Helambu Trek - Nearest Trek from Kathmandu
- DestinationNepal
- Duration9 days
- Trip DifficultyEasy to Moderate
- ActivitiesTrekking
- AccommodationHotel/Guesthouse
- MealsInclusive
- Max. Elevation3771m.
- Group SizeMin. 2 Pax
- Best TimeJan - May & Sept- Dec
Trip Overview
Helambu Trek in Langtang is a fascinating journey through the culturally rich Helambu region. This is one of the short Nepal treks near Kathmandu Valley. As the trail is less traveled, you can have a tranquil trekking experience. The trek takes you to peaceful green landscapes, authentic villages, and stunning Himalayan views.
During the trek, you pass through the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, rich in wildlife. Starting your journey through the park Helambu trek gives you a serene beginning. Through the park, traverse the trails that wind through lush rhododendrons, pine, oak, and bamboo forests.
As you move forward, catch an authentic glimpse into the lives of the Hyolmo, Tamang, and Sherpa people inhabiting the area. Immerse yourself in the traditional Hyolmo culture. Visit long-standing Buddhist monasteries rich in history along the picturesque settlements of the Helambu region.
Travel while witnessing distant mountain views of the Langtang, Dorje Lhakpa, Gaurisankhar, and Jugal Himal ranges. Get an unforgettable 360-degree panoramic view of the stunning Himalayas from Ama Yangri (3,771), the rising viewpoint. This is the highest point of the Trek and has spiritual value for the local Hyolmo people.
Top 10 Highlights of Helambu Trek
- Take a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, the starting point of the trek.
- Explore the Shivapuri National Park and immerse yourself in the lush green nature.
- Get a gorgeous panoramic glimpse of Mount Langtang range from Chisapani.
- Interact with the culturally rich Tamang and Sherpa people of the Kutumsang village.
- Conquer a pass at an altitude of 3,690m, Thadepati Pass, with stunning views of the Dorje Lhakpa, Langshisa, and Gaurisankhar peaks.
- Encounter the first beautiful settlement encountered during the Helambu trail, Melamchi Gaon.
- Immerse yourself in the Hyolmo culture, ancient monasteries, and their unique way of living.
- Visit the hidden old-aged monasteries in the Tarkeghyang, one of the largest settlements during the trek.
- Get memorable rewards through the popular viewpoint and the spiritual heart of the region, Ama Yangri (3,771m)
- Explore the Shermathang village, known for its apple orchards. You can also get good views of the Jugal and Ganesh Himal ranges from here.
Route Overview
Trekking to Helambu journey begins with your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Here, one of the introductory guides from the Nepal Hiking Team welcomes you and assists you throughout the hotel procedure. The guide provides a short briefing on the following Helambu trekking trip.
First, you drive for an hour to reach Sundarijal, where the trek in the Helambu region begins. From here, you make your way toward Chisapani on foot. Further, ascending to new heights, you pass by small villages like Kutumsang and Tharipati to reach two major villages of the Helambu region.
The first village is Melamchi Gaon, and the second is the larger town of Tarkeghyang. This is the place where the cultural element of the trek glows. Explore the spiritually valuable monasteries in Tarkeghyang. After that, you hike to the famous viewpoint of the Helambu region, Ama Yangri.
After that, you descend to the final village stop of the Helambu region, Sermathang. Then, you take a final drive to Kathmandu and the departure flight the next day, ending this wonderful journey.
Best Time for Helambu Trek
The Trek in Helambu showers you with cultural experiences and, at the same time, allows you to indulge in nature in just nine days.
You can relish this Trek all year, with each season bringing its unique character. Spring (March-May) in Nepal brings the bloom of the rhododendron forest, gushing mountain streams, and comfortable weather. It is one of the perfect times for the hike.
Autumn (September-November) is another popular time to hike in this region. This is a classic trekking season in Nepal, thanks to its cool breezes, clear weather, and stunning mountain views.
Unlike other treks, the Helambu trek can also be enjoyed in winter (December-February) due to its relatively low altitude. You can capture scenic photographs of villages dusted in snow, and the mountains look more impressive than ever in winter. Monsoons (June-August), however, bring slightly more challenges because of their heavy rainfall.
We, the Nepal Hiking Team, strongly suggest you trek Helambu in the autumn and spring for a comfortable trekking experience in Nepal!
