Helambu Trek

Short Treks in Nepal
  • Duration10 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Activity Trekking/Hiking
  • Max. Altitude 3690 meters/ 12106 feet
  • Starts Sundarijal
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-20
  • Best Season March to May and September to November
Group Discount Prices
  
1 paxUS$650
2 paxUS$550
3 paxUS$525
4 paxUS$490
5 - 6 paxUS$445
Helambu Trek Highlights
  • Walk through the Shivapuri National Park and Langtang National Park. 
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including peaks like Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, and Manaslu, among others. 
  • Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Helambu region and witness the rural lifestyle of the local settlement.
  • Trek through vibrant forests filled with blooming rhododendrons (during Spring). 
  • Visit the charming Helambu village as you pass through several small villages. 
  • Get an opportunity to see wildlife including Red Panda, Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopards, White Monkeys, Musk Deer, and many more.

Helambu Trek Overview

If you are searching for a quick vacation getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life to the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas, the Helambu Trek is the perfect choice! This journey is a captivating adventure that unveils the pristine beauty and rich cultural heritage of Nepal’s Himalayas.

Perfectly suited for both seasoned and beginner trekkers, the Helambu Trek will leave you in awe of its diverse terrain and intimate encounters with local cultures. During the journey, you will walk past stunning vistas, traditional villages, and serene high-altitude lakes, making it one of the most enchanting journeys.

Your adventure starts as soon as you land at the International Airport in Kathmandu. Your guide will be there to pick you up and transfer you to your hotel. The following day will be a complete rest day and you can take time to immerse yourself in Kathmandu's rich history and culture. In the meantime, your guide will also provide a quick overview of your journey, and you should also use this day to prepare for the adventure ahead. 

The very next day, you will start your trek initially with a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. This drive will provide you with the transition from urban vibrancy to natural beauty that will take you to the edge of the ShivalikShivalk Hills, which is the gateway to your trekking adventure.

Here, this initial stretch will set the stage for what’s to come, with rolling countryside and terraced fields framing your path. From Sundarijal, you will be on your feet towards Chisapani through the lush forests and terraced fields within the Shivapuri National Park. Even in the very first lap of your journey, you will feel the sudden change as you will find chirping birds, rustling leaves, and stone stairs throughout the trail. 

During this hike, you will come across a few streams and waterfalls before you reach Mulkharka village, which will add a refreshing perspective to your trek. Once you reach the high ridge of Chisapani, you will be greeted with panoramic sunset views over the Kathmandu Valley and the distant peaks of the Himalayas. Some of the mountains you may see are Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, and Jugal Himal range.  

Ending and starting your day with the majestic overview of what is waiting for you ahead on the trail, you will make your way through charming local towns and terraced fields. This section of the trek takes you to Kutumsang which will give you a glimpse of the rural lifestyle of the locals in Chipling before again setting on the routes that take you through the lush forests. 

From Kutumsang to Tharepati, the route is particularly scenic with breathtaking views of the Langtang range, Dorje Lakpa, and Gauri Shankar. Here onwards, you will start your journey within the Helambu territory. One thing to note during this section is the quick rise of altitude from 2,470 meters to 3,690 meters. 

Soon, the surroundings will start getting more scenic with the diverse array of natural wonders. Even the landscapes will provide you with a blend of the spiritual, natural, and cultural mix of the region. As you walk through the fields and local villages, you will also get an opportunity to interact with the Hyolmo people and witness the lifestyle of the Sherpa and Tamang settlements once you reach Melamchi Gaun. 

Through Tharepati to Tarke Gyang, the journey will generally be a descent to the lush verdant forest. At the same time, you will find the trails covered with mani walls, stupas, and monasteries, reflecting the local Buddhist practices. Your overnight stop at the Tarke Gyang is an incredible opportunity to explore the Himalayan landscapes and the local apple orchids. 

Following it, you will also take an early morning hike to Ama Yangri View Point (3,371 meters) while you are in Tarke Gyang. This side trip offers 360-degree views of the Himalayan ranges. 

Overall, from this point onward to Sermathang, the route is relatively easy. During this walk, you will pass Gyangul village which is nestled in the rolling hills. Here, Sermathang is a picturesque village and the home to an ancient monastery perched on a hill. This journey will pull you closer to the cultural aspect of the trek. 

Altogether, the Helambu Trek concludes at Sermanthang. Following it, you will make your way back to Kathmandu via bus.

So, whether you are drawn by the majestic mountain views, the peaceful monasteries, or the charming local towns, the Helambu Trek promises an unforgettable adventure that perfectly captures the essence of Nepal’s allure.

