Trip Fact

Destination

Langtang

Duration

8 Days

Difficulty

Easy

Group Size

2-30 Persons

Max altitude

2590m.

Best time

All seasons

Activities

Hiking / Trekking

Accommodation

Hotel & Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

Private

Start from

Kathmandu

End at

Kathmandu

Helambu Trek overview

The Helambu Trek, also known as the Helambu Valley Trek, is one of Nepal’s finest short treks, located just 80 km northeast of Kathmandu. Specially designed for those seeking a peaceful, less-traveled route close to the capital, the trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and mild climate.

Over 8 days, you’ll pass through charming villages, rhododendron forests, and terraced farmlands while enjoying panoramic views of Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, Jugal Himal, and even Mount Everest on clear days. The region is home to Helmo, Sherpa, and Tamang communities, whose traditions, monasteries, and warm hospitality enrich the journey.

Wildlife enthusiasts may spot snow leopards, red pandas, musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and white monkeys along the trail. Starting from Sundarijal after a scenic drive from Kathmandu, the route takes you through Shivapuri National Park to Chisapani, then on to Kutumsang, Melamchigaon, and Sermathang, before descending to Melamchi Pul Bazaar for the drive back to Kathmandu.

The Helambu Trek is graded as moderate and is suitable for anyone in good physical condition. It’s a perfect short Himalayan adventure for trekkers looking to avoid crowded trails without compromising on scenery or cultural immersion.

Helambu Trek highlights

  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, the gateway to the trek
  • Walk through Shivapuri National Park with waterfalls, forests, and diverse wildlife
  • Explore traditional Sherpa, Tamang, and Helmo villages
  • Stunning Himalayan views: Annapurna, Manaslu, Langtang, Jugal Himal, and more
  • Visit Tarke Ghyang Monastery – one of the oldest in the Helambu region
  • Experience warm local hospitality and rural Nepalese culture
  • Trek through rhododendron and pine forests, terraced fields, and charming hamlets
  • Perfect moderate trek – less crowded yet rich in scenery and culture

Helambu Trek itinerary

Our representative will greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, attend a pre-trip meeting at our office.

After breakfast, drive to Sundarijal and start trekking through forest trails, waterfalls, and Mulkharka village. Enter Shivapuri National Park and reach Chisapani for panoramic mountain views.

Trek through Pati Bhanjyang, Thankune Bhanjyang, and Chipling villages. Cross Thotung Danda and Golphu Bhanjyang before arriving in Kutumsang, with views of Dorje Lhakpa.

Ascend to Yurin Danda and Thadepati (the trek’s highest point) with incredible Langtang and Jugal Himal views. Descend through pine forests to Melamchigaon, a Sherpa settlement.

Trek past Buddhist villages, Tarke Ghyang Monastery, and rhododendron forests. Continue via Setighyang and Ghangyul to reach the picturesque village of Sermathang.

Descend through rice terraces and subtropical forests, passing Kakani and Thimbu villages before reaching Melamchi Pul Bazaar.

Drive back via Dhulikhel and Bhaktapur, enjoying your last views of terraced fields and hills. Free time in Kathmandu for shopping or leisure.

We will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.

Are you interested in planning a custom trip with us? It’s quick, easy, and takes only 2 minutes.

What’s Included

  • All international and domestic airport transfers by tourist vehicle.
  • Twin-sharing/double accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Twin-sharing and occasionally dormitory-style accommodation during the trek in the Langtang Region.
  • All standard meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) including seasonal fruits.
  • A farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal.
  • Purified drinking water during the trek (using a water filter or purification tablets).
  • Private tourist vehicle transfers from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi and Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu.
  • Experienced, first-aid-trained, government-licensed, English-speaking, locally recruited Adventure Friendship trekking guide.
  • Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients).
  • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medical coverage for all staff.
  • Langtang National Park Entry Permit.
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.
  • 1 Adventure Friendship duffel/kit bag.
  • Comprehensive first aid kit, including an Oximeter to check pulse and oxygen levels daily in the mountains.
  • All administrative expenses and government taxes.

What’s Not Included

  • Nepal Entry Visa (easily obtainable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu — USD 30 for a 15-day visa, USD 50 for a 30-day visa, USD 125 for a 90-day visa).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • International flight fares and airport departure taxes.
  • Travel insurance (must include high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage).
  • Any beverages, including bottled or boiled water.
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver.
  • Personal trekking gear and equipment.
  • Any expenses not mentioned in the Cost Includes section.

Interested in this trip? Start planning your adventure today!

Helambu Trek cost & dates

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Additional Information

Helambu Trekking Gear Checklist

  1. Clothing

Layering is key – so you can adjust for warm days and cool evenings.

  • Base Layer (Moisture-wicking):
    • 2–3 quick-dry trekking T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
    • 1–2 thermal tops (for colder mornings/evenings)
  • Mid Layer (Insulation):
    • Fleece jacket or lightweight down jacket
  • Outer Layer (Weather Protection):
    • Waterproof/windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
    • Waterproof trekking pants
  • Trekking Pants & Shorts:
    • 1–2 pairs lightweight hiking pants
    • 1 pair trekking shorts (for warmer days)
  • Underwear & Socks:
    • 4–5 pairs moisture-wicking hiking socks
    • 2–3 pairs thermal socks for cold nights
    • 4–6 pairs breathable underwear
  • Headwear:
    • Sun hat or cap
    • Warm beanie or wool hat
    • Buff or neck gaiter for dust/wind protection
  • Gloves:
    • Lightweight inner gloves
    • Insulated gloves for cold mornings
  1. Footwear
  • Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in before trek)
  • Lightweight camp shoes or sandals (for evenings)
  • Gaiters (optional – for muddy or snowy sections)
  1. Trekking Gear & Accessories
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended for descents)
  • 40–50L backpack (with rain cover)
  • Daypack (20–25L if porters carry your main bag)
  • Sleeping bag (comfort rating -5°C to 0°C; teahouses provide blankets but better to have your own)
  • Headlamp (with extra batteries)
  • Sunglasses (UV-protection)
  • Water bottles (or hydration bladder) – 2 liters capacity
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Dry bags / zip-lock bags (to protect electronics and clothes from moisture)
  1. Personal Items & Toiletries
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+), lip balm with SPF
  • Small quick-dry towel
  • Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Biodegradable soap/shampoo
  • Toilet paper (not always available in teahouses)
  1. First Aid & Medicines
  • Personal medication (if any)
  • Basic first aid kit (band-aids, blister plasters, antiseptic cream)
  • Pain relievers (paracetamol/ibuprofen)
  • Rehydration salts
  • Anti-diarrheal tablets
  • Motion sickness tablets (if needed for bus/jeep ride)
  1. Optional but Useful
  • Camera or smartphone with power bank
  • Lightweight book or journal
  • Snacks/energy bars
  • Trekking map or GPS app
  • Earplugs (for noisy teahouses)

Photos

Helambu Village Trek
Helambu Melamchi Trek
Helambu Monastery

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Helambu Trek?

It’s graded moderate with some steep climbs and descents. Anyone in good health can complete it.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

The trek stays below 3,700m, so risk is minimal, but staying hydrated helps.

What is the accommodation like?

Comfortable teahouses with basic amenities are available along the route.

Can beginners do this trek?

Yes, it’s a great first trek for beginners.

Is it a crowded trek?

No, it’s less busy than the Everest or Annapurna regions, offering a peaceful experience.

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