TA-winner-badge
Helambu Trek

5 - Excellent
Based on 1 Review | More reviews on TripAdvisor

Helambu Trek 6 Days, Moderate

Helambu Trek is an off-the-beaten trek near Kathmandu that takes you to the beautiful Tamang villages in Helambu. The Tamang village of Helambu at an elevation of 2,774 m is culturally significant and lies in the Langtang region. The ancient Tibetan culture is still practiced here where natives follow Tibetan Buddhism. This is one of the easiest treks where trekkers traverse through verdant forests and authentic villages. Along with the cultural experiences, relish the fantastic views of Langtang Ri, Ganesh Himal, Lang Sisa, Chorkor Ri, and other peaks.

Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Moderate

A moderate trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a good level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours.

Max Elevation: 3,771 m (Ama Yangri Peak)

Spectacular views of Langtang Range, the Annapurna, Manaslu, and surrounding peaks.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse

Basic and comfortable accommodation with basic services during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

3-course Healthy and Hygienic meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Clear views and comfortable trekking trails due to stable weather and temperature.

Trip Route:

Sundarijal – Chisapani – Khutumsang – Tharepati –Tarke Ghyang – Ama Yangri Peak - Sermathang

Trip Highlights

  • Nearest and shortest off-beat trek
  • Beautiful Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park
  • Pass beautiful Tamang settlements
  • Immerse yourself in the Himalayan lifestyle and culture of locals
  • Phenomenal views of snow-capped peaks (Langtang Ri, Ganesh Himal, Lang Sisa, Chorkor Ri, Annapurna, Manaslu)

Trip Overview

Helambu Trek takes you to the beautiful Tamang villages in Helambu, situated about 80 km northeast of Kathmandu. This 1 week long Helambu trip is considered easy because of the well-established trail that involves less climbing, and elevation ranging from 800 m to 3700 m, and also this region is not as crowded as the Annapurna or Everest regions. So that you can continue your trek without any interference.

If you are planning to travel to Nepal and have a short, enjoyable time in the pristine countryside. Then Helambu Trek is a tailor-made package for you. From one village to another with a lot of greenery and occasional settlements, this is also a mountain hiking package involving little strain.

Helambu Trek is also an off-the-beaten trek near Kathmandu. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to explore some of the least-known areas of Nepal. Also, experience firsthand the rich Sherpa and Tamang culture and spectacular natural beauty. During your trip, you will be able to see beautiful peaks like Langtang Ri, Ganesh Himal, Lang Sisa, Chorkor Ri, and many other peaks over 6000 m; and also explore the village of Langtang, famous for the centuries-old culture resembling that of Tibet. Ama Yangri Peak is the highest point of this trek.

View All Photos

Helambu Trek Gallery

Trip Outline

Day 01: Kathmandu arrival (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Drive to Sundarijal (1393 m), and trek to Chisapani (2200 m)
A short drive to Sundarijal and begin a trek to Chisapani via Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park.

Day 03: Trek to Khutumsang (2470 m)
Trek to the beautiful village of Khutumsang witnessing Mt. Dorje Lakpa, and Mt. Gaurishankar.

Day 04: Trek to Tharepati (3690 m)
Trek to Tharepati adoring stunning views of Langtang Himalayan ranges.

Day 05: Trek to Tarke Ghyang (2600 m)
Trek to the lovely village of Tarke Ghyang which is the biggest Tamang village in the Helambu region.

Day 06: Exploration Day (Ama Yangri Peak)
An amazing hike to Ama Yangri and get rewarded by the spectacular views of Langtang Range, Annapurna, Manaslu, etc.

Day 07: Trek to Sermathang
Trek to Sermathang and explore the Buddhist monastery and surroundings.

Day 08: Drive to Kathmandu (1400 m) via Melamchi Pul
Return to Kathmandu after completing the Helambu Trek.

Day 09: Final departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation:

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Helambu trek that provide basic facilities but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are outside the teahouses. Pay additional costs for facilities like Wi-Fi, laundry, hot bucket water, and charging devices. Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions.

Meals:

3-course full board meals are served during the Helambu trek which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek.

