Helambu Trek – A Short 9 Days Trek
254 reviews in Tripadvisor
Duration
9 DaysDifficulty
EasyGroup Size
1-15 PeopleMax Altitude
3,771m. / 12,372ft.Best Season
Spring & AutumnActivity
TrekkingMeals
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation
3 Star HotelTrip Introduction of Helambu Trek – A Short 9 Days Trek
Do you want to go hiking in Nepal for a brief yet genuine experience? Take part in our 9-day, less-crowded, serene, and culturally intensive Helambu Trek. An escape from commercialized tourism is provided by this walk.
A wonderful trip through the culturally diverse Helambu region is the Helambu Trek in Langtang. One of the quick Nepali hikes that is close to the Kathmandu Valley is this one. You can have a peaceful trekking experience because the trail is less travelled. You will see traditional towns, serene green landscapes, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas along the walk.
You travel through the wildlife-rich Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park during the hike. You get off to a calm start when you start the Helambu Trek through the park. Explore the park’s pathways, which meander through bamboo, pine, oak, and rhododendron forests.
You will get a genuine look at the life of the local Sherpa, Tamang, and Hyolmo people as you proceed. Take part in traditional Hyolmo activities. Explore historic Buddhist monasteries that have stood the test of time along the charming Helambu region’s towns.
See the Langtang, Dorje Lhakpa, Gaurisankhar, and Jugal Himal mountain ranges from a distance as you go. Ama Yangri (3,771), the rising viewpoint, offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic vista of the Himalayas. For the native Hyolmo people, this is the highest point of the trek and holds spiritual significance.
Highlights of Helambu Trek
- From Kathmandu, take a picturesque drive to Sundarijal, where the hike begins.
- Take in the verdant surroundings as you explore Shivapuri National Park.
- From Chisapani, enjoy a stunning overview of the Mount Langtang range.
- Engage with the culturally diverse Sherpa and Tamang residents of Kutumsang village.
- Reach the 3,690-meter-high Thadepati Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the Dorje Lhakpa, Langshisa, and Gaurisankhar peaks.
- Discover Melamchi Gaon, the first stunning community you come across on the Helambu route.
- Experience the ancient monasteries, distinctive way of life, and culture of the Hyolmo people.
- During the hike, explore the hidden ancient monasteries in Tarkeghyang, one of the biggest villages.
- Gain unforgettable benefits by visiting Ama Yangri, the region’s most visited viewpoint and spiritual center (3,771m).
- Discover the apple orchards in the village of Shermathang. From here, you may also enjoy excellent views of the Ganesh Himal and Jugal ranges.
Detail Itinerary of Helambu Trek – A Short 9 Days Trek - 9 Days
Day 1: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu (1350m)
An Everest Summit Treks & Expedition introductory guide greets you at the Tribhuvan International Airport today, drives you to your hotel, and gives you a brief rundown of the entire Helambu journey.
Activity & Duration
Drive for 30 minuteHighest Altitude
1,350m/4,429ft. (Kathmandu)Accommodation
3 Star HotelDay 2: Drive to Sundarijal from Kathmandu and trek to Chisapani (2210m) Duration 5-6 hours
You will leave your accommodation this morning to make the transfer by private vehicle to the town of Sundarijal after strengthening yourself with a substantial breakfast. The journey, which is practically continuous with Kathmandu, just takes an hour. It’s all on foot from Sundarijal, where your path rises rapidly near a small hydropower plant. Now you are getting close to the officially designated watershed and wildlife area known as Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. You will be astounded to discover how rapidly you are encircled by verdant fields and rich vegetation as you depart from Kathmandu’s metropolitan setting.
The first village we come across is Mulkharka, which is populated primarily by Tamang people and is a popular destination for day hikers seeking an afternoon escape from the city. The trickling streams that cut through the enormous stones of the woodland will also appeal to nature lovers. Once you continue past Mulkharka and cross a forested ridge of oak and rhododendron, you will arrive at Chisapani after about four hours of hiking.
