Grading:
3690m (Tharepati)
Activities
- 1 Drive
- 4 Days Trekking
Best Season
- September - May
Meals
5 Breakfast
5Lunch
4 Dinner
Accommodation
- 4 nights at Lodge
Transportation
- Car/Jeep/Bus/Van
Overview
5 Days Helambu Trek is a scenic and culturally rich trekking adventure that takes you through the picturesque landscapes and traditional villages of the Helambu region in Nepal. Situated close to Kathmandu, this trek offers a convenient option for those seeking a Himalayan experience without venturing too far from the capital city. Helambu Trekcan be first option for you If you are looking for a short trek around Kathmandu at Nagarjun Shivapuri National Park . You will pass beautiful villages Chisapani , GolBhanjyang , Kutumsang, Mangengoth, Tharepati, Melamchigaon and beautiful view of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, Ganchenpo, Dorje Lakpaand GaurishankerHimalayas viewduring the trek. Different tribe people life style, Buddhist Monasteries are another attraction of this trek. Himalaya Trip organize5 days Helambu Trek from Kathmandu.
Trip Highlights
- Beautiful view of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Himal, Ganchenpo, Dorje Lakpa and Gaurishanker Himalayas view.
- Beautiful villages Chisapani , Gol Bhanjyang , Kutumsang, Mangengoth, Tharepati, Melamchigaon.
- Life style of Sherpa, Yalmo, Tamang and culture
- Trekking on Nagarjung Shivapuri National park.
- Rhododendron trees and flowers
- Buddhist Stupas, Chhorten, Monasteries
5 Days Helambu Trek
5 Days Helambu trek starts from Sundarijal, on the outskirts of Kathmandu, and follows a circular route through villages such as Chisapani, Gol Bhanjyang, Kutumsang, Mangengoth, and Thadepati, before returning to Melamchi goan. The trail offers a mix of uphill and downhill sections, providing a moderate level of challenge. The Helambu area is surprisingly peaceful and calm.
The Sherpa villages of Helambu due north of Kathmandu Valley present an easy getaway. This area because of its low elevation and the Sherpa villages makes it an interesting loop. This trekking is familiar to Sherpa culture and lifestyle. It is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich local culture and enjoy the warm hospitality of the people. The trek offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, including Ganesh Himal, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Gaurishankar. From Melamchi gaon drive back to Kathmandu by public bus.
Hotel in Kathmandu
If you want to include the Hotels in Kathmandu, It is possible to include them. For flexibility, you may book your own accommodations Hostel to 5 star Hotel in Kathmandu and you can stay more than one night in Kathmandu before and after the trek at your preferred place.
Porter option
This is a short trek from Kathmandu. We take the necessary things during the trek with you. The rest of the luggage, you will leave at your Hotel in Kathmandu. If you are okay with a 5-6 kgs backpack, you do not need a porter for this trek. If you cannot carry your backpack, you have the option to hire a porter with the cost of an extra US$100 per porter. You can share a porter between 2-3 people.
Outline
Day 01: Drive Kathmandu - Sundarijal and trek to Chisapani 2215m
Day 02: Trek Chisapani - Golphu Bhanjyang 2470m
Day 03: Trek Golphu Bhanjyang - Tharepati 3690m
Day 04: Trek Tharepani - Melamchigaon 2530m
Day 05: Drive Melamchigaon - Kathmandu (1342m).
Daily Itinerary
Kathmandu - Sundarijal - Chisapani
2,215m 4-5 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
This day, we drive to Sundarijal (1350m.) and Trek to Chisapani, a wide and obvious climb up beside the enormous water pipe that supplies Kathmandu with drinking water from a reservoir inside Nagarjun Shivapuri National Park. The first stage of the trek climbs steeply to the entry check post. Follow the sign-posted trail uphill to the large Tamang village of Mulkharka. The trail continues to climb to reach the pass at Borlang Bhanjyang. The rest of the day is the entire downhill through peaceful forests to Oak and Rhododendron. Within the hour, you’ll reach a wide track running uphill to Chisapani. The mountain views are excellent from here.