Useful Information

Helambu Trekking Difficulty

The Helambu Trek is of moderate difficulty hence, even the beginner trekker with a reasonable level of fitness can embark on this journey. As a matter of fact, this culturally and naturally rich trek is ideal for adventurers who seek a challenge without venturing into the more strenuous high-altitude trails of Nepal. 

During the Helambu Trek, you will face varied terrain which may cause difficulties on the way. Most of this trek consists of steep ascents and descents particularly when traversing from village to village. Well, the initial phase of the trek is more physically demanding with the trails consisting of stone-paved stairs and rugged forested trails. Hence, this varying trail structure might pose a challenge in your trek. 

On a similar note, the Helambu Trek does not take you to an extreme altitude level, unlike other trails such as Everest Base Camp Trek, Everest Three high Passes Trek, Annapurna Circuit trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, etc. The maximum elevation level you will encounter is at Tharepati standing at an altitude of 3,690 meters (12,106 feet). Yet this altitude may give you mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, shortness of breath, or fatigue, especially if you do not ascend gradually.

Additionally, you will have to trek for an average of 6 to 8 hours every day for a total of 6 days. Although the trek is generally moderate, the overall trekking hours can be daunting, especially on the steeper and more uneven sections of the trail. Therefore, if you do not have reasonable physical stamina and endurance, this trek might get demanding. 

Overall, combining diverse terrain and significant altitude gain, the Helambu Trek is a physically engaging adventure. It does require proper preparation and fitness but is achievable even for those who are reasonably fit and prepared for a multi-day trek. 

The Best Time For Helambu Trek

The Helambu Trek is one of those journeys that caters to both first-time and avid trekkers. While this particular trek can be done all around the year, the Spring and Autumn seasons are the prime time that we recommend for a more comfortable and enjoyable journey. Having said that, each of the seasons brings its own set of beauty to this trekking trail. 

The Autumn season from September to November is the best season you can embark this journey on. During this time of the year, you will get to enjoy relatively stable weather, crystal clear blue skies, chilly but not cold temperatures, and the biggest Nepalese festivals. 

Typically, the daytime temperature on the trails of Helambu Trek during Autumn is around 10 to 20°C. However, the nighttime gets a bit chilly with the temperature around 5°C. Hence, you should dress up in layers and even carry a woolen cap that covers your head and ears at night. 

Likewise, the Autumn season offers you optimal visibility and you will get to see the valley from a different perspective with its falling leaves and the color change in the surroundings. As a matter of fact, Autumn provides you with the best view of the Himalayan ranges as the weather is relatively predictable with no hints of clouds or fog in the sky. 

Due to this very reason, it is also the best time for photography. Additionally, if you book your trip in October, you will get to witness and celebrate the biggest festivals of the Nepalese, Dashain and Tihar. However, the trekking trails during this season get a bit more crowded than in other seasons. Hence, if you are planning your trek this season, book your accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle. 

Moving on to Spring, it starts in March and ends in May. This is another peak season for the trek as the trails start to breathe back to life after long and cold Winter sleep. Generally, the temperature during Spring is similar to that of Autumn, providing moderate and comfortable conditions to hike. 

Furthermore, the days during Spring are much longer with fresh air and clear skies. During your trek, you will find trails covered in vibrant colors due to the rhododendron blooms and several other wildflowers along the way. Also, if you are lucky enough, you will witness wildlife such as Red Panda, Himalayan Tahr, Snow Leopards, White Monkeys, and Musk Deer to name a few. 

Here, though Spring brings favorable trekking conditions, you should also be prepared for occasional rain and snowfall, especially during the start and the end of the season. Likewise, if you do not like crowded areas, you should rethink your trek’s timing. 

After months-long favorable conditions, Spring is followed by the Monsoon / Summer season. From June to August, you will experience heavy rainfall throughout this region which makes the trek a bit gloomy for many. 

With dark rain-filled clouds and limited visibility, this season also brings an abundance of leeches all along the trail. During most of this season, the trail gets muddy and slippery, making it difficult to accomplish. However, the days remain hot and humid with the temperature ranging between 20 to 30 °C. 

In the meantime, this heavy downpour increases the risk of landslides and blocked roads in the lower region, creating a delay in your schedule at times. However, if you can stick to these challenges of the Monsoon season, you will be rewarded with fewer crowds and a fresh environment at its peak.  

