Helambu Trek: A Raw and Untouched Experience

Overview of the Helambu Trek in Nepal

Helambu Trek is one of the most popular and short trekking trails of Nepal to explore the beautiful Langtang Region. This trek is made for people who want to explore the true beauty of Nepal with less travel.

Helambu is located around 80 km away, on the northern side of the Kathmandu valley. Helambu Trek Nepal offers a stunning view of the beautiful landscape and the mountains.

A perfect destination to experience an excellent combination of culture and nature. The Helambu Trek is a unique trek that takes you through a blooming Rhododendron forest, majestic waterfalls, and the villages of Tamang and Sherpa people.

The diverse Helambu trekking local people who call the Helambu region home have a distinctive way of life and a rich heritage of Helambu trekking culture. Engage with friendly locals, explore their beliefs and practices to immerse yourself in the local way of life fully. 

Discover the historic monasteries and stupas scattered throughout the area, each enriched with artistic artwork and religious relics. 

Every step of the Helambu Nepal Trek package will be rewarded with expansive vistas of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks as you go through lush forests, terraced agricultural land, and delightful mountain villages. Watch in awe at Dorje Lakpa, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang Lirung as they rise above the gorgeous surroundings.

After a short drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, the trip continues with a trek through Chisapani, Kutumsang, Thadepati, and Tarke Gyang. You will then descend to Sermathang before concluding at Melamchi Bazaar.

Helambu Trek Altitude and Elevation Profile

Detailed Langtang Helambu Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m) 

• After getting picked up from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you will move to a hotel in Thamel or nearby Kathmandu.
• Visit around for trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping.
• Spend an overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Kathmandu to Sundarijal (1929 m), 1 hour drive to Chisapani (2165 m), 4 to 5 hours

• After spending the night in the capital, you have an early bus or cab to catch the next morning. The chosen vehicle will take you to Sundarijal within an hour.
• From Sundarijal, the Helambu trekking starting point, you will begin your trek. You will cross a small electricity facility as you begin your trek and reach the Shivapuri National Park Trail.
• Before reaching Chisapani, you will cross through a small Tamang village and a dense Oak and Rhododendron forest.
• Overnight in a lodge in Chisapani.

Day 3: Chisapani to Kutumsang (2470 m), 6 to 7 hours

• After having a warm breakfast, continue your Helambu Trek towards Kutumsang.
• As you ascend higher, you will pass across meadows and pastures. You can enjoy the stunning view of the Langtang Mountain.
• After walking for a few hours, passing Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang, you will reach today’s destination, Kutumsang.
• Spend the night in a tea house in Kutumsang.

Day 4: Kutumasang to Tharepati (3690 m), 6 to 7 hours

• As the sun shines, you will have your morning breakfast and continue trekking. Today, you will walk towards Tharepati, the highest point of the Helambu Trek altitude.
• There are no permanent villages along the steep trail that leads us up above Kutumsang, which is primarily through fir and rhododendron forest. With breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas, the walk continues up to Yurin Danda, passing Magingoth.
• If you are a beginner hiker, you may feel the altitude; thus, it is always advisable to climb slowly.
• You will reach Tharepati, where you will spend the night in a lodge.

Day 5: Tharepati to Tarke Gyang (2600 m), 5 to 6 hours

• You will trek to Tarke Gyang today. The trail declines in the first part of the walk till we pass the Melamchi Gaun. After that, we hike through Sherpa communities to Tarke Gyang.
• Tarke Gyang is Helambu’s largest village. The tradition and culture of this Sherpa community, and the two old monasteries of this village, are very popular.
• As the major population of this village belongs to the Hyolmo culture, this village is also known as Helambu.
• Spend the night with the local people of Helambu, learning about their rituals and practices.

Day 6: Tarke Gyang to Sermathang (2610 m), 3 to 4 hours

• After farewelling the people of Helambu, today you will have a short trek to Sermathang.
• You will walk through a dense forest, passing waterfalls with a picturesque view of tranquil greenery and the snow-crowned mountains.
• After a few hours, we arrive in Shermathang, a Sherpa village with views of the Ganesh  Himal, Langtang, Jugal Himal, and Rolwaling ranges.
• Spend the night in the peaceful atmosphere of Sermathang.

Day 7: Sermathang to Melamchi Bazaar (846 m), 3 to 4 hours to Kathmandu, 3 to 4 hours (drive)

• On the final day of the walk, you will descend from Sermathang to Melamchi Bazaar along the Mehamchi River.
• Once you reach the Melamchi Bazaar, the Helambu trekking end point, you will take a bus or hire a cab to Kathmandu.
• Spend the last night of the trip in Kathmandu. 

Day 8: Departure from Kathmandu (1,300 m) 

• Depending on your travel schedule, you can head to the airport for your international flight to your hometown. Take your Helambu trek photos and memories along with you.

