Are you searching for short treks that lie near the capital city? Then the Helambu Trekking brought to you by Exciting Nepal is a great choice. This is a popular short trek that is pretty close to Kathmandu Valley.
Helambu is the village on the highlands of Nepal in the Sindhupalchowk district. It is located 80 km away from the capital city Kathmandu. This region borders up with Rasuwa district near the holy Gosaikunda Lakes.
Even though the Langtang Helambu trekking routes are close to the capital the trails are unspoiled making the journey quite remarkable. This trek is considered a part of the Langtang region.
Many trekkers that trek in the Langtang region add Helambu Trekking in their list for side trek. The routes are less crowded giving out the best scenic views of landscapes and mountain ranges throughout the way.
The Helambu region is home for many ethnic communities such as Tamang, Sherpa. But the majority of people living in this region belong to the Hyolmo Community.
Hyolmos are the native people that have been residing in this region for a very long time. They have their own culture and tradition that is highly influenced by the Tibetans.
You will be astounded by the warm hospitality provided by the people of this region. The valley offers many ancient monasteries and is renowned for its sweet apple orchards.
Usually, Helambu trek takes about 5 to 8 days of your busy schedule. However, this is a 10 days Langtang Helambu Trekking itinerary in which the first two days you arrive at Kathmandu and visit many attraction sites. And will be trekking the Helambu region for the remaining 8 days.
After arriving Kathmandu you tour the city for a day then begin your journey on the third day of this package. You drive towards Sundarijal from Kathmandu and hike till Chisapani where you will be staying for the night.
The next day you head towards Gul Bhanjyang viewing beautiful scenic landscapes and mountain peaks and call it a night there. After that, you begin your trek to Tharapati where you stay for the night.
Following day you head towards Tarke Gyang from Tharapati taking many up and downhill walks. Then you head towards Shermathang and rest there for this day.
From Shermathang you walk in the trails that lead to Talamarang and stay there for the night. You again begin your journey to Melamitse Bazaar from where you return back to Kathmandu ending your trek.
On this trek, you will be able to see many snowy mountain peaks that preside over the 6000 m height such as Dorje Lakpa, Bhrami, Langtang ranges, etc.
Also, you will be walking through beautiful forests viewing various floras and faunas such as Rhododendron, pines, oaks, Bamboo, Himalayan Tar, musk deer, and many more.
This trek ranges in between the elevation of 800 to 3600 m which is considered a moderate level trek.
Excited to go on this trek then pack your bags as Exciting Nepal takes through an adventurous journey exploring the beautiful Helambu region.
Highlights of Langtang Helambu Trekking
- Explore the unspoiled routes
- View many peaks above 6000 m
- Tibetan influenced culture and tradition
- Visit ancient monasteries
- The lifestyle of Himalayan people
- Experience warm welcomes and hospitality
- Beautiful forests of flora and fauna
Helambu Trekking Elevation Chart
Best time to visit Langtang Helambu Trekking
Nepal has four different seasons that you can choose from to plan your trek in the Helambu region. Usually Autumn and Spring is the best time to visit Helambu trekking.
Autumn and Spring Season
Autumn and Spring seasons are considered the best time for trekking in the Helambu region. These seasons are the peak season for Langtang Helambu Trekking. During these seasons the routes are packed with travelers from all around the world.
The Autumn season begins from the months of September and ends in November while the Spring season begins from the month of March and ends in May. The skies are clear giving out the best view of Mountain peaks throughout the way.
Also, the lush green forest filled with colorful flowers of Rhododendron and trees of Oak, Pines, etc will make your trek remarkable. During these months, if you are lucky you can also get a glimpse of various wildlife such as Himalayan tar, musk deer, etc.
Winter Season
Winter season is the off-season time for trekking in the Helambu region. During this season the weather and temperature are very cold making the walk challenging.
But the crystal clear sky gives the best view of magnificent mountains covered in snow. Also, the routes are less crowded compared to the peak season. So, trekking during this time gives you privacy as well.