Alternative Adventures
If this trek doesn’t sound appealing to you, don’t worry! We provide a variety of treks for your comprehensive view while choosing the trek.
First, we have the Langtang Valley Trek. It is a 10-day journey that takes you to explore the beautiful Langtang Valley. On this trek, you primarily interact with people from the Tamang ethnic group and have the opportunity to hear their untold stories. This is an inspirational journey in the Himalayas, with the resilient stories of the region.
Next, we have Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. This 16-day trek gives you a whole circular experience of the Langtang region. It combines the expertise of three beautiful destinations, i.e., Langtang Valley, Helambu, and Gosaikunda Lake. This trek provides a perfect opportunity for trekkers who want a profound experience for an extended time.
Regardless of the trek you choose, we’ll be sure to make it an unforgettable journey. And if you want to customize the itinerary. Please freely contact us!
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu
Today, as you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, an introductory guide from the Nepal Hiking Team welcomes you, transfers you to the hotel, and briefly describes the overall Helambu trip.
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal and trek to Chisapani
After fortifying yourself with a hearty breakfast, you’ll leave your hotel this morning to transfer by private vehicle to the town of Sundarijal. The route takes just an hour and is essentially contiguous with Kathmandu. It’s all on foot from Sundarijal, where your path rises steeply near a small hydroelectric plant. You’re now approaching the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a formally protected watershed and wildlife reserve. As you leave the urban environment of Kathmandu behind, you’ll be amazed by how quickly you find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and rural fields.
The first settlement we’ll come across is called Mulkharka; its residents are mostly of Tamang background, and the village is a popular destination for day hikers who want to spend an afternoon away from the city. There are also some trickling waterfalls coursing through large boulders in the forest here that are sure to please nature lovers. Continuing past Mulkharka, you’ll traverse a wooded ridge of oak and rhododendron and arrive at Chisapani after about four hours on the trail.
Day 03: Chisapani to Kutumsang
Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise; on a clear day, you can take in a gorgeous panorama of the Langtang Himal range from here in Chisapani. After breakfast, you begin the trek to Kutumsang. Your route today takes about seven hours, descending to cross scenic meadows and fields on the approach to the little villages of Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang.
Then it’s back to climbing: you’ll ascend along a ridge leading to today’s high point, a pass at approximately 2,620 meters. As you hike, look for intricately carved mani stones along the path.
These carvings represent sacred Buddhist mantras, and passing them on to the left is considered appropriate. Today’s hike ends when you reach the town of Kutumsang, a village of traditionally built homes and hillsides shrouded in mist. You can obtain exceptional views of Dorje Lhakpa’s pyramidal summit from here.
Day 04: Kutumsang to Thadepati
This portion passes through a forest of fir and rhododendrons as it climbs to the Yurin Danda ridge. From this excellent viewpoint, you’ll enjoy remarkable panoramas of the Langtang Himal and the high-altitude Gosaikunda Pass.
After you take some photographs, you descend gradually to pass by an army checkpoint near the densely wooded region of Magengoth.
This is a beautiful part of the trail, and it’s a good place to take a break before making the final ascent to Tharepati. A clear day in Tharepati will reward you with a good look at the distant peaks of Dorje Lhakpa, Gaurishankar, and several other Himalayan giants.
Day 05: Thadepati to Tarkeghyang
Today’s trek takes you through two major villages of the Helambu region. After breakfast, you begin a long, steep descent to the first village, Melamchi Gaon. This is a spreading community with many houses draped with prayer flags, vast pastures with occasional grazing horses, and a colorful Gompa, or monastery.
Then, the path ascends through scattered Sherpa settlements as it approaches Tarkeghyang. Several large stupas and an essential monastery in Tarkegyang represent the Helambu Trek's cultural elements. This village is a spiritual center of the Helambu region.
Day 06: Tarkeghyang to Ama Yang Ri and Return to Tarkeghyang
Today is a special day of this trek as you hike toward the spiritual treasure of the region, Ama Yangri Peak. This is the highest point you reach in this journey. As you ascend towards the point, you can see the colorful prayer flags ornamenting the area.
Here, you can find a Gompa, beautifully preserved with the Hyolmo people's faith. The area provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the mountains if the weather is clear. The visible mountains are Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Kinsung Himal, and distant Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.
