Helambu Trek - 5 Days

Helambu Trek
At a Glance
  • Duration6 Days
  • Difficulty Level Easy
  • Max Altitude 3600
  • Group Size Up to 10 Pax
  • Starts Kathmandu Hotel
  • Ends Kathmandu Hotel
Highlights
  • One of the easiest, shortest, and most rewarding treks in the Langtang region.
  • Enjoy the serene, off-beaten trail.
  • Witness the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the Hyolmo people.
  • Pass through several traditional ethnic villages along the route.
  • Get spectacular views of the Langtang mountain range throughout the journey.

Helambu Trek is one of the charming short excursions that take you to the secluded Helambu region of Nepal. A great alternative to other treks in the region like Lantang Valley and Gosaikunda, the 5 Days Helambu Valley Trek is an off-beat trek in the region.

Dominated by the Langtang Himalayan range, it is a rarely visited part of Nepal where you can witness the simplicity of the lifestyle of ethnic people living in the region. The trek offers you a trail full of pine forests, slow-moving rivers, rugged rocks, diverse landscapes, and snow-capped peaks as you pass through several traditional ethnic Tamang and Tibetan villages.

It is also a comparatively shorter and easier trek, as the highest elevation you'll reach during the trek is just 3650 m. Despite the elevation, the 5 Days Helambu Circuit Trek itinerary provides you with spectacular views of the Langtang Himal (7245m), Ganesh Himal (7405m), Dorje Lhakpa (6990m), and several other small peaks of the Langtang Himalayan range.

Along with the scenery and landscape, another main highlight of the 5 Days Helambu trek you should look forward to is the cultural richness and diversity all along the trail. You can observe and experience the traditional Tamang Buddhist culture and lifestyle influenced by Tibet during the trek.

A quick escape to the Himalayas and hillsides of Nepal, Langtang Helambu Trekking is ideal for trekkers with a brief time in their hands, taking you close to the nature and culture of the Himalayan region of Nepal.

What awaits you on the Langtang Helambu Trek?

During the Langtang Helambu Trek, you'll get to explore the stunning Himalayan landscapes, with breathtaking mountains, lush forests, and peaceful valleys.

The traditional villages with friendly locals and ethnic lifestyles await you as you traverse through the off-beaten trail of the Langtang region. You can expect to experience their unique culture and try delicious local foods.

The journey will also take you through ancient monasteries, allowing you to learn about the spiritual side of the region. Be prepared for amazing views, fascinating culture, and a trekking experience that will stay in your heart forever.

What A Day during the Helambu Trekking look like?

Each day of the Helambu trekking is filled with excitement and cultural enrichment. During this 5 Days journey, you'll wake up to mountain air and start your day with a hearty breakfast. As you hit the trail, you'll be surrounded by the beauty of nature. 

The trekking paths go uphill and downhill, taking you through ethnically charming villages on the way, where you get to explore the local culture and enjoy local dishes. As you continue the walk, you will arrive at the designated destination of the day, where your evenings will be spent sharing stories with fellow trekkers and enjoying warm meals.

Route Map of the Helambu Circuit Trekking

The Helambu Circuit Trekking Route starts from Sundarijal, which is about an hour's drive from Kathmandu. From there, you'll trek through beautiful forests, charming villages, and terraced fields. The route map then takes you through places like Chisapani, Kutumsang, Thadepati, and Sermathang.

These villages offer a chance for you to experience the local culture and interact with friendly people. The route map ahead offers stunning mountain views and passes through lush rhododendron forests, making it a picturesque journey. As it is a short trek, the route is not that challenging and offers you a leisurely, scenic time.

5 Days Helambu Circuit Trekking Itinerary in 2024/2025

Our 5 Days Helambu Valley trek itinerary takes you to the villages near the city and the ethnic settlements of the Langtang region. With careful planning, the itinerary is designed to cater to our client's needs.

However, as we believe that each traveler has their own way and preference for traveling, we always keep ourselves open to the customization of our itinerary. Thus, if you want to customize the trip in any way, you can contact us directly so that we can design your dream trek in Nepal. Get ready to have the time of your life with this short 5-day trip in 2024/2025.

Helambu Trek Cost Details For 2024-2025

The Helambu Trek cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of year, the length of the trek, the route map, and the level of service and accommodation you choose. The cost generally includes all the food and accommodation facilities during the trek, along with the cost of a guide/porter and trekking permits. It can cost from USD 349 to USD 599, depending on the factors mentioned.

