The Helambu Trek, also known as the Helambu Circuit or Helambu Valley Trek, is one of the best short trekking routes in Nepal—perfect for those seeking a peaceful Himalayan experience close to Kathmandu. Located about 80 kilometers northeast of the capital, this trek is ideal for adventurers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in unspoiled natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a pleasant climate.
Starting from Sundarijal, just an hour’s drive from Kathmandu, the trail quickly enters the serene Shivapuri National Park, and continues through charming villages like Chisopani, Kutumsang, Tharepati, and Sermathang, before concluding at Melamchi Pul Bazar. Despite its proximity to the city, Helambu offers a truly authentic trekking experience, with stunning views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, Manaslu, and even glimpses of Mount Everest on clear days.
The route reaches a maximum altitude of 3,690 meters, making it suitable for most trekkers without the worry of altitude sickness. Along the way, you’ll pass through diverse landscapes—from lush forests and terraced hills to alpine meadows—and have the chance to spot wildlife such as red pandas, musk deer, Himalayan Thar, white monkeys, and even snow leopards in rare moments.
Culturally, Helambu is home to the Hyolmo (Helmo), Sherpa, and Tamang communities, whose warm hospitality and rich traditions add depth to the journey. With its balanced mix of natural wonders and cultural immersion, the Helambu Trek is a low-altitude gem in the Langtang region that promises a refreshing adventure in just 5 to 8 days
Helambu Trekking Highlight
- It is one of the easiest and shortest treks of the country.
- Stunning Himalayan Views – Enjoy views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Jugal Himal, with glimpses of Everest.
- Cultural Exploration – Experience Sherpa and Tamang villages and visit Buddhist monasteries.
- Scenic Forests – Trek through rhododendron, oak, and pine forests with wildlife sightings.
- Moderate Altitude – Max altitude of 3,690 meters, suitable for beginners.
- Shivapuri National Park – Trek through this rich national park with diverse flora and fauna.
- Spiritual Experience – See Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and prayer flags.
- Remote and Peaceful – A quieter, off-the-beaten-path trek.
- Short Trek Duration – Complete the trek in 5 to 8 days.
Benefits of Trekking with Himalayan Gateway Trek
- Free transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport to the hotel during arrival and vice-versa on departure.
- Easy booking and reservation system.
- Online trip briefing after booking confirmation.
- Trek with experienced local guides who prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
- Enjoy transparent, fair pricing with no hidden costs, ensuring value for your money.
- Receive quick assistance in emergencies, along with guidance to prevent altitude sickness.
- Stay in local teahouses and connect with the local people to immerse yourself in their culture.
- Multi-channel communication (Email, WhatsApp, Facebook, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom)
- Himalayan Gateway Trek promotes eco-friendly and responsible trekking, working closely with local communities to ensure that tourism benefits the region while preserving the environment.
Comprehensive Helambu Trekking
The Helambu Trek is a remarkable journey that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and Himalayan grandeur, all within close proximity to Kathmandu. Nestled in the Langtang region, this trek provides a tranquil escape from the city, taking you through lush forests and charming villages and offering breathtaking mountain views of the Langtang, Jugal Himal, and Ganesh Himal ranges. The Helambu Trek is an excellent option for those looking for an adventure that is both easily accessible and immersive, with a mix of easy to moderate trails.
The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, followed by a walk that enters Shivapuri National Park. From there, trekkers make their way through villages like Chisopani, Kutumsang, Tharepati, and Sermathang, each of which offers its own unique charm. Along the way, you’ll encounter Sherpa and Tamang communities, whose rich cultural heritage is an integral part of the experience. The route is dotted with Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, and stupas, giving you a glimpse into the spiritual life of the local people.
The highest point of the trek reaches 3,690 meters, making it a relatively low-altitude trek, but the views are nothing short of spectacular. The clear skies and snow-capped peaks create a perfect backdrop as you pass through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees, all while keeping the trek accessible to beginners and those with moderate fitness levels.
The Helambu Trek not only offers stunning mountain views but also the chance to spot wildlife such as red pandas, musk deer, Himalayan Thar, and snow leopards. The trek is designed to showcase Nepal’s natural wonders, as well as its rich cultural diversity, making it a great introduction to the Himalayan region for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Nepal without venturing into more remote and challenging regions.
Ideal for those looking for a shorter trek, the Helambu Circuit can typically be completed in 5 to 8 days, offering trekkers the opportunity to explore without committing to lengthy expeditions. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is clear and dry, allowing trekkers to fully appreciate the surrounding beauty and crisp mountain air.
