The Helambu trek is one of the most beautiful and varied treks Nepal has to offer. This trek is relatively short and easily accessible from Kathmandu. Located just north of Kathmandu, this route encompasses diverse natural environments such as rhododendron-filled forests, jungles and bush groves, waterfalls, and remote mountain landscapes.
Situated approximately 75 km on the northeast side of Kathmandu, Helambu lies in the Langtang region of Nepal. Just north of Helambu is Langtang Valley and the remarkable Langtang National Park. Being so close to the capital, it is easily reached with a simple trek from Sundarijal.
Helambu is mainly inhabited by Tamang, Yolmo (also known as Sherpa), and Bhotias. All these ethnic groups are originally from Tibet but they differ from each other in lifestyle, customs, clothing, and language. But they share the same religion of Buddhism much influenced by Tibetan culture.
The 2015 earthquake devastated the region but the reconstruction process quickly revived the Helambu trek trail. The local lodges are now earthquake-proof and ecological, securing the long-term income of the local people. This has given us the chance to visit the treasures of this region at a leisurely pace.
Through our Helambu trek, we will get to know these people and their culture and experience their life in the villages up close admiring the Buddhist chortens, stupas, and watermills. Additionally, we also get the opportunity to observe the Hindu villages and their tradition in the lower areas of Sundarijal and Chisapani.
All along the route to Helambu trek, we will hike up and down, walk over stone steps, and through dense forests of rhododendron, pine, and fir. Again and again, we will have a distant view of Jugal Himal, Langtang, Gangchhenpo, Naya Kangri, and Dorje Lakpa.
As a bonus, we may also spot Himalayan goats, musk deer, langur monkeys, and much more wildlife in the Langtang region.
In short, the Helambu trek is a trek through culture, diverse climate, and varied landscapes with incredible views of high mountains. It is the best option for those who have only a few days to spare but do not want to miss the opportunity to do a wonderful trekking in Nepal.
The magnificent journey to Helambu begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. Then we commence our trek to Chisapani and Kutumsang. Next, we reach Tharepati which is the maximum height we attain in this entire trek duration. Then we hike to Melamchi gaon passing Tarkeghyang.
On the next stage, we hike to the village of Sermathang and make our way back to Kathmandu through Melamchi Pul Bazaar. The route is therefore circular and relatively easy with no need to climb greater altitudes.
And of course, we will take a day tour of Kathmandu and visit the important landmarks of the valley.
Day | Mode | Route Itinerary | Elev.(m) | Duration | Overnight | Included |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
01 | Flight | Arrive Kathmandu - Hotel | 1300 | ----- | Hotel | D |
02 | Tour | Kathmandu- Sightseeing | 1300 | 6/7 hrs | Hotel | B |
03 | Drive/trek | Kathmandu - Sundarijal - Chiosapani | 2135 | 5/6 hrs | Lodge | B L D |
04 | Trek | Chisapani - Kutumsang | 2470 | 6/7 hrs | Lodge | B L D |
05 | Trek | Kumumsang - Tharepati | 3650 | 7/8 hrs | Lodge | B L D |
06 | Trek | Tharepati - Melamchi Gaon | 2530 | 4/5 hrs | Lodge | B L D |
07 | Trek | Melamchi Gaon - Sermathang | 2590 | 6/7 hrs | Lodge | B L D |
08 | Trek/drive | Sermathang - Melamchi- KTM | 1300 | 7/8 hrs | Hotel | B L |
09 | Flight | Dearture - Own Country | ---- | ----- | ----- | B |
As you arrive at the International Airport of Kathmandu, our English-speaking guide will meet you and drive you to the hotel. You will have some free time for rest and in the evening, we will meet you and take you for a delightful welcome dinner in the charming Nepali restaurant of the city.
After breakfast, our guide will meet you at the hotel and give you a brief explanation about our Helambu trek. Then we will take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting its architectural landmarks and holiest sites including Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath temple, Durbar Square, and of course Boudhanath.
After breakfast, we will drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal on a local bus. At an additional fee, we can also arrange for private transportation to Sundarijal. From the small hydroelectric power plant of Sundarijal, we will begin our hike to Shivapuri National Park.
We will then walk through gravel roads to reach the village of Mulkharka, inhabited mostly by the Tamang people. We will then climb the small ridge and descend to Chisapani where we will rest for the night.
After breakfast, we will leave Chisapani and walk along the route through the vast meadows and fields. Along the way, we will have amazing views of Langtang Mountain.
Next, we will cross the Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang from where the path gently climbs the ridge. We will descend from the ridge and arrive at Kutumsang- our place for an overnight stay.
Leaving Kutumsang, we will now hike further to cross the border of Langtang National Park. We will now climb through a dense forest of fir and rhododendrons. The native villages are now far behind consisting of mainly tourist lodges that are opened seasonally. We will pass Yurin Danda and shortly arrive at Magen Goth where we will rest and have lunch.
We will now slowly gain altitude and reach a delicate rock ridge from where the beautiful land of Helambu opens up. Hiking further, we will reach Tharepati where we will have dinner and stay for the night.