The cost further depends on which way you prefer to trek, whether it is group, private, or solo. If you choose to trek with the group, then the cost can be comparatively lower, as we offer discounts for group trips depending on the number of trekkers in the group.

If you choose the private trip, you will have the freedom to customize the route, itinerary, and other elements of the trek that can add additional costs. You can directly reach out to customize the trip for private and solo trips. Bookings are open for the Helmabu Valley Trek 2024–2025.

No. of Pax

Starting Price (Per Person)

1

USD 599

2-3

USD 499

4-6

USD 399

7-10

USD 349

For group discount booking, sould male together or at the same time. Feel free to contact us or WhatsApp us for customized itineraries, packages, and services. We are available 24/7 for your services.

Itinerary

Show Detail ItineraryHide Detail Itinerary

    This is the starting day of your trek. Today you'll have a short, around an hour drive to Sundarijal from Kathmandu which is a famous getaway site from the city. From Sundarijal, your trek on foot starts as you head to Chisapani. Chisapani is a stunning place that provides panoramic views of the mountains and natural surroundings. After around 4 hours of an uphill trek through forest and village, you'll finally reach Chisapani where you'll stay for the night.

    • Waterfalls and surroundings at Sundarijal.
    • Panoramic views of mountains.  
    • Forested trails and villages along the way.

      The walk today is moderate, with some ascent and descent leading you to the village of Kutumsang. You'll pass through a few forests and uphill stairs along the way. As you continue your way to Kutumsang, you can get a glimpse of the Langtang mountain range. After 6-7 hours of walking, you'll arrive at Kutumsang. Overnight stay at Kutumsang.

        You'll continue your trek as you head to Thadepati today. The trail today gives you some magnificent views of the Langtang Himalayan range. You'll reach a place called Yurindanda before Tharepati, which is a great point to relish the mountain views. After a walk of around 6 hours, you'll arrive at Tharepati and spend the night there. 

        • Magnificent Mountain views along the way.

          The walk today takes you on a wonderful exploration of the Helambu region. You'll pass through several monasteries and Gompas today as you head to the beautiful Sherpa village of TarkeGhyang. TarkeGhyang is an amazing place where you can observe a blend of the culture and spirituality of the region. Overnight stay at Tarkeghyang.

          • Ancient monasteries are on the way.
          • Spectacular sights of mountains. 

            It is relatively a short walk today to Shermathang from Tarkeghyang. You'll walk on a forested trail as you pass through several small settlements along the way. After walking for around 3-4 hours, you'll arrive at Shermathang where you'll be spending the night. Overnight stay at Shermathang.

            • The forested trail along the way.
            • Several small settlements. 

              This is the final day of your trek. Today, you'll head to Melamchi Bazaar from Shermathang. You'll trek down passing several traditional villages and terraced farms until you reach Melamchi Bazaar. After walking for 3-4 hours you'll arrive at Melamchi Bazaar. From Melamchi Bazaar, you'll take a drive back to Kathmandu which takes around 2 hours. Once you arrive in Kathmandu you can either choose to rest or explore the city. In the evening you'll have a farewell dinner with our team as it is your last day in Nepal. Overnight stay at Kathmandu. 

              • Terraced farms on the way.
              • Farewell dinner at Kathmandu.

              Cost Details

              Cost Includes
              • All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport transfers
              • 3 standard meals a day during the trek
              • Snacks of seasonal fruits during the trek
              • The best available twin-sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek
              • Kathmandu-Sundarijal by Jeep and Melamchi Bazaar to Kathmandu by Jeep
              • Experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide during the trip
              • Porter services during the Trek (1 porter = 2 trekkers)
              • All costs of staff, which include food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medicines,
              • Duffel bag use while trekking, Trekking map and trip achievement certificate
              • Required Langtang Permit fee and TIMS Fee: Trekkers' Information Management System
              • First aid medicine kit
              • Farewell dinner with a cultural show in a fine restaurant on the last day.
              • Government taxes and office service charges
              Cost Excludes
              • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the above itinerary
              • Personal Travel insurance and Personal trekking equipment or expenses
              • Alcoholic drinks and beverages
              • Tips for trekking guides and porters (tipping is expected)
              • Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the 'Price Includes' section

              Dates & Prices

              Select a departure month
              Starts:Sunday Mar 31, 2024
              Ends:Friday Apr 05, 2024
              Price US$399
              Status Available

              Know Before You Go

              Free Airport Pickup Service

              As this trip begins in Kathmandu, we also offer a free airport pick-up service upon your arrival. The given itinerary does not include the arrival and departure days; however, to give you the feeling of home from the very beginning, we offer a free airport pick-up service.

