Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Lodge Trek

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

3650 m.

Transportation

Private Vehicle

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring & Autumn

Duration

8 Days

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Helambu trek, lies just north of Kathmandu, is one of the most accessible trekking trails in Nepal. The word Helambu derives from the term Hyolmo, used to denote the local settlers. Hyolmo community is also called the Sherpas of Helambu.

Helambu region is replete with terraced slopes, green valleys and dense forests of oak, rhododendrons and pines with the back drop of the majestic Himalayan mountains. It is famous for its sweet apples. The trail offers splendid views of Langtang ranges.

Helambu is home of the Hyolmo, who are popular for their hospitality. While on trek you will be able to enjoy typical culture and lifestyle of Nepali people. It would be fascinating to watch the farmers toil in the fields still using their hand-made tools and water buffaloes. The area has numerous Buddhist monasteries such that it is regarded as a Buddhist pilgrimage site.

Helambu is primarily a low altitude and short trek near Kathmandu Valley. The maximum altitude gained during the trek is about 3650m. Since the Helambu region begins at Sundarijal and ascends to Tharepati and descend to Melamchi valley, there are many trekking variations you can choose from. For instance, you can also continue trekking to Gosainkunda or Langtang valley. Along with Sundarijal, Nagarkot, Kakani, Melamchi Pul Bazaar or Sankhu are some of the other well-known starting points for this trek.

Those looking for extended days of adventure can trek to Langtang Valley and Gosainkunda before heading towards Helambu. Another option is to trek Langtang Valley and head further towards Helambu via Ganja La Pass.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition offers varied itineraries in this region so as to suit your time, interests and budget.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Day 1 : Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.

Food

Welcome Drink

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

Guest Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be received by our airport representative and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, you can take a stroll around and visit local shops. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal (1350m) takes about one hour and then trek to Chisapani which takes about four hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2430

After morning breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal (1350m) takes about one hour and then trek to Chisapani which takes about four hours. Climb off at Sundarijal bus station and begin your trek through Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve. Stop at Mulkharka village for lunch and thereafter ascend to Borlang Bhanjyang (2430m) then drop down to Chisapani (2215m). Chisapani offers magnificent views of Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal Himal, Gauri Shankar, Everest and many other mountains. You can also enjoy beautiful sunrise and sunset from Chisapani.

Stay overnight at lodge

Day 3 : Trek from Chisapani to Kutumsang (2446m.) takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2620

Trek from Chisapani to Kutumsang (2446m.) takes about seven hours. The trail from Chisopani goes on a leveled trail crossing a meadow. You will presently arrive at Pati Bhanjyang after which the trail makes steep climb to the ridge of Chipling where lunch will be served. Later descend to Gul Bhanjyang (2620m) for 1 hr followed by 2 hrs uphill climb to arrive at Kutumsang. This is a culturally rich Sherpa settlement.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 4 : Trek from Kutumsang to Melamchi Gaon (2640m) via Tharepati Pass (3600m) takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3600

Trek from Kutumsang to Melamchi Gaon (2640m) via Tharepati Pass (3600m) takes about seven hours. Wake up early for warm breakfast, then start today’s trek. Pass through army checkpost then prepare for a 4 hrs climb along forested path to reach Magen Goth, which is a lunch spot. After lunch we go uphill for one and a half hours to Tharepati enjoying views of Langtang, Rolwaling, Gauri Shankar etc. From Tharepati onwards, the trail gradually descends to Melamchi Gao, a beautiful valley surrounded by beautiful forests. The inhabitants of Melamchi Gaon are Sherpa people with their distinctive Buddhist culture.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 5 : Trek from Melamchi Gaon to Tarkeghyang (2700m) takes about four hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2700

Trek from Melamchi Gaon to Tarkeghyang (2700m) takes about four hours. After breakfast we trek two hours down through bushes and streams to Tarkado village. Another 2 hrs trek will take us to Tarkeghyang where we will have lunch. There is an old Buddhist monastery in Tarkeghyang which got damaged in 2015 earthquake. Go for village exploration.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 6 : Trek from Tarkeghyang to Shermathang (2590m) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2590

Trek from Tarkeghyang to Shermathang (2590m) takes about five hours. The trek travels through forested path, a mix of ups and downs, till you reach Shermathang. Shermathang is a Sherpa settlement situated in the middle of a forest. From Shermathang you can catch view of the Langtang Himalayan range.

Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 7 : Trek from Shermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar (846m.) takes approximately 3 hours and then drive back to Kathmandu which takes about 4 hours.

