Cross Lauribina La into Helambu

The trail leaves Gosaikunda along the shore and climbs gently past smaller lakes to Lauribina La at 4,610 m, marked with prayer flags and cairns. On a clear morning you look back over the lake chain and forward into the folded ridges of Helambu, with the Jugal Himal to the east. The climb from the lake to the pass is gentle compared with the descent, around 230 m over 1.5 to 2 hours. Take it slowly and keep warm. The smaller lakes on the way include Surya Kunda.

The descent is long and rough: rocky steps down to Phedi, where there are basic lodges, then a traverse with ups and downs through rhododendron forest to Ghopte. The trail is exposed in places and slippery when wet or icy. From Ghopte it is a day to Tharepati and the Hyolmo villages of Helambu. Expect sections of loose rock and steep steps on the way down. Use walking poles, watch your footing and keep the group together. Basic lodges at Phedi serve lunch and are a welcome break.

We only cross with a clear forecast and a guide who knows the route; cloud on the pass makes navigation hard, and people have been lost here. In winter snow can close the pass. Check current status before you travel. Carry extra water, snacks and warm layers, and tell your lodge at Gosaikunda your plans before you leave. If the weather turns, there is no shame in waiting a day at the lake. The pass will still be there tomorrow.