture. Overnight in Tipling.
Day 05: Tipling – Chalish Gaon (1,674m) Trek (4–5 hrs)
Easy day descending through terraced farmland. Explore Chalish Gaon, a traditional village with warm hospitality. Overnight in Chalish.
Day 06: Chalish Gaon – Dhading Besi (612m) Drive (6–7 hrs)
Chalish to Dhading bensi by local sharing jeep, 6-7 hours, stay overnight at Dhading bensi
Day 07: Dhading Besi – Kathmandu Drive (4-5 hrs)
Drive back to Kathmandu. End of trek good bye your staff
Included
- Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and to Kathmandu by local bus
- All meals (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during your Pangsang la Pass Trek with 7 night Hotel Accommodation
- Government licensed holder, fluent English Speaking, Familiar Himalaya view Treks guide, 1 assistant guide if Group sizes is more than 10 trekkers) one guide lead up to 10 trekkers
- Strong local Porters for Carry trekker’s luggage. One porter every 2 trekkers, Porter carry maximum 20 Kg. 10 Kg per trekkers
- Cost Includes Guides and porters meals, accommodation, Salary, insurance, transportation, and needed equipment for the Trekking
- Water purification drop or tablets for safe drinking water
- Langtang national park permit fee and TIMS card permit
- Local government, taxes, including official Service Charge
- Himalaya View treks T-shirt as a Souvenirs, and duffel bag if needed
- Safe storing facilities at company store during the trek
- Local government, taxes, including official Service Charge
- • Trip completion Certificate if interested
Not Included
- Hotel accommodation and meals In Kathmandu
- Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery charge fee during the trek)
- Personal clothing and trekking gear
- Personal travel insurance including evacuation coverage (compulsory) up to 6000m)
- Additional costs if delays by any reason and outside the itinerary
- All the costs and expenses which are not mentioned in includes list
- Tips for guide and porters. in end of the treks
Quick Enquiry
Trips Reviews
chiara7362025-09-21Unforgettable experiemce - Gosaikunda / Langtang trek We are glad that we have chosen Himalaya View Treks. Simbir always replied very fast and we agreed on everything before the trek.We did 11 day Gosaikunda - Langtang trek. Originally our plans wery different, on the way to starting point at Syabru Bensi road was blocked by demonstration and we couldn't pass. Therefore we completely changed our trek itinerary and started trek from another place. Our guide Anil was extremely helpful, kind, patient. He always respected our needs. We really apreciate his assistance whenpassing through landslide area and crossing the mountain streams.Anh Hao Ng2025-09-02Unforgetable experience at EBC • We only had a few days (10 days) while the usual trek takes 12 days. Our guide Ram helped us arrange the itinerary to suit the duration and physical demands, as well as finding the best teahouses.• During the trek, due to the lack of time to acclimatize to the altitude, I experienced respiratory issues. Ram provided immense support to help me recover and continue the journey.• We were cared for with great enthusiasm, supported fully from meals to rest, and the guide even brought apples for us to eat along the way. He also provided water and occasionally shared wifi for us to use. We highly appreciate the company and the individual efforts of our guide Ram and porter Santos. We strongly encourage everyone to support the company’s continued success and wish Ram and Santos further growth in their careers.Ngoc T2025-08-31Everest base camp - Aug 2025 The 10-day Everest Base Camp trek was an extraordinary adventure, thanks to the tour company’s exceptional service. Their passionate team expertly guided me to select a tour perfectly suited to my needs. Our guide, Mr. Ram, was warm, highly skilled, and crafted an itinerary that optimized my limited time while minimizing altitude challenges. His deep knowledge enriched every moment. The porter, Mr. Santos, was tirelessly carrying my three heavy bags and went along with us throughout the way ensuring my comfort. I’m thrilled with this unforgettable experience and the team’s professionalism. I’ll definitely book with them again! Highly recommended! Chuyến trekking 10 ngày đến Everest base camp là một hành trình tuyệt vời. Đội ngũ công ty đã tư vấn tôi nhiệt tình giúp tôi chọn tour phù hợp với nhu cầu. Hướng dẫn viên, anh Ram, thân thiện, dày dạn kinh nghiệm, đã thiết kế lộ trình tối ưu cho thời gian hạn chế của tôi, đồng thời giảm thiểu các vấn đề về độ cao. Kiến thức sâu rộng của anh làm phong phú thêm hành trình. Người khuân vác, anh Santos, không mệt mỏi mang ba túi nặng của tôi và luôn đồng hành, đảm bảo sự thoải mái cho tôi. Tôi vô cùng hài lòng với trải nghiệm khó quên này