Chisapani - Golphu Banjyang (Gul Bhanjyang)
2470m 5-6 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
As you leave Chisapani, the trail runs out of the village and continues to level among pine plantations on the top of the spur. There are good mountain views as you leave the wide track and drop down into the valley on a muddy zigzagging path. Halfway down the slope, the trail reaches the Brahman and Chhetri village of Pati Bhanjyang (1770m.). The trail heads north out of the path Bhanjayang, a gentle ascent to a small white chorten at the sherpa village of Thakuni Bhanjyang. Climb steeply uphill past the lodge to meet a large trail, then bear right on crumbly stone steps to reach the much larger village of Chipping (2170m.) and then we reach Lapcha Danda. If the sky is clear, you’ll have good views of the peaks as you drop down through the rhododendron forest on the far side of the pass. After Thotong (today Betini, a friendly Tamang village), the path drops for another 30 minutes to the Tamang village of Golphu Bhanjyang. If it is clear morning, you can see a good view of the mountains.
Golphu Banjyang -Tharepati
3690m 7 hours walking B,L,D Lodge
This is the most dramatic stage of the trek, with the views that become increasingly epic as the day goes on. However, the climb is steep and sustained. You’ll work up a sweat climbing the 1650m to Tharepati and then face a sudden chill once you encounter the icy winds at the pass. Starting from Golkhu Bhanjyang, climb the hill to Kutumsang(2450m). As you climb the Yurin Danda ridge, you see peaks above Langtang and Gosaikunda soar into view. About three hours after leaving Kutumsang, you’ll drop down to the appealing village of Magin Goth (Magen Goth). There are fabulous views from here to the rocky Thare Danda ridge, where a rugged trail climbs to Gosaikunda. After Magin Goth, it is a steep, two-hour climb to reach the Tharepati village (3640m.). A steep path rises above the village to a fluttering white prayer flag on a mind-swept hilltop, offering a perfect panorama of the Langtang Himalaya.
Tharepati - Melamchigaon
2,540m 4-5 hours walk B,L,D Lodge
Heading east from the Tharepati, the trail drops rapidly down the ridge, quickly losing those wonderful mountain views. The trail follows the rhododendron forest and chortens. The last stage of the walk is an unforgiving drop on the almost vertical trail that will teach you the meaning of the word “impact”. a long suspension bridge on the outskirts of Melamchi Gaon. Melamchi feels like a teeming metropolis. We raised goats and cattle and tended fields of barley, corn, and potatoes. Melamchi was founded in 1859 by the head lama of Bouddhnath stupa. In the center of the village is a large, renovated Gompa. It is a nice village.
Melamchigaon - Kathmandu
1342m 4 hours driving B,L own Hotel
Drive from Melamchi to Kathmandu (1340m, 4 hours driving), overnight at the Hotel.
Whats Included?
- Kathmandu-Sundarijal by Car and Melamchigaon to Kathmandu by Public Bus.
- All the meals (5 breakfast, 5 lunch, 4 dinner) with 4 Nights at Lodge accommodation during the trek.
- One English speaking professional government register certificate holder local familiar trekking guide.
- Guide: foods, accommodation, insurance, salary and equipment etc.
- Nagarjun Shivapuri National park fee and TIMS card.
- Himalaya Trip T-shirt.
- Local fresh fruit like orange, banana, apple, grape etc.
- First Aids Kit.
- All government tax and official charges.
Whats not Included?
- International airfare and Visa fee ($25 for 15days and $40 for 30days).
- Hotel and meals in Kathmandu.
- Your trekking gears.
- All the drinks like tea, coffee , coke, fanta, mineral water , beer etc.
- Your travel insurance which should include the emergency rescue.
- Tips for guide .
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Trekking Permit for Helambu Trek
To undertake the Helambu Trek, trekkers need to obtain the Nagarjun Shivapuri National Park Entry Permit. This permit can be obtained in Kathmandu or at the entry checkpoint in Sundarijal. It is important to adhere to the regulations set by the authorities to preserve the natural environment and respect the local communities.
Accommodation and facilities for Helambu Trek
Along the Helambu Trekking route, there are teahouses and lodges that provide accommodation and meals for trekkers. These establishments offer basic facilities such as beds, blankets, hot showers, and a variety of local and international food options. The teahouses provide a cozy resting place and an opportunity to interact with fellow trekkers, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Preparation and fitness for Helambu Trek
The Helambu Trek is considered a moderate trek suitable for trekkers of all ages with a reasonable level of fitness. While prior trekking experience is not required, it is advisable to engage in physical preparation and endurance training before undertaking the trek. Regular cardio exercises such as hiking, jogging, or cycling, along with strength training, will help build stamina and prepare the body for the trekking challenges.
Packing List for Helambu Trek
Helambu trek is a short trek in Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu Region. You do not need any special gears.