Helambu Trekking Itinerary Details
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport (1,400m) and transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, our friendly team from Himalayan Gateway Trek will be there to greet you with a warm welcome and take you to your hotel.
Once you arrive, you’ll receive a warm welcome, with staff presenting you with traditional flower garlands. They will assist you with the check-in process and make sure you’re comfortable. Afterward, you can relax and get ready for your adventure the next day. In the evening, walk around Thamel and have dinner whenever you like.
At the Himalayan Gateway Trek, we are excited to begin this journey with you and ensure a memorable experience throughout your stay in Nepal.
Day 02: Drive to Kathmandu(1400m) to Sundarijal (1460m) then trek to Chisapani( 2165m).
On Day 02, you will start your journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal , which takes around an hour. Sundarijal is the starting point of the Helambu Trek. Once you arrive, your trek begins with a climb through the Shivapuri National Park, which offers lush forests, pristine streams, and vibrant flora.
You will continue the hike to Chisapani (2165m), a picturesque village offering stunning views of the Langtang Himal and the surrounding mountains. The trek to Chisapani will take approximately 4 to 5 hours, and along the way, you’ll encounter local Tamang and Sherpa villages, rich in culture and hospitality.
Day 03: Trek from Chisapani( 2165m) to Kutumsang (2,470m),
On Day 03, your trek continues as you depart from Chisapani and head towards Kutumsang. The day’s trek takes you through a beautiful forest trail, offering views of the surrounding landscapes, and passes through small villages, giving you a glimpse into the local lifestyle of the Sherpa and Tamang communities.
The trek to Kutumsang takes around 5 to 6 hours, with a gradual ascent through the hills. As you walk, enjoy the rich flora of the Shivapuri National Park, including dense rhododendron and oak forests. Kutumsang is a peaceful village with great views of the mountains, and it provides a perfect spot for relaxation after a day of trekking.
Day 04: Trek from Kutumsang (2470m) to Melamchigaon (2530m).
On Day 04, you will trek from Kutumsang to Melamchigaon. This day’s trek is relatively short but offers an immersive experience as you pass through beautiful villages and forests. The trek to Melamchigaon takes about 4 to 5 hours and is a pleasant walk, allowing you to take in the serene atmosphere of the region.
Melamchigaon is a small Sherpa village situated at the base of the Jugal Himal, providing breathtaking views and a quiet environment to rest and acclimatize for the next stages of your trek.
Day 05: Trek from Melamchigaon (2530m) to Sermathang (2590m).
On Day 05, your trek will begin with a descent from Melamchigaon to Melamchi Khola, followed by a gradual ascent to Tarkeghyang. The monastery in Tarkeghyang is the oldest in the area and is an important cultural site. After spending time in Tarkeghyang, you will head southwest, trekking through forests and small settlements. You will cross streams and fields before reaching Setighyang, a quiet village.
Continuing on, you’ll reach Ghangyul after about 4-5 hours of trekking, and eventually, you will arrive at Sermathang. This picturesque village offers stunning views of the Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Gaurishankar mountains to the east. Sermathang is home to three significant gompas (Buddhist monasteries), making it a peaceful place for reflection and relaxation.
Day 06: Trek from Sermathang (2590m) to Melamchi Pul Bazaar( 870m).
On Day 06, you will begin your descent from Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar. As you leave the village, you will hike through charming settlements like Kakani and Thimbu, with the vegetation gradually transitioning as you descend into a subtropical climate. Along the way, you’ll cross bridges and pass by small communities adorned with chortens and mani walls, typical of the Sherpa culture.
The trek will take approximately 5-6 hours, bringing you to Melamchi Pul Bazaar, a Sherpa settlement and a market town connected to the road. After reaching Melamchi Pul Bazaar, your journey will conclude, and you will be transferred back to Kathmandu.
Day 07: Trek from Melamchi Pul Bazaar (870m) to Kathmandu (1400m).
On Day 07, your trek concludes as you make your way from Melamchi Pul Bazaar (870m) back to Kathmandu (1400m). After breakfast, you will drive from Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, crossing rivers, passing through small towns, and offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and villages.
The journey typically takes around 5-6 hours, depending on road conditions. Upon reaching Kathmandu, you will have the remainder of the day to relax and reflect on your memorable trekking experience in the beautiful Helambu region.
Day 08: Departure from Kathmandu.
On the final day of your journey, you will be transferred to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to do some last-minute shopping or explore the city.
