Helambu Trek
Based on 2 Reviews
Helambu Trek Summary
- Helambu Trip Duration: 7 Days
- Maximum Height: 3,510 m/11,512 feet
- Trekking Hour: 6 Hours
- Helambu Trek Group Size: 1 – 15 People
- Meals on Trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Best Time to Explore: March, April, May, October, November and December
- Trip Mode: Guest House Basis
- Mode of Transportation: Bus (Sharing Basis)
Overview
The Helambu Trek is renowned for exploring the Milarepa Meditation Cave and Gekye Gompa within the Hyolmo community, located north of Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. Guru Rinpoche meditated secretly in this cave, making the route profoundly spiritual.
A short Helambu trek itinerary has been carefully prepared by a local expert guide who has visited Helambu multiple times. Passes through fascinating tiny villages, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan black bears, monkeys, Himalayan wild goats, and a variety of birds and wildflowers.
Additional attractions include the rich Buddhist culture, with highlights such as the Milarepa Meditation Cave and various monasteries. Tarke Ghyang serves as the gateway to the Ama Yangri peak hiking trail, considered a divine protector of the Helambu valley. This hike offers spectacular mountain views from Ama Yangri, a hill station accessible without significant trekking difficulty.
Embarking on the Helambu trek is an accessible and rewarding journey, ideal for first-time trekkers. Located just 42.3 kilometers north of Kathmandu, as detailed on the Helambu trek map, this lush region is inhabited by Sherpa and Tamang communities. The trek offers a rich cultural and natural experience and can be conveniently undertaken year-round.
How much does for Helambu Trek Package Cost?
The cost of the Helambu trek package with a Gokyo Trek Agency (a local agency in Kathmandu Nepal) ranges between US$ 345 to US$ 499. Certainly, the Helambu cultural hike cost totally depends upon the group size and the types of transportation you choose. Typically, the trip price includes transportation, accommodation, guide and Porter, food, permit cost, etc.
We also have discount deals for tour leaders. For example, if you could bring 10+ travelers (except you) to your trip, you are treated as a group leader. So you can hike Helambu for free of cost.
We often arrange private trips to provide a more personalized experience, avoiding group tours with strangers. A private tour offers enhanced flexibility and a tailored experience on your hikes. If you value customization, in-depth exploration, and personal attention, a private trip designed to meet your specific needs is the best option.
It’s a standard trip package price for 7 days trekking in Helambu. If you are 2 tourist Helambu trek cost US$ 490 for 7 days trek as given on the above trekking plan. We can modify the trek route and price as per your wish also. Here is the price list for 7 days Helambu trek in Nepal.
Price Per Person for 1-week Helambu Trek package for 2024 and 2025.
| Number of Tourist | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | US$ 499 |
| 2 Person | US$ 490 |
| 3 Person | US$ 485 |
| 4 to 6 person | US$ 425 |
| 7 to 9 Person | US$ 390 |
| 10 and more than 10 Person | US$ 345 |
If you’re wondering to know about what is included and what is excluded from this trip price, kindly check on the cost given on a tab button.
Itinerary
Helambu Trek itinerary details
A spiritual journey to Helambu is a popular trekking route in Nepal, offering stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and insights into local traditions. Here is a basic 7-day Helambu trek itinerary, which we can modify based on your preferences and available time.
Ensure you book your trip with us to allow us to check the latest trail conditions and secure the necessary permits before starting the trek. The Helambu route is ideal for world explorers who wish to walk peacefully and at a leisurely pace.
1 DayArrival in the Kathmandu airport. Kathmandu tour – World Heritage sites in Kathmandu, 6 hours.Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport, we will receive you with a private vehicle and take you to your hotel in Thamel Kathmandu. Ammar Guni will brief you about your city tour.
We start our day trip visiting world heritage sites located in Kathmandu city. The sightseeing spot covers mainly Boudhanath Stupa and a Pashupatinath temple, the main Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Kathmandu. Pashupati temple is a Hindu holy temple where the cremation takes place by the holy river Bagmati. Later on, we visit Kathmandu Durbar Square to see its ancient monuments and Kumari Temple. Kumari is a living goddess temple dedicated to Taleju Bhawani.