              Equipment checklists for the Helambu Valley Trekking in 2024/2025

              Packing right is key for a comfortable trek. As the Helambu Valley is a short and leisurely trek, you need to pack some basic trekking items, which are listed below:

              • Sturdy trekking boots
              • Comfortable and moisture-wicking clothing
              • Warm layers (fleece, down jacket)
              • Rainproof jacket and pants
              • Hat, gloves, and scarf
              • Sleeping bag (suitable for the season)
              • Daypack
              • Trekking poles
              • Water bottles and purification tablets
              • First aid kit and personal medications
              • Headlamps and extra batteries
              • Sunglasses and sunscreen
              • Snacks and energy bars
              • Cameras and chargers
              • Lightweight towel
              • Toiletries and personal items

              Luggage and storage facility during the Helambu Circuit trek

              For a more comfortable trip, we recommend you hire a porter to carry your stuff. However, the porter carriage limit during treks in Nepal, including the Helambu Circuit Trek, is typically around 25-30 kilograms (55-66 pounds) per porter. This limit is set to ensure the safety and well-being of the porters, and we strongly stick to this rule.

              If you have more luggage or belongings that cannot be carried on the trek, you can rest assured that we offer luggage and storage facilities. All of the remaining luggage can be stored either in the hotel or in our office in Kathmandu. We will store it safely while you embark on the Helambu trip. Once you get back to Kathmandu after the journey, you can get your luggage back.

              Best Time And Seasons to Embark on the Langtang Helambu Trekking in 2024/25

              Like every other part of Nepal, the Helambu trek is best when trekked during spring and autumn. These are the two peak trekking seasons in Nepal when most of the trekkers prefer to trek because of the suitable and mild weather along with clear skies, offering a perfect time for trekking in 2024/2025.

              Spring brings mild, dry weather with clear skies, making it a perfect time for trekking. The forests burst into color with blooming flowers, especially the rhododendrons. The views of mountains and landscapes are also stunning due to the clear sky during the spring. Booking ahead in the spring is a good idea, as it's a popular time.

              Autumn is also wonderful, with clear, blue skies from September to November. Days are warm, and nights are comfortable. The forests turn vibrant, creating a colorful journey. Autumn offers fantastic mountain views and fewer crowds compared to spring, making it an ideal time to trek.

              Other Seasons
              As for trekking Helambu during the monsoon (June to August), it can be challenging due to heavy rain, landslides, and fog. Trekking during the winter (December to February) can also be tough due to heavy snowfall and cold temperatures. Days are usually clear, offering mesmerizing views of snow-covered peaks, but they're less crowded. With proper preparation, you can trek in the winter, but it's more suitable for experienced trekkers due to the harsh conditions.

              Accommodation during the Helambu Trek

              The Helambu trek offers a range of accommodation options, including lodges, tea houses, and a few luxurious lodges along the trail. If you are willing to, you can also choose to camp during the trek. The most popular form of accommodation on the trek is tea houses, which are small guesthouses that provide basic but comfortable facilities for trekkers.

              The tea houses along the Helambu trek offer comfortable beds, blankets, and pillows with shared bathrooms. Some lodges might have attached bathrooms with hot water showers. It is important to note that the facilities at the tea houses become more basic as you ascend higher, with some tea houses not offering hot water showers or electricity. In some cases, you may need to pay the extra price for a hot shower and charging facility. 

              For those who prefer a more rural experience, camping is a great option during the Helambu Trek Trail. There are selected campsites along the trek where you can set up the tent and stay for the night. It is further necessary to remember that accommodation on the Helambu trek can be basic, with limited amenities and services. It is recommended to bring your own toiletries, toilet paper, and other essentials. Additionally, you can bring a sleeping bag for extra warmth at night.