Packing Essentials for the Helambu Trek

Helambu Trek is a moderate trekking trail that does not require lots of equipment. However, there are some essentials you must have during the trek.

Head

• Warm hat & cap
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Headlight
• Earmuffs
• Beanie

 Body

• Thermal layers
• Warm and Waterproof jacket
• Thermal Gloves
• Trekking Trousers and Shorts
• Neck buff
• Waterproof gloves

Footwear

• Trekking shoes
• Hiking boots
• Warm Hiking socks
• Gaiters

Essentials/Equipment

• Sleeping bag
• First aid kit
• Trekking poles & Duffel bag
• Water Bottles and Hydration Bladders
• Raincoat
• High-energy snacks
• Reliable oxygen supply
• Maps & Compass/GPS

Note: Don’t carry too many goods that will trouble you during the trek. Take only stuff which are important.

Best Time to Do the Helambu Trek

Two of the most ideal times for trekking in allover the Nepal are in spring and autumn. These are the times when the weather is clean and the climate is moderate. Otherwise, in summer, it’s too rainy, and in winter, it’s way too cold.

Spring: March to May

One of the best times for Helambu Trek is in the spring when the weather is crystal, which makes it one of the most ideal times to witness the white, shiny mountains. Moreover, during this period, the trail is full of blossoming rhododendron flowers of various colors, such as red, pink, and white.

Autumn: September to December

Another great time for Helambu Circuit Trekking is in autumn when there is little rain. At this time, the sky is normally blue and clean, which makes it a favorable environment to enjoy the beautiful snow-covered mountains. 

Monsoon: June to October 

During monsoon (June to October), trekking in Helambu is generally not recommended due to heavy rainfall, which can make the trails slippery and the views obscured by clouds. The region receives substantial rainfall during these months, impacting both visibility and trail conditions.

Winter: December to February

Helambu experiences cold winters (December to February), with temperatures frequently falling below freezing, particularly at higher elevations. Trekking can be more difficult if the trails are covered in snow, especially in January and February. Even though the weather is colder than in the spring and autumn, trekking can still be a fulfilling experience if you're ready for cold weather and unobstructed mountain views.

Local Culture, Wildlife, and Scenic Experience

Both Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and Langtang National Park, with their diverse flora and animals, will be covered throughout your trek. You will hike across fields, meadows, and forests on this adventure. In the spring season, you can witness lush greenery and blossoming rhododendron trees.

This location is home to a wide variety of animals. Among these are deer, monkeys, red pandas, wild cats, leopards, and even Himalayan black bears. There are a lot of animals, but the typical visitor rarely sees them. 

Trek through authentic Tamang and Sherpa villages like Kutumsang, Tarke Gyang, and Sermathang. Experience the Hyolmo culture in Helambu village, including unique Buddhist customs and heritage.

How to Reach Helambu Trek from Kathmandu?

The total Helambu distance from Kathmandu is about 80 km, which is on the northern side of Kathmandu. Kathmandu to Helambu time duration is about 4 to 5 days. Depending on your fitness and health condition, the duration might go up or down. 

First, you take a cab or bus from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. The trip continues with a trek through Chisapani, Kutumsang, and Thadepati to reach Tarke Gyang (Helambu).

Helambu Trek Map and Route Details

The Helambu Trek route is exciting in a picturesque location near the Kathmandu valley. Within a range of about 80 km north of the capital, the trek can be completed within 7 to 9 days with ease. 

The journey begins with an hour's drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. You start trekking from Sundarijal to Tarke Gyang, passing  Chisapani, Kutumsang, and Thadepati (Helambu village). 

After that, you descend back along with Melamchi River to Melamchi Bazaar, crossing Sarmathang. From Melamchi Bazaar, you will drive back to Kathmandu.

COSTS INCLUDE:

• Three meals a day during the Trekking (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
• Accommodation in the tea house or lodge during the trek.
• Trekking Guide and a porter (Sharing by two clients) with insurance, food, and accommodations.
• Bus Ticket for the client from Kathmandu to Dhunche.
• Bus ticket for the guide and potter from Kathmandu to Dhunche.
• First aid kit.
• Trekking permit (Conservation fee).
• A TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System) is like a permit.
• Free Company's duffel bag.
• All the needed official fees.

Trek Difficulty and Fitness Level Required

Despite being a short and easy trip, you might feel altitude sickness while trekking to the Helambu Trail. So, it is highly recommended to walk slowly. Also, you need to be prepared physically as well as mentally. 

• Take a walk for at least 30 minutes every day for 2-3 weeks.
• Do slight full-body workouts 2-3 times a week.
• Stretch or do yoga daily for 10-15 minutes.
• Take 1-2 rest days per week to recover.

• Eat balanced meals with protein, veggies, whole grains, and stay hydrated.