Drinking water:

Drinking water during the Helambu trek is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution. Travelers can also use a water purification solution or buy mineral water which costs USD 1-2 per bottle.

Private vehicles are the means of transportation during the Helambu Trek as there are no airways in this region.

  • Kathmandu – Sundarijal and Sermathang – Kathmandu by private vehicle

The ideal seasons for the Helambu trek are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. The winter and rainy seasons are riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Helambu trek requires compulsory three permits i.e. Langtang National Park (LNP), Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park, and the Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Langtang National Park (LNP)

  • Foreigners- USD 30/person
  • SAARC- USD 15/person

 Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park (Only for Helambu Trek)

  • Foreigners- NPR 1000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 600/person

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person
  • Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • Langtang National Park (LNP) Permit
  • Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park
  • TIMS

Difficulty:

Helambu trek is one of the easiest treks with a maximum elevation of 3,771 m. It is suitable for all age group trekkers but walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails can be challenging for first-time trekkers. This trek is suitable for trekkers with an average level of physical fitness as it does not involve any technicality. Previous experience is preferable. Our support is always there throughout your journey from the start to the end.

Fitness:

Helambu trek demands trekkers to have good fitness levels. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization, it is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Helambu trek is 3,771 m (Ama Yangri). Altitude sickness is common above 2500 m. As the elevation gains, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Take an acclimatization rest as suggested in the itinerary during the trek.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

Helambu is an easy trek. Thus, it requires basic equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek; Deluxe accommodation for 2 nights in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Transportation: Airport – hotel – airport transfers and sightseeing by Private Transportation; Kathmandu – Sundarijal and Sermathang – Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • Documentation: Trekking permits (Langtang National Park Permit, Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park, and TIMS)
  • Equipment/Accessories: Down jacket, sleeping bags, a waterproof duffel bag, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for Complimentary use (Use if Required)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); a porter per trekker (carrying up to 15 kg/person); all the expenses for the guide and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. We carry a Supplementary oxygen tank with a mask and regulator for emergencies. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Please make sure that your insurance will cover helicopter evacuation up to 5650 meters.

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations
  • Your travel insurance, and International Air Fares
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available at extra cost)
  • Costs arise due to unforeseen weather conditions, natural disasters, political issues, incomplete trips because of personal problems, mountain sickness, physical status, early return from the trek, late departure & any costs other than those mentioned in the inclusion section

GROUP JOINING DATES & PRICES

At present, the group joining dates are not available, but we are happy to create a private trip for you with the flexibility to customize. Simply, let us know your preferences so that our travel experts will assist you in planning a trip to your dream destination.

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent Based on 1 Review

DSC01144 scaled

Silke Niedernhoefer
Germany

Langtang-Gosainkund Trek – abwechslungsreich und beeindruckend

2024-03-06

Wir sind zu zweit die Tour Langtang-Gosainkund mit Guide Subba und Träger Prakash gegangen und waren begeistert. Kompetent, stets gut organisiert und gut gelaunt war alles perfekt für uns und durch die zugewandte und aufgeschlossene Art der beiden haben wir uns eher als Familie denn als Reisegruppe gefühlt, wir haben zusammen geschwitzt, aber hatten auch viel Spaß gemeinsam. Dadurch, dass wir nur zu zweit mit den beiden waren, wurden uns auch Kontakte zu Einheimischen ermöglicht, die es mit einer großen Gruppe so nicht gegeben hätte. Unsere individuellen Bedürfnisse wurden jederzeit berücksichtigt. Danke für die phantastische Zeit

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Kathmandu arrival

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 30-minute hotel drive.

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, an Outdoor Himalayan Treks representative will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. Introduction with a guide, check the trekking gears. Night in the hotel.

