Tamang Heritage Trek

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  • Duration10 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 3165 meters/ 10384 feet.
  • Starts Syabrubesi
  • Ends Syabrubesi
  • Group Size 2-20 People
  • Best Season March to May & September to December
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$645
2 - 6 paxUS$545
7 - 10 paxUS$495
11 - 15 paxUS$445
16 - 20 paxUS$395
Tamang Heritage Trek Highlights
  • Experience Nepal’s Tibetan-influenced hill tribes and directly contribute to their rural economy.
  • Stay in a local homestay adapted for tourists in Briddim, to live and learn more about the Tamang people and their way of life.
  • Enjoy spectacular views of Ganesh Himal, the Langtang Himalayas, and the Gosainkunda range.
  • Trek in an area full of biodiversity.
  • Tamang culture and warm hospitality.

Tamang Heritage Trekking Overview

Life is short and the world is wide, lying north of the Kathmandu Valley, the Tamang Heritage Trek provides you with the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the local culture of one of Nepal’s few authentic hill tribes high on the border with Tibet. It is a unique trek, one that allows an intimate experience of a very different way of life. Stay in traditional Tamang villages set within some of the most beautiful scenery in the country—trek through terraced green farmland, wind up into thick forests, and marvel at the peaks of the Langtang Himalayas. Stay in local homes and lodges where all accommodation, lodging, and food are offered at local houses on a rotational basis allowing the whole community to benefit and not just one or two enterprising families

The Tamang people are a hardy race, originally horse traders who came from Tibet several hundred years ago. They settled in the hilly parts of Nepal within proximity of the Kathmandu Valley which acted as a good market for them at the time. They have retained their own distinct identity with strong Tibetan roots as well as their language. Historically they have been one of the most marginalized ethnic groups in Nepal. Unfortunately, they were among some of the worst-affected groups of people during the 2015 earthquake as their homes tended to be in vulnerable areas which were cut off from help. Tamang Traditional Trek not only provides people with a more remote and unique experience very different from the more familiar major trekking regions of Nepal but also helps bring a vital source of income to the Tamang people. The Tamang Heritage Trekking is a moderate seven-day trek that is likely to appeal to people wanting something a bit different away from the crowds.

Moreover, please do not forget to check out our more interesting and adventurous trekking packages like Langtang Valley Trek, Mohare Danda Eco Community Lodge TrekShort Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and more.

Difficulty Of The Tamang Community Adventure

The Tamang Community Adventure is considered a moderate trek, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike. With a maximum elevation of around 3,165 meters, the trek doesn’t reach extreme altitudes, minimizing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). However, the daily trekking hours range from 5 to 7 hours, involving steep ascents and descents. The trail passes through terraced farmlands, dense forests, and traditional Tamang villages, requiring a reasonable level of fitness and stamina to navigate comfortably. While the trek does not demand advanced mountaineering skills, its rugged terrain and uneven paths can be challenging. 

Best Time to Trek to Tamang Villages

The best time to trek through Langtang villages is during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons. During Spring, the trails are especially vibrant as the rhododendrons and other wildflowers bloom, creating a colorful landscape against the snow-capped mountains. The daytime temperatures are comfortable for trekking, averaging around 10°C to 15°C at lower altitudes, while the mornings and nights remain cooler. Moving on to Autumn, you will witness crystal-clear skies and excellent visibility of the mountains after the Monsoon rains have cleared away the dust and haze. This period also coincides with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, allowing trekkers to experience local culture and celebrations along the way.

While the trek to Tamang villages can be done during Winter (December to February) and Monsoon (June to August), these seasons come with challenges. Sections of the trail, particularly in the dense forests and narrow rocky paths, can be slippery during the Monsoon season (June to August) due to rain. In Winter (December to February), heavy snowfall can make some parts of the trail difficult to navigate.

Tamang Cultural Trail Permits

To enter the Langtang Valley, you will require two permits and must trek with a government-licensed guide. When trekking with Nepal Trekking Experts, all permit fees are included in your package, and your experienced guide will obtain the required permits on your behalf with your passport.

