9 Days
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The Helambu Trek in Langtang is one of the short and rewarding Himalaya trekking experiences close to Kathmandu. This Helambu Trail is generally less popular than many other routes, but it offers a peaceful, nature-rich escape. It is perfect for nature walking, cultural discovery, and light mountain exploration. But nowadays it is gaining some popularity among trekkers because it is short and peaceful. The trek leads through green valleys, traditional villages, and offers beautiful Himalayan views.
You’ll enter the route via Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park, a wildlife-rich area where the trek begins with a peaceful forest walk through rhododendron, pine, oak, and bamboo. As you move along the trail, you’ll meet Hyolmo, Tamang, and Sherpa communities. You can immerse yourself in authentic traditional village life and cultural trekking experiences. You will visit long-standing Buddhist monasteries across the Helambu region and feel the area’s spiritual atmosphere.
You will witness distant mountain views of the Langtang, Dorje Lhakpa, Gaurishankar, and Jugal Himal ranges. One of the trek’s highlights is the panoramic viewpoint Ama Yangri (3,771 m). This is the highest point on the route, which also holds spiritual value for local Hyolmo people.
Your Helambu trekking journey begins at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), where a Nepal Hiking Team guide greets you. They will help you with hotel check-in and then give you a short briefing about the Helambu Trail.
On the second day, you travel from Kathmandu to Sundarijal by a private vehicle. From there, your main trailhead begins on foot. You will quickly enter Shivapuri–Nagarjun National Park, leaving the city behind for lush forest, waterfalls, and the Tamang village of Mulkharka. The day’s walk climbs to Chisapani, where an early sunrise can reward you with panoramic views of the Langtang range.
The next day, the trail descends and climbs across meadows and ridges toward Kutumsang, passing Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang and a low pass near 2,620 m. From Kutumsang, you’ll enjoy close views of Dorje Lhakpa and other peaks before continuing higher toward the ridge.
On the route to Thadepati / Tharepati, you pass Yurin Danda and fir–rhododendron forests. If the skies are clear, then you will get to see superb mountain panoramas. After Thadepati, the trail descends toward Melamchi Gaon, then climbs again into Tarkeghyang. This is the cultural and spiritual heart of Helambu, with stupas, gompas, and traditional Hyolmo life on display.
A special day hike takes you from Tarkeghyang up to Ama Yangri (3,771 m), the trek’s highest viewpoint and a place of spiritual importance. On clear days, Ama Yangri gives true 360° Himalayan panoramas (Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, distant Manaslu, and more). You will also find a well-preserved gompa and colorful prayer flags here.
After the viewpoint, you descend across mixed woodland toward Shermathang. It is famous for apple orchards, scattered traditional houses, and lovely views of the Jugal and Ganesh Himal ranges. The final hiking day follows rice fields and meadows down to Melamchi Pul Bazaar, where you’ll board a vehicle to drive back to Kathmandu. On your final day, our NHT team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
If this trek doesn’t sound appealing to you, don’t worry! We provide a variety of treks around the Langtang Region. Some of them are mentioned below:
First, we have the Langtang Valley Trek. It is a 10-day journey that takes you to explore the beautiful Langtang Valley. On this trek, you primarily interact with people from the Tamang ethnic group and have the opportunity to hear their untold stories. This is an inspirational journey in the Himalayas, with the resilient stories of the region.
Next, we have the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. This 16-day trek gives you a whole circular experience of the Langtang region. It combines the three beautiful destinations, i.e., Langtang Valley, Helambu, and Gosaikunda Lake. This trek provides a perfect opportunity for trekkers who want a profound experience for an extended time.
Regardless of the trek you choose, we’ll be sure to make it an unforgettable journey. And if you want to customize the itinerary, please feel free to contact us!
Experience the timeless charm of the Helambu region with us, Nepal Hiking Team (NHT). Our clients’ experience makes us one of Nepal’s trusted, locally-led operators for cultural, comfortable, and safe trekking. Our Helambu Trek pairs gentle Himalayan trekking with authentic village life.