Leaving Tharepati, we go down steeply and enter a deep forest of pine and rhododendrons. Despite the steep descent, the path is very easy to walk. Small springs form streams and eventually flow into the Melamchi River. We now cross the suspension bridge and arrive at Melamchi gaon where we will stay in one of the lodges for the night.
The Melamchi gaon is worth exploring as it was reconstructed after a devastating earthquake in 2015. the village is also an abode to the sacred cave for Buddhists where it is said Guru Rinpoche once meditated. You can explore the cave and nearby monastery in the late afternoon.
After breakfast, we will take the path to the east and reach the Melamchi River which flows to Kathmandu and supplies the city with drinking water. We will now traverse through several villages of Nakote, Dozum, and Chiri to reach Tarkeghyang.
After resting and having lunch, we now hike over gentle slopes through the deep forest. Passing a few small streams and fields, we reach Setighyang and Ghangyul.
After about 4 to 5 hours, we will arrive at Sermathang from where we can observe the beautiful views of Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Gaurishankar. We will make one of the lodges of Sermathang our overnight destination.
Leaving Sermathang, we now follow the path along the ridge with admirable views of Helambu Valley. As we move further passing through the small villages of Kakani and Thimbu, we will arrive at Melamchi Pul Bazaar where the hustle and bustle of the marketplace await us.
From the Melamchi Pul Bazaar, we will take a local bus to Kathmandu driving over an asphalt road.
On your last day in Nepal, we will be delighted to accompany you to the airport to ensure that no one misses their return flight and that there are no last-minute unforeseen events. Please remember us for your next trip to Nepal.
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Number of People | Price Per Person |
1 Pax | US$ 550 |
2 Pax | US$ 450 |
3-5 Pax | US$ 400 |
6-9 Pax | US$ 370 |
10-15 Pax | US$ 340 |
Over 16 Pax | US$ 320 |
Helambu trek is pleasant all year round but the most perfect time to admire the beauty of the region is in autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May). for the best visibility of high mountains and the grandest views of the villages, these months are the best time to visit Helambu.
During autumn, the warm temperature, clear sky, and least possibility of rain and snow create a pleasant atmosphere for this trek. In spring after the end of winter, the topography of the area transforms with a variety of Rhododendron trees in lush bloom, a mix of Confers, Oaks with Orchids, and ferns. The entire forest is covered with tall grasslands covered in wildflowers colorful with moderate temperatures and sunny weather.
Helambu village lies around 75 km away from the capital with the highest elevation of 3650 m above sea level at Tharepati. The trek begins from Sundarijal which lies at a distance of 17.5 km from Kathmandu at an altitude of 1350 m above sea level.
On our 9-day itinerary, you will be walking for 7 days exactly therefore covering 10 to 15 km per day walking for about 6 to 7 hours most days.
We will be hiking for 7 days from the 3rd day of the Helambu trek. Most of the days, we will be walking for 6 hours a day however some days can be tough needing us to hike for 7 to 8 hours.
Such as on day 5, when we trek from Kutumsang to reach Tharepati, we will walk for 7 to 8 hours. Likewise, on day 8, we will again hike for the same duration as we trek from Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar. These two days require the maximum walking hours.
The least we walk on the entire trek is on day 6 when we trek from Tharepati to Melamchi Gaon. We will hike only for 4 to 5 hours on this day.
The Helambu trek is considered one of the easiest low-altitude treks in Nepal near the capital. The highest height we attain is at Tharepati at 3650 m. The entire trekking period consists of 6 to 7 hours of hiking each day which is easily achievable if we enjoy good health and fitness.
We have reserved the second day after you arrive in Kathmandu as a rest day for a sightseeing tour of the valley. This will give you enough time to familiarize yourself with not only the local culture but also with the local climate and weather conditions.
In addition, our ascend during the whole trek will be progressive providing you ample time to acclimatize.
The Helambu trek is a relatively easy trek perfect for keen walkers who can walk for around 5 to 6 hours a day with a light backpack. Trekking at higher altitudes is more physically challenging than walking at lower altitudes. However, if we are in excellent health with average physical fitness and have a positive spirit, self-confidence, and strong will, then we can successfully complete this journey.
Exercising and jogging regularly for several weeks before the trip is a good benefit for increasing strength and stability. Previous hiking experience will be an addition but no technical expertise is required for this trip.
You can easily incorporate the Langtang Gosaikunda trek with our short Helambu trek. This trek will allow you to visit the sacred Gosaikunda Lake of Nepal equally important for Hindus and Buddhists. You will also get the opportunity to hike through the secluded village of Langtang. you will also cross the mighty 4984 m high Lauribinayak Pass before reaching the Langtang village.
You will begin your journey with a drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubensi and hike through Lama Hotel, Langtang village, Kang Jin Gompa, Tserko Ri at 4984m, and return to Kang Jin Gompa.
You will now make your way to Lake Gosaikunda crossing Lama Hotel, Thulo Syabru, Sing Gompa. Then you hike to Melamchi Gaon via Gopte and return to Kathmandu crossing Tarkeghyang, Sermathang, and Melamchi Pul Bazaar.