   

Altitude Sickness and Safety Tips

Being at a lower altitude of about 3690 m (maximum), there is not much risk of altitude sickness. However, if you have a breathing problem or any other related issues, you need to be careful.

• Walk slowly.
• Carry a first aid kit.
• Keep the rescue team’s contact number in case of emergency.
• Carry your medication, if you have any.
• Do not eat or touch anything unfamiliar.
• Start early, reach early.
• Stay hydrated.
• Stay connected.

Travel Insurance and Emergency Info

In Nepal, travel insurance is mandatory while trekking to high-altitude regions. Trekking without the required travel insurance and necessary permits is risky and forbidden. If trekkers are found on the trails without these essential documents, they can face serious consequences, including being banned from trekking in the country for a minimum of two years.

You can get your insurance through your travel agency. Like Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd. provides to their clients.

• Emergency information during the Helambu Trek:
• Need to carry necessary permits.
• Hire a licensed guide.
• Respect the environment and minimize your impact
• Respect local culture
• Take time to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
• To have an emergency evacuation plan in place in case of any accidents or medical emergencies. Make sure to have adequate insurance coverage and carry a fully charged mobile phone with you at all times.

Helambu Trek Permits

If you are looking for a budget-friendly trek, then the Helambu Trek budget might be just for you. Helambu Trek costs depend on several aspects like itinerary, meals, accommodation, transportation, permits, and government taxes. 

There are three types of Helambu Trek permits you need to have during the trek: Langtang National Park entry permit, Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card, and Shivapuri National Park permit.

• Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card: Nepali rupees 2,000 (About USD 20) per person per entry for individual travellers and Nepali rupees 1,000 (About USD 10) per person per entry for travellers in groups.
• Langtang National Park entry permit: Nepali rupees 3,000 (About USD 30) per person per entry.

• The Shivapuri National Park permit: Nepali rupees 500 (USD 5) per person per entry.

   

Accommodation and Food During the Trek

While in Kathmandu, you will get a variety of accommodation options according to your budget. However, during the Helambu Circuit Trek, there are limited Helambu trekking lodges and tea houses for Helambu trekking accommodation. They offer cozy blankets and pillows to make your stay more pleasant. They'll get in touch with you, look after your needs, and make the necessary arrangements.

Sometimes, you even need to share the room with other trekkers, especially during peak season. The bathrooms here are mostly available on a shared basis. You can also get a facility of a hot shower, for which you need to pay extra.

You will get the chance to eat at teahouses along the way while trekking in Helambu Nepal. Noodles, pasta, fried rice, Momo, Dal Bhat (rice and lentil soup), and a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are among the many dishes served in teahouses. 

Teahouse meals are substantial, freshly made, and give you the energy you need to hike. It is advised to sample local foods and taste the genuine flavors of the Langtang area.

Langtang Helambu Trekking Option

A varied Nepali experience is offered by the trek Helambu Langtang, which combines breathtaking mountain vistas with intimate cultural interactions. It is reachable from Kathmandu and offers a distinctive and memorable trekking experience through the Langtang Valley, Gosainkunda Lake, and Helambu.

You can experience the intact and distinctive cultures of the Tamang, Newars, and Sherpas while trekking through some of Nepal's most picturesque hamlets.

In addition to breathtaking mountain vistas from Tsergo Ri, Kyanjin Ri, and Lauribina, the Langtang and Helambu Treks provide cultural experiences that are on par with those seen elsewhere in Nepal.

Short Version of the Helambu Trek

If you have a limited time, then there is an additional option to complete the Helambu Trek in a shorter period. 

Day 1: Begin your journey with an hour drive to Sundarijal in a private car or in a bus, followed by a 5-hour trek to Chisapani (2,165 meters). Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day 2: Trek for 5 to 6 hours to Kutumsang (2,470 meters) and enjoy an overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 3: Continue your trek to Tharepati (3,690 meters) for 5 hours. Stay overnight at the lodge.

Day 4: 4-hour trek to Tarke Ghyang (2,600 meters) and spend the night at the lodge.

Day 5: Conclude your trek with a walk to Sarmathang (2,621 meters, 5 hours walking) and drive back to Kathmandu.

Day 6: Departure from Kathmandu.

Why Choose the Helambu Trek?

Helambu Trek is a short trekking trail close to Kathmandu and has easy access from the city. Short and affordable, a 5-day trek is perfect for trekkers with a limited budget. 

A less crowded trail makes the trail peaceful and quiet to enjoy and feel nature. 

Authentic Tamang and Sherpa culture allows you to experience their culture, rituals, and traditional villages. Spiritual sites, such as sacred meditation caves and monasteries, help to gain peace and tranquility. 

If you are lucky, you can spot various rare Helambu trekking wildlife such as snow leopards and red pandas.