Langtang

Langtang is a region in Nepal to the north of Kathmandu and bordering Tibet. It is protected as Langtang National Park and has a number of high peaks including Langtang Lirung (7246m).

About 4,500 people live inside the park, and many more depend on it for timber and firewood. The majority of the residents are Tamang.

The park contains a wide variety of climatic zones, from subtropical to alpine. Approximately 25% of the park is forested. Trees include the deciduous Oak and Maple, and evergreens like Pine, and various types of Rhododendron. Animal life includes Himalayan black bear, the goat-like Himalayan tahr, Rhesus monkeys and Red Pandas.

The park contains the Gosainkunda lakes, sacred to Hindus. Pilgrimages are made there in August. Another spiritual site is the Buddhist monastery Kyanjin Gompa.