Winter season begins in the month of December and ends in February. If you can handle the cold then these are the best months to visit Helambu trekking.
Don’t forget to carry extra warm clothes just in case.
Monsoon Season
Trekkers usually tend to avoid Monsoon season for trekking as this is the time for heavy rain showers. This season begins in the months of June and ends in August.
The routes are slippery and muddy so you should be careful while trekking in this season. Also, the rain clouds blur out the vision of mountain peaks which can be a disappointment.
However, it is during these months due to continuous rainfall new species of flora are found blooming throughout the paths. People trekking in these months are mostly researchers or botanists.
If you are planning your trek during this season then carry raincoats and sweaters as it can be chilly in higher altitude.
Langtang Helambu Trekking Difficulties
This trek is not that harsh compared to other treks available in Nepal. But still, some of the Helambu Trekking Difficulties you may face are as follow:
Helambu Trekking Routes
This is a short 10 days Helambu Trek that takes you on an amazing journey through traditional and cultural villages. The Helambu trekking routes are considered easy to moderate level trek.
Helambu trek can be done by both beginners and experienced trekkers. But the trek routes can be a bit harsh for a novice as they will be walking for about 5 to 6 hours each day. And the up and downhill walk can be quite exhausting if this is your first time.
However, you can complete the routes with ease if you have done proper physical training such as running, swimming, hikes, etc. While going on a trek it is better to have a fit body and peaceful mindset.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is always a major concern for trekkers as the oxygen is thin in high elevation which causes AMS. Thus, rest days are held in specific places to prevent them.
However, on this trek, the highest point you will be reaching is 3400 m above sea level. So, the chances of suffering from altitude sickness are low. However, few people might suffer from this.
If you suffer from symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, nausea, headache dizziness, etc inform your guide immediately. The more you hide it the worse it gets.
Similar trips you may like:
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
Day 02: Free and arrangement day
Day 03: Kathmandu to Sundarijal to Chisapani (2134 m).
Day 04: Chisapani to Gul Bhanjyang (2,180 m).
Day 05: Gul Bhanjyang to Tharapati (3,400 m).
Day 06: Tharapati to Tarkeghyang.
Day 07: Tarkeghyang to Shermathang (2,260 m).
Day 08: Shermathang to Talamarang (940 m).
Day 09: Talamarang to Melamchi Bazaar (830 m).
Day 10: Melamchi Bazaar to Kathmandu.
If you want a short itinerary, we can customize this itinerary.
Langtang Helambu Trekking Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
Maximum Altitude: 1400 m above sea level
Our representative will be waiting for you prior to your landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport. As you land they welcome you to our beautiful country and exchange greetings.
Then pick you up from the airport and drop you off at your hotel. After that, helping you check in to your rooms. The rest of the day is unplanned so you are free to do anything you want.
Stay the night in one of the hotels.
Day 02: Free and arrangement day
This is the second day of your trek when you will be visiting various attraction sites offered by the capital city. Kathmandu city has many UNESCO heritage sites you can visit in a day.
You wake up early and get ready for today’s Kathmandu tour. You will be visiting Pashupatinath the holy temple of Hindu religion where Lord Shiva resides. Boudhanath, a holy stupa of the Buddhist religion considered the biggest shrine in the world.
Swayambhunath is another Buddhist shrine that is one of the oldest monuments of Kathmandu. Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the royal palaces of Malla and Shah kings that showcases the spectacular skills of Newar Craftsmen over decades old. You also get to see the beautiful Kumari also known as the living goddess.
After a wonderful tour around the city, you will be dropped off at the hotel where your guide will give you a brief review of your Helambu Trekking.
You must be tried so you can rest and call it a night.
Day 03: Kathmandu to Sundarijal to Chisapani
Drive Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Trek Distance: 6.3 km
Maximum Altitude(Chisapani): 2134 m above sea level
On the third day of this package is when your journey begins. As you will be heading out of the Kathmandu valley towards Chisapani Via Sundarijal.
