The Grade 1 Scrambler

This stage-by-stage hiking guide from Kyanjin Gompa to the lower and upper peaks of Kyanjin Ri in Nepal’s Langtang Valley covers route, timing, gear, etc.  4.5-hour round trip, 4.5km with 900m of ascent up to 4,773m.  Summary: really good views from the summit, though you get 80% of the view for 50% of the effort from Kyanjin Ri lower peak

Route in: trek from Syabrubesi to Kyanjin Gompa

Start point: hike from anywhere in Kyanjin Gompa up the south face of Kyanjin Ri to the lower and then the upper peak

Route out: you can retrace your steps but it’s a little easier to head east off the upper summit and then down the valley to the east of the peaks

Map link: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/kyanjin-ri-e81105a

Time: round trip took me 4.5 hours: 2.5 hours up, 1 hour down and half an hour at each peak.  I am moderately fit but well past the bloom of youth, and times will vary considerably with fitness, acclimatisation, weather, snow, etc.

Grading: this is a hike not a scramble so not graded.  It was moderately hard work: 4.5km and 900m of ascent at altitudes above 4,000m

Acclimatisation: this is essential.  I spent a day at Kyanjin Gompa before this hike.  This is personal context, not a recommended acclimatisation schedule.  Do not continue ascending with symptoms of altitude illness; descend if symptoms worsen.

Start time: at many times of year, best to go as early as you can including aiming to be at the summit for sunrise

Warning: in places, the path is steep and occasionally with moderate drops on each side; beware of weather (sun, rain, snow, wind) including sudden changes

Gear: standard hiking gear

Verdict: the hike gives you good views and is also useful for Tserko Ri acclimatisation; for views alone, the lower peak could be sufficient

Category: Trek

Score: 7/10

Video guide:

Map:

Map image/data from OpenStreetMap via AllTrails