Langtang Valley Trek In March

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Langtang Valley Trek In March

Langtang valley trekking routes in their best conditions, mild daytime temperatures, spectacular mountain views, diverse flora and fauna, and moderate crowds — this is a picture of the Langtang trek in March. Sound picture-perfect, right?

If you are someone who wishes to trek to the relatively untouched parts of Nepal while not missing any of its grandeur, then the Langtang valley trek in March is for you. The March trek promises panoramic views of the Lantang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Langtang Ri and Yala Peak.

Meanwhile, the quieter trails of March allow you a chance to connect with the locals in a more meaningful manner. People from the Tamang community, among others, reside in this area. Along with interaction, you may get a chance to witness their March festivals, too.

Langtang trek in March is therefore suitable for you, whether you are an experienced trekker or someone just getting to know the world of trekking.

All you need is to get ready with the required logistics, information, and set off on the journey. The magnificence of March is waiting to welcome you to trek in Langtang Valley

Highlights

Ideal spring conditions to trek to Langtang
Mild temperature, stable weather, and long daylight hours
Blooming flora like rhododendrons and active wildlife
Panoramic sights of Langtang Lirung, Yala Peak, Dorje Lakpa, to name a few
Peaceful trails that feature moderate crowds
Reliable accommodations and food options available
More intimate cultural connection with the locals, especially the Tamang people

Trek Favorable March Weather

Langtang is a Himalayan valley located in the Rasuwa district of Nepal, and its March weather follows the overall weather pattern of Nepal. As such, March bids adieu to the gloomy winter season and ushers in the spring in Langtang.

The daytime temperatures can range between 10-15 degrees Celsius in the Langtang Valley in March. Meanwhile, the temperature can dip as low as -5 and 5 degrees Celsius.

The lower altitudes record warmer temperatures on normal days, while higher altitudes exhibit colder temperatures. As a March trekker to the Langtang region, you need to understand these aspects before starting the trek.

In addition, there is a very low chance of rain in March. Nor is is a high chance of snowfall, though the higher areas of the region might have remnants of winter snow. You will also note that the skies are exceptionally clear and blue this month.

To sum it up, the weather and temperature of the Lantang region in March are stable and suitable for trekking. The aforementioned weather pattern means it is easy to walk in mild temperatures. There is no risk of fog, which, if present, would add to the poor visibility of the area. Low chances of rain or snow reduce the risk of slippery trails. You need not worry about landslides and avalanches. It ultimately adds to your safety as you tread on the path.

Long Trekking Hours

March has longer days than the winter months. Longer daylight amidst pleasant weather is always a boon for trekkers. That is because one does not need to worry about starting too early. Neither is there stress about reaching the destination on time, or before it gets dark. That equals a comfortable trek at your pace.

Flora and Fauna in Abundance

The Langtang Valley is a biodiversity hotspot, and March allows you to witness that richness. The vegetation in this region begins to revive in March following the cold winter months. You can see jasmine blossoms. The rhododendrons and magnolias begin to bud. As you walk along the forest trails, you witness bamboo groves, meadows of gentian and daphne, occasional early rhododendron blooms, and Spanish oak trees among others.

Likewise, the wildlife becomes more active as winter ends. As a result, you can see animals including deer, falcons, bears, and langurs (monkeys). While these are common sightings, former trekkers have spotted red pandas and snow leopards, though it is rare.

The warmth of March adds life to these flora and fauna, ultimately enhancing your trekking experience.

Visual Treat of Beautiful Mountains

Clear skies of March allow for aesthetically pleasing views of the mountain ranges in the region. As you kick off your trek and ascend, the clear and up-close views of different peaks greet you along the way. Some of the mountains that you get to see during this trek comprise Langtang Lirung, Yala Peak, Dokpu, Gangchhhenpo, and Naya Kangri, to name a few.

Moderate crowds

March is the perfect time to experience the serene landscapes and local culture because there are fewer fellow trekkers. As compared to April and May, March sees fewer footfalls of the trekkers in the region, making it peaceful and less crowded. The moderate crowd makes it easier to get accommodations. Plus, you are well taken care of by the teahouse operators. The Langtang trek in itself becomes more peaceful, allowing more space to yourself. However, do not expect solitude as the crowd is moderate, but the trail is not empty like in the off-season.

Altitude and Acclimatization

March weather is favorable for trekking in the Langtang area, yet you should always consider altitude and acclimatization factors before embarking on this trip. A proper addressing of these two aspects is necessary to succeed in the trekking endeavor.

Typically, you start the Lantang trek from Saybrubesi (1,550m) following a drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) or Pokhara (8,22m), and reach as high as Kyanjin Ri (4,773m). Therefore, there is a significant change in altitudes during the trek, whether it is a short one or a long one. You experience elevation gains as you pass through different points. Your body finds it difficult to adapt to the thinner air and low oxygen levels. As such, proper acclimatization is essential to prevent altitude sickness.

Altitude Variations

The trek begins at Saybrubesi at an altitude of 1,550 m.
You reach Langtang Village located at 3,430m.
The Kyanjin Gompa is at 3,870m.
At 4,773m is Kyanjin Ri, the highest point of the trek.

March Acclimatization

Without proper acclimatization, there are chances for you to suffer from altitude sickness on this trek. The good news is that the moderate weather of March makes acclimatization easier as compared to the winter and monsoon months.

The trails are in good condition, and the weather is favorable for trekking in March. This reduces the stress while trekking, which can potentially ease your acclimatization process.

Yet, do not forget that the risk of altitude sickness is real, irrespective of seasons. So, properly follow the acclimatization rules during the trek. Some of the smart techniques include: ascending gradually, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcoholic beverages and using medications.

Nonetheless, despite taking all precautions, you might show the signs of altitude sickness like headache, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty breathing, among others. If so inform your guide and seek necessary medical help.

Availability of Food and Accommodation

Spring is popular as a popular trekking season in Nepal, and so is its month of March. Therefore, you do not have to worry about food and accommodation when opting for this journey.

The teahouses and lodges are easily available along the trekking trail.

Most are equipped with basic facilities like beds, mattresses, blankets, and pillows. Generally, you get rooms on a twin-sharing basis, and bathrooms are often shared. But they all offer warm accommodations, ensuring you a comfortable overnight stay.

While talking about food for your Langtang Trek in March, expect to savour a variety of Nepali and international cuisines. From Nepali staples like Dal and Bhat to momos, noodles, pizzas, and other Western dishes, you get to enjoy a variety. Then you can sip on hot tea and coffee as well as local beverages and energy drinks, to name a few. You can also snack on chocolates and energy bars available at the teahouses.

While on the trek, you can explore many food options. The easy availability of food and accommodation is also a reason for you to explore the Lantang region in March.

March Packing List for Langtang Trek

The weather is pleasant in March, yet it is the first month following winter. You will be trekking to Langtang as winter ends and spring begins. So, you need to be smart when packing to address this transition of weather. The gear and clothing you carry should be able to deal with diverse temperatures and climatic conditions.

Here is a guide on what should pack for your Langtang Trek in March.

Footwear