Waking up you pack your bags and wait for your guide to arrive at the estimated time. Then catch your transportation till Sundarijal as you pass through the mesmerizing Boudha stupa.
You begin your drive through busy roads surrounded by houses all around. But as you leave the city behind you can see open and large fields with fewer houses.
The greenery scenic views out the window look quite awesome. Viewing them you reach Sundarijal from where you begin your trek journey to Chisapani.
You begin your hike by slowly making an uphill climb in the routes via stone stairs till Shivapuri National Park. Walking in these routes you will see several beautiful waterfalls that accompany you throughout the way.
Entering the beautiful national park you make steep ascends in the trails till you reach Chisapani. This is a small village that is the center point for many other trekking routes in the Langtang Region.
This place gives out the best view of mountain ranges such as Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, etc. Also, the sunrise view over the Himalayas looks awesome from here.
You stay the night in one of the lodges for the night
Day 04: Chisapani to Gul Bhanjyang
Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Trek Distance: 12.9 km
Maximum Altitude: 2285 m above sea level
On the fourth day of your package, you will be heading towards Gul Bhanjayng from Chisapai which is a few hour’s walk.
You wake up early today to view the sunrise from between the hills shining its rays over the beautiful valley and mountain peaks. Taking some snaps you now head towards your day's destination.
Firstly, you descend the trails through dense forests till you reach Pati Bhanjyang which is mostly inhabited by Brahman’s and Chhetri’s. From there you follow a steep uphill trail to Chipling situated at an altitude of 2170 m above sea level.
From here it is about an hour and a half walk, as you make a slight climb through the stone staircases. Gul Bhanjyang is a small village situated at an altitude of 2285 m which is inhabited by the Tamang Community.
You stay in one of the tea houses for the night.
Day 05: Gul Bhanjyang to Tharapati
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3400 m above sea level
On the fifth day of your trek, you will be reaching the highest point of this package. This day’s walk is quite long as you will be heading towards Tharapati from Gul Bhanjyang via Langtang National Park.
Today is the most amazing day of your trek as you will be entering Langtang national park with great views surrounding you throughout the trek.
You begin your journey by making an uphill climb and entering the Langtang National Park. Walking in the forest trails filled with Juniper, Pine, Oaks, and Rhododendron you again make the steep climb in the trails.
Continuing walking in the trails, as you reach a certain altitude you can see paths and forests covered in snow. Also, the view of mountain peaks seen from these routes will mesmerize you with its beauty.
Following the trail, it gets narrow as you cross the Mengen Goth village from where Tharepati is quite close.
From Tharepati you get to see the awesome Gosaikunda lakes and Langtang ranges. Along the way, you will have walked past two ridges and seen many prayer flags and mani walls.
You stay the night in one of the lodges for the night.
Day 06: Tharapati to Tarkeghyang
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2740 m above sea level
On the sixth day of this trek, you will be heading towards Tarke Gyang which is also a long walk that takes about 6 to 7 hours off this day.
You begin this day’s trek by making a descend from Tharepati. And crossing a small wooden bridge and walking ahead in the paths viewing beautiful waterfalls.
And following the trails through dense forests of rhododendron and pines until you reach the beautiful village i.e. Melamchi Gaun. From there you continue your trek till you reach Tarke Gyang.
This is the largest village of the Helambu region that lies just below the beautiful Ama Yangri Peak(3771m). Most of the inhabitants belong to the Hyolmo community.
You can explore the village and experience the warm hospitality of these people. Stay your night in one of the tea houses.
Day 07: Tarkeghyang to Shermathang
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2260 m above sea level
On the seventh day of your trek, you will be heading towards Shermathang from Tarke Gyang.
Today’s trails are quite easy then other days as you will be walking in plain land for most of the trekking part. The walk to Shermathang is not much of a struggle.
You begin your trek by making a slight descend and heading straight in the paths until you reach a dense forest.
If you are traveling during spring get ready to be mesmerized by these paths. As it looks quite stunning during the Spring season as the forests are filled with blooming flowers of Rhododendron.