I recommend you , Sleeping bag, Trekking boots, Trousers, Socks ,warm jacket, T-shirts (two or three) and long-sleeved shirt, Sunscreen (SPF 20+) , Backpack, Torch (flashlight),Camera ,memory card and battery charger( spare batteries) ,Quick- drying towel, Toilet Paper, warm hat, gloves, thermal underwear , sun glass, water bottle etc.
What kind of food do we expect during Helambu Trek ?
The Lodges have Menu; you will have your own choice. The foods are hygienic. But it is not like cities foods. Non-veg food are not recommend. It is not fresh and hygienic .
- Breakfast: Simple Breakfast (Eggs any item has, toast or Tibetan Bread, Pancake, Muesli, Oat Porridge etc.)
- Lunch: Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetable, Papadam,Tomato Hot spicy, Chicken curry optional), Macorani , Spaghetti, Potato item, Mo.Mo or dumpling, Pizza, Friend Rice, Fried Noodles, French fries etc.
- Dinner: Nepali Thali (Plain Rice, Lentil soup, Potato Curry, Green Vegetable, Papadam,Tomato Hot spicy or pickle, Chicken curry optional), Macorani , Spaghetti, Potato item, Mo.Mo or dumpling, Pizza, Friend Rice, Fried Noodles, French fries etc.
- Dessert: Fresh Fruit (Apple, orange, pomegranates, Banana with any seasonal fruit) serve as sweet dessert.
Note: All the drinks soft, hot, hard drinks are not included.
When is the best time to do this trek ?
We organize this trek all the months. But if you are planning to do this trek at the best time. We recommend you following time.
- Winter (December – February): This is coldest time of the year. It will be snow during this time. But you can still do this trek.
- Spring (March – May): This is best time to trek on Helambu trek. You will have wonderful weather with warm temperature. You will also have chances to see the Rhododendron flowers.
- Summer (June – August): This is monsoon in Nepal. There is chances of mostly raining and it will be cloudy. The rain poncho or rain jacket is needed.
- Autumn (September – November): This is another best time to do Helambu trek. After the raining season. It will be fresh and clear weather will be appear. It will be warm temperature.
Important Note
Available of the trip
We organise small group private trip. If you are 2 or more people in your group, you may book any dates.
Travel Insurance
The travel insurance is need in case of any emergency. It is recommend to have. If you are doing short and low elevation trek, you can do normal insurance. But if you are doing high altitude or adventure trek, you should have emergency rescue.
Last Minute booking
Normally, trekkers plan the trip before 3-9 months. Some trekkers decide the trip in last minutes. It is also possible to book your trek at last minutes. For the Last minutes booking, you need to make a full payment.
Tipping
Tipping is highly expected. Our staffs try their best during the trip. After the trip, Tipping is expected. It is not fixed amount or percentage. We recommend the tipping according to their services.
Safety
When you are travelling, the safety is most important. For the safety of our clients, we trained our guide and porters. They are all register trekking / Tour / Climbing guide and experience porters.
Extra personal expenses
For the extra expenses, it is good to bring USD / Euro / Pound Sterling or ther currency. You may change to Nepali Rupees (NPR) at Tribhuwan International Airport or near your Hotel in Kathmandu. You will use only Nepali rupees during the trip.
Nepal visa
Accept few countries , you will get on arrival Nepal’s Visa at the Tribhuwan International Airport or Nepal board. I recommend to fill up Nepal Visa online form and bring it with you. It will be faster and easy for you and visa fee is recommended to bring cash US dollar. You can’t pay by using credit card.
Trip extension or Itinerary Disclaimer
We organize small group private trip. The trip extension is possible but you have to figure out when you booking the trip.
Group joing and Fixed departure
Most of the time, we have small group private trip. Group joining or fixed departure will be available only at the clients request.
Luggage store
You are not taking all the lugguage on the trek. You will take only necessary gears on the trek and rest of the gears, you will store at your Hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara or in our office in Kathmandu. All the Hotels have free lagguge store services. It is more convinent to store at your Hotel.
Responsible travel
- Ask permission to photograph people.
- Do not remove or purchase antiques, it is illegal.
- Avoid wearing revealing clothes and avoid outward displays of physical affection.
- Do not anything to disturb environment or wild animals.
Domestic flight
Normally, domestic flight is not on time. If you have international flight with domestic connection flight. It is always better to keep some gaps.
Trek Booking
For the Booking, we need passport copy, passport size photo by email or What's App and 20% deposit.
Why Himalaya Trip ?
- Fast response
- Recommended on TripAdvisor
- Trained guide
- Local or reasonable price
- Small group private Trip