We have designed this itinerary for travelers who want a near-Kathmandu escape that’s rich in culture and light on altitude strain. This trek is perfect for first-time trekkers, solo travelers, families, and small groups.
We craft every trip with local knowledge and attention to detail. Your experienced NHT guide manages pacing, altitude safety, and logistics while connecting you to Hyolmo, Tamang, and Sherpa communities. You shall always expect comfortable teahouse stays, genuine homestay hospitality, and secure, well-planned route days while travelling with us.
Trekkers completing the journey with us will be awarded the official Helambu trekking Certificate. More importantly, they return home with lasting memories of the Helambu Region.
What you’ll feel: quiet forest mornings, prayer flags fluttering above high ridgelines, village life in traditional teahouses, and an unforgettable 360° panorama from Ama Yangri at sunrise. What we deliver: peace of mind, warm local connections, and a smoothly run trekking holiday.
Today, as you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, an introductory guide from the Nepal Hiking Team welcomes you, transfers you to the hotel, and briefly describes the overall Helambu trip.
After fortifying yourself with a hearty breakfast, you’ll leave your hotel this morning to transfer by private vehicle to the town of Sundarijal. The route takes just an hour and is essentially contiguous with Kathmandu. It’s all on foot from Sundarijal, where your path rises steeply near a small hydroelectric plant. You’re now approaching the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, a formally protected watershed and wildlife reserve. As you leave the urban environment of Kathmandu behind, you’ll be amazed by how quickly you find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and rural fields.
The first settlement we’ll come across is called Mulkharka; its residents are mostly of Tamang background, and the village is a popular destination for day hikers who want to spend an afternoon away from the city. There are also some trickling waterfalls coursing through large boulders in the forest here that are sure to please nature lovers. Continuing past Mulkharka, you’ll traverse a wooded ridge of oak and rhododendron and arrive at Chisapani after about four hours on the trail.
Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise; on a clear day, you can take in a gorgeous panorama of the Langtang Himal range from here in Chisapani. After breakfast, you begin the trek to Kutumsang. Your route today takes about seven hours, descending to cross scenic meadows and fields on the approach to the little villages of Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang.
Then it’s back to climbing: you’ll ascend along a ridge leading to today’s high point, a pass at approximately 2,620 meters. As you hike, look for intricately carved mani stones along the path.
These carvings represent sacred Buddhist mantras, and passing them on to the left is considered appropriate. Today’s hike ends when you reach the town of Kutumsang, a village of traditionally built homes and hillsides shrouded in mist. You can obtain exceptional views of Dorje Lhakpa’s pyramidal summit from here.
This portion passes through a forest of fir and rhododendrons as it climbs to the Yurin Danda ridge. From this excellent viewpoint, you’ll enjoy remarkable panoramas of the Langtang Himal and the high-altitude Gosaikunda Pass.
After you take some photographs, you descend gradually to pass by an army checkpoint near the densely wooded region of Magengoth.
This is a beautiful part of the trail, and it’s a good place to take a break before making the final ascent to Tharepati. A clear day in Tharepati will reward you with a good look at the distant peaks of Dorje Lhakpa, Gaurishankar, and several other Himalayan giants.
Today’s trek takes you through two major villages of the Helambu region. After breakfast, you begin a long, steep descent to the first village, Melamchi Gaon. This is a spreading community with many houses draped with prayer flags, vast pastures with occasional grazing horses, and a colorful Gompa, or monastery.
Then, the path ascends through scattered Sherpa settlements as it approaches Tarkeghyang. Several large stupas and an essential monastery in Tarkegyang represent the Helambu Trek's cultural elements. This village is a spiritual center of the Helambu region.
Today is a special day of this trek as you hike toward the spiritual treasure of the region, Ama Yangri Peak. This is the highest point you reach in this journey. As you ascend towards the point, you can see the colorful prayer flags ornamenting the area.
Here, you can find a Gompa, beautifully preserved with the Hyolmo people's faith. The area provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the mountains if the weather is clear. The visible mountains are Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Kinsung Himal, and distant Manaslu and Ganesh Himal.