Hotel

Day 02 Drive to Sundarijal and trek to Chisapani

Elevation: Sundarijal (1393 m), Chisapani (2200 m) 45-min drive, 6-hours trek. Elevation gain: 807 m

After Breakfast at 8:30 pick up from your hotel and drive about 45 minutes to Sundarijal enter Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park, and check in at the Nepal Army security checkpoint. Then you see the beautiful waterfall in Sundarijal. On the way to Chisapani, you can also see the beautiful Tamang village, and opposite you can see the view of Kathmandu. After the village, you will enter the forest for about 3 hours of walking. The day will be about 6 hours walking, ending in a teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 03 Trek to Khutumsang

Elevation: Khutumsang (2470 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation gain: 270 m

This will be about 6-7 hours’ walking. You can see Mt. Dorje Lakpa as well as Mt. Gaurishankar and many other mountains with the rich culture of the Tamang people. Overnight at a tea house.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 04 Trek to Tharepati

Elevation: Tharepati (3690 m) 6-hour trek. Elevation gain: 1220 m

This will be about 6-7 hours’ walking. This is a bit hard claiming day but very enjoyable, as you can get a very good view of the Langtang Himalayan range, see the original Tamang village, and spend your night at a tea house.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 05 Trek to Tarke Ghyang

Elevation: Tarke Ghyang (2600 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 1090 m

At first, you will go down to Melamchi Gaon, take lunch, and go down across the river and the last part of the day will be climbing. This is one of the biggest Tamang villages in Helambu. Explore the village and overnight at the tea house.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 06 Exploration Day (Ama Yangri Peak)

Elevation: Ama Yangri Peak (3771 m), Tarke Ghyang (2600 m) 6-7 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 1171 m

Pass through forested trails of oak, and pine trees admiring the colorful landscapes. Experience the rise in altitude, so trek slowly. Make sure to carry some light snacks, chocolate bars, and plenty of water as there is no teahouse en route. Upon reaching the top of Ama Yangri Peak, get mesmerized by the spectacular views of Langtang Range, the Annapurna, Manaslu, and surrounding peaks. If the weather is clear, witness the world’s highest Everest Mountain. Spend some time over there, take some pictures, and descend to Tarke Ghyang.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 07 Trek to Sermathang

Elevation: Sermathang (2590 m) 4-5 hours trek. Elevation loss: 10 m

Trek on a comfortable trail. Upon reaching, explore local culture. Explore the Buddhist monastery and village. Overnight at the teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 08 Drive to Kathmandu via Melamchi Pul

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 4 hours’ drive.

Drive back to Kathmandu via Melamchi Pul. After arriving in Kathmandu, check in to the Hotel. In the evening enjoy the farewell live cultural dinner hosted by Outdoor Himalayan Treks.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 09 Final departure

Farewell and airport transfer at your required time.

Helambu Trek FAQs

The Helambu Trek is a scenic and culturally rich easy trekking route that offers fabulous mountain views, picturesque landscapes, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional Sherpa and Tamang cultures.

The Helambu Trek duration is usually around 6 to 8 days but may vary depending on your itinerary.

Helambu trek is especially for beginners and it is one of the easiest treks. Thus, previous trekking experience is not required for the Helambu Trek.

Helambu trek can be done in all seasons. But for awesome clear views, pleasant temperatures, and favorable weather conditions most trekkers prefer Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) seasons.

Trekkers need to obtain the Langtang National Park permit, Shivapuri Nagarjuna National Park, and the TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card.

The highest point of the Helambu trek is Ama Yangri Peak at an elevation of 3771 m.

Teahouses and Lodges with basic services are means of accommodation during the Helambu trek. The teahouses in the Helambu region are known for their warm hospitality and cozy atmosphere.

Drinking water is safe but carry water purification tablets or use a water filter to prevent waterborne illness.

Altitude sickness is generally not a concern on the Helambu Trek as the maximum elevation is relatively lower compared to other treks in the region. But still, stay hydrated, ascend gradually, and be aware of any symptoms of altitude sickness.

Some essential items to pack for the Helambu Trek include comfortable trekking shoes, lightweight clothing, a warm jacket, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, a first aid kit, and a backpack. It’s advisable to pack light but ensure you have the necessary items for the trek.

Yes, the trek itinerary is flexible and can be customized according to your preferences and available time. You can discuss your requirements with your trekking agency or guide, and they can help tailor the itinerary to suit your needs.

To book the Helambu Trek with Outdoor Himalayan, visit the website and fill out the booking form, or contact us directly via email or phone. We will provide you with the necessary details and assistance for your trekking experience.