Chisopani area trekking or tour conducts from Sundarijal Bazaar, where there’s a small dam and a hydroelectricity station in the northeast corner of the Kathmandu valley. Our journey leads to a climb through the wet, subtropical forest to an oak forest and on to Mulkharka, a scattered Tamang village.
The trail again ascends through the oak forest to a pass called Borlung Bhanjyang and walks downhill to get to Chisopani village. Chisapani offers a fabulous Jugal, mountain range including Langtang, Ganesh in the far east, and Manaslu, Annapurna towards the far west.
Trek to Kutumsang trail continues to drop from Chisopani on a good, sometimes level trail that crosses meadows and fields. Pati Bhanjyang is on a saddle at the bottom of the ridge at 1,770m, a Chhetri settlement with a few shops and hotels.
Trail heads north out of the Pati bhanjyang along the forested ridge and descends to a large Chorten, the Tamang village of Gul Bhanjyang. Besides that, the trail climbs the ridge from Gul Bhanjyang to another pass at 2,620m. From the pass, one can look back over Gul Bhanjyang at the bottom. We continue to descend the nature trail to Kutumasang at 2,470 meters to stay overnight.
The trail climbs above Kutumasang on a steep, eroded trail, mostly through fir and rhododendron forests. As we hike into nature, there are not any permanent settlements. Furthermore, we ascend to Magen Goth (3,150 m) and finally reach the Thadepati hilltop. Tharepati hill pass offers an excellent mountain vista that includes Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Gauri Shankar, Ganesh Himal…etc. Apple Garden’s landscape on the Helambu hiking trail is another impressive part of the journey. This hiking path appeal to incorporates navigating along the characteristic plushness of the trek area basically make this outing a valuable endeavoring Helambu journey Nepal.
From Thadepati hilltop, Tourist get an excellent view of Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishankar, Jugal, and Langshisa. Besides that, this pass is also the main junction that connects the trail to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake. We continue east descending steeply down a ravine. The vegetation changes from large firs to oaks and rhododendron. Crossing a stream on a suspension bridge, the trail makes a short final climb to reach the prosperous Sherpa village of Melamchigaon.
Melamchi Gaon is situated at an altitude of 2,530 meters and is famous for Milarepa’s Cave. Guru Rinpoche meditated secretly in the cave in this province. There is a symbol of the top of the stupa inside the cave-like pinnacle sun and moon together. This is the reason that Melamchi Gaun is also spoken of as a Melamchi Gyang village. Hyolmo people are mainly inhabitants in that area thus, this area is called Helambu.
From Melamchigaon, the trail continues to descend to the Melamchi River. Once across the suspension bridge, the trail begins climbing up the other side of the valley towards Tarkeghyang. It is a long rise to this picturesque village at 2,600m, situated on a shelf high above the river.
Tarke Ghyang is the largest village in Helambu, popular as the trekker’s paradise in terms of cultural, and natural aspects. As this territory is a popular for a spiritual journey, its good to idea to meditate in an old monastery (Gekye Gompa).
Traveler’s can pack their gears and ready to hike to Ama Yangri hill station after delicious breakfast in Tarkeghyang Lodges. The tower at Ama Yangri hill situated at an elevation of 3,771 meters is consider to be a deity who has turned into the protector of the Helambu region.
Ama Yangri is a viewpoint to explore the Himalayan range and impressive landscapes even more popular for sunset and sunrise. In clear weather day, traveler’s view a great mountain ranges including Mount Everest range, Manaslu range, Langtang range, and Annapurna ranges. In terms of natural scenery and cultural diversity, Ama Yangri is the best trekking in this territory however the distance from Tarke Ghyang to Ama Yangri hill top is 3.8 km each way and takes two hours each way.
Trek continue across the forested area, you’ll pass through streams and waterfalls before you reach Gangyul. Gangyul is a Sherpa village and offers a few lodges with delicious meals and along the route, you encounter some small chortens or stupas too. Today is a comparatively easy walk as you’ll lose altitude with downhill slopes. Furthermore, we follow the long path through the beautiful green hills and natural vegetation to reach Sermathang village.
Sermathang is another pleasant settlement of the Hyolmo people, the local tribe of the Helambu region. You can visit old and beautiful monasteries and learn about the Hyolmo culture and its traditions. You can spend some quality time interacting with locals and be familiar with their way of life.