Last but not least, the Winter season in Helambu Trek starts in December and ends in February. This particular season brings freezing cold with daytime temperatures around 6°C-15°C.and the nighttime temperature dropping up to -15°C.

Furthermore, the Winter season covers the trail with snow and ice, making the path slippery and difficult to trek in. However, with careful planning and proper preparation, the journey is still doable though we do not recommend it to beginner trekkers. Similar to the Monsoon season, if you are able to stick through the season, you will witness the trails in a fairytale-themed world - all white and covered in snow! Furthermore, you will also find solitude on the trail. 

Helambu Trekking Permits 

To embark on the Helambu Trek, you will require a total of three permits; the Langtang National Park Entry Permit, the Shivapuri National Park Entry Permit, and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. All these permits hold a specific purpose on your trek, ensuring a smooth journey through the protected areas. 

As the Helambu Trek will take you within the Langtang National Park, you will require an entry permit which will cost you NRs 3,000. Likewise, during the starting point of the trek, since you will walk through the Shivapuri National Park, you will also need its entry permit which is around NRs 500. Lastly, you will need the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card, which is NRs 2,000. 

Altogether, you can get these permits from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu. Otherwise, you can also get it through your local trekking agency. For these, you will need a valid passport and a pair of passport-size pictures. 

Transportation for Helambu Trek

Getting to the starting point of Helambu Trek and returning back to Kathmandu after the journey involves a straightforward yet scenic ride. The trek begins with a private car ride from Kathmandu to Sundarijal and it generally takes about an hour and a half.

Here, this car ride offers a comfortable start as you enjoy the glimpses of the bustling Kathmandu Valley giving way to lush, verdant hills. Once you arrive in Sundarijal, you will start trekking through the various ups and downs of the lush forests and through several authentic villages. By the end of the trek, you will have a cumulated rich experience filled with the natural and cultural beauty of the region. 

As the trek ends in Sermanthang village, you will have a return journey via bus. The bus ride from Sermanthang to Kathmandu is around 6 to 7 hours, descending through the changing scenery of hills and rivers before re-entering the hustle and bustle of the city. This slow transition from urban to city life from a different perspective marks the end of your trek. 

Meals During the Helambu Trek

With a variety of dishes that represent the deep culture of the region, meals during the Helambu Trek are a delightful aspect of the journey. While also offering the local taste of the region, the menu in the tea houses of the trail caters to a range of dietary restrictions. 

You can expect to start your day with hearty meal options like Tibetan bread, porridge, and eggs, accompanied by tea or coffee. Likewise, some tea houses also offer pancakes, muesli, curd, and fresh fruits as their breakfast option. 

Moving on, the lunch and dinner are also equally satisfying with several traditional and western menu options. Generally, it consists of dal bhat (a hearty lentil soup served with rice and vegetables), momo (steamed dumplings), and Thukpa (a flavorful noodle soup). Additionally, there are some other items like noodles, fried eggs, potato items, spring rolls, chapati, soup, stews, and so on. 

These meals not only give you needed calories and energy for the day but also offer a taste of the local culture. Throughout the trek, each tea house offers varying tastes but each meal is prepared freshly. Hence, sharing the meals during the trek is indeed a highlighting point of the journey.

Accommodation

During the Helambu Trek, you will not find any luxurious stay but it will surely be comfortable and cozy. The tea houses are pretty basic offering twin beds with thick blankets to keep you warm even during cold and chilly nights. While some tea houses in lower elevations might have an attached bathroom, you will only find a common bathroom as you go higher.

Although the accommodation may be simple with little to no interior decorations, the tea houses are always welcoming with an inviting atmosphere. Usually, the hosts will try to make your night as comfortable as possible and often go out of their way to make you feel welcome.

Altogether, accommodation can vary depending on the altitude and the popularity of the stopover points. In villages of lower elevations, you will find more amenities and slightly more modern comforts. However, as you climb higher the tea houses get basic with shared dining halls and washrooms. Furthermore, you will only get a bucket shower as higher you climb and will be charged extra for hot showers. 

Telephone, Internet, And Charging

It is not hard to stay in touch during the Helambu Trek however, it may not be as reliable. While the digital connection may be limited, there are still options to stay connected with the outer worlds. 

Well, you will have a decent internet and telephone connection at the lower altitude villages. Most of the tea houses offer wifi facilities with reliable speed, electricity charging, and stable mobile network connection. 

However, once you move to the higher altitudes, the connection is more rare. You will face a slight problem with the mobile coverage. As for the internet, most tea houses do not have a wifi connection and hence if you have taken a mobile SIM card, you can always use mobile data. You can take NCELL or NTC SIM cards from Kathmandu before embarking on the trek. 

