Helambu Trekking - 7 Days

Helambu Trekking
Helambu Trekking
Helambu Trekking
At a Glance
Duration7 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude3,690m / 11,635ft at Tharepati
Group Size2-10
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

Helambu Trek is one of the most delightful short trekking excursions that takes place in the Langtang region of Nepal, approximately north of the Kathmandu Valley, which is also the capital city of the country, following the rivers of Bhote Koshi around the popular Langtang Valley, reflecting the unique Hyomlmo ethnicity and their abundant culture and tradition. 

Although situated approximately 15.6 km from Kathmandu, which can be covered in a 1-2 hour drive to enter, the Helambu region offers the fascinatingly unspoiled cultural and natural highlights of the Nepalese Himalayas as you slowly trek through the less congested path of the Langtang region, which shares the border with Tibet. 

The journey to Helambu is comparatively a low-altitude trekking expedition reaching the highest point at just 3,690m at Tharepati, allowing a more pleasant cultural and natural exploration with a low chance of seeing acute mountain sickness or altitude sickness while simultaneously watching the sky soaring tall mountains, including the Langtang ranges, Gauri Shankar, Ganesh Himal, and at a few sections the top of the world’s: Annapurna, Manaslu, and Mt. Everest. 

The majority of the locals from this part of the Langtang Himalayas, Helambu region, are Buddhist, so throughout the nine days of trekking to Helambu, which passes by numerous traditional villages of the natives, you will come across several Buddhist monasteries, Mani Walls, Gompas, and other monuments related to Buddhism, granting you the most satisfying untouched cultural endeavor. 

Beside the admirable, simple yet warming culture of the Hyolmo people, you will be offered a walk through the untouched natural gem of Shivapuri and Langtang National Park as you venture to the Helambu region through temperate forests, green valleys, rhododendron, and oak woodland to the alpine tranquil region in its most natural state. 

Therefore, trekking to the Helambu is a must to live the ultimate serenity of the mountain, its people, and culture, accompanied by the lush forests of rhododendron, bamboo, pine, and juniper, along with majestic waterfalls and jaw-dropping snow-capped peaks in natural diversity forming the great Himalayan scenery, taking you finally to the border with Tibet like never before.

 Ammonite Adventure and Treks is offering a special discounted price and itinerary at our 7-day package for Helambu Trekking in 2024 and 2025. To grab your journey contact us now. 

Highlights

  • Trek one of the recently discovered routes to explore the Langtang region.
  • Tour Helambu’s infamous monasteries, Mani and Gompas, to learn more about Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism. 
  • Stroll through the beautiful and scenic forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine. 
  • Unwind yourself in the authentic Himalayan towns of Kutumsang, Tharepati, Tarke Gyang, Sermnathang, and Melamchi in a lovely natural setting. 
  • Enjoy the awe-inspiring views of some of the top peaks of the world, such as the Annapurna Ranger, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu, including the tallest mountain giant on the planet, Mt. Everest (8,848m). 
  • Get to be part of the simple yet enriching daily life of Himalayan locals for more refined knowledge about the regional customs and culture. 
  • An ionic destination to come across exclusive Himalayan fauna such as black boar, snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan tahr, and many others. 

What makes the trip to Helmabu special?

Located to the northeast of the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, the trek to Helambu is one of the most happening journeys that offers adventures with unforgettable memories to create as you ramble each day through the gorgeous landscapes, traditional villages, and diverse flora and fauna, including different species of rhododendron. 

It is the journey of the journey, offering an interesting blend of the rich natural and cultural richness of the Langtang region along with the unmatchable adventure of making a way through the unspoiled Himalayan route. Hence, the Helambu trek is worth every step, offering you raw Himalayan cultural and natural beauty with

The rich biodiversity of the Shivapuri and Langtang National Park

Trekkers and travelers to venture to Helambu make their way first through the Shivapuri National Park and later on to the Langtang National Park. Both of these flora and fauna havens encompass several traditional settlements of Tamang, Sherpa, and Hyolmo, both posing incredible chances of encountering some of the rare species of wildlife, including the musk deer, Himalayan Thar, white monkeys, snow leopards, and red pandas.