Ama: Mother watching over a village like her own child
Yang: Laxmi (Goddess of wealth)
Gri: Peak or a hill
Day 07: Tarkeghyang to Shermathang
After the steep ups and downs of the last few days, today’s trek is comparatively easier. After that, you hike for about four hours to reach the town of Shermathang, but the path is mainly flat and passes through Lush forest.
Keep an eye out for mani walls and chortens along this route as you hike through the smaller villages of Parachin and Gangal. You cross some small streams along the way before catching a glimpse of the Melamchi Khola River valley to the south.
Shermathang is widely known for its apple orchards, widely spaced homes, and ancient monasteries. Stroll around town and enjoy good views of the Jugal and Ganesh Himal ranges.
Day 08: Shermathang- Melamchi Pul Bazaar –Kathmandu
After enjoying a leisurely breakfast in Shermathang, you begin hiking by descending past rice fields and vast, grassy meadows. You cross a few bridges and pass through small villages dotted with chortens and mani walls as you approach the Sherpa village of Melamchi Pul Bazaar.
There are several guesthouses here, sometimes used by trekkers doing the Trek in reverse. From here, you drive back to Kathmandu and take a final glimpse of the rolling hills and terraced agricultural fields of Nepal’s green countryside.
When you arrive back in the city, take some time to check back into your hotel and relax: you’ve completed the Helambu Trek!
Day 09: Farewell
Your trekking adventure with the Nepal Hiking Team has ended, and it’s time to bid a fond farewell to Kathmandu.
A designated member takes you back to Tribhuvan International Airport about three hours before the scheduled departure of your outgoing flight.
We trust you’ve enjoyed your holiday in Nepal, and we can’t wait to welcome you back next time!
Cost Includes
- All ground transportation by private vehicle including airport transfers
- Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
- Seasonal fruits during the trek
- One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people), and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
- Duffle bag for the trekking
- Down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek
- Nepal Hiking Team T-shirt, trekking map, and trip achievement certificate
- First aid medical kit
- Langtang National Park Permits fee
- TIMS Fee- Trekkers' Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
- Government taxes & office service charge
Cost Excludes
- Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
- Travel Insurance
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa
- Drinks (hot and cold), snacks, and other personal expenses
- Hot shower during the trek
- Personal trekking equipment
- Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers
Trip FAQS
Hyolomo Cultural and Spiritual Aspects of Helambu
What role does a Hyolmo culture play in the Helambu region?
Hyolmo culture represents the spiritual and cultural identity of the Helambu region. The Tibetan Buddhism highly influences the culture. People inhabiting the area are also known as Yolmo or the Helambu Sherpa, and they have lived there for centuries. They have well-preserved their Languages, traditions, and Buddhist heritage.
Authentic villages, culture, and their way of living are the backbone of tourism in the region. This promotes cultural preservation and sustainable livelihood of the locals. Prevailing festivals, rituals, and daily life give the trekkers an authentic experience.
Visits in the monasteries, interaction, and participation in the cultures make the journey more than a physical adventure. This gives a serene ambiance with the spiritual retreat along the trek.
Does this trek in Helambu provide an opportunity for spiritual retreats or meditation along the trail?
The Helambu Trek provides ample opportunity for spiritual retreats or meditation along the trails. The locals of the area are believed to be deeply connected to nature and their inner selves. There are various caves along the trail believed to be used for meditation long ago.
While trekking, you can find many old monasteries with deep spiritual values. The serene landscape, sounds of the fluttering flags, and chillness of the environment create an excellent place for spiritual retreats.
A village like Tarkeghyang along the route is known for its historic monasteries and strong ambiance. Also, Ama Yangri, just above the town, provides a perfect environment for meditation. Surrounded by the mysterious Himalayas from the distance, peace, and the flowing energy of local faith, it is the ideal retreat.
What is the spiritual importance of Ama Yangri Peak?
Hyolmo people have rich cultural, Historical, and spiritual values toward Ama Yangri Peak. The peak is a sacred site for the local Yolmo inhabitants. This is also the highest point, with 3,771m in the region trekking.
The point stands for the best viewpoint and spiritual retreat area. Hyolmo people believe that the Yangri peak is a protecting deity of the village. It is associated with Buddhist beliefs, with stupa for the rituals and meditations.
This point also offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic vistas around it. The combination of natural, spiritual, and cultural beauty is what Ama Yangri serves the trekkers and the local people.
Trekking Experience for Helambu
Is the Helambu trek suitable for families with children or older trekkers?