Ama: Mother watching over a village like her own child
Yang: Laxmi (Goddess of wealth)
Gri: Peak or a hill
After the steep ups and downs of the last few days, today’s trek is comparatively easier. After that, you hike for about four hours to reach the town of Shermathang, but the path is mainly flat and passes through Lush forest.
Keep an eye out for mani walls and chortens along this route as you hike through the smaller villages of Parachin and Gangal. You cross some small streams along the way before catching a glimpse of the Melamchi Khola River valley to the south.
Shermathang is widely known for its apple orchards, widely spaced homes, and ancient monasteries. Stroll around town and enjoy good views of the Jugal and Ganesh Himal ranges.
After enjoying a leisurely breakfast in Shermathang, you begin hiking by descending past rice fields and vast, grassy meadows. You cross a few bridges and pass through small villages dotted with chortens and mani walls as you approach the Sherpa village of Melamchi Pul Bazaar.
There are several guesthouses here, sometimes used by trekkers doing the Trek in reverse. From here, you drive back to Kathmandu and take a final glimpse of the rolling hills and terraced agricultural fields of Nepal’s green countryside.
When you arrive back in the city, take some time to check back into your hotel and relax: you’ve completed the Helambu Trek!
Your trekking adventure with the Nepal Hiking Team has ended, and it’s time to bid a fond farewell to Kathmandu.
A designated member takes you back to Tribhuvan International Airport about three hours before the scheduled departure of your outgoing flight.
We trust you’ve enjoyed your holiday in Nepal, and we can’t wait to welcome you back next time!
We have crafted this Helambu trek journey by prioritizing genuine village connections, thoughtful pacing, and low-impact travel, so your memories become real and stay with you forever.
The Helambu Trek showers you with cultural experiences while allowing you to indulge in nature in just nine days. You can relish this trek year-round, with each season offering its unique charm.
Spring (March–May) brings the bloom of rhododendron forests, gushing streams, and pleasant weather—an excellent time for hiking. Autumn (September–November) is another classic trekking season, with crisp air, clear skies, and stunning mountain panoramas.
Unlike other treks, Helambu can also be enjoyed in winter (December–February) due to its relatively low altitude. Villages dusted with snow and crystal-clear mountain backdrops create unforgettable photography opportunities. However, monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rainfall, making the trail slippery and more challenging.
We at Nepal Hiking Team recommend spring and autumn as the best seasons for a comfortable Helambu trekking experience.
At 3,771 meters, Ama Yangri is the highest viewpoint of the Helambu Trek. Its name translates to “Mother Laxmi Peak” in Nepali. The summit is adorned with a small gompa and colorful prayer flags, adding a serene spiritual aura.
Most trekkers reach Ama Yangri as a day hike from Tarkeghyang. The hike takes about four to five hours and requires no technical equipment. On clear days, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, and even distant Manaslu.
Locals consider Ama Yangri a sacred site, often using it for seasonal rituals. This combination of mountain views, spiritual significance, and easy accessibility makes Ama Yangri a true highlight of the Helambu Trek.
The cost of the Helambu Trek typically ranges between $500 and $1,000 per person. Prices vary depending on group size, itinerary, and services. Most packages include permits, transportation, guides, porters, meals, and accommodation.
For 2025, Nepal Hiking Team offers the Helambu Trek at $780 per person. This carefully planned package includes:
Additional personal expenses such as snacks, hot showers, WiFi, electricity, toiletries, or staff tips are not included. We suggest carrying NPR 8,000–10,000 in cash for these extras.
The Helambu Trek covers approximately 78 km over seven hiking days, making it a perfect short trek near Kathmandu. On average, trekkers walk 11 km per day, about six hours on varied trails, with plenty of rest and photo stops.
The route features a mix of stone steps, dirt trails, meadows, forests, and short ridgelines. The highest viewpoints are Ama Yangri (3,771 m) and Thadepati (3,690 m), both adding some challenge. However, the trek is non-technical and suitable for beginners and families.
The altitude is moderate, so serious altitude sickness is rare, though mild symptoms may appear. Walking steadily, staying hydrated, and following your guide’s advice are key to a smooth experience. Overall, Helambu is rated as an easy to moderate trek.