  • The TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card costs 2000 Nepali rupees and will be obtained through Trekking Agencies only.
  • Langtang National Park Entry Permit, which can be obtained at the park entrance for 3000 Nepali rupees

How can I book the Tamang Traditional Trek?

To book your trek with us, you have to send a 10% deposit of the total cost. Please also forward a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and full flight details if and when available. For your convenience, you may forward the deposit online through our website. It is completely safe, and as soon as you make it, you will get an automatic receipt in your inbox. The rest of the payment can be paid upon arrival.

Useful Information

Accommodation During The Tamang Hospitality Trek

The Langtang Valley hosts a small selection of tea houses all along its less-traveled route, meaning no tents are required. This trek can be done similarly to other well-known hiking routes, such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Everest Base Camp Trek. Tea houses in the Langtang Valley tend to be cozier and more interwoven with the local families and their culture. Room quality varies depending on the area and price point. The deeper into the mountains and the higher in elevation you travel, the more basic the accommodation. You can expect simple rooms, often with shared bathrooms and squat toilets, without heating, so we provide you with a clean -20°C sleeping bag. When available at more established tea houses, you may purchase a hot shower for less than a dollar (paid in local currency).

Meals During The Tamang Hospitality Trek

You will be eating at the tea houses where you're staying for breakfast and dinner and stopping for lunch at tea houses along the route. Considering that you are trekking into a remote region of the Himalayas, the menus are quite sizable, offering both local and Western dishes; however, the menus from village to village are rather similar. You can choose from a variety of local dishes, including Dal Bhat (rice, vegetable curry, and lentil soup with unlimited refills!), fried rice or noodles, Mo Mo (local dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), spring rolls, or western dishes like pasta, pizza, and potatoes.

For breakfast, you can enjoy local chapati or Tibetan bread with curry or go for more familiar eggs, porridge, muesli, or pancakes. This trek is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, but if you have any other dietary restrictions, you can let us know, and your guide will communicate with the kitchen staff.

Your package with Nepal Trekking Experts includes dinner in Kathmandu before you leave for your trek and three meals a day (with tea or coffee) every day of the trek, including travel days. If you'd like, you can purchase extra snacks, desserts, or fancy coffees when they're available.

Telephone Service, Internet, And Device Charging During The Tamang Villages Hiking Route

Telephone Service

Due to its relatively close proximity to Kathmandu, the Langtang Valley has quite a wide range of phone service and mobile reception. NCELL and Nepal Telecom are our two major SIM card providers in Nepal; however, Nepal Telecom is recommended for better reception in the Langtang region. You can purchase an NTC (Nepal Telecom Communications) SIM card in Kathmandu when you arrive.

Internet

Most tea houses offer wifi for their guests for a small fee, although at times it may not be reliable due to weather and other issues. You can expect to pay $4 or less (in Nepali rupees) for wifi along the Langtang Valley Trek.

Device Charging

You can expect to pay a small fee for electricity in most tea houses. A fully charged device costs less than a dollar, which you can pay in rupees. Tea houses are powered by electricity or solar power at higher elevations. Carrying a power bank may be useful during your trek in the Himalayas.

Transportation To The Tamang Cultural Trail

All transportation fees and arrangements are included in your trekking package when you book with Nepal Trekking Experts. To start this trek, you will travel via bus from Kathmandu (Gongabu Bus Park) to Syabrubesi (7/8 hrs) and start trekking the following day. Once you finish your trek, the journey back to Kathmandu will be the same in reverse. Please be aware that the buses in Nepal can be overcrowded (especially if you are traveling during festival time), not particularly tidy, and will stop in villages along the route to pick up and drop off more people. Bus rides can be part of the exciting, immersive experience of being in a foreign country, but they are not for everyone. If you would like a more comfortable alternative, we would be happy to book a private jeep for you and your group. Jeeps shave off a couple of hours of travel time, and you can stop for breaks at your leisure. Upon your request, we will book private transportation for $130 from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and $130 from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu.