Similarly, you will have no problem charging your devices at a lower altitude. But as you move higher, you will have to pay a certain small fee to charge your devices. Additionally, these charging points are also only available in the common hall. Not to mention, the charging points in the higher altitudes are generally powered by solar energy.

Porter for Helambu Trek

Hiring a porter during the Helambu Trek can significantly enhance your trekking experience. While they also help you to carry the burden of a heavy backpack, they are also experienced and well-equipped with the knowledge of the region. Hiring them allows you to get extra insight into the route. 

A single porter can carry around 20 kg of weight and they are also trained in basic first-aid and medication. Since the trails of the Helambu trek have several steep ascents and descents, carrying your heavy backpack may be physically demanding hence, having a porter by your side ensures a smooth and worry-free adventure. 

At the same time, these local porters are well-versed in the terrain as well as the risk it may pose during the trek. Therefore, if you ever fall under any unforeseen circumstances of sickness or injury, they will help you descend or provide you with the quick medication that is necessary. 

All in all, hiring a porter does not only benefit your trek. As a matter of fact, you will also be directly contributing to providing a stable livelihood for individuals in the remote mountain communities. Hence, by hiring a porter, you contribute to their economic stability and well-being, making your adventure not only enjoyable but also meaningful and supportive of the local way of life.

Packing List For The Helambu Trek

Preparing for the Helambu Trek involves carefully curating your packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. This particular trek takes you through diverse terrains and varying altitudes, so packing wisely is crucial. 

Here’s a guide to help you pack efficiently and effectively for this spectacular adventure.

Clothing

  • Long-sleeve shirts
  • Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms
  • Fleece jacket or down jacket
  • Warm sweaters or pullovers
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and pant
  • Quick-dry hiking pants
  • Lightweight and breathable trekking shirts
  • Comfortable shorts (optional)
  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap 
  • Warm hat or beanie (for cold weather)
  • Lightweight gloves or mittens
  • Sunglasses with UV protection

Footwear

  • Sturdy trekking boots with ankle support
  • Comfortable trekking socks
  • Liner socks (optional for added comfort)
  • Camping slippers or shoes

Added Items 

  • Comfortable daypack or trekking backpack (20-30 liters)
  • Rain cover 
  • Sleeping bag (suitable for temperatures around freezing)
  • Adjustable trekking poles
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Biodegradable soap
  • Small towel
  • Toilet paper and hand sanitizer
  • Basic first aid supplies 
  • Personal medications and prescriptions
  • Fully charged mobile phone
  • Portable power bank
  • Camera or smartphone for photos

Travel Insurance

While the Helambu Trek does not take you to a high altitude, it is no saying that you will not face any unforeseen circumstances. In fact, as you trek through the varied landscapes, you may face potential accidents on the trail. 

Therefore, a comprehensive travel insurance policy ensures that you are covered for a range of scenarios, from medical emergencies to trip cancellations. This allows you to focus on enjoying the trek without unnecessary worries.

Here, the standard travel insurance may not cover certain altitudes therefore, you should read the policy throughout and find the one that fits your itinerary. As you buy an insurance plan, you should check if it reimburses your medical expenses and evacuation from remote places when in need. 

Additionally, some policies offer coverage for lost or stolen gear, which can be particularly useful when trekking. Altogether, investing in the right travel insurance helps you embrace the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of the Helambu region without any worry.

Itinerary
  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Welcome at the Airport and transfer to your Hotel. Introduce the program then enjoy your first night in cultural diversity in Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:3 star hotel

Free day for final trekking preparation, guide meeting, gear checking, or sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley.

  • Max. Altitude:2215m/7267ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we drive an hour towards Sundarijal from where we embark on real hiking. 30 minutes hiking from Sundarijal we encounter Shivapuri National Park where we buy a National Park entrance permit then continue ahead. As we climb gradually we arrive at the name of a village called Mulkharka where we might have a lunch break or some snacks. Then the trail leads through stone paved stairs and an amazing jungle to Chisapani which is known for its stunning viewpoint of sunrise with striking views of Gaurisankar, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and many more.

  • Max. Altitude:2470m/8104ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

We will start our trek from Chisapani by descending through the local town and terrace. Along the way, we will pass by Pati Bhanjyang and Thankune Bhanjyang before reaching Chipling. We can have lunch in Chipling before continuing our journey to Kutumsang via Gol Bhanjyang. Our overnight stay will be in the charming town of Kutumsang.