              Food and drinking water facilities during the Helambu Trekking

              The Helambu Trekking Package offers you a diverse food menu ranging from traditional Nepali dishes to international cuisine. The food available along the trek is mainly vegetarian, with meat being scarce due to the remote location and Buddhist influence in the area.

              For lunch and dinner, the most common and available dish you will get along the trail is dal bhat, a simple yet satisfying meal consisting of lentil soup, rice, and vegetables. Other popular Nepalese dishes that you can find include momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and chow mein (stir-fried noodles). Tibetan tea, made with butter, salt, and milk, is a popular beverage in the region.

              As for breakfast, you can have Tbetan bread with vegetable curry or egg bread with jam and honey. Tea houses along the Helambu trek also offer a variety of Western-style dishes, such as pizza, pasta, and sandwiches.

              The Difficulty Level of the Helambu Circuit Trek

              The Helambu Circuit Trek is a moderate adventure, great for people with an average fitness level and good health. The trail goes through rough paths with some uphill and downhill parts, but it's not as tough as other treks in the area.

              You'll walk for 5–6 days, around 4–7 hours each day on average. So, having good health and stamina to walk for a few hours daily is important. The highest point is Tharepati, at 3,650 meters high. It's a bit steep, but the views are amazing. The good thing is that it's below 4,000 meters, which lowers the risk of altitude sickness.

              Having some trekking experience is a bonus, as the trek involves steep parts, but it's not too tough. It is recommended to stay active with workouts and short hikes before starting. Also, drink enough water, eat well, and pay attention to your body while trekking.

              Trasportation for the Helmabu Valley trek

              As the journey begins with a ride from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, you have the option to choose the transportation method, which can be a public vehicle or a private vehicle. We have the service of private vehicle transportation that offers you a more comfortable and timely ride.

              From Sundarijal, you will begin the walking journey, and at the end of the trek, you will have a ride back to Kathmandu from Melamhu Bazaar, either in a public or private vehicle.

              Helambu Circuit Trekking Permits

              For the trekking to Helambu, you'll need two permits:

              • Langtang National Park Entry Permit: This permit allows you to enter Langtang National Park, which can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the park entrance in Dhunche.
              • TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System): The TIMS card is an essential permit for trekking in Nepal that helps authorities keep track of trekkers for safety reasons.

              Tipping culture during the trek

              Tipping is a kind gesture to show your appreciation for the people who make your trek memorable. While not mandatory, it's a way to thank your guides, porters, and tea house staff for their hard work. In Nepal, a general guideline is around 10% of the total cost of your trek. You can give the tips directly to the person or through the trekking company. Your generosity can make a positive impact and spread goodwill.

              Travel tips and information for the Langtang Helambu Trekking

              • Choose the best time for the trip, which is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) for pleasant weather.
              • Acclimatize properly and walk at your own pace.
              • Carry enough cash, as ATMs are limited on the trail.
              • Use purification tablets or a filter for safe drinking water.
              • Stay hydrated throughout the route and listen to the advice of your guides for a comfortable trekking experience.
              • Learn about and respect local customs during the trek.
              • Travel light with essential trekking gear and adaptable clothing.
              • Trek responsibly without leaving any trace in the environment.

              Booking Helambu Circuit Trek with Himalayan Recreation

              While embarking on an unforgettable journey with us through the Helambu Circuit Trek, our experienced team is dedicated to crafting an amazing trekking experience for you.

              To make the booking process easier, we stay online 24/7 to help you with any of your queries regarding the trek, and for the payment, you can use several channels, including bank transfers, online payment platforms, or other methods. You can go through our terms, conditions, and booking policy page to learn more about it.

              Last-minute booking with Himalayan Recreation

              At Himalayan Recreation Treks, we've got you covered! Our team is here to make your trekking plans a reality. Even if it's a last-minute decision, we ensure you get the best experience, from accommodations to guides.

              However, keep in mind that for a last-minute booking, there should be full payment for the trip before embarking on the journey.

              Trek to Helambu Valley sustainably with Himalayan Recreation

              Embark on an eco-friendly Helambu Valley trek with Himalayan Recreation. Our sustainable method ensures that we leave minimal impact on the environment while maximizing your experience.

              Our expert guides, responsible practices, and local engagement guarantee you a trek that's both enhanced and environmentally conscious. Join us for a journey that leaves nothing but footprints and memories in 2024/2025.

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