Helambu Trek

Trip ID: UM4605
Destination Langtang
Duration 8 Days
Difficulty Easy Persons
Group Size 2-30
Maximum 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

Trip 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.

Trip Highlight

  • 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

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

    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.

  • Day 2 : Drive to Sundarijal (1460m), trek to Chisapani (2165m)

    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.

  • Day 3 : Chisapani to Kutumsang (2470m)

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

  • Day 4 : Kutumsang to Melamchigaon (2530m)

    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.

  • Day 5 : Melamchigaon to Sermathang (2590m)

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

  • Day 6 : Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar (870m)

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

  • Day 7 : Drive to Kathmandu (1400m)

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

  • Day 8 : Final Departure

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

Trip Cost Inclusion

  • 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.

Trip Cost Exclusion

  • 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.

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