Throughout the journey to Helambu, you will walk through the forest, ranging from subtropical and temperate woods of oak, pine, and rhododendron grooves to the alpine meadows and glaciers at the foothills of the Langtang Himalayan ranges in the Langtang National Park, which also includes thick forests, rugged valleys, cascading valleys, and hills in its landscapes.  

What could be more amazing than getting to traverse two of the most popular and highly conserved areas of the Nepalese Himalayas, famous as the bird and animal watchers paradise, than the trek to Helambu? Therefore, make your holiday blessed and memorable with a nine-day joyous adventure to Helambu in 2024 and 2024 by booking the trip with us now. 

The gateway to the Helambu region, Melamchi Gaon 

Located en route to Helambu Trek, Melamchi Gaon is the gateway to the region within the Langtang National Park Conservation Area, amidst lush woodlands, terraced farms, and the stunning sight of the various peaks. 

Lying around halfway between the starting point of the expedition to Helambu, Sundarijal Melamchi Gaon serves as one of the most popular stopovers even before or after the journey towards Helambu, providing trekkers with an interesting glimpse of the natural and cultural swankiness of the region to continue the trekking and explore more villages, forests, and mountain vistas along the way. 

Primarily dominated by the people of the Sherpa, Tamang, and Hyolmo communities, you will be warmed by the friendly demeanor and sincere hospitality of the locals, who often welcome trekkers and travelers with smiles and generosity. Hence, a visit to the Melamchi Gaon is a must during the trek to Helambu, giving you a golden opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life. 

The Everlasting Panorama on the Trackway to Helambu

Along the trackway to Helambu, as you ascend to higher altitudes, you will be rewarded with heavenly vistas of the surrounding mountains and river valleys. The sweeping panorama of the snow-capped peaks, including Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and Dorje Lakpa, topped  by the towering ranges of Annapurna (8,091m), Manaslu (8,163m), and the earth’s tallest summit, Mt. Everest (8,848 m), is a treat to the eyes as far as you can see. 

They look extra spectacular from high viewpoints like Chisapani and Tharepati, especially in the morning when the ever-changing rays of sunlight cast vibrant shadows over the skyline-dominating mountains as you move forth to take a round trip to Helambu, creating a dreamy sight to behold when you are not able to help yourself click some photographs. At the same time, you are granted the true essence of the region: tranquility and serenity. 

Delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the Langtang region 

The Langtang region of Nepal is home predominantly to the ethnic communities of Tamang people, along with Sherpa and "Yolmo" or "Hyolmo," showcasing distinctive culture, attire, language, rites, and rituals, giving you a unique amalgamation of the region that you will get to observe on the way to Helambu by following the footstep of the professional guide, who provides you with insider insight into the cultural and natural highlights. 

Traditionally, most of the villages you come across on the trail to Helambu are adorned with prayer flags, intricately carved wooden houses, Buddhist monasteries, Chortens, Mani walls, and prayer wheels, including Tarke Ghyang, Sermnathang, and Melamchi Gaon, providing a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhism, local architecture, and religious practices while you pass by these sacred sites. 

7-Day Route Itinerary for Trekking to Helambu

The trekking to Helambu region offers several routes, including side trips to the Gosaikunda Lake, Langtang Valley, and other numerous notable sites of the Langtang region. However, our 7-day itinerary for the voyage to Helambu is crafted with the sole purpose of taking a circuit trip to the Helambu Valley. 

Beginning with a joyous ride towards the trekking starting point of the Helambu region, Sundarijal, that hits off the beautiful serene viewpoint of Chisapani on the foot walking through the Shivapuri National Park, you will head to the typical mountain dwelling of Kutumsang on the very next day. 

Arrival at Kutumsang denotes the start of the off-beaten routes to the Helambu region, comparatively less trodden than some other famed trekking trails in Nepal, such as the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, or the Langtang Valley Trek itself within the Langtang region.

Regardless, by the third day, you would have already made it to the highest elevation of the entire 7-day trek to Helmabu, Tharepati, at an altitude of 3,690m above sea level, serving as an amazing viewpoint to capture the 360-degree panorama of Langtang Lirung (7,234 m/23,734 ft), Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m/22,854 ft), Gaurishankar (7,134 m/23,406 ft), Jugal Himal (6,000 m/19,685 ft), and others. 