You will be mesmerized with the beauty of nature throughout the trails. Also, the view of beautiful mani walls, Chortens, and mountain peaks along the way makes your trek memorable.
Following the trails, you walk in plain lands and follow the paths until you arrive at Shermathang. You will have walked for about 5 to 6 hours this day.
This is a small and beautiful village that has been inhabited by the Sherpa community. You get to explore the unique culture and tradition of Sherpa people.
You stay the night in one of the tea houses.
Day 08: Shermathang to Talamarang
Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Maximum Altitude: 940 m above sea level
On the eighth day of your trek, you will be trekking to Talamarang from Shermathang.
You begin your trek by making a descend in the trails. And crossing a small stream you enter the lush green forest filled with unique vegetation of flora and faunas.
Walking in the trails you again cross a suspension bridge and reach Mahankal. From here you make a steep descend and reach Talamarang situated at an altitude of 940 m.
This village is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The soil in this land is fertile so you can see the valley covered in different crops such as paddy, wheat, potatoes, etc.
The lower lands of this region are inhabited by Brahmans, Chettri, and Newars. You can explore the village and its diverse culture and tradition. You will be staying the night in one of the lodges here.
Day 09: Talamarang to Melamchi Bazaar
Trek Duration: 4 to 6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 830 m above sea level
On the ninth day of this trek, you will be heading towards Melamchi Bazaar from Talamarang.
You begin your journey by crossing over the Talamarang River that leads to Rati Bhanjyang. You will be crossing many streams viewing beautiful waterfalls and landscapes throughout the trails.
Then following the paths you reach a town named Shermathang where you need to show the Langtang National Park entry permit. From there heading in the trails you reach Melamchi Bazaar.
Melamchi Bazaar offers many hotels for tourists to choose from. This bazaar is situated between the two beautiful rivers Melamchi and Indravati.
This is the last day in this region so you can buy souvenirs as a memory for this trek.
You stay in one of the hotels for tonight.
Day 10: Melamchi Bazaar to Kathmandu.
Drive Duration: 6 to 8 hours
Drive Distance: 50.4 km
Maximum Altitude: 1400 m above sea level
This is the last day of your Langtang Helambu Trekking Package. Today you will head back to the starting point of your journey Kathmandu. This is the final day you will be waking viewing the beautiful hills of the Langtang region.
After having your breakfast, you drive back following the bumpy roads viewing beautiful scenes out the window. Arriving Kathmandu you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Saying farewell we the members of Exciting Nepal hope your Helambu Trekking was worth all your time.
Trip Cost US$ 580 Per person
Cost Includes:
- Your arrival and departure from Airport –hotel -airport.
- Two night hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- All your standard meals like, Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, during the trek.
- Tea house Accommodations during the trek.
- Equipment like sleeping bag, Down Jacket & needed things etc if you do not have your own. To be returned after the trip.
- All ground transportation by bus.
- Well English speaking guide, friendly, experienced, with government license holder.
- A Guide, food, Transport, Accommodation, Salary, equipments, e.t.c. All paid.
- A Strong Porter among the two trekkers ( one porter sharing among two member ) including all his expenses including full insurance during the trek.
- Monastery fees.
- Insurance of Guide.
- Emergency evacuation service arrangement if in case, paid by your travel insurance.
- A trekking route map.
- National Park fee
- TIMS (trekkers’ Information Management System.)
- First aid service box with normal medicine.
Cost Excludes:
- All kind’s of Drink’s like Mineral water, beer Juice, Coke, fanta, other alcoholic hard drink’s, ETC.
- Activities and extra night hotel night in Kathmandu.
- Sweet things like chocolate and others
- Tips for the guide.
- Your personal expenses.
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FAQs
How Difficult is this Trek?
Like we have mentioned earlier in our Helambu Trekking Difficulties, this a moderate level trek so it depends solely upon how familiar you are with trekking and its routes.
