Helambu Trek is a short, easy, and popular trek to the culturally and naturally rich Helambu valley. This trek allows you to get insight into the Buddhist culture as you enjoy the incredible landscapes and views of stunning tall mountains – including Gauri Shankar, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal.
Trip Highlights
- Rhododendron flowers, pine forests, green meadows
- Stunning views of Ganesh Himal (7,406m), Langtang Lirung (7,345m), and Gaurishankar (7,145m)
- Shivapuri National Park
- Exploring the Buddhist culture – visiting ancient monasteries, shrines, and stupas
- Tibetan, Tamang, Sherpa, and Hyolmo ethnic community
- Very few chances of altitude sickness, as the highest point is at 3500m.
- Easy going short trek into the Himalayas
- Explore the Tamang and Sherpa culture
- Enjoy different vegetation throughout the trek
- Risk-free low-altitude trek for all age groups
- Panoramic view of the Langtang range of Himalayas
- Visit the oldest and the largest monastery in the Helambu region
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will escort you to your respective hotel in Thamel which is a prime touristic location. Afternoon you can explore around Thamel and the evening will be an introduction session with your respective trekking team which includes your guide and porter.
Overnight in your respective hotel
Day02: Drive to Sundarijal (1,385m / 4,545ft), Trek to Chisapani (2,295m / 7,655ft)
Today we will start our journey towards Sundarijal via Kathmandu, this will be an hour drive from Thamel. Upon arriving in Sundarijal we will hike through a beautiful waterfall passing by a water reservoir into Shivapuri National Park. Shivapuri National Park is a popular hiking and meditation destination nearby Kathmandu, it is also a popular bird-watching park for many travelers.
Further, we will hike through the stony trail towards Tamang village famous for marijuana farming. Passing by the village we hike through dense forest to reach Chisapani a small village of different ethnic communities with hotels and lodges.
Overnight in Chisapani
Day03: Trek from Chisapani (2,295m / 7,655ft) to Khutumsang (2,470m / 8,250ft)
We wake up before dawn to watch the magnificent sunrise from the Chisapani viewpoint. Watching the early sun rays hit the Himalayan range will be a sight to behold throughout your life. After breakfast, we head to Kutumsang, which takes about five to six hours. Trek passes by the side of several meadows and agricultural fields as you enjoy savoring the stunning views of the Langtang mountains. Then we descend from the ridge and reach Pathi Bhanjyang, a small and pleasant village. We further trek to Gul Bhanjyang, climbing up a hill to a pass. Another downhill from the pass takes you to Kutumsang – your destination for the night.
Day04: Trek from Khutumsang (2,470m / 8,250ft) to Tharepati (3,690m / 11635ft)
After breakfast, we head north to get beautiful views of the snowy peaks ahead. We climb above on a steep trail through fir and rhododendron forests in an area where there are no permanent settlements. The jungles are luscious, dense, and blooming with Nepal’s national flower – the rhododendron. The trek continues to Yurin Danda, letting you enjoy magnificent views of the Himalayas. Shortly, we arrive at a few lodges at Magen Goth, which lies next to a meadow and provides fabulous mountain views. Hiking further, we arrive at Tharepati.
Day05: Trek from Tharepati (3,690m / 11,635ft) to Tarke Ghyang (2,600m / 9,115ft)
Today will be an easy day for us, we will be descending all the way for around 4 hours to reach one of the ancient Sherpa villages in the Helambu region also known as Melamchi Gaun. Melamchi Gaun is situated on the lap of the mountain beneath lies the famous snow melted Melamchi river, which is one of the most uttered names of the rive in Nepalese politics. As there is a drinking water project underway to supply water from the same river into Kathmandu through tunnels drilling the hills and mountains.
Upon reaching Melamchi village we can have our lunch and explore around some old monasteries of the Sherpa community and further trek uphill for two hours to reach Take Ghyang one of the largest villages of the Tamang community in the entire Helambu region.
Overnight in Tarke Ghyang
Day06: Trek from Tarke Ghyang (2,600m / 9,115ft) to Sermanthang (2,590m / 8,715ft)
Easy day for us both in terms of distance and altitude, passing by some Sherpa settlement areas and forest with the vista of Ganesh Himal (7422m), Langtang Lirung (7227m), Dorje Lakpa (6966m), and Naya Kanga (5844m) and also the oldest and the largest monastery of the Helambu region which is Gekye Gompa.
Upon reaching Sermathanga we can explore the Tamang and Sherpa village and also the popular apple garden of the area. For half of the day, we can explore the surrounding areas with the majestic views of the Langtang Himalayas.
Overnight in Sermathang
Day07: Hike to Melamchi Bazar (846m) and drive back to Kathmandu
Today after our breakfast we will descend all the way to Melamchi Bazzar this will be around 3 hours hike downhill with the view of villages, farmland, Melamchi river, etc until we reach Melamchi Bazaar main town for buying and selling local goods.
Further, we take a local Bus to drive to Kathmandu which takes around 4 hours. The evening will be our farewell dinner program arranged by our company Discover Altitude.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day08: Final Departure
Today will be our last day in Nepal, early morning after our breakfast representative from Discover Altitude will escort you to the international airport in Kathmandu according to your schedule time.
We bid you a happy journey back home, and wish to see you soon in the coming days.
What’s Included
1. Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
2. Licensed and trained trekking guides,
3. potters for carrying goods and supplies,
4. 4 Nights Accommodation in the 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast)
5. All accommodation during the trek.
6. All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
7. Transportation to and from trail head.
8. All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
9. National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Equipment such as tents And Mattresses, Cooking Equipment, Camp site charges, Insurance, and
equipment for the staffs.
10. Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
11. Trekking staffs wages etc.
12. 1 hr. trekker massage after your trek.
What’s Excluded
Services and Cost Does not Included in Price:
1. International Airfares,
2. Travel/Trekking Insurance,
3. Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in
domestic flights.
4. Visa fees.
5. Airport Departure Taxes.
6. Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
7. Tips for The staffs.
8. Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
9. Meals during stay in the Kathmandu.
10. Domestic Ticket Etc
Trip Information
The Helambu circuit trek is a popular trekking route located in the Langtang region of Nepal, just a few hours drive from Kathmandu. This trek offers stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and a glimpse into the unique culture and lifestyle of the Tamang and Sherpa people who inhabit the region.
The trek typically takes 7-10 days to complete and covers a distance of approximately 72 km (45 miles). The trek starts from Sundarijal, which is a short drive from Kathmandu, and passes through scenic villages such as Chisopani, Kutumsang, Thadepati, Tarkeghyang, and Sermathang before ending at Melamchi Bazaar.
Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by lush forests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit ancient monasteries, sample the local cuisine, and interact with the friendly and welcoming locals.
Overall, the Helambu circuit trek is a great option for those looking for a relatively easy and short trek that offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. However, as with all treks in Nepal, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges of altitude and the rugged terrain. It’s also recommended to trek with an experienced guide or group for safety and support.