A continuous trek through Tharepati according to the best 7-day itinerary by Ammonite Adventure and Treks leads you to the most ancient town of the Helambu region, Tarke Gyang, from where you will simultaneously venture into multiple typical mountain villages, specifically Sermanthang and Melamachi Gaon, and finally take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu. 

This 7-day package for Helambu Trekking with Ammonite Adventure and Treks offers flexible itinerary options that can be customized as per the needs, preferences, and schedules of trekkers and travelers, along with your budget plan and days of stay left in Nepal. Get a tailored route for you to expedite the Helambu at Ammonite Adventure and Treks! 

How much does the Helambu Trekking Cost?

The standard 7-day package cost for Helambu Trekking can range anywhere from USD 500 to USD 800 per person, depending on the group size and the level of comfort you are seeking in the services you are provided. 

Choosing the everyday local menu, such as the staple Nepali dish Dal-Bhat-Tarkari (heap of rice and various soups followed by the seasonal vegetable), sharing rooms, and getting one of the services provided by locally based travel and trekking organizations such as Ammonite Adventure and Treks are some of the tips to make your journey more budget-friendly. 

Itinerary

The Helambu Circuit Trek begins with a delicious breakfast drive to the Sundarijal at the foothills of the Kathmandu Valley, following a beautiful section of oaks and rhododendrons along with waterfalls. 

From Sundarijal, the hiking officially begins to reach Chisapani in about four to five hours, offering mind-blowing views of the surrounding mountains, including Jugal Himal, Ganesh Himal, Gauri Shankar, Rolwaling, Dorje Lakpa, and several others, which take a small tea break at Mulkharka.

Max. Altitude: 2,295m / 7,655ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local lodge

The day begins early to witness the panoramic sunrise when the entire Langtang and Gauri Shankar Himalayan ranges, along with other peaks, radiate due to the first ray of sunlight to gradually trek downhill to Kutumsang while relishing in it. 

At first, you will descend by Pati Bhanjyang, then ascend to Gul Bhanjyang, and finally, a last descent to the Sherpa settlement of Thakune Bhanjyang to Kutumsang, which is going to be a pleasant 5–6-hour downhill hike through the beautiful terraced farms and several other tiny traditional dwellings.

Max. Altitude: 2,470m / 8,250ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local lodge

This day you will leave the lovely Kutsumsang behind and head forward to Tharepati, which grants you more expanded views of the Himalayan giants, among which Dorje Lakpa stands out the most while you rise through the lucious woods of fir and rhododendron. 

The nation’s national flower, the rhododendron blooms during the months of spring, and is one of a kind while you continue your hike, passing by Yurin Danda to appreciate the stunning peaks and move forth to make it to Tharepati via Megan Goth lodges, providing a glimpse of the simple Himalayan lifestyle.

Max. Altitude: 3,690m / 11,635ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local lodge

Yet another easy-going trek day is when you will hike down from Tharepati to Tarke Gyang, which takes around 5–6 hours to later fully immerse yourself in the customary lives of the Himalayan locals, specifically the Sherpa communities. 

Further, Tarke Gyang features the largest and most ancient monastery in the area to a deeper insight into the spiritual and cultural guidance of the region, which holistically is named Helambu and has a cluster of Tamang and Sherpa people preserving the nearby Buddhist shrines and monasteries considered extremely sacred that once Guru Rinpoche visited.

Max. Altitude: 3,690m / 11,635ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local lodge and Tea house

It is comparatively shorter descending trek days than previous hikes that begin with an organic hearty breakfast to reach Sermanthang via the picturesque quaint habitats of Sherpa people in Gangual, making a way through dense forest and ravine before reaching Chumik. 

The journey continues from Chumik, taking in all the tranquil scenery and unspoiled views of the massive snow-capped mountain ranges such as Everest, Langtang, Rowling, and Gosaikunda until you arrive at the local tea house of Sermanthang to call it a day.