và sự chuyên nghiệp của đội ngũ. Chắc chắn tôi sẽ lại đặt tour với họ! Rất khuyến nghị!Elliot J2025-06-05Amazing hike through Annapurna Well organised from start to finish for the Annapurna Circuit. Good communication from Simbir throughout. Anil was such a fantastic guide and porter, very strong and easy going, made the hike one of the most beautiful I've been on! Would definitely recommend.Armando N2025-05-23Excellent EBC Trek Experience The 12-day EBC trek with this agency was awesome, the manager was very attentive since the first contact and explained every question with detail. During the trek my guide Anil was excellent, he knows the mountains very well and helps you whenever you need something.Hongbin Z2025-05-20ACT trekking Our company Himalaya view treks. The boss of the company is honest and price is very reasonable.The field guide Sofi Tamang his brother in low saugat kulung rai (porter) is a great team to lead us.We highly recommend this company.Alex M2025-05-11Incredible experience trekking in Nepal Myself and my partner did the 8 day Annapurna circuit trek and had an incredible time. We were picked up from Kathmandu airport and taken to our hotel in Kathmandu, and Simbir met us beforehand in order to go through all of the trek information and answer any questions. Our guide Ram and our porter Anil were both so kind and friendly, and made sure we were happy and looked after the whole time. Ram taught us lots about Nepali culture and answered our many many questions about food, culture, wildlife etc. He gave us ample opportunities for breaks and was very patient with us whilst we took hundreds of pictures of the breathtaking landscapes. Ram and Anil also kindly repaired my partner’s bag when it broke halfway through the trek. The teahouses were cosy, and it was so nice that Ram and Anil sorted everything for us, like rooms and meals, so that we didn’t have to worry about anything. Going over the Thorong La pass was a challenge but a huge achievement, and so beautiful. We would highly recommend trekking with this company, especially with Ram and Anil!Naomi C2025-05-07Pikey Peak trek - 6 days We made the Pikey Peak trek with Himalaya View Treks over 6 days including 2 days of travel and 4 days of hiking, it was an absolutely memorable experience. This trek is ideal for those looking for a less crowded alternative to the classics while offering spectacular views of the Himalayas, including Everest.One of the most significant moments was undoubtedly the sunrise from the summit of Pikey Peak. This is an exceptional panorama with a view of Nepal’s iconic peaks.The trek itself is of moderate difficulty, accessible with a minimum of physical preparation. The trails cross traditional Sherpas villages, rhododendron forests and very peaceful rolling landscapes. We were warmly welcomed in the lodges, with simple but tasty local cuisine.Our guide Suraj was professional, attentive and passionate about the area. Our wearer Sujan, always smiling, greatly facilitated our progress. Their presence not only made walking lighter, but enriched the human experience of trekking.I highly recommend this trek to Himalaya View Treks for those who want a well-organized authentic adventure, away from the crowds, with exceptional views of Everest.Jeremy C2025-05-07Amazing 6-Day Trek to Pikey Peak – Highly Recommended! We had an amazing 6-day trek to Pikey Peak, and I can't recommend it enough! The views of the Himalayas, especially Everest at sunrise from the summit, were absolutely breathtaking. The route was peaceful and less crowded, allowing us to really enjoy the beauty of the nature and the hospitality of the local people.Our guide Suraj was extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and always made sure we were comfortable and safe throughout the journey. Our porter Sujan was also incredibly kind and helpful.The accommodations in the tea houses were basic but cozy, with delicious local food. Every day of the trek was well-organized and filled with beautiful landscapes.If you're looking for a less touristy and beautiful trekking experience in Nepal, Pikey Peak is the one and I strongly encourage you to book the trek with Himalaya View Treks!Liz K2025-05-06Langtang Valley I booked the trip to Langtang Valley only the evening before I wanted to go! The company was great & organised everything so quickly.I met with Sofi the guide on day 1 of the trip. He was helpful, friendly and organised everything seamlessly.The landscape was beautiful walking alongside the river, up through the forest to beautiful mountain ranges.The highlight was trekking at sunrise to kyanji ri.Sofi organised great little b&b’s as well as great lunch spots along the way.The trek surpassed expectations & I’ll definitely be using the company again.