Porter

Our tailor-made packages do not include a porter, so you can make the decision based on your own needs and preferences. Although not necessary, having a porter can make a massive difference in the enjoyment of your trek. If you are new to trekking or have any concerns about the journey, then we would recommend having a porter in the Langtang region carry your bag for you. One porter carries the bags of two people (around 20kg) so that you can carry a small daypack. If you are undecided, we would be happy to discuss porters in more detail when you book your trek.

Tamang Traditional Trekking Gear Checklist:

When you are planning holidays for new destinations, one of the major concerns is: what to pack. As per our 25 years of experience in trekking in Nepal, NTE suggests the following gear for a stress-free journey:

Clothing:

  • Raincoat, such as a poncho, or a combination jacket and trousers
  • One down jacket
  • Gore-Tex jacket
  • Windproof trouser
  • Two pairs of trekking pants
  • One pair of shorts
  • Four pairs of T-shirts
  • One MIT wear/fleece jacket
  • One or two pairs of base layers (Marino wools or similar)
  • Four pairs of hiking socks and a couple of pairs of thicker socks
  • Two pairs of gloves—one light fleece, the other waterproof/windproof
  • Undergarments

Footwear:

  • Ankle-supporting, water-resistant trekking boots
  • Flip-flops for leisure time around camp or one pair of sneakers

Other Equipment:

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a sun hat, a woolen or fleece hat/beanie, neck gaiter, a first aid kit, a scissor, a luggage cover, a headlamp, trekking poles, a gaiter (optional), crampons (depending on the trekking season), water purification, extra batteries, an adapter, a power bank, water bottles/camel bags/thermos, washing powder or multi-purpose soap, shampoo, a small towel, antiseptic hand wash, toiletries, female hygiene products, wet wipes, whistle, mosquito spray (optional), earplugs, reading books, playing cards, or chess.
  • Sleeping bag rated to minus 10–20 degrees Celsius extreme temperature depending on trekking seasons
  • Backpack (60–70 liters)
  • Daypack (20–30 liters)

Travel Insurance:

It is one of the most important things you will need overseas, particularly when trekking in Nepal. A policy that covers loss and theft, medical and hospitalization, evacuation from high altitude, and adventure activity coverage are among the basics you will need. As you look to buy a travel insurance plan, you will find a wide variety of policies available, so make sure to shop for the best possible options. You need to have a policy that's specific to the maximum elevation on your trek, bearing in mind that several companies place restrictions on that score - look closely at the fine print so that you are sure to get the right coverage, especially in the event of an emergency such as altitude sickness: helicopter evacuations are horrendously expensive.

Also note that most medical treatment and facilities in Nepal, such as hospitals, require payment upfront or approval from your insurance company, so it’s wise to choose a policy that pays the bills directly rather than lumping the burden on you and leaving it till later for the insurer to reimburse you.

Nepalese Currency and the Payment:

The currency of Nepal is the rupee. The ideal currencies for exchange are those of the USA, Australia, Great Britain, Canada, and Singapore, as well as the Euro, any of which can be readily exchanged in either Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted in major tourist-class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and larger stores in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan, Pokhara, etc. A surcharge of 3.5% is typically levied on all purchases or payments.

ATMs are also very common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, with Thamel being a particular area of focus for their use. Some ATMs only allow a daily maximum of Rs 10,000 to be withdrawn, while others allow for as much as Rs 35,000. A charge of USD 4 is usually applied per transaction, on top of which your bank may also apply a fee of its own.

Can I get an on-arrival visa in Nepal?

On arrival in Nepal, you can obtain the requisite visa at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, or you can choose the alternative of applying for it at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country before departure. The visa is also available at land-based points of entry such as Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairawa, Belhiya, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar. The Kodari Pass is the access point from Tibet where the visa can be obtained.

While you can use different modes of payment at the visa fee counter, we advise you to bring cash in the following currencies: US dollars, euros, Swiss francs, pound sterling, Australian dollars, Canadian dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Singapore dollars, and Japanese yen. Credit card payments are also available nowadays.