Max. Altitude: 3,690m / 11,635ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local lodge and Tea house

On the sixth day, the trek to Melamchi Bazar begins with a descent through meadows and rice fields, passing through small towns like Nigle, Gyalsha, and Raithani Yang. Kakani and Thimbu are dotted between the pine forest and are noteworthy enough to get some clicks in your lens.

The trek then descends to the aesthetic old town of Melamchu Pul Bazar, marked by mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags. The destination is reached in 4-5 hours and has direct access to the roadway to the Valley of Kathmandu.

Max. Altitude: 2,590m / 8,715ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Local lodge and Tea house

The iconic trek to Helambu ends this day as you board a local bus, private jeep, or tourist bus back to Kathmandu in about 2 hours of driving while grasping all the scenery that the hills and mountains of Nepal have to offer. 

The first half of the trip is on a dirt road that appears asphalt on reaching Dhulikhel after an hour that passes by Banepa, and Bhaktapur, stopping at Kathmandu around in the afternoon to later on explore the city, shopping for some souvenirs, and enjoying the incredible nightlife of Thamel. Enjoy the complimentary dinner in the evening with your teammates, hosted by us.

Max. Altitude: 2,590m / 8,715ftMeal: Breakfast- DinnerAccommodation: Three-Star-Hotel
Customize Trip
Trip Service Details
Included
  • Three-star standard accommodation in Kathmandu. 
  • Cozy lodging during the trek as per the itinerary.
  • Local bus, jeep, or private car fees used during the trek
  • All three meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner en route to Helambu. 
  • Trekking map and professional guide
  • Personal insurance for Nepalese staff including all guides and porters along with necessary trekking gear and equipment for them. 
  • Garbage deposit and other necessary fees.
  • All permits, such as the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card and the Langtang National Park Permit,.
Excluded
  • International and domestic flight tickets to and from Kathmandu
  • High-altitude travel insurance in case of an accident, medical emergency, or emergency evacuation. 
  • Lunch, dinner, and extra-night accommodation in Kathmandu that is outside of the itinerary. 
  • Personal expenses such as drinks, souvenir shopping, phone calls, and internet data.
  • Porter can carry a combined weight of 25 kg that can be shared between two trekkers. 
  • Guide and Porter Trek tips are much appreciated.
Dates & Availability
Starts:November 25, 2024Ends:December 01, 2024
PriceUS$625
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Additional Info

Why keep your expectations for Food, Accommodation, Drinking Water, Communication, and Charging devices service realistic during the Helambu Trek?

In comparison to some well-traveled Himalayan routes, such as the Everest Base Camp, the trekking trail to Helambu is remote with limited infrastructure, which mainly consists of a basic tea and guest house serving the best available at the time, along with drinking water and electronic device charging services. 

Normally, these Himalayan lodges opened by locals inhabiting the Helmabu area serve Nepali to Tibetan dishes that are simple yet filling and rich in nutrients, providing you with shared or private rooms to rest for the night where you can refill boiled water, sometimes for free or at some additional cost. 

It goes the same for the WiFi and device charging as well, while the connectivity of the internet is quite unsure whether it is going to be stable or not, along with its availability as soon as you hit more rural parts of Helambu; hence, we recommend you get an Ncell or NTC Sim Card in Kathmandu to connect to your loved ones on receiving the signals.

Hence, it is good to appreciate the modern amenities to the fullest that you are getting to enjoy on the route to Helambu, which are considered privileged for locals on the trail which has remained as a mysterious land to several travelers and trekkers around the world. 

When is the best time to expedite Helambu?

No wonder spring and autumn during March, April, May, September, October, and November boast of being the most suitable time of the year to visit the Helambu region as usual to some of the other famous long and strenuous Himalayan treks such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Manaslu Circuit Expedition, and others. 

While undoubtedly the summer season and winter are also ideal for treks to Helambu, it is important to be accurately geared, keep extra consideration on weather, and pack as the summer or monsoon can rain cats and dogs, exposing you to slippery and landslide-prone trails, while the temperature during the winter can drop to sub-zero. 

What are the permits required to go for a cultural voyage to Helambu?