Activity & Duration
Drive & Trekking for 5-6 hoursHighest Altitude
2,210m/7,251ft. (Chisapani )Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation
TeahouseDay 3: Trek to Kutumsang (2470m) from Chisapani Duration 6-7 hours
Get up early to witness the dawn; from here in Chisapani, you may enjoy a stunning view of the Langtang Himal range on a clear day. The journey to Kutumsang starts after breakfast. In roughly seven hours, you will descend and traverse picturesque farms and meadows as you approach the little villages of Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang.
After there, you will resume your ascent along a ridge that leads to the high point of the day, a pass at about 2,620 meters. Look for mani stones with beautiful carvings as you hike.
It is deemed customary to pass these sculptures on to the left, as they reflect sacred Buddhist mantras. The settlement of Kutumsang, a village of traditionally constructed houses and mist-covered hillsides, marks the finish of today’s journey. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the pyramidal top of Dorje Lhakpa.
Activity & Duration
Trekking For 6-7 hoursHighest Altitude
2,470m/8,104ft. ( Kutumsang)Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation
TeahouseDay 4: Trek to Thadepati (3690m) from Kutumsang Duration 5-6 hours
This section climbs to the Yurin Danda ridge in a woodland of fir and rhododendron. You may take in breathtaking views of the high-altitude Gosaikunda Pass and the Langtang Himal from this great vantage point.
Once you have taken a few pictures, you slowly descend to go past an army roadblock close to Magengoth’s heavily forested area.
Before beginning the last climb to Tharepati, it is a good idea to stop and enjoy this lovely section of the trail. The faraway summits of Dorje Lhakpa, Gaurishankar, and several other Himalayan giants may be seen clearly on a clear day in Tharepati.
Activity & Duration
Trekking for 5-6 hoursHighest Altitude
3,690m/12,106ft. (Thadepati)Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation
TeahouseDay 5: Trek to Tarkeghyang (2600m) from Thadepati Duration 5-6 hours
The hike today passes through two of the Helambu region’s largest settlements. You start a lengthy, steep descent to Melamchi Gaon, the first village, after breakfast. This is a growing village that includes a vibrant Gompa, or monastery, large fields with grazing horses occasionally, and numerous homes covered with prayer flags.
The route then rises as it gets closer to Tarkeghyang, passing through a number of Sherpa villages. The cultural components of the Helambu Trek are represented by a number of sizable stupas and a crucial monastery in Tarkegyang. The Helambu region’s spiritual hub is this settlement.
Activity & Duration
Trekking for 5-6 hoursHighest Altitude
2,600m/8,530ft. ( Tarkeghyang)Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation
TeahouseDay 6: Trek to Ama Yang Ri (3771m) and Return to Tarkeghyang Duration 5-6 hours
As you travel toward Ama Yangri Peak, the area’s spiritual treasure, it is a memorable day of the trek. The pinnacle of this journey is reached at this point. You can see the vibrant prayer flags adorning the landscape as you climb towards the point.
A Gompa that has been exquisitely kept with the Hyolmo people’s faith may be found here. If the weather is clear, the location offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the Alps. Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Kinsung Himal, and the farther-off Manaslu and Ganesh Himal are the mountains that can be seen.
Ama: Mother watching over a village like her own child
Yang: Laxmi (Goddess of wealth)
Gri: Peak or a hill
Activity & Duration
Trekking for 5-6 hoursHighest Altitude
3,770m/12,369ft. (Ama Yang Ri )Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation
TeahouseDay 7: Trek to Shermathang (2590m) from Tarkeghyang Duration 4-5 hours
Today’s walk is somewhat easy after the previous days’ hard ups and downs. To get to the settlement of Shermathang, you must hike for almost four hours. The route is mostly level and goes through lush forest.
Hike through the smaller towns of Parachin and Gangal along this path, looking for mani walls and chortens. Before getting a view of the Melamchi Khola River valley to the south, you have to cross a few tiny creeks.