At least 14 to 17 days is needed to complete this trek.
Helambu trek does not pose the risk of altitude sickness as we will be traversing in a relatively low altitude area of Nepal. The elevation of 3650 m at Tharepati is the highest altitude we gained in this trek. The trail is pretty easy and straight leading you through the dense forest, rice fields, and paved roads.
However, the mild symptoms of altitude sickness may occur when crossing the height of 2500 m. nausea, headache, vomiting, and dizziness are some of the symptoms you may suffer. If so, please inform our guide who is well trained in providing first aid treatment when needed.
Our Helambu trek package encompasses all your transportation, accommodation, and food expenses. Our tour package includes airport pickup and drop services including before and after the trek. We also cover all ground transportation by private vehicle in the city. When driving from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, we will travel by local bus. At an additional fee, we can also arrange for private transportation by jeep.
Regarding meals, we will provide a healthy breakfast every morning with a heart welcome dinner on your arrival in Kathmandu. During the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in our tour package.
You will be treated to a variety of ethnic Nepalese and Tibetan cuisine as well as a variety of Western food to choose from. The area has several tea shops every hour so they are usually run by locals providing basic and minimal facilities.
Likewise, for drinking water, you can refill with boiled water or cold filtered water from any tea shop. However, the bar and beverage bills, tea, coffee, cold drinks, mineral water, hot showers, telephone bills, and laundry are excluded from our service.
You can have access to 24-hour communication, internet, and gadget charging services during this trek. Almost all lodges along the route to Helambu are well equipped with WIFI connections and electricity.
Some lodges may offer these services free of cost in lower regions. But as you gain height, the lodges in the remote villages of Kutumsang and Tharepati may charge extra costs for these services.
You can also purchase NTC or NCELL SIMS for communication and unlimited internet services.
On the Helambu trek, you will be walking through Shivapuri National Park, and Langtang National Park. So you need a Langtang National Park permit and a Shivapuri National Park permit for this trek.
Shivapuri National Park permit comes at the cost of NPR 1000 (approximately USD 10) per person and Langtang National Park permits cost NPR 3000 (approximately USD 30) per person.
Apart from the entry permit to the Park, you must also obtain the TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System). the blue colored TIMS card is for those who travel in groups and costs USD 10 per person. The green TIMS card are for solo trekkers and costs USD 20 per person. The pink-colored TIMS are for SAARC Nationals who have to pay USD 6 per person.
Helmabu trek offers extraordinary views of the Langtang mountain range, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, Langshisa Ri, Gangchenpo, Sishapangma, Dorje Lhakpa, Annapurna mountain range, and Mount Manaslu.
All along the route, we traverse through the terraced fields, Tamang and Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, alpine meadows, and dense rhododendron and pine forests.
Despite being so close to the capital, the Helamby region has remained untouched. The Tamang and Sherpa villages give you the chance to observe the unique blend of Tamang and Hyolmo culture.
Besides the insight into their ancient culture, you will also see numerous magical waterfalls, cascading rivers through large rocks, and wildlife of the region itself.
And of course, you will have a day to take a short tour of important monuments of the capital including Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Durbar Square.
If you have a few more days to spend in Nepal, we offer several other trips and tour programs in Nepal. Such as the short Pokhara tour, Chitwan National Park trip, or Nagarkot tour. They are close to Kathmandu and need only a week to ten days to complete.
If you are an adventurer, the Annapurna or Everest base camp trek are some other options for you.
We have listed numerous trips on our website. You can click each trip for detailed information and contact us for booking these trips. We will make every effort to make your dream vacation come true.
Want to learn more about this journey in-depth? Essential Trip Information includes a thorough itinerary, information for visa processing, Accommodations, Food , Acclimatization’s and pretty much anything else you could possibly need to know about this tour. Read more inside.
Yes, the insurance is mandatory because you need to obtain the TIMS permit for this trek. Obtaining TIMS needs your insurance details along with your personal information. Besides, insurance provides you safety against any adverse situation.
No, even being so close to Kathmandu, the Helambu trek is not well known and very few trekkers undertake this trek.
Yes, it is one of the best routes that help you to escape big crowds and enjoy the most truly incredible landscape you can ever imagine. You can appreciate numerous ice-capped peaks, with beautiful local flora and fauna.
Almost everything is included in our trip but we advise you to bring extra money. Because, in rural settings of Nepal, there will not be an option to pay in dollars. You have to pay for drinks, a hot shower, WIFI and charging services. So we advise you to carry NPR 20,000 for this trip.
Yes, this is one of the easiest trekking trails near Kathmandu. You will have tea houses or lodges all along the trail so, the trek will be pretty comfortable. Make sure your children can walk for 5 to 6 hours a day. Otherwise, we can always extend the hiking days by shrinking the walking hours of each day.
No. of People | Price Per Person |
1 Pax | US$ 550 |
2 Pax | US$ 450 |
3-5 Pax | US$ 400 |
6-9 Pax | US$ 370 |
10-15 Pax | US$ 340 |
Over 16 Pax | US$ 320 |
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