As per a recent update, the visa fee costs you the following amounts:

  • Multiple entries for 15 days—USD 30 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 30 days—USD 50 or equivalent
  • Multiple entries for 90 days—USD 125 or equivalent
  • You should also have a minimum of six months of validity remaining on your passport.
  • Visa extensions are available from the offices of Nepal Immigration in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

For more details, please go through the Nepal Immigration website or contact us.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

One of our team will greet you at the airport for the transfer to your Hotel where there is time to relax. Your guide will meet everyone in the hotel reception for a welcome meeting at a convenient time depending on arrival times. For those that wish, there is the chance to go out together as a group for dinner afterward something we like to do with new guests. There are no other activities planned for today. Depending on your arrival schedule you will have time to get around the bustling bazaar; the hotels we use are normally situated in the lively Thamel area. There is a feast of outdoor gear, souvenir shops, great bookshops, and a huge variety of restaurants, it's a great place to wander through and get your bearings.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:3 Star Hotel

Free day for final trekking preparation and enjoying the cultural diversity of Kathmandu valley.

  • Max. Altitude:1503m/4931ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

We leave Kathmandu early for the drive to the entrance of the Langtang Valley. While the Tamang Heritage Trail is not as far from Kathmandu as the crow flies, its remote location means a longish journey. The road is hilly and winding as we drive higher through spectacular scenery. There are some superb panoramic views of the Annapurnas, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu along with the peaks of the Langtang region on the way. The road then plunges steeply down to the Trisuli River Valley which it follows for most of the day’s drive. We take lunch at Trisuli before taking a mountain road with many switchbacks up to the District Headquarters of Dhunche and then on down for a while to our overnight stop in the charming village of Syabrubesi.

  • Max. Altitude:2238m/7343ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Syabrubesi is the common starting point for both the Langtang Valley trek as well the trek to The Sacred Lakes of Gosainkunda. We take a different trail for around an hour and a half through mustard and buckwheat fields then up stone steps to a wonderful viewpoint where there is a fantastic view of Ganesh Himal, the Gosainkunda range, and the Goljang Valley. From here we head down to the Goljang Valley for lunch. In the afternoon, trek for around three hours on a level trail to reach Gatlang, a beautiful Tamang village where houses have wooden shutters with carved, colorful Tibetan decorations.

  • Max. Altitude:2607m/8553ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Today’s walk is a long one; it begins by descending to Thangbuchet situated on the banks of a lovely river. The valley narrows as we follow a path paved with stone steps, skirting Chilime village (1762m) the trail leads into the Chilime Valley. There are many chortens and Mani walls (walls of stone with carved and painted mantras) today. Ahead, far above the clouds, the lofty Langtang peak, over 7000 meters high comes into view. After lunch, we head up again crossing the Chilime River on a suspension bridge before starting a long and pretty exhausting hike towards Tatopani village. On the way, we take lunch at Cherka hamlet (2038m) and then climb steeply to Gonggang village (2227m). It’s a beautiful day through a traditional rural landscape, dotted with authentic households and plots of agricultural land. From Gonggang it is up to Tatopani village (2607m). The town’s name literally means ‘hot water’ in Nepali. It may be possible to enjoy the natural hot springs which unfortunately were affected by the 2015 earthquake, if so a bath in the water that comes straight out of the ground, will certainly ease away any aches and pains from the day's trek.

  • Max. Altitude:2338m/7671ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Today we set off on a trail that ascends to Nagthali Danda (3,300 m) on the way there is an impressive subtropical forest with climbing plants rich in wildlife to negotiate. A stop is made at the delightful Brimdang village for lunch en route and then continues up to Nagthali Danda, the highest point of the trek (3,300 m). Nagthali Danda is a high, open piece of grassland with a gompa and some amazing views of the Himalayas. On arrival, there is often a chance for a Masala Chiya (tea), prepared by the Gompa’s caretaker before the trek down to Thuman along a paved route with stone steps. The village with its traditional houses and decorated wooden balconies make it a lovely place to rest up for the night. With lots of smiling children and friendly people who are proud of their singing and dancing. You might even be invited to join in!