Today is the last day of the trek. As you will descend more than 1700 meters in altitude, today’s trek is almost all the way downhill to Melamchi Pul Bazar. You walk across the Kakani and Thimbu villages to get down the Melamchi highway. You will also notice that you will head to the subtropical region as you encounter some rice paddy fields. A trek of four hours will take you to Melamchi Pul (840 meters), which is a busy marketplace.
We take a local bus (private vehicle cost an extra) back to Kathmandu city right on arrival on Melamchi. You can do some last-minute shopping in Thamel for buying souvenirs for your family and relatives. In the evening, join a typical Nepali dinner with the Gokyo Treks agency. In this way, the Helambu circuit trek finishes, and we wish you a wonderful journey back home.
Not satisfied with above plan?
Interested in planning a custom trip? this might take 2 to 3 minutes.
Cost
How much does Helambu Trek cost?
Short hikes near Kathmandu to Helambu Trek price start at US$ 345 and might reach up to US$ 499 per person on double occupancy basis. Taking flights to and from Pokhara saves your time and riding the bus reduces the trip expenses. Gokyo Treks and Expedition agency notify this express Annapurna Circuit Trek Package price for 2024 and 2025 based on group size you are travelling with.
For the deluxe and luxury trekking tour plan, we add a 3-5 star category hotel deluxe air-conditioned room in Kathmandu with breakfast. Likewise, a private room with an attached toilet/bathroom on possible places on trekking days. AND WE ARE OPEN TO CUSTOMIZING YOUR TOUR AND PACKAGE PRICE AS PER YOUR REQUIREMENTS.
Soft adventure Helambu hiking packages price includes:-
- Kathmandu Tribhuvan international airport transfer with a private car/van on your arrival.
- Single night double bedroom accommodation in a tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu.
- 6 Breakfast serve with a cup of tea/coffee, 6 lunch and 5 Dinner [main course] during the Helambu tours.
- 5 Nights Guest house accommodation while you are on trekking days.
- Langtang and Shivapuri National Park entrance permit fees.
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) permits and fees (if requires)
- Kathmandu to Sundarijal transfer with Micro Bus & Melamchi to Kathmandu trip by bus transfer [sharing].
- English speaking license holder mountain trekking guide on Helambu trek route.
- An assistant guide will provide for 7 plus group tourists.
- Experienced porter (2 guests: 1 porter basis) because each porter carries a maximum of 24 kilograms.
- Salary, food, accommodation, and travel insurance for hiking guides and porters.
- Kathmandu city world heritage sites Tour Guide and Private Car Transfer.
- Agency’s duffel bag (50 liters capacity), and trek poles if Necessary – return after the trek.
- First aid medical kit including Oximeter to check your Oxygen level, Pulse rate to monitor every day to save from high altitude risk.
- Updated Helambu trek map and trek completion Certificate after the successful trek – keep them as a souvenir.
- Nepal Government Tax, VAT, and as well as Company service charge.
The cultural Helambu circuit trekking package price excludes:-
- Lunch and Dinner during the staying in Kathmandu
- Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls, and hot showers during the hikes.
- World heritage sites entrance fee {Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Kathmandu durbar square].
- Traveler personal trekking equipment .
- Personal nature expenses, all beverage drink bills.
- Travel Insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
- Donation and monuments entrance fees.
- Gratuities for guide and porters [Tip is a culture, so they expect highly].
Group join
We can organize private Helambu Trekking starting on any date that works for you. Please contact us for more information.
FAQ
Question: Do I need the experience to accomplish a hike to Helambu?.
Answer: No prior experience is needed to accomplish a hike to Helambu. The trek is suitable for beginners and offers a manageable route with stunning scenery and cultural insights, making it ideal for first-time trekkers.
Question: Is pick up service available on my arrival day in Kathmandu?.
Answer: Yes sure. Provide us with your flight details and request us. Our representative will come to pick up you at Kathmandu international airport.
Question: Can I store my luggage/stuff in Kathmandu?
Answer: Yes, you can leave your luggage at your hotel or at our office. Storing your stuff in the Gokyo Treks agency office is for free.
