One of Nepal's most famous religious places of pilgrimage is Gosainkunda lake situated at an altitude of about 4312 m. Surrounded by high mountains on the north and east, this lake is grand and picturesque. Every year during Janai Purnima in August, thousands of Hindu pilgrims come here for pilgrimage and it is quite a sight.
The large rock in the center of the lake is said to be the remains of a Shiva shrine and it is also claimed that channel carries water from the lake directly to the tank at the Kumbheshwar Temple in Patan, 60 km to the south. Shamans ("Dhami") come from all over Nepal arrive to the lake and on full moon night.
There is much dancing and singing. This day is considered holy by the shamans whereby apprentices or "Jhankris" graduate into full shamans. Trekking in August can be a bit wet as the monsoon is at its last stages, but the greenery is at its best and since it is not peak season, it is best for people who do not want to be part of the crowd.
Peak views: Langtang (23771 ft.), Dorje Lakpa (22929 ft.), Loen Pogang (23238 ft.), Phurbi Ghyachu (21844 ft.). From Ghopte; Annapurna, Himalchuli, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal.
Ethnic groups/tribes: Sherpa, Tamang, Brahmin, Chettri.
This easy to moderate trek starts from the northeast side of Kathmandu Valley and goes north towards the picturesque Langtang Valley. An interesting extension to this trek can be a visit to the Langtang Valley. Apart from this trek extension, other adventure activities once you are back in Kathmandu are always possible.
This is the time of year when visits to Tibet and Bhutan are best. Combining this typical Shaman experience with a visit to Tibet to see ancient Buddhism in practice can be a complete spiritual experience.
Note: The Full Moon Shamanism festival takes place on 27th August 2007.