As you leave Nepal, you’ll take with you unforgettable memories of your incredible trek through the Helambu Trekking.
What is included in this trek package?
- Airport pick up/drop by private vehicle
- 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Accommodation in tea house/lodge during trekking
- All meals (B+L+D) with tea/coffee during trekking
- All transportation as per trip itinerary.
- English-speaking, trained and experienced guide and porters.
- Food,accommodation,salary,insurance of nepalse staff.
- four-seasonal sleeping bag to each trekkers ( to be returned after trip completion)
- All necessary paper work(s) and tims / permit
- All applicable taxes and service charges
- Trekking certificate
- Farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant.
- Travel & rescue arrangement (Helicopter evacuation available if required, at clients cost based on clients insurance policy).
What is excluded in this trek package?
- Flights to and from Nepal are not included in the trekking package.
- The Nepal visa fee of $30 USD can be paid upon arrival in Kathmandu.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure, early return from the trek.
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu
- Emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation are covered by travel insurance.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters bottled or boiled water, shower, heater and phone calls etc.
- Personal trekking gear like trekking boots, jackets, gloves, hats, sunglasses, and a backpack are usually not included. These items must be purchased or rented separately.
- Tips to Guide and Porter.
- All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Additional trips or tours in Kathmandu.
Personal Equipments List For Trekking
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Fleece beanie
- Sun glasses
- Chap stick / Sunscreen
- Face mask or Scarf
- Hand towel
- Hand towel
- Cold weather down jacket below waist
- Fleece jacket and trouser
- Trekking trouser
- T-Shirts(short or long sleeves) dry fit is better
- Polypropylene thermal tops and bottom, at least 2pairs,
- Wind stopper and fleece gloves
- Socks and under wears
- Trekking boot
- Snow Gaiter (optional)
- Runners / Snickers for camps
- Head torch
- Personal medical kit
- Water Bottle/Camel Pack
- Trekking / Ski pole (optional. Handy for anyone with knee problem)
- Spare batteries for Camera and flash light. Check charging facility along your journey
- Day pack Minimum25L with side pocket for water bottle
Guided Helambu Trekking Package Information.
Best Season
The best time to embark on the Helambu Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring offers mild temperatures and vibrant rhododendron blooms, while autumn brings clear skies and stable weather after the monsoon, providing the best trekking conditions with stunning mountain views and pleasant weather.
Trekking Duration & Difficulty
The Helambu Trek typically spans 5 to 8 days, making it a perfect short trekking option. The trek is considered moderate in difficulty, with the highest point being Tharepati (3,690 meters). It involves a mix of moderate climbs, forest trails, and scenic views, making it suitable for trekkers with basic fitness and some trekking experience.
Transportation
Our Helambu Trek Package includes convenient transportation from the moment you arrive in Nepal. You’ll be picked up from Kathmandu Airport and driven to the starting point of the trek in Sundarijal. At the end of the trek, we provide transportation back from Melamchi Pul Bazar to Kathmandu, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Typical Daily Schedule
Each day on the Helambu Trek begins with an early breakfast around 7:00 AM to prepare for the day’s adventure. The trek typically involves 5 to 6 hours of walking per day, with breaks for lunch at teahouses along the route. In the late afternoon, trekkers arrive at the overnight destination for rest and meals. Evenings are spent relaxing, sharing experiences, and preparing for the next day’s trek.
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation during the Helambu Trek is provided in traditional teahouses or lodges, ensuring an authentic experience in the Himalayas. The package includes hotel stays in Kathmandu (two nights), offering a comfortable base before and after your trek. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy three meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all prepared by local cooks, providing essential energy and nutrition.
Permits & Entry Fees
To trek the Helambu Region, trekkers are required to obtain two essential permits: the Langtang National Park Permit and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card. These permits ensure access to the protected region and contribute to maintaining safety records of trekkers.
Trekking Support & Safety
Your safety and comfort are our top priority on the Helambu Trek. The package includes a professional, licensed trekking guide, who will provide expert navigation, cultural insights, and safety assistance. Additionally, porters are available to carry up to 15 kg per person, allowing you to trek comfortably. We also provide a first aid medical kit, along with oxygen cylinders and a pulse oximeter to monitor your health, particularly at higher altitudes. Emergency assistance is available 24/7, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
Trip Departure Dates
Note to Travelers :
We organize private treks for groups of at least two people and do not add anyone in your group. Contact us via Call/WhatsApp/Viber at +977 - 9861197727 or email himalayangatewaytrek@gmail.com You can also use our Free Trip Planner.