As the nine-day fulfilling cultural and natural odyssey to Helambu enters the protected land of the Langtang National Park of Nepal, you will have to obtain two essential entrance permits, which are the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card and the Langtang National Park Permit. 

These permits are regulated by the government of Nepal itself, firstly to secure the travel of trekkers in the region, provide aid in need, and contribute to the regional conservation project as well. 

Hence, it is advisable to be permitted as a responsible trekker and to obtain the necessary TIMS card and Langtang National Park Permit, which are issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), that can be arranged by any authorized travel and trekking operators of the country, including Ammonite Adventure and Treks Pvt. Ltd. 

How difficult is the Helambu Trek?

The thrilling hike to the Helambu is taken as a moderately difficult walk, although comparatively in the lower Himalayan region, that does not exceed the altitude gain of more than 3,690m or 11,635ft at Tharepati, which still involves notable loss and gain in elevation simultaneously requiring a reasonable level of fitness whether you are a well-sharp mountaineer, a technical trekker, or a novice traveler journeying for the first time to the Himalayas of Nepal. 

With that being said, acute mountain sickness or altitude sickness can still be a concern for some travelers; therefore, it is essential to maintain pace while hiking steep ascents and descents, along with proper acclimatization and hydration on the way to Helambu. 

Do you need to hire a guide or porter for the Helambu Trek?

Nepal banned Free Individual Trekking (FITS) on April 1, 2023, while Helambu, a hidden gem in the Himalayas, offers a pristine, solitude experience for solo or group trips. Adding guides and porters simplifies the journey and offers a more hassle-free experience.

In general, the guides of Nepal are well-versed individuals in the Himalayan local terrain, landscapes, culture, and traditions who can effortlessly manage all the crucial travel and trek logistics, including the ones necessary for the Helambu exploration. 

Hence, hiring a guide and a porter is a must to make the most of your adventurous and cultural journey to Helmabu, whether you are venturing the land with a group or hoping for a solo jaunting.

FAQs

Yes, by hiring one of the government-licensed professional guides, travelers and trekkers seeking a more isolated and intimate experience of journeying to the Helmabu in the Langtang region of Nepal can go on a solo expedition.

Yes, the chances of getting single or private rooms at comparatively lowly elevated tea houses and local lodges are high, while the chances of finding a room to use for yourself can be limited on the highland.

On trekking in the Helambu region, you will get to enjoy the breathtaking views of several mythical mountains in the Langtang region, such as Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpe, Jugal Himal, Rowling Himal, Ganesh Himal, and Gaurishankar. In a few sections, it gives you a glimpse at the world's top peak, Mt. Everest (8,848m).

Amazingly, yes, you would be able to see the top of the world, Mt. Everest (8,848 m), during the trek to Helambu. Although it seems to play hide and seek, teasing you playfully during the journey, it is actually visible from several stopovers on the way to Helambu.

The highest altitude gain you will experience while trekking to Helambu is at 3,690m above sea level in Tharepati, which has the most stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, valley below, and nature at its finest.

It is highly advisable to get travel insurance before embarking on the Helambu Trek, which legally might not be mandatory but is a reliable trek companion to ensure the most enjoyable journey without having to be concerned about financial protection or emergency occurrences.

Unfortunately, we do not offer any sort of travel insurance regarding any of our trips to the Helambu region or any other trekking region of the Himalayas of Nepal. However, it is recommended to get one from one of your locally based insurance agents so it is easier for you to hold them liable.

Although the water from taps or natural resources such as streams, rivers, and waterfalls appears to be drinkable, it can be contaminated, so it is not suggested to drink it directly. In the urgent occurrence of having to cough, make sure to purify or keep refilling boiled water at different stopping tea houses and local lodges.

Yes, several tea houses and locally based lodges do serve international cuisine, including pizzas and burgers, by using what is available; hence, the taste might be different from what you have been used to, but it is delicious to satisfy your cravings, while the menu might get restricted to classic Nepali and Tibetan menus on reaching a significant altitude.

Ecotravel is our main motto; hence, we recommend you get some woolen pads beforehand to begin the trekking in the Helambu region so you can reuse them rather than using regular pads that can increase the amount of litter against sustainable travel and tourism.