Overview
Helambu Trek is a short and uncomplicated trek near Kathmandu. The Helambu area, located about 72 kilometers from Kathmandu’s valley, is relatively unspoiled. It stretches from north Taramarang to the upper slope of a prominent Gosaikunda Lake and Jugal Himal’s lower slope. The Helambu Langtang walk, which ranges in altitude from 800 m to 3600 m, features rich rhododendron, pine, and bamboo forests, panoramic views of the Himalayas, breathtaking alpine lakes, a wonderful waterfall, and grassy plains and meadows. In the top portion of the Helambu valley, there are snow bridges, raging streams, little lakes with icebergs floating in them, and wind-created crystalline brightness. The Helambu Circuit Trek begins at Sundarijal, which is an hour drive from Kathmandu. The trip continues along the Chisopani, Kutumsang, Thadepati, and Sermathang rivers before ending at Melamchi Pul Bazar in the Helambu region. The journey goes through deep mountain forests, Tamang and Sherpa communities, and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Langtang, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Rolwaling Himal, and Gauri Shankar. At the end of the excursion, you can walk past several breathtaking rice terraces and gorgeous Buddhist monasteries. This hike is quite easy due to the less protected area and less congested mindset. This journey is wonderful because of the magnificent Himalayan landscape on the Tibetan border.
Top Highlights of Helambu Trek
- Breathtaking mountain views
- Charming local villages
- Lush, scenic forests
- Serene trekking experience
- Rich cultural encounters
Itinerary
You will arrive in Kathmandu valley at the Tribhuvan International Airport, and our agents from Gravity Expedition will be there to pick you up. They will take you to your hotel, where you can rest and enjoy a delicious and traditional Nepali meal. In the evening, you have the option to attend a fascinating folk cultural performance.
Following breakfast the following morning, you will go for a full-day sightseeing trip of the Kathmandu Valley. You may see Swyambhunath, a very old temple that is essentially classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the revered Pashupatinath Temple.
Highlights of our guided trip include the largest Buddhist stupa at Boudhanath and the exquisite artwork and old architecture of Kathmandu Durbar Square, which showcase the ancient culture of Nepal.
Patan City’s historic architecture and renowned fine arts will charm you on a visit. You will have time to explore the neighborhood, eat supper, and maybe take a leisurely stroll down the well-known streets when you get back to your hotel. A traditional Nepalese dinner at the Nepali Cultural Restaurant rounds off the day.
Drive for about an hour from Kathmandu to Sundarijal (1350m), where a huge water project supplies the majority of Kathmandu Valley’s drinking water. The gravel road transforms into a trail near a small hydroelectric facility and begins with concrete steps alongside the water pipe.
Beyond Sundarijal, the trail climbs steadily through the forest to a medieval-style reservoir, dam, and waterworks. After crossing the dam, the path exits the water delivery system and climbs steeply to a road leading to the summit of the Shivapuri ridge and wildlife reserve. The trail now climbs up the hill through the forest to meet the Mulkharka Villages, which are home to the Tamang people.
The trail continues to rise through a grove of rhododendrons and oaks after passing the BorlangBhanjyang trail, which descends to Chisopani (2140m). The mountain vistas from here are spectacular, with Annapurna and Everest visible.
The trail continues to drop from Chisopani on a good sometimes level crossing meadows and fields. There are excellent mountain views as you leave the full track and drop down into the valley on a muddy zigzagging path. The trail heads north out of PathiBhanjyang (1770m), the Brahman and Chhetri village and a gentle ascent to a small white chorten at the Sherpa village of ThakuniBhanjyang.
Make a very steep slope on a switchback to Chipling, then ascend 200m up a stone staircase to the summit of the Jhogin Danda ridge (2470m). As you descend through rhododendron forest on the far side of the pass, you’ll have great vistas of the summits. We’ll continue up the forested slope before descending to a big chorten overlooking the Tamang town of GolphuBhanjyang.