Shermathang is well-known for its old monasteries, widely separated residences, and apple orchards. Enjoy beautiful views of the Jugal and Ganesh Himal hills as you stroll through the town.
Activity & Duration
Trekking for 4-5 hoursHighest Altitude
2,590m/8,497ft. (Shermathang)Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation
TeahouseDay 8: Trek to Melamchi (2200m) from Shermathang Drive to Kathmandu (1350m) Duration 5-6 hours
After a relaxed breakfast in Shermathang, you begin your hike by descending through rice fields and wide, verdant meadows. You cross a few bridges and pass small villages with chortens and mani walls as you approach the Sherpa community of Melamchi Pul Bazaar.
The many guesthouses here are sometimes used by trekkers who are walking backwards. After that, you return to Kathmandu, where you could get one more glimpse of Nepal’s lush countryside, with its terraced farms and rolling hills.
Now that you have completed the Helambu Trek, relax and settle into your lodging when you return to the city.
Activity & Duration
Trekking & Drive for 5-6 hoursHighest Altitude
1,350m/4,429ft. (Kathmandu)Meals
Breakfast & LunchAccommodation
3 Star HotelDay 9: Departure / Fly Back Home
Everest Summit Treka and Expedition representative will drive you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. Breakfast Included.
Activity & Duration
Drive for 30 minuteHighest Altitude
1,350m/4,429ft. (Kathmandu)Meals
BreakfastCost Includes / Excludes
What is included?
- All ground transportation by private vehicle including airport transfers
- Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
- Seasonal fruits during the trek
- One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people), and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for all staff
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed
- Everest Summit Treks and Expedition T-shirt, trekking map, and trip achievement certificate
First aid medical kit - Langtang National Park Permits fee
- TIMS Fee- Trekkers’ Information Management System (Please bring 2 passport size photos for permit)
- Government taxes & office service charge
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Assistant guide for groups of 5 or more people.
What is excluded?
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu – lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $25 USD for 15-day visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver
Fixed Departures for Helambu Trek – A Short 9 Days Trek
Detail information about the trip
Add On Options
Upscale Hotel Stay in Kathmandu
As your trusted travel companion in Nepal, we want to ensure you have a comfortable experience throughout your journey of Helambu Trek 9 day. You will be placed in a double-person sharing room at a three-star hotel in Kathmandu. If you want to enhance your experience with a touch of luxury, then we can upgrade your stay to a double or single room at a four-star hotel like Hotel Ramada, Hotel Shankar, or Hotel Yatri Suites for an additional $95 per night.
These hotels are known for their elegant decor and fantastic amenities. You will have large spacious rooms with larger comfy beds, beautiful interiors, luxurious bathrooms gym, a spa, and even a private pool with a large garden.
They also have a 24-hour front desk service, so they can help you arrange transportation if you want to explore Pokhara or Chitwan as well. Please notify us beforehand so we can upgrade your Kathmandu stay before you are here.
Route Overview
Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport marks the start of your trek to Helambu. One of the Everest Summit Treks & Expedition’s introductory guides greets you here and helps you with the hotel process. The booklet gives a quick overview of the upcoming trekking excursion in Helambu.
To start the trek in the Helambu region, you must first drive an hour to Sundarijal. From here, you go in the direction of Chisapani. In order to get to two important villages in the Helambu region, you continue climbing to greater heights and pass past tiny communities like Kutumsang and Tharipati.
Melamchi Gaon is the first village, followed by Tarkeghyang, a larger town. This is where the trek’s cultural component really shines. Discover Tarkeghyang’s spiritually significant monasteries. You then trek to Ama Yangri, the well-known Helambu area viewpoint.
You next descend to Sermathang, the last village stop in the Helambu region. This amazing tour then comes to an end with a last drive to Kathmandu and the departure aircraft the following day.
Best Time for Helambu Trek
In just nine days, the Helambu Trek offers you a wealth of cultural activities while also letting you enjoy the outdoors.
You may enjoy this trek throughout the year, as each season has its own distinct personality. In Nepal, spring (March–May) brings pleasant weather, rushing mountain streams, and the bloom of the rhododendron forest. One of the best times to go hiking is right now.