Hayley2024-04-10would absolutely recommend this company to do your trekking with in Nepal. From the moment we messaged simbir, he was so helpful with any questions/worries we had. Everything was so smooth from the moment we landed in Kathmandu. Our guide Ram was amazing on our trek to EBC, always making sure we were happy. Will definitely use again when we return to Nepal, thank you for everything guys✨✨Shermel2024-03-18Embarked on a 9 days EBC trek with Sofi and Jivan, our guide and porter. They were both very reliable during the course of the trek and kept the atmosphere lively even when we were high up in the mountains. Highly recommended!Olga Poltavskaya2024-01-05We used the services of a porter guide from the company on the Annapurna base camp trek. Rahul was truly amazing! so helpful and easy! We really appreciated his looking after us, helping pick the best accommodation and break spots along the way, making sure we are warm and positive. Would strongly recommend Rahul for those trekkers who look for a devoted and switched on porter guide.Mateusz Malzacher2023-12-19We had a fantastic 3 passes hike thanks to the guidance, expertise and professionalism of Bishal Rai. He was a great trip partner, providing local knowledge and a sense of humor along the way. He even pointed out all the peak names to us many times due to our forgetfulness. Thank you and highly recommend Himalaya View Treks and guide, Bishal Rai.Alejandro Espigares2023-12-01Realicé el trek del Campo Base Everest y todo fue increíble. Yo lo hice en solitario junto a mi guía Suraj y lo recomiendo 100%, muy atento y es un experto del terreno, sabe en todo momento como actuar si te encuentras mal o cansado y buscar una nueva ruta. La agencia me dio mucha seguridad en todo momento y me sentí acompañado en todo momento. Lo volvería a contratar una y mil veces. Gracias!!!A Expen5ive2023-11-22Our Guide Rahul made sure that it was a pleasant Trek from start to finish. Very knowledgeable about the areas and always puts the safety and wellbeing of us first. When you book your Trek make sure you ask for Rahul.Patrick Thumm2023-11-21Meine Frau und ich haben uns für eine „kurze“ Tour im Himalaya interessiert. Über das Internet sind wir auf Himalayan View Treks gestoßen. Sie haben die 8 Tage Annapurna Short Trek Tour angeboten. Die Kommunikation im Vorfeld per Mail mit Simbir lief super. Er konnte uns vorab alle Informationen geben. Auch eine individuelle Anpassung der Tour (z. B. per Flugzeug zurück) wäre möglich gewesen. Obwohl wir zunächst ein paar Tage in Kathmandu verbracht haben, wurden wir bei Ankunft von unserem Guide abgeholt und zum Hotel gebracht. So sind wir entspannt angekommen. An Tag 1 der Tour wurden wir früh morgens vom Hotel von unserem Guide (D. B.) und unserem Porter (Manoj) abgeholt. Tag 2-7 sind wir von Chame über Pisang, Manang, Ledar, High Camp über den Thorong La Pass nach Muktinath gewandert. Insgesamt waren es ca. 80km, 4.100m nach oben und 3.100m nach unten zu wandern. Tag 8 ging dann per Jeep zurück nach Pokhara. Trotz der für unsere Verhältnisse langen Strecke ging die Tour super zu laufen. Das lag vor allem auch an unserem Guide und Porter! D. B. hat sich stets nach unserem Wohlbefinden erkundet. Jeden Abend gab es einen kurzen Tagesrückblick und Lagebesprechung für den kommenden Tag. So konnten wir währenddessen noch entscheiden, ob wir an einem Tag etwas weiter laufen, um am darauffolgenden Tag etwas weniger machen müssen. Er ging da sehr gut auf uns ein. Manoj hat unseren schweren Rucksack getragen und wir konnten uns so ganz aufs Trekking konzentrieren. Darüber waren wir sehr dankbar. Auch er hat sich immer um uns gekümmert (are you ok? 😉) D.B. hat uns über den gesamten Trek viel Wissen über das Land und die Berge vermittelt. Außerdem konnte er uns viele interessante Bergsteiger Geschichten erzählen. Wir hatten 8 unbeschreibliche Tage! Unsere anfänglich Angst und Sorge, es nicht zu schaffen wurde uns durch den professionellen Umgang komplett genommen. Vielen Dank dafür!Daniel Weller2023-10-17Just returned home from a fantastic adventure holiday on the EBC trek. Himalaya View Treks couldn't of been more helpful from choosing and booking our trek before we arrived through to dropping us back to the airport once we had finished , nothing was too much trouble. Before coming to Nepal me and my dad was unsure if we needed a guide however we are now so pleased that we decided to get one. Sobit our guide made the experience so much better as he took care of all the arrangements and organising leaving us to concentrate on the trek and enjoy the scenery without any stress. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Himalaya View Treks and would request Sobit as a guide as he was brilliant!!!!Patrik Penzeš2023-10-05Great experience! Our guide Bishal became our friend in short time and made the trekking easier. I am grateful to both Bishal and Simbir for this experience. I strogly recommend Manaslu circuit trek with Bishal from himalaya view treks!