To prepare, aim for 2–4 weeks of light cardio such as walking, jogging, or stair climbing. Add one or two longer practice hikes with a loaded daypack for stamina.
Pack essentials like a 20–35 L daypack, sturdy trekking shoes, layered clothing, and a windproof jacket for ridge walks. The Helambu Trek is an excellent introduction to Himalayan trekking, combining rhododendron forests, village homestays, and panoramic mountain scenery.
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
I highly recommend the Nepal Hiking Team for anyone planning to trek in Nepal. My spouse and I had a fantastic time on our trek and greatly credit our positive experience to the thought and care put into it by Nepal Hiking Team in coming up with a personalized plan that would enable us to succeed.
Every detail was considered to match us based on our abilities and interests. We also could not have felt more cared for minute to minute by the team that supported us from the minute we arrived in Kathmandu until our departure.
Our guide, Nim, was amazing -- so careful, thoughtful, warm, and supportive. And our porters, Sabin and Ganesh, were delightful. They were all unbelievably generous in terms of how much they worked to ensure we were comfortable and prepared. They thought of every detail along the way.
- Guided By Nim Dahal
Our adventure with the Nepal Hiking Team was nothing short of remarkable! We embarked on an exhilarating trek through the Langtang Valley, guided by our expert, Ganga. Boasting an impressive 23 years of experience, Ganga's deep understanding of the terrain was unmatched.
He expertly navigated the balance between adventure and safety, always prioritizing our well-being and ensuring our safety. Beyond his professional skills, Ganga's warm and approachable personality enhanced our journey significantly. We developed a strong bond with him, enriching our trekking experience immensely.
We eagerly anticipate our next adventure and look forward to trekking with Ganga again!
I hiked Mardi Himal, Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Helambu all with Nepal Hiking Team in the span of November and December 2023. Honestly, I can safely say that I couldn’t have thought anything being better than this. My guide, (Rajesh), and porters (Awjeey, Prabin, and Dipesh) were friendly, kind and also deeply knowledgeable about the Himalayas and always ready to lend a hand whenever needed.
Every part of the service exceeded expectations. Travelling between Kathmandu and the trekking ends were smooth and hassle-free. The meals along the route were appealing, and the accommodations were the best you could find in each location. If I ever trek in Nepal again, there’s no doubt I’ll be choosing Nepal Hiking Team.
And then, of course, there were the views. Poon Hill during Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal Viewpoint, Thorong La Pass, and Gosaikunda Lake—each view alone would make a trek absolute wondrous. But to experience them all in one trip, along with the incredible scenery every time you glance around, makes me wonder why I’d choose to hike anywhere other than Nepal.
I’m already looking forward to my next trip to Nepal and can’t wait to trek with Nepal Hiking Team again and again!
We hiked the Helambu Trek in May. Ganga at Nepal Hiking Team organized everything and personally facilitated all of our transfers and introduced us to our guide and porter for the week-long trip. Everything went smoothly and I definitely recommend Ganga's company to book your Nepal trip.
The Helambu trek itself is relatively low-altitude but is fairly strenuous (lots of ups and downs!). You really earn that plate of dal bhat at the end of the day. Scenery is mostly green hillsides with the occasional view of the peaks. The people of this area are genuinely friendly and seem really pleased to have tourists starting to trek in the region after the devastating earthquake.
We trekked at the end of May and caught the very beginning of the monsoon season, which meant that it rained in the afternoon and limited visibility. But as we started early every morning, we never had to abbreviate or delay parts of the trip. We had only a brief time in Kathmandu but were able to make the most of it thanks to an excellent tour of several cultural and religious sites of significance.
We had a great time in Nepal and would not hesitate to use Nepal Hiking Team's services again. Thanks Ganga, Bheem, Prim, and Kumar!
After ABC and Jiri-EBC trekking with NHT, I just completed my 3rd trekking trip in Nepal with the help of Nepal Hiking Team. Ganga was still the same: reliable, sensible, swiftly responding to my enquiry. He waited patiently for my arrival at airport near midnight. He also arranged a car to pick us up from Melamchi on my last day to make sure I wouldn't miss my flight.