In this area, hiking is also very popular in the fall (September–November). Because of the cold breezes, beautiful skies, and breathtaking mountain views, this is a traditional hiking season in Nepal.
Because of its relatively low elevation, the Helambu trip is particularly enjoyable in the winter months of December through February, unlike other treks. In winter, the mountains appear more magnificent than ever, and you may take picturesque pictures of communities covered in snow. However, due of their intense rainfall, the monsoon season (June to August) presents a few more difficulties.
For a comfortable trekking experience in Nepal, Everest Summit Treks & Expedition highly recommends hiking Helambu in the fall and spring!
Alternative Adventures
Do not worry if this trek does not appeal to you! We provide a range of hikes so you may choose one that best suits your needs.
The Langtang valley Trek comes first. You may tour the stunning Langtang valley during the Nine-day journey. You mostly engage with members of the Tamang ethnic group on your walk, and you get to hear their untold experiences. With its tales of tenacity, this trip over the Himalayas is inspirational.
The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek comes next. With this 16-day walk, you may experience the Langtang region in its entirety. It blends the knowledge of three stunning locations: Gosaikunda Lake, Helambu, and Langtang Valley. For hikers seeking a long-term, meaningful experience, this walk offers the ideal opportunity.
Whatever path you go on, we will make sure it is an experience you will not soon forget. as well as if you choose to alter the schedule. Please get in touch with us at any time!
Transportation
We have efficient transportation service during the entire time of the Helambu Trek 9 day journey. You will have comfortable rides in private cars, vans, or buses (according to the group arrival size) for your transfers between TIA and your hotel. A drive to Sundarijal at the beginning of the journey and a drive from Melamchi to Kathmandu at the end of the trek will occur on a local bus. For added comfort, you can also consider our upgrade options for a private jeep transfer.
Travel Insurance
Helambu trek does not include travel insurance in Nepal. You need to purchase it yourself. If you don’t know good travel insurance companies, our tour company, Everest Summit Treks and Expedition, will also help you select the right option that covers all the required risks and needs while traveling.
You are required to have travel insurance compulsorily. Your insurance will cover your extra possible expenses, such as accidents, injuries, treatment, medical expenses, emergency helicopter rescue, theft, damages, etc., that can ruin your trekking experience completely. This travel insurance will enhance your trekking experience without making you worry about potential unexpected additional expenses.
Most people ask about the trip - FAQs
What is the spiritual importance of Ama Yangri Peak?
Ama Yangri Peak holds great cultural, historical, and spiritual significance for the Hyolmo people. For the Yolmo locals, the summit is a hallowed place. At 3,771 meters, it is also the highest point in the trekking area.
The point represents the greatest location for a spiritual retreat and a view. According to Hyolmo belief, the Yangri peak is a community protector. Buddhism is linked to it, and stupa is used in the rites and meditations.
Additionally, there are stunning 360-degree panoramic views surrounding this site. Ama Yangri benefits the locals and trekkers by offering a blend of spiritual, cultural, and natural splendor.
What purpose does the Helambu region's Hyolmo culture have?
The Helambu region’s spiritual and cultural character is embodied in Hyolmo culture. The culture is greatly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. The locals have been there for centuries and are also referred to as Yolmo or the Helambu Sherpa. Their languages, customs, and Buddhist legacy have all been preserved.
The region’s tourism industry is based on genuine communities, their culture, and their way of life. This supports the locals’ sustainable way of life and cultural preservation. The trekkers are given an authentic experience by the prevalent festivals, customs, and everyday life.
The trip is more than just a physical adventure because of the monastic visits, interactions, and cultural participation. This creates a calm atmosphere for the spiritual retreat during the hike.
Does this trek in Helambu provide an opportunity for spiritual retreats or meditation along the trail?
There are several opportunities for meditation or spiritual retreats along the Helambu Trek’s routes. It is thought that the inhabitants have a strong bond with nature and their inner selves. Along the walk are several caves that are thought to have been utilized for meditation in the past.