Food

Breakfast & Lunch

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

1400

Trek from Shermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar (846m.) takes approximately 3 hours and then drive back to Kathmandu which takes about 4 hours. The trail gradually descends all the way to Melamchi Pul Bazaar through meadows and cultivated fields. On the way, you come across several old villages and greeted by pleasant views of mountains.

You will also get to interact with friendly locals. Finally, take a short drive back to Kathmandu from Melamchi Pul Bazaar.

Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 8 : Departure

Food

Breakfast

As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.

What Is Included ?

a) Kathmandu

Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
2 night hotel accommodation with breakfast
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening

b) Trekking

Trekking guide
One porter for every 2 trekking participants (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Accommodation in teahouses (lodges) during the trek
Trekking equipment: Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags and trekking poles
Entry permits for Shivapuri National Park and Langtang National Park
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card
Land transportation from Kathmandu to Sundarijal by private vehicle and Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu by bus/jeep
Insurance and equipment for all guides and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT and our service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency while trekking in mountains, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must have insurance from a reliable international travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)

What Is Excluded?

Personal nature expenses (Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers and any alcoholic beverages)
Travel insurance
Tips for involved staffs
Meals and hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (applicable even in case of early arrival or late departure or early return from trekking due to any unforeseen or personal reason, breaking from the scheduled itinerary)

Helambu Trek Altitude Profile

FAQs

The Helambu Trek is considered easy to moderate in difficulty. It doesn’t involve extremely high altitudes or technical climbing, making it suitable for beginners and families. However, it still includes some steep ascents and descents, so a basic level of fitness is helpful. The maximum altitude is around 3,600 meters at Tharepati, which makes altitude sickness unlikely but still something to be mindful of.

The trek typically takes 6 to 8 days, depending on your pace, entry point, and whether you combine it with other routes like Langtang or Gosainkunda. A popular itinerary is Sundarijal – Chisapani – Kutumsang – Tharepati – Melamchi Gaon – Tarkeghyang – Sermathang – Melamchi Bazaar. Some travelers finish early in Tarkeghyang or extend toward the Langtang Valley.

The best times to trek in Helambu are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer the best weather: clear skies, moderate temperatures, and great views. Spring is ideal for rhododendron blooms, while autumn provides dry trails and crisp mountain air. The trek is also possible in winter (December to February) since it doesn’t go too high, but it can get chilly. Monsoon season (June to August) is the least ideal due to leeches and muddy trails.

Yes, the Helambu Trek is one of the best treks in Nepal for beginners. It doesn’t require previous trekking experience or climbing skills. The trails are well-marked, villages are frequent, and the elevations are safe for most people. Beginners should still prepare by doing regular walking or hiking in the weeks leading up to the trek.

You’ll need:

Langtang National Park Entry Permit
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Shivapuri National Park Entry Permit.

The highest point is Tharepati Pass, which stands at around 3600 meters (11,800 feet). From here, you get incredible views of the Langtang Himalayas, Dorje Lakpa, and even parts of the Jugal range. The altitude is not extreme, but the climb to Tharepati can be steep and cold, especially in early mornings.

Helambu stands out because of its:

Proximity to Kathmandu (quick access)
Lower altitudes (reduced risk of AMS)
Unique Hyolmo Buddhist culture
Peaceful environment with fewer tourists
Combination of forest, farmland, and mountain views

It offers a deeper cultural interaction and slower pace compared to the more commercial treks like Everest or Annapurna.

The Helambu region is home to the Hyolmo people, an ethnic group with Tibetan Buddhist heritage. You'll encounter monasteries, chortens, prayer flags, mani walls, and traditional wooden houses. The locals are warm and welcoming, and it’s common to see monks and nuns in the villages. This trek is as much a cultural journey as it is a scenic one, offering insight into authentic rural Himalayan life.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Helambu trek. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.

Additional Information

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.

General Items:

Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

Clothing Items:

Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff

Sun-worn Items:

Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

Gadgets:

Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),

Liquid/Snacks:

Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

Medical Essentials:

First Aid Kit

Optional:

Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc

Additional items for camping trek:

Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.

Client Reviews

Rachel, Warren,Ruby Jez and Louie Mclennan

Australia

It flowed perfectly

Dear Nava & Krishna,
Thank you for organizing our trek to Langtang Valley. It flowed perfectly. We loved the beautiful region but it was all enhanced by Krishna’s friendliness and knowledge. What a lovely caring man.

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Martin

Canada

The Helambu trekking was a wonderful experience

The Helambu trekking was a wonderful experience. Everything we wanted was there. See the country side, meet people in the village and share some great moment. But the most wonderful of all was our guide “HARI KRISHNA”. He made everything...

perfect for us, he is a big man with great heart and he knows many things of his own country. Thank for everything and we will come back again for many reason!

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