The trail climbs the hill from GolphuBhanjyang to another pass at 2620 metres. The walk rises steadily through the prickly-leaved oak woodland, providing stunning views of the mountains and the Helambu valley. The walk heads due north over the Yurin Danda ridge, providing views of the peaks above Langtang and the Gosaikunda peaks. The trail ascends above Kutumsang over a steep, eroded path, largely through fir and rhododendron forests with only a few shepherd’s huts.
The trail dips to Magen Goth and then climbs, first steeply and then gradually, passing through woodlands, flower-strewn meadows, and crossing streams. A steep walk leads above the settlement to a fluttering white prayer flag on a mind-swept peak, providing a stunning view of the Langtang Himalaya. We got at Tharepati Rise early to have great close-up views of Gosaikunda and the surrounding high mountains. Overnight stay at the lodge.
The path winds through pine and rhododendron forests, which are teeming with birds, and offers stunning views of the Helambu valley. The elevation provides a stunning mountain vista of the Jugal Himal and Numbur in the Solu Khumbu.
After crossing the bridge, the trail ascends sharply to the expansive valley of Nakote (1980m). The path then slowly ascends to the picturesque Sherpa village Tarkeghyang (ghyang meaning monastery), going through Sherpa’s oldest communities and most notable monasteries. The narrow cobblestone lanes and tightly packed dwellings here are reminiscent of the high-altitude settlements of Mustang and Dolpo, both of which are worth seeing. Tarkeghyang features an 18th-century Gompa with a large brass prayer wheel.
Today’s path is rather straightforward through flat country with magnificent woods. The trail brings us through a tiny forest with views of the picturesque village of Helambu. The trail sweeps across the vast valley end between Parachin and Gangyul, a Sherpa settlement in Khumbu region.
Sermathang is another beautiful Sherpa settlement where you may visit numerous historic monasteries and enjoy views of the Jugal Himal mountain. On a clear day, the settlements offer stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Rolwaling, with Mt. Everest in the distance.
Today’s routes wind through meadows and cultivated farms, gradually descending to Melamchi Pul Bazaar. On the route, you’ll pass through various historic villages. With the beautiful Mountain View, you will be able to mingle with local and friendly people. From here, drive for around 3-4 hours to the Kathmandu Valley. Enjoy the magnificent vistas along the way, as well as the fresh air and woodland roads.
4-5 hrs. drive to Kathmandu. Leisure day in Kathmandu, followed by a farewell meal and celebration. You can ask your guide to take you on a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley. On this day, you can visit the valley’s numerous museums, including the Narayanhiti Museum, which was previously the residence of Nepal’s last king. You can also visit the hilltop of Nagarkot. After exploring the valley’s world heritage sites, you will enjoy a farewell supper with your Nepali friends and guide. You and your guide may even decide to extend your stay to include a Chitwan jungle safari, rafting activities, and other activities.
Our representative of Gravity Expedition will accompany you to Tribhuvan International Airport as you prepare to board your flight back home. While you travel home, you can start thinking about your next adventure here in Nepal, and rest assured that Gravity Expedition will be there to provide excellent service for your future endeavors.

Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop,
- Hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights pre and 2 nights pro on sharing basis,
- Salary, Accommodation, and Insurance of trekking guide and porters,
- All accommodation during the trek,
- All Ground Transportation as per itinerary,
- All necessary documents and permits for trekking,
- National Park/Conservation Area entry permit,
- Daily Dispatch on WPP website,
- Welcome and farewell dinner.
Cost Excludes
- Meals in Kathmandu (except welcome and farewell dinner),
- Extra night accommodations in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary,
- Beverages and alcoholic drinks on trek,
- Personal trekking equipment,
- All personal expenses, including Nepal Visa (for country entrance),
- Personal medical and evacuation insurance,
- All other additional charges for additional services, including recommended TIP,
- Additional tips for tour guide, others as one sees fit,
- Personal purchases,
- Any other expenses that are not included in Cost Includes.
