The Helambu trek, a perfect short trek in the Langtang region of Nepal, is situated nearby the bustling Valley of Kathmandu. Despite being close to the capital, the Helambu region remains relatively unspoiled, offering an authentic trekking experience. This region is known for its unique Hyolmo culture, which is distinct from other cultures found in Nepal.
Trek Overview
The Helambu trek offers stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas, as well as the lush green rhododendron and bamboo forests that cover the mountain slopes. Additionally, the trek takes you through some of the most diverse and fascinating regions near Kathmandu, making it a must-visit destination for any trekking enthusiast.
The highland people of the region are primarily Nepalis, but their ancestry is of Tibetan origin. As a result, they still maintain their Tibetan culture and traditions, making the Helambu trek a truly unique cultural experience.
Sundarija
The Helambu trek commences from Sundarijal, which is located just an hour’s drive from Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will enter the Shivapuri National Park, where you will be greeted by stunning natural vistas and diverse wildlife. The trek will take you through the charming villages of Chisopani, Kutumsang, Thadepati, and Shermathang, before finally ending at Melamchi Pul Bazar in the Helambu region.
The Helambu trek is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of the Langtang region. With its stunning Himalayan scenery, lush green forests, and fascinating cultural sites, this trek is an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Be, a part of this trek with Female Guide Kathmandu.
Entry Permits & Requirements:
The Helambu Trek requires the following permits:
- Shivapuri National Park Permit.
- Langtang National Park Permit.
- TIMS (Tourist Information Management System) card.
The Nepal Tourism Board’s office in Kathmandu can provide you with Shivapuri National Park Permit, Langtang National Park Entry Permit and a TIMS Card.
Fees for Permits:
- Foreign visitors must pay NRS 3000 per person, whereas nationals of SAARC nations
- must pay NRS 1,500 and Nepalese must pay NRS 100.
- If you are trekking with a guide, you will need a TIMS Card worth NRS 1000.
- Individual trekker receives NRS 2000 for free (FIT).
- NRS 300 if trekking with a guide and NRS 600 if trekking alone for SAARC countries nationals.
You will not have to worry about waiting for permits since the company, as well as our guides will take care of everything.
You must submit the following documents and data to get these permits:
- Copy of your passport
- 2 Passport-sized photos
- Dates when your trek starts and ends
- Itinerary/Route
- Entry and exit points
- Emergency Contact Information (local and home country)
- Travel Insurance Details
Meals and Drinking Water:
Popular trekking areas like Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, and Manaslu have a menu system with different ethnic cuisines foods as well as western meals, but some places provide you with typical Nepali meals which are different from international meals, these meals are prepared by the local supplement, every tourist lodge and tea house has a well-trained cook basically attention to clean, hygienic, fresh, and delicious foods, every lodge has safe drinking water or mineral water. If you buy a water purification tablet from Kathmandu you can take water from the tap and purify it by yourself, this will be cheaper and control plastic pollution as well.
Accommodation:
You will find local accommodations in the form of trekking lodges and teahouses, which are situated every hour or so along the trail. These accommodations provide basic facilities such as food, electricity, and clean rooms. The rooms generally have twin sharing beds and a single bed, with good quality mattresses that reduce the weight of your backpack. You can expect a hygienic and comfortable atmosphere at these accommodations. The dining rooms usually have a central heating system that uses firewood to keep you warm and cozy during your stay. This is also a great place to rest and connect with other travelers by sharing your stories. Additionally, campsites are available along the trail for those who want to experience camping in the outdoors.
Best Time to Visit?
The best time to go on a Helambu trek is during autumn and spring. The months of September, October, November, March, April, and May are the best time to visit as the weather conditions are better for exploring the high mountain terrain with good visibility.
During autumn, the weather is clear and warm, making it perfect for trekking on high Himalayan terrains. In spring, from March to May, the landscape changes with blooming trees of Rhododendron, mixed with Confers, Oaks, Orchids, and ferns, along with colorful wildflowers, making the region look stunning.
The monsoon season, with harsh weather conditions, is usually avoided by trekkers. The winter season, with heavy snowfall, covers most of the trail, making it challenging to access higher grounds in the Helambu region.
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is required for all clients engaging in any activity. We strongly urge you to obtain a complete insurance plan from reputable insurance.
Passport and Visa:
Every client must have a valid passport from the return date with a 6 month prior validity by the Nepalese consulate in your country or the immigration office at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
Equipment list:
- Daypack above 40 liters. (Must be waterproof)
- Down jacket (rental available)
- Warm sleeping bag (rental available)
- Sun head, gulf cap, sunglasses
- Headlamp, torchlight, power bank, and extra batteries
- Ear muffs, sun Lotions/sun cream, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer.