  • Max. Altitude:3690m/12106ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

The trail from Kutumsang begins with climbing through a beautiful and lush forest. Along the way, we'll pass through Magengoth, a lovely town where we'll stop for lunch. After that, we'll continue on to Tharepati, where we'll spend the night. This is definitely one of the most beautiful and scenic places on our trek, with stunning views of Langtang, Dorje lakpa, Kharane peak, Gauri Shankar and many other mountains.

  • Max. Altitude:2600m/8530ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

We embark on our hike from Therepati with a 360° view of the mountain and descending through lush forest. After a couple of hours, we will get to a big cultural town Melamchi Gaun. We might have a lunch break there and continue to Tarke Gyang. Before Tarke Gyang, there is some ascending for the last part. When we get Tarke Gyang there is many buddhist monuments like Mani walls, Stupas, Monastry etc.

  • Max. Altitude:3371m/11060ft.
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tea house

This day offers a magnificent side trip to Ama Yangri Viewpoint. We will ascend up to an altitude of 3,371 meters where you will be surrounded with the most beautiful views of the snow-clad peaks and small villages down below. After a quick exploration, we will head down back to Tarke Gyang where we will spend the night. 

  • Max. Altitude:2590m/8497ft
  • Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

Today's hike should be relatively easy since we'll be trekking between two towns, Tarke Gyang and Sermathang, that are at a similar elevation. The trail won't be as steep as it has been on other days, so we can take our time and enjoy the scenery. We'll pass through some forested areas and local towns, where we might even spot some wildlife like monkeys, bears, and birds. When we reach Sermathang, we'll see a big ancient monastery situated atop a hill. There will also be plenty of Buddhist activities to observe and enjoy.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m/4593ft
  • Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

This is the final day on the Helambu Trekking trail. After exploring the Sermathang village, we will take a bus ride from the village to Kathmandu, which marks the end of the trek. 

    Farewell and drop-off at the airport, or the opportunity to join another program.

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    Note

    This itinerary is just a guideline, if you are not satisfied with any aspect, please customize your own. (We provide city tours on request)

    What's Included
    Cost Includes
    • Complimentary airport pick up and drop off
    • Complimentary welcome dinner
    • Two-night stay on arrival in Kathmandu in a standard hotel with breakfast included 
    • All necessary trekking permits, TIMS cards, etc.
    • All accommodation during trek
    • Three meals a day during the trek
    • Fresh fruit each day if and when available
    • Complimentary duffel bag, agency T-shirt, trekking map, sleeping bag
    • Government registered and first-aid trained professional local guide who speaks English
    • First-aid kit
    • Road transport to Sundarijal by private car
    • Road transport from Melamchi Pul Bazar to Kathmandu.
    • Staff insurance, meals, accommodation, equipment, transportation etc.
    • Rescue arrangements if necessary
    • Agency service charge and government tax/VAT
    • Certificate of achievement
    Cost Excludes
    • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
    • Personal Insurance, personal expenses, loss of property and theft etc.
    • Sightseeing costs in the city. (temples, monasteries, etc)
    • All beverages, snacks, and additional expenses such as laundry, hot showers, battery charging, wifi, etc
    • Tips to staff
    Route MapDownload Map
    Helambu Trek map
    Dates & Availability
    Start:SundayDec 15, 2024
    End:TuesdayDec 24, 2024
    PriceUS$595
    StatusGuaranteed
    Start:WednesdayDec 25, 2024
    End:FridayJan 03, 2025
    PriceUS$595
    StatusGuaranteed

    Note

    If you are not satisfied with the departure date then please pick your convenience date. 

    Photos & Videos
    FAQs for Helambu Trek
    • The best times for Helambu Trek are during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and beautiful natural scenery.

    • The Helambu Trek is considered to be moderately difficult but can be achieved by all first-time or avid trekkers. It involves gradual ascents and descents, but trekkers should still be prepared for some uphill and downhill sections.

    • The starting point of the Helambu Trek is Sundarijal. To reach the starting point, you will take a private car ride from your hotel.

    • While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide or joining a reputable trekking agency such as Nepal Trekking Experts can enhance your experience significantly. Guides offer local expertise, ensure safety, help with logistics, and navigate the trail. At NTE, we recommend you to trek with a guide or a group.

    • To do the Helambu Trek, you will require three permits which are the Langtang National Park Entry Permit, the Shivapuri National Park Entry Permit, and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card.

    • Yes, there is wifi and mobile connection during the Helambu Trek however, they may not be reliable sometimes.

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