Question: Is the Helambu trekking Safe for a Solo Tourists?
Answer: Yes, this Helambu circuit trekking is widely regarded as safe for solo female trekkers. However, as with any trekking adventure, it’s crucial to take precautions and remain aware of your surroundings. A solo trek to Helambu can be more expensive due to higher costs for accommodation and other services. Therefore, we advise you in our group trip to share rooms and other expenses, making the trip more affordable. Group trekking also provides added safety and companionship.
Our team consists of honest and friendly guides who treat every trekker like a family member. We have been organizing treks for solo female travelers since our establishment, ensuring their safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
Question: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect on Helambu Trekking?.
Answer: At your tip to Helambu, we provide you with tourist standard lodge accommodation during the trek routes. Rooms along the routes are clean with a cozy bed with nice mattresses and blankets. However we recommend you take your own sleeping bags if you have one with you otherwise, you may rent them while you are in Kathmandu.
Likewise, Trekkers’ guest houses typically have attached restaurants offering a delicious range of mostly vegetarian meals. These include pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, curry rice, bread, soups, and fresh vegetables. Dinner and breakfast are provided at the lodge where you spend the night, and lunch is served at a stop along the way to your next destination.
Question: What opportunities will I have for a shower on a Helambu tour?.
Answer: On a Helambu tour, you will have opportunities for showers at most guest houses and lodges along the trek. However, facilities can vary, with some offering basic cold-water showers and others providing hot showers for an additional fee. It’s advisable to check with your accommodation in advance to understand the available amenities.
Question: How do I get drinking water on my express trip to Helambu?.
Answer: In most places, you will find tea shops and hotels selling drinking water in plastic bottles. However, we strongly advise against buying mineral water in plastic bottles, as there are no proper disposal facilities for these plastics in the Himalayas. Instead, we recommend purchasing Aqua tablets to purify the available normal water. Fresh water is readily available at guesthouses and along the hiking trails.
Question: Can I charge my mobile phone or digital camera on my trip?.
Answer: At the Helambu circuit is a lodge base trekking in Nepal so there will be more chances to charge your phone and other battery. We recommend you bring an extra pair in case. Remember to bring your own adapters.
Question: Are there any communication facilities for the Helambu Trekking group?.
Answer: You can get telephone services as well as internet services. So buy a local SIM card to call or a data pack.
Question: Can I use credit card in Helambu Trekking? How much additional money do I need per day?.
Answer: Credit cards are generally not accepted on the Helambu Trek. Most guesthouses, shops, and restaurants along the trek only accept cash. It is advisable to carry enough Nepalese rupees to cover your expenses throughout the trek.
You can allocate US$ 10 to 15 US$ each day will cover to pay for buying bottles of water, chocolates, tea coffee while you are on your trek. But of course, it depends on your spending habits, so make sure to withdraw cash in Kathmandu before starting your journey.
Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?.
Answer: We recommend booking your trip with us as soon as possible to avoid misunderstandings. While we strive to accommodate last-minute bookings, a 15% advance deposit is required to confirm your reservation. The remaining payment can be made upon your arrival in Nepal.
Question: Who will carry my luggage on short Helambu trekking?.
Answer: We provide porters to transfer your luggage. As we are a responsible trekking tour operator agency, each of our porters carry 24 kilos of backpacks. It means 2 guests =1 porter basis like 12 kilos luggage of each guest. If you wish to have a private porter, you might also get it at extra cost.
Question: How about hiring a local trekking guide for Helambu circuit trekking?.
Answer: Yes of course. If you are travelling in a tight budget for Helambu circuit trekking and have no wish to book the complete full board package trek, you can hire our expert local guide to make your holiday tour safer. Email to us to get a cost quotation for a local guide hiring in details.
Question: What distance do I walk daily?
Answer: The distance you walk each day can vary due to slope, terrain, and altitude. Roughly, you can walk around 5 hours every day.
Question: Do I need walking poles?
Answer: Walking poles can be beneficial for your hike to Helambu, especially for stability and support, particularly during descents and on uneven terrain. They can also help reduce the strain on your knees and legs, making your trek more comfortable. If you are used to hiking with poles or anticipate needing extra support, it’s a good idea to bring them along.