- Pair of liner gloves thin wool and synthetic.
- Cotton t-shirts, Synthetic t-shirts.
- Long-sleeve polyester or synthetic lightweight for sunny days.
- Soft-shell jacket water & wind resist.
- Swimming costume.
- Inner clothes as your requirement.
- Liner socks, woolen socks.
- Proper trekking boots with good ankle support.
- Imodium or Pepto Bismo capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea.
- Diamox for altitude sickness. The guide will help you to take it.
- One small personal-sized first-aid kit with blister treatments such as moleskin, bands,
- anti-infection ointments, muscle relief ointments
Important Note:
Your safety is of paramount importance to us at the Female Guide Holiday. We have the absolute authority to cancel the trip or change the itinerary, when deemed necessary or when we have reason to believe your safety is at stake. Weather conditions, the health condition of a group member, natural disasters, and such, can contribute to changes in the itinerary when traveling in remote mountainous regions. In these extreme situations, we kindly request that you offer your full cooperation to the trusted leader of the group appointed by the Female Guide Holiday. However, we assure you that we will make every effort to keep to the above itinerary.
Itinerary
As your plane approaches Kathmandu, you will be greeted with endless rows of verdant hills and snowcapped mountains. Once done with the formalities our staff will meet you at the airport and take you to your accommodation. You’ll have time to discover the city after you have checked in (depending on your arrival time). The valley of Kathmandu features a diverse range of tourist attractions from which to select. Meals: Welcome Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Today head on a guided tour to the world heritage sites of Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa. The Durbar Square provides insight into the perceptions of ancient royals. For all Hindus, Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites. The Monkey Temple also known as Swayambhunath, and the Boudhanath Stupa is one of the world’s biggest stupas. Later in the evening meet up with your trekking guide and prepare for your trek. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hotel
After breakfast head towards Sundarijal, a small town perched on the norther foothills of the valley. Upon reaching Sundarijal start the trek following across the dense woodlands of the Shivapuri National Park. As, you progress along the trail cross several villages dotted along the lush woodlands. Next, following the ascending route reach the village of Chisapani perched on a hilltop providing splendid views of variant hills and snowcapped mountain ranges. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Today's trek to Kutumsang begins after breakfast, soaking in the breathtaking beauty of the Langtang Mountains. Start by descending through lush meadows and fields, reveling in the stunning vistas. As you progress on the trail reach Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang. Upon reaching Gul Bhanjyang, cross a pass, and from the summit of the passing witness grand views of the landscape around. Next, embark on a gentle downhill section and finally reach Kutumsang. After a brief rest head out to explore around the village and start friendly conversations with the locals. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Today you will embark on a challenging trek on a steep trail that winds through dense fir and rhododendron forests. As you progress you will be rewarded with magnificent vistas of the majestic Himalayan mountain range. Then the trek continues towards Yurin Danda, where you will be treated to even more stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. Finally, following the high trails you will arrive at Tharepati. After a brief rest bask in the tranquility of the mountains and learn about the culture and lifestyle of the locals. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
The first section of the trek takes you following the descending trail eventually crossing the rapids of the gushing Melamchi Khola. Next, traversing on an ascending trail crossing several villages reach Tarkeghyang. After a bit of refreshment head out to explore the village, also visit various monasteries around, and learn about the lifestyle and culture of the locals. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Todays trek is relatively easy as you will be traversing across plain terrains. After breakfast start the trek, following the routes across the lush woodlands. Along the way keep an eye out as you may witness the biodiversity of the region. Next, crossing various networks of streams and waterfalls reach a wide valley nestled between the village of Parachin and Gangyul. Upon reaching Gangyul, after a brief walk, you will finally reach Shermathang. Later explore the gompas and monasteries around the settlement. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Tea House
Today is the final day of the trek. Wake up early and witness the grand views of the sun rising. After breakfast following the downhill tracks head towards to Melamchi Pul Bazaar. Upon reaching the Bazaar head on a long drive to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu rest and relax. Later in the evening join in for a special farewell dinner program to mark the end of your successful adventure. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner Accommodation: Hotel
Today you will be returning back to your country. If you prefer to stay longer, you can consult us for short tours such as National Parks visits, rafting, mountain biking, Tibet, India, or Bhutan tours, etc. Meals: Breakfast Note: All of the above-mentioned trekking hours and distances are estimations and should only be used as a general guideline.