Numerous ancient monasteries with profound spiritual significance might be found while trekking. The calm surroundings, the sounds of the flags flapping, and the overall calmness make this a great spot for spiritual retreats.
Along the journey, a community like Tarkeghyang is well-known for its strong atmosphere and medieval monasteries. Additionally, Ama Yangri, which is located close above the village, offers the ideal setting for meditation. It is the perfect getaway, surrounded by tranquility, the pulsing spirit of local faith, and the enigmatic Himalayas in the background.
Were older hikers or families with children suitable candidates for the Helambu trek?
Yes, even elderly hikers and families with little children can enjoy this quick and simple Helambu climb. It is conveniently accessible and saves time because it is close to the capital of Nepal. The amount of time spent walking each day is reasonable and provides a comfortable trip with adequate downtime.
Any hiker can complete it because of the gradual ascents, easier pathways, and lower elevation. Additionally, the hike goes through the abundantly flora and fauna of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. This combines short trekking trips that are participatory, cultural, and natural in the ideal way. All things considered, this is a great option for family adventure.
Additionally, there are cozy accommodations with attached bathrooms along the way. Children and elderly hikers can escape the trouble of making concessions with this. The walk is made more enjoyable for families by allowing them to join in and engage with the locals. This journey is more kid- and senior-friendly due to the cultural features of the area.
The Helambu trek provides a perfect alternative to the commercialized trails of Nepal. How?
Helambu is known for its genuine hiking experience, in contrast to Nepal’s commercialized trekking routes. The importance of the area is obscured by the shadow of the well-traveled routes, therefore fewer people take this route. As a result, the region offers pristine natural beauty, a quiet atmosphere, and an untraveled route.
There are more chances to truly explore nature when there are less hikers. Local cuisine and traditional charm can be found in the villages along the route. Each community is surrounded by a tranquil and beautiful scenery.
This trekking offers a unique opportunity for people looking for a trekking adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural diversity, and seclusion.
How is the Helambu Trip improved by Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park?
The trip in Helambu is greatly improved by the Shivapuri National Park. Trekkers can start their journey by exploring the park’s unspoiled natural splendor. The region is home to a diverse range of fascinating flora and fauna.
You may come across a variety of creatures, including Red Pandas, Barking Deer, Langur monkeys, Himalayan Back Bears, and leopards. With over 300 different species of birds living there, the area is a great trove for birdwatchers.
You go through a thick forest of bamboo, oak, rhododendron, and pine. serving as a gateway to the Helambu region and providing a wonderful change of scenery from the metropolis. This provides a commendable appreciation for the natural heritage and efforts of the closest national park.
What kind of transportation will be used for this trip to Helambu?
We offer private automobiles for both directions to guarantee each trekker’s comfort. This makes it possible for visitors to enjoy a more customized experience. A private vehicle will transport you both before and after the Helambu Trek.
Can I join up for this package's group? After the trip is booked, is the departure guaranteed?
The Helambu Trek Package, you can, in fact, join a group. It is contingent upon the trekkers’ willingness to participate in the trip, though.
Regardless of the size of the group, departure is certain once the trip is purchased. For every journey that is scheduled, we offer an ensured guarantee.
Does the private vacation have any additional costs?
If you have two or more people, there are no additional fees for a private Helambu Trek. There are no costs associated with the cost-inclusive services included on the package.
However, depending on the circumstances, the price may change for lone passengers. For the necessary cost information, please consult the price catalog or get in touch with our staff directly!
How can I get from Kathmandu to Helambu?
Helambu can be reached by using a private or public car to Sundarijal, where the walk begins. Trekking via Sivapuri Nagarjun National Park should then begin. Enter Helambu after passing the villages of Thadepati, Kutumsang, and Chisapani. There are three villages: Sermathang, Terkeghyang, and Melamchi Gaon.
Note: We offer both-way private automobile service as part of the Helambu package, per our agenda. You get a comfortable and customized experience as a result.