Yes, this short and easy trekking in Helambu suits families with children and old trekkers. It is near Nepal's capital, making it easily reachable while saving time. Daily walking hours are manageable, offering a comfortable journey with proper rest time.
Gradual ascents, less physically demanding trails, and lower altitude make it doable for any trekkers. Furthermore, the trek passes through the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, rich in Flora and Fauna. This perfectly blends cultural, Natural, and interactive short trekking adventures. This serves as an ideal choice for family adventure overall.
Also, the accommodation along the route provides comfortable facilities with an attached bathroom. With this, children and old trekkers can avoid the hassle of compromising. Families can participate and interact with the locals during the trek, enhancing the experience. With the region's cultural aspects, this trek is more children and old trekker friendly.
The Helambu trek provides a perfect alternative to the commercialized trails of Nepal. How?
Unlike the commercialized routes of Nepal, Helambu stands for its authentic trekking experience. The path is less traveled as the region's value is hidden behind shadows of the popular routes. With this, the area holds unspoiled natural beauty, an off-beaten path, and a serene environment.
Fewer trekkers mean more opportunities to experience the true essence of nature. The villages along the route have traditional charm and provide local culinary delights. The landscapes around each village are serene and peaceful.
For those seeking a trekking experience that offers solitude, cultural richness, and natural beauty, this trekking provides an exclusive offer.
Natural Beauty and Wildlife in Helambu
How does Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park enhance the Helambu Trip?
The Shivapuri National Park significantly enhances the journey in Helambu. The park allows trekkers to explore the pristine natural beauty from the beginning of the trip. The area holds a wide variety of exciting Flora and Fauna.
You might encounter animals like Himalayan Back Bears, Red Panda, Langur monkeys, Barking Deer, leopards, and other animals. For a birdwatcher, the area is a treasure box as it shelters more than 300 species of birds.
You pass through the dense pine, rhododendrons, oak, and bamboo forest. As a gateway to the Helambu region, making a great transition from the city to a serene landscape. This offers admirable appreciation for the nearest national park efforts and natural heritage.
Logistics and Travel in Helambu Trek
What is the mode of Transportation for this Helambu Trip?
To ensure the comfortability of each trekker, we provide private vehicles for both ways. This allows travelers to have a more personalized experience. You will travel in a private vehicle before and after the Helambu Trekking.
Can I join a group for this package? Is the departure guaranteed after the trip is booked?
Yes, you can join a group for the Helambu Trek Package. However, it depends on whether the trekkers will join the adventure.
Once the trip is booked, regardless of the group size, departure is guaranteed. We provide an assured guarantee for all the booked trips.
Are there any extra costs for the private trip?
There are no extra costs for a private Helambu Trek if you have two or more members. The cost-inclusive services mentioned on the package do not require any fees.
However, the cost can vary for solo travelers depending on the situation. Please review the price catalog or contact our team directly for the required information on the costs!
How to reach Helambu from Kathmandu?
You can reach Helambu by driving to Sundarijal in a private or public vehicle, which is the starting point of the trek. After that, start trekking through the Sivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Pass by the Chisapani, Kutumsang, and Thadepati villages, and then enter Helambu. The villages there include Melamchi gaon, Terkeghyang, and Sermathang.
Note: According to our itinerary, we provide private vehicle service in the Helambu package for both ways. This gives you a personalized and comfortable experience.
Cost and Date
Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.
The Helambu Trek - Nearest Trek from Kathmandu set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the 9 days Helambu Trek - Nearest Trek from Kathmandu departure dates don’t fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.
Travellers‘ Reviews
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
Highest praise for Nepal Hiking Team
I highly recommend the Nepal Hiking Team for anyone planning to trek in Nepal. My spouse and I had a fantastic time on our trek and greatly credit our positive experience to the thought and care put into it by Nepal Hiking Team in coming up with a personalized plan that would enable us to succeed.
Every detail was considered to match us based on our abilities and interests. We also could not have felt more cared for minute to minute by the team that supported us from the minute we arrived in Kathmandu until our departure.
Our guide, Nim, was amazing -- so careful, thoughtful, warm, and supportive. And our porters, Sabin and Ganesh, were delightful. They were all unbelievably generous in terms of how much they worked to ensure we were comfortable and prepared. They thought of every detail along the way.
- Guided By Nim Dahal