  • Max. Altitude:2229m/7313ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Today commences with a walk along a flatter section of the trail that follows part of the old trade route to Tibet, just three hour’s trek away. We follow a trail that leads down to the Bhotekoshi River Valley next to a suspension bridge, then a climb up to Lingling village (1737m) for lunch. Leaving the village on another trail of stone steps we move up to a pass surrounded by prayer flags for another array of sensational mountain views. From the pass, there is a steep descent into a valley full of waterfalls then a hike up to Briddhim village (2229m). We are greeted by water mills spinning prayer wheels clockwise and women making woolen bags on looms. It’s a perfect overnight stop.

  • Max. Altitude:1503m/4931ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Today is an easy three-hour walk or so back down to Syabrubesi, look out for the monkeys in the trees and if we are lucky a spotted deer. We take lunch in Syabrubensi with the afternoon free to relax and explore. Syabrubesi is a small town with shops selling local handicrafts made by local women, check out the colorful aprons and shawls made in the local style.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

Today it is goodbye to the mountains for a drive back to Kathmandu and transfers to the hotel. In the evening we often arrange a farewell meal depending on group requirements.

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another of our programs.

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    Note

    The above itinerary is a guideline. If you're not satisfied or have an alternative plan please feel free to discuss it with us.

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick up and drop off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu with breakfast included.
    • All necessary trekking permits, TIMS cards, etc.
    • All accommodations during the trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • A cup of tea or coffee with the meal
    • Fresh fruit each day if and when available
    • Complimentary  duffel bag/agency T-shirt
    • Government-registered and first-aid-trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First-aid kit
    • Road transport to and from Syabru Bensi
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation, etc.
    • Rescue arrangements if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax/VAT
    • Certificate of achievement
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and  Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Porters to carry your backpacks (we provide porters on request)
    • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft, etc.
    • Sightseeing costs in the city. (temples, monasteries, etc)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc.
    • Tips to staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Tamang Heritage Trek map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:WednesdayDec 25, 2024
    End:FridayJan 03, 2025
    PriceUS$645
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    Are you satisfied with the fixed departure dates? If not, do not worry! We are more than happy to organize private vs. group joining on any dates you prefer. Let's contact the local experts now.

    FAQs for Tamang Heritage Trek
    • Syabrubesi is the starting point for the Tamang Traditional Trek.

    • Syabrubesi is 1503 meters/ 4931 feet.

    • Nagthali is 3165 meters/ 10384 feet.

    • Tamang Community Adventure is in the Rasuwa district of Nepal, part of Langtang National Park.

    • Yes, you can trek solo in the Tamang Cultural Trail, but Nepal Trekking Experts recommend you go with a guide for your safety and local information.

    • The Tamang Heritage Trek takes 7 to 10 days, 41 Km/ 26 miles.

    • The Trek to Tamang Villages costs 300 -700 USD per person. It depends on the number of days, group size, and the service you want to include in the package.

    • The Tamang Heritage Trek is moderately difficult due to its rugged terrain of hiking in high elevations.

    • You can expect a maximum of 20 - 25°c and a minimum of 0°c to -5°c during the night outside the room.

    • The best time for the Tamang Heritage Trekking is September to May.

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    1Travelers' Reviews
    • TripAdvisor
      rating star

      Truly a life changing experience!

      We knew we are going to trek Tamang Heritage trail but we been to Nepal without booking in advance. Once we reached in the hotel then we just walked through randomly and been to many trekking agencies but still we were not convinced. Mostly we found they just tried to sell us. At the end we visited Nepal Trekking Experts and met with Raj. After some conservation we felt more relax because of his flexibility, great communication, welcoming manner, caring and accommodating our needs with the best deal.

      We hired a porter guide Resham and continued our adventure to the Himalaya. He was so friendly and helpful. From the day one, we became a very good friend than a guide. He had great relation with hotel owner and booked us perfect hotel in the town. Also he had a great knowledge about the route and taking us alternative/shortcut trail than walking through the bumpy road. Overall we had a great experience with Nepal Trekking Experts and we can not wait to get back for the next adventure! See you soon guys!

      A
      Alex SmithMar 21, 2020United States
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