HELAMBU TREK
HELAMBU TREK
Big on beauty for those short on time!
The Helambu region is a short trek about 72 km from Kathmandu and offers trekkers so much in such a short space of time.
The word Helambu derives from the word Hyolmo. The Sherpa Helambu region begins at the Lauribina La Pass and descends to the Melamchi valley. Helambu is well known for its sweet apples, artistic Buddhist monasteries and it is a Buddhist pilgrimage site
The trek begins at Sundarijal Village and has an altitude of 800m to 3600m at the highest point. This is a less traveled trek and is generally warmer than other short treks on offer.
The trek takes you through the Sherpa villages of: Sundarijal, Chisapani, Kutumsang, Thadepati, Tarkeghyang, Kakani, and Melamchi before heading back to Kathmandu.
The Helambu trek offers fantastic views of the Himalayas, beautiful mountain rivers, snow-capped peaks, pristine alpine lakes, grassy farmland where Yak graze, colorful wildflowers, rhododendron and bamboo forests, and a variety of native animals such as monkeys, meerkats and Yak. This quiet and relaxing way to get a real taste of what Nepal has to offer.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this trek is the opportunity to experience the genuine warmth of the Sherpa people, their unique Buddhist culture and wonderful smiles.
The ideal time to do this trek is during autumn and spring. Although winter is also okay and gives you a different perspective of the region. This is a safe place to visit and is highly recommended for the entire family. With more than 40 years in the trekking business, Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will ensure you have a fantastic experience.
Highlights of Helambu Trek
- The Helambu trek offers panoramic Himalayan views.
- Stunning mountain streams, rugged rocky terrain, and snow-capped peaks.
- Grassy meadows abundant with wildflowers and native animals.
- There are suspension bridges, raging torrents and lakes.
- Experience of the Buddhist Tibetan culture and Tamang villages.
- Explore Langtang National Park.
- Less tourists and more solitude and time to reflect.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu transfer to hotel.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will be met by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking staff and transported to your hotel, followed by a short briefing concerning your trek.
Day 2 : Drive to Sundarijal & trek to Chisapani (2,175m/7,136ft) Duration: 6-7 hours.
We will arrive at Sundarijal by car, about an hour’s drive. We begin our four to five hour trek and first enter the Shivapuri Wildlife Protected Area. The first 3 to 4 hours is fairly hard going uphill and then drops for the last hour or two before reaching Chisapani where we can sit and admire the sunset over the mountains and valley. We will stay the night here.
Day 3 : Trek from Chisapani to Kutumsang (2,470m/ 8104ft) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trek today takes about five to six hours and is mostly uphill. Today we have our first glimpse of several mountain ranges such as Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung and Dorjelakpa. The trail initially drops to Pati Bhanjyang then ascends fo about two hours and finally descends to the Tamang village of Gulbhyang. After another one and a half hours we reach Kutumsang where we stay for the night.
Day 4 : Trek from Kutumsang to Thare Pati (3,600m/11,811ft) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Ahead of us today is a four to five-hour trek and reaches as high as 3800m. From Thadepati you will have some incredible views and see both sides of Gosainkunda and Helambu. The trail takes you through rhododendron forests that are particularly beautiful when in full bloom during spring. The rhododendron is Nepal’s national flower. After arriving at today’s destination you can sit back and take in the peaceful mountain views.
Day 5 : Trek from Thadepati to Tarkeghyang (2,531m/8,304ft) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we will follow the trail for about five to six hours, firstly descending to Melamchi Gaun Village. This is a Sherpa village where will most likely stop for lunch and take a walk around the village, especially a visit to their monastery. After leaving here we descend and cross Melamchi Khola then climb up to Tarkeghyang where we will stay the night.
Day 6 : Trek from Tarkeghyang to Kakani (2,073m/6.81ft) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The trail today is less physically demanding and soon reaches Sermathang Village. The trail takes us through some forested areas before reaching Sermathang where we will stop for lunch. After lunch, we head downhill until we reach Kakani where we will stay the night.
Day 7 : Trek from Kakani to Melamchi then drive back to Kathmandu; Duration: 6-7 hours.
We have a short trek of around two hours today before we reach Melamchi where we will take a four hour bus trip back to Kathmandu. After your arrival in Kathmandu we will drop you back at your hotel.
Day 8 : Transfer to International Airport
Today your adventure ends and you depart Nepal with fond memories and many photos of spectacular scenes from your trek to this amazing out of the way Langtang region of the Himalayas. A representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will take you to the airport, approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in this mountainous wonderful – Nepal.