FAQs
The best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, you’ll enjoy clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and good visibility. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rains, while winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy.
The Helambu Trek is considered easy to moderate, making it accessible for trekkers with basic fitness. The trails are less strenuous compared to other high-altitude treks, with altitudes typically not exceeding 3,600 meters (11,800 feet).
You’ll stay in local lodges and teahouses along the route. These offer simple but comfortable accommodations with basic amenities. The lodges provide a cozy place to rest and meals prepared by local hosts.
Although the Helambu Trek reaches relatively lower altitudes, acclimatization is still important. Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, eat well, and listen to your body. Acclimatization helps prevent altitude sickness.
Weather varies with altitude and season. Expect mild temperatures and clear skies in spring and autumn. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and possible rain or snow, especially at higher elevations.
You’ll typically drive from Kathmandu to the starting point, such as Melamchi Pul Bazaar. Your trekking agency will provide detailed instructions and arrange transportation.
Connectivity may be limited in remote areas. Consider renting a satellite phone or bringing a communication device for emergencies. Inform your family about possible communication gaps.
Equipments
1.0 Travel Documents
- Valid passport
- Credit/Debit card
- Passport size photo (6 pieces)
- Insurance paper and contact address
- Family contact number
2.0 Upper Body Wear
- Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs)
- Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Gore-Tex Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Down Jacket (1 Pcs)
- Cotton T-Shirt (2 Pcs)
3.0 Lower Body Wear
- Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs)
- Fleece Trouser (1pcs)
- Gore-Tex Pant (1 pcs)
- Mid Weight Pants (1Pcs)
- Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants (2-3 Pairs)
- Gaiters for trekking boots
4.0 Headwear
- Sun Cap
- Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs)
- Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs)
5.0 Handwear
- Thin fleece gloves
- Wind stopper/screen tap gloves
6.0 Footwear
- Normal Socks (2-3 Pairs)
- Trekking Shoes (Gore-Tex)
- Slipper (1 Pair)
7.0 Sleeping Bags
- Sleeping bag -20°c to -30°c for Base camp
- Down Sleeping Bag -40°c for extreme comfort
- Thermarests Mattress (Cell foam)
- Sleeping bag Liner
- Inflatable Pillow
8.0 Trekking Equipment
- Power Bank
- Pee Bottle
- Altimeter watch
- Pocket Knife
- Walking Stick/Trekking Pole
- Satellite Phone with credit
- Battery
- Headlight 500-700Lumens
- Spare Tape Slings/240cm
- Unlock Carabiner
- Lock Carabiner
9.0 Bag packs
- Rucksacks 35 L -50 L
10.0 Sun stuff
- Banana Boat/ Nivea Sun Cream (-20 Spf)
- Lip Guard -20 (Spf)
- Sun Glasses (Uv Protection)
11.0 Toiletries (Personal)
- Toilet Paper / Wet Tissue
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Towel
- Garbage Bag
12.0 Eating & Drinkings
- 1 ltr. Water Bottle
- 1/1.5ltr. Thermos Mug (Opt.)
- Spoon / Fork (opt.)
- Bowl (opt.)
13.0 Medical / First Aid
- Brufen / Ibuprofens
- Antibiotic
- Diamox
- Paracetamol
- Handy Plaster
- Crack Bandage
- Tincture Iodine
- Ondem
- Cetirizine
- Electrolyte
- Minil 10mg (Palpitation, anxiety)
- Codopar (Headache & chest pain)
- Salbetol 4mg (Breathless)
- Azithromycin 500mg (chronic tonsillitis, fever, nose, throat infection-must take 5 days)
- Flupen 250mg (prevent wound infection)
- Allegra 120/180mg (Allergic tonsil)
- Menstrual Products
14.0 Miscellaneous
- Nail cutter
- Umbrella /Raincoat
- Hot water bag
- Camera
- Trails Maps
- GPS Tracker (Recommended)
- Hand & Toe Warmer
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