If this is your first trek then it can be a bit harsh as you will be making many uphill and downhill walks that can exhaust you easily. But with proper training, you can complete this trek with ease.
This is a short trek so you won’t be covering many long distances in a day. Also, the altitude you reach is not much high compared to other trekking routes of this region.
To complete this trek you don’t need to be a professional trekker. This trek is mainly made to encourage the beginner to start their trekking journey. Thus this trek can be done by any trekker may it be novice or professional.
How Expensive is this Trek?
This is a budget-friendly trek but it depends on how much you are willing to spend on this entire trip. You can choose to backpack or trek spending lavishly.
The cheapest accommodation will cost you around 3 to 4$ per night but if you want to spend quality time in a luxurious hotel it can cost you about 60 to 100$ per night. As for the meals you will be needing an average amount of 10$.
But you can eat 3-time meals at the same price in an economical place. However, food can be a little unhygienic.
You can trek in Nepal with limited budgets too as this country is not much expensive in terms of tourism.
Is there any Technical Training in this Trek?
No, this trek doesn’t require any technical training but physical training is needed before the trek.
Physical training does not mean you need to be athletic or muscular. Just average training that helps boost up your stamina. If your body is fit then this trek won’t be much stressful.
If you train properly in advance you will not have sore muscles, blisters, back, and joint pain during your trek.
It is not necessary to trek for a long time just 2 to 3 weeks prior to your actual trek is enough. You can do normal exercises such as running, swimming, short hikes, walking about 5 to 6 hours a day, and many more.
While doing this training it would be better if you carry a light backpack to make a habit of it. Doing this training will help you enhance your trekking journey.
Do we need permits for this trek?
While going for a trek in the different regions such as Everest, Annapurna, Langtang you don’t need trekking permits. But if you are entering a national park or conservation area you will be paying for the entry fee.
Trekking permits are compulsory when you are planning to trek in the restricted areas. You can purchase the permit from the Immigration department located in Dillibazar, Kathmandu. For more information, you can refer to Trekking permit fees
Do we need to carry water along with us or is it available easily on these routes?
Yes, drinking water is easily found in these routes but it would be better to carry a water bottle along with you in this trek. As you climb in higher altitude the cost of water also rises and can cost around 2 to 3$ per liter.
If you carry a water bottle you can refill them in the tea houses that you will be staying in. Also, you can ask for boiled water which can cost around 0.4 to 0.7$ per liter.
Water found here is hygienic so you don’t have to worry about it. But it would be a good choice to carry two bottles on this trek
What kind of Food can we expect on this trek?
You should not be concerned about the food as you get to taste different cuisines throughout the trek.
For breakfast, you will be provided with different items such as eggs cooked according to your preference, pancakes, bread with butter, roti, and many more.
As you climb in high altitude you will be tasting the traditional Nepali cuisines such as Dal Bhat served with curry, lentils, chutney, meat and so on.
And the best part is that you won’t be charged with an extra price for additional servings. This food is packed with nutrition that helps you fuel the walk.
However, there are fewer chances of finding western food such as pizza, momo, etc in high regions. But the local taste will mesmerize your taste bud for the whole trip.
What is the accommodation type in this trek?
There are two different types of accommodation while going on a trek i.e. tea houses trekking and camp trekking. The type depends on which trek you are planning to go on.
1. Tea House Trekking:
In this trekking, you will be staying your nights in warm tea houses. These are local hotels that are small in size but are very comfortable.
The rooms are mostly shared with two small cots having mattresses, pillows, blankets, and bedsheets. If you need an extra blanket you can ask the staff they will provide you with one.
Also, the rooms have attached a bathroom having a western-style flush with showers. But you will have to pay an extra price for hot water and electricity.
You also have the option of choosing dormitories which are cheap in comparison to rooms. It costs about 3 to 4$ per night but you have to use public washrooms.
2. Camp Trek:
In this trekking, you will be staying your nights in tented camps which is common while trekking in restricted areas of Nepal. You won’t find many accommodation facilities in this region, so tents are used to spend the night.