SERVICES
Costs are included in your package.
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two nights’ standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Kathmandu to Sundarijal & melamchi to kathamndu transportation by car
- Fresh fruit every evening after dinner.
- Trekking Lodge (Tea House) accommodation during the trek.
- All necessary paperwork including Langtang National Park Entry Permit & Tims card fees.
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport and insurance.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- 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, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- 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 (tipping is expected)
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
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.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfortable and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Langtang regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be an easy trek where you often have to walk 5-6 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Helambu Trek?
The Helambu Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal, located in the Langtang region. It offers a relatively easy and shorter trek compared to other popular routes in the region. The trek takes you through beautiful landscapes, terraced fields, dense forests, and traditional villages, allowing you to experience the local culture and stunning mountain views.
How long does the Helambu Trek take?
The Helambu Trek usually takes around 7-9 days to complete, depending on your pace and the itinerary you choose. This includes trekking from Sundarijal or Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Helambu, exploring the villages along the way, and returning to Kathmandu.
What is the best time to do the Helambu Trek?
The best time to do the Helambu Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. However, the trek can be done year-round, with each season offering its own unique beauty.
Do I need a permit for the Helambu Trek?
Yes, you need two permits for the Helambu Trek: the Langtang National Park entry permit and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the entry points of the trekking route. Make sure to carry your original passport and a few passport-sized photos for the permit process.
What is the difficulty level of the Helambu Trek?
The Helambu Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. The trail mostly follows well-defined paths, with gradual ascents and descents. However, there are some steep sections and occasional rocky terrain, so it is recommended to have a basic level of fitness and some prior trekking experience.
What are the accommodation and food options on the Helambu Trek?
Along the Helambu Trek, you will find teahouses and lodges in the villages where you can stay overnight. These teahouses provide basic accommodations with shared rooms and common dining areas. The menu at the teahouses offers a variety of local and international dishes, including dal bhat (rice, lentils, and curry), momo (dumplings), noodles, soups, and more.
Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter for the Helambu Trek?
Hiring a guide or porter for the Helambu Trek is not mandatory, but it can enhance your trekking experience. A guide can provide valuable insights into the local culture, navigate the trail, and ensure your safety. A porter can help carry your backpack, allowing you to trek with less weight and enjoy the journey. However, if you prefer to trek independently, the trail is well-marked, and you can manage on your own.
Are there any altitude-related risks on the Helambu Trek?
The highest point on the Helambu Trek is around 3,600 meters (11,800 feet), which is relatively low compared to other treks in Nepal. Altitude sickness is rare at this altitude, but it is still important to acclimatize properly and listen to your body. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and ascend gradually to minimize the risk of altitude-related issues.
What should I pack for the Helambu Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Helambu Trek include trekking boots, comfortable clothing (including layers for changing weather conditions), a warm jacket, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, a sun hat, a water bottle, a headlamp, a first aid kit, and toiletries. It is also recommended to bring a good quality sleeping bag, as some teahouses may not provide warm enough bedding.
Can I customize the Helambu Trek itinerary?
Yes, the Helambu Trek itinerary can be customized according to your preferences and time constraints. You can choose to add extra days for exploration, visit different villages, or combine it with other treks in the Langtang region, such as the Langtang Valley Trek or the Gosainkunda Trek. It is advisable to discuss your requirements with a reliable trekking agency or guide to plan a suitable itinerary.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 17 Reviews
Patty Heinze
Canada
December 21, 2023
Friendly and Knowledgeable Guide
Our guide, Dorje, was exceptional throughout the trek. He provided us with consistent service, always wearing a smile on his face. His friendly nature and in-depth knowledge of the local area added immense value to our trekking experience.
Philip Gatto
Cook Islands
November 22, 2023
Highly Recommended for a Memorable Trekking Experience
We wholeheartedly recommend Sherpa Expedition Team for anyone seeking a memorable trekking experience in the Helambu region. Their friendly and prompt service, along with the expertise of our guide Dorje, exceeded our expectations. We are grateful for the wonderful journey and look forward to future adventures with them.
Cecilia Moreno Spencer
Australia
November 2, 2023
Excellent Communication from Start to Finish
From our first email contact with Sherpa Expedition Team, their prompt and clear communication impressed us. They were friendly and efficient in answering our queries and providing all the necessary information for the Helambu trek.
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