Helambu trek route highlights
- Discover some of the tallest Mountains and snow-covered peaks from Thadepati top hill.
- Walk with cultivated fields, colorful Rhododendron, conifers, and oak forest.
- Ama Yangri is a view point that offers the best panorama of the mountains and the entire Helambu territory.
- Best view of Himalayan scenery including Tarkeghyang Buddhist village.
- At Melamchigaon, consider visiting a holy place the Guru Rinpoche meditation secret places.
- Discover an old village of Tarkeghyang and Sarmanthang popularly known as Helambu Region Trekking.
- Explore Gekye Gompa, an ancient and largest monastery in the region.
- Trekking on an off-beaten and less crowded cultural trail for Milerapa Meditation territory.
- Experience Sherpa Buddhism and their lifestyles.
When is the best time for Helambu Trekking?
The best time for Helambu Trekking in Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These seasons offer the most favorable weather and optimal trekking conditions in the Helambu region.
During spring, the temperatures are mild, and the rhododendron forests along the trail come alive with vibrant blooms, creating a picturesque landscape. Skies are generally clear, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
Autumn is another excellent time for Helambu Trekking. The weather is stable, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures during the day. The autumn months offer excellent visibility, allowing trekkers to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Langtang Lirung and Jugal Himal.
Both spring and autumn are considered the high seasons for trekking in Nepal, including the Helambu territory. Usually, the trails are well-maintained, and there is a festive atmosphere in the local villages due to various cultural celebrations.
It’s worth noting that while these seasons are generally ideal, weather patterns can vary from year to year. It’s always a good idea to check the latest weather forecasts time to time that your holiday adventure to ensure the best possible experience.
How to reach Helambu?
Helambu territory is situated about 80 kilometers far from Kathmandu. So, to reach there, you can take a Kathmandu to Helambu Jeep/bus. Scenic and short Helambu trek 5 days, an ideal for people traveling with less time. Kathmandu to Talmarang – Timbu or return with Helambu express bus ride takes about 7 hours usually.
Helambu Trek notes
For trekkers heading to Helambu, it’s crucial to be prepared for the high-altitude terrain and variable weather conditions. Carry enough cash, as credit cards are not widely accepted. Stay hydrated and avoid plastic bottled water; instead, use purification tablets.
Ensure you have the necessary trek permits and check for the latest trail conditions before starting your trek. Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures, and don’t forget sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles for added support.
The information provided is a sample guideline for the Helambu trek. This Helambu trek itinerary is possible to modify to accommodate specific guest requests, subject to factors such as local politics, landslides, weather, or transportation issues, which may necessitate on-the-spot itinerary changes.
While major alterations are rare, our trek leaders will make decisions in the group’s best interests should changes be required. We strive to minimize the impact of any changes or delays, but we cannot be held responsible for the consequences of such occurrences.
What makes Helambu Trek special?
Helambu valley trek provides a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle, culture, and customs of the Helambu region, which is inhabited mainly by Sherpa, Tamang, and Hyolmo people. These communities have their own unique traditions, festivals, and religious practices that are distinct from other parts of Nepal.
However, we at Gokyo Treks and Expedition believe in quality service and your safety and satisfaction which is a prime concern. We are a team of professional, skilled guides, and licensed local guides who know the destination much better than others. Besides that, we give benefits to the local communities and help to conserve natural resources which reduced costs and consumption.
Helambu Trek Traveler’s Review
Best scenery, great guides and professional company
Together with my husband, we enjoyed trekking with Gokyo Treks and Expedition in the Helambu trek of the Langtang region. Found an agency on the internet and decided to trust them based on good recommendations. Everything was organised as agreed from trekking permits to accommodation in Kathmandu and airport taxi…etc.
The guide knows well all about trekking routes and all clean lodges. So, I can recommend to you highly about Goyko Treks and Expeditions. Trip of the lifetime !!Thank you very much, Ammar and our Sherpa guide for the amazing experience!
From US$ 525
5% Off US$ 490| No. of people | Price Per Person |
| 1 | USD 499 |
| 2 | USD 490 |
| 3 | USD 485 |
| 4 - 6 | USD 425 |
| 7 - 9 | USD 390 |
| 10 + | USD 345 |
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