Nepal Hiking Team has doing very well and Ganga was very busy, but he still managed to see me off at airport in person. My guide Bhakta and porter Ram were great - I wouldn't have returned in one piece without their assistance. This time I combined four short treks into one: Tamang Heritage - the Classic Lang Tang - Gosaidkunda - Helambu.
From my memory, I walked across the highest number of landslide sections on this route compared with ABC and EBC. At quite a few locations, Bhakta and Ram would have to assist me with the crossing. Tamang Heritage and Helambu (Ghangyul route) areas were rather quiet and less walked - even Bhakta hasn't trekked the entire routes himself but the two of them were very good to get guidance from the locals. It was fun to trek through some local routes and to see how the locals live. Thanks very much Ganga, Bhakta, Ram and NHT!
At NHT, we combine easy access from Kathmandu with authentic cultural trekking through traditional villages, peaceful forest walks, and strong local logistics. Our guides are local, experienced, and deeply familiar with the Helambu region.
We focus on safe pacing, responsible planning, and comfortable guesthouse accommodation so you can enjoy the mountains and village homestays without stress.
Our Helambu group departures are designed for small groups (a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 10). The most convenient group size is 6–8 people. Once you book with us, departures are confirmed, and we manage all guides and transport logistics for your reserved date.
Alternatives or rescheduling are required only in extreme cases, such as natural disasters or severe political instability.
Yes, solo trekkers are welcome to join group departures. We also offer private departures if you prefer a custom pace or exclusive guide. Solo pricing may differ, so please contact us for details.
Yes, private departures and custom itineraries are available. You can shorten or lengthen the trek, upgrade accommodations, or combine Helambu with nearby routes (like Gosaikunda) for extended trekking. Share your preferences, and we’ll draft a tailored plan.
You can book via our online form or by contacting our reservations team. A 20% deposit secures your spot, and the balance is paid upon arrival in Kathmandu. After booking, we reserve guides and permits for you.
The 20% deposit is non-refundable. However, it remains as travel credit, usable for any future trip with us. For details, please review our risk-free booking policy.
Yes, Nepal issues tourist visas on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport for most nationalities. You may also apply online beforehand. Visit our Nepal Visa Information page for details.
Yes. Our package includes both airport pick-up and drop-off. On arrival, our representative will greet you and ensure smooth transfers. After the trek, you’ll be dropped at the airport about three hours before departure.
The trek begins at Sundarijal, just 1–2 hours from Kathmandu by private vehicle. This makes Helambu one of the closest trekking regions to the capital.
The short drive to Sundarijal is straightforward. From there, the trek continues on foot through forests and village paths. Private vehicles are used for comfort when reaching the trailhead.
The trek is rated easy to moderate, ideal for short holidays near Kathmandu. Basic fitness and steady pacing are enough to complete it comfortably.
The trek’s highest point is Ama Yangri (3,771 m). Serious altitude sickness is rare, but steady hydration and pacing are important. Guides carry first aid and monitor acclimatization.
The Helambu Trail runs 78 km, starting from Sundarijal and ending at Melamchi Pul Bazaar. It takes 7 days, with an average of 6 hours of trekking per day.
Helambu is known for peaceful trails, rhododendron and pine forests, and rich cultural diversity. You’ll meet Tamang, Hyolmo, and Sherpa communities, explore old monasteries, and stay in authentic village homestays.
Spring (March–May) offers rhododendron blooms and clear skies, while autumn (September–November) provides stable weather and mountain views. Winter is also possible due to lower altitudes, though days are shorter. Monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain, so we recommend spring or autumn.
Yes, insurance covering trekking, medical evacuation (including helicopter rescue), and trip interruption is required. Ensure it covers altitudes up to 3,771 m.
Begin training 2–4 weeks before departure with cardio (jogging, cycling), stair climbing, and one or two practice hikes with a loaded daypack. Lower-body strength workouts like squats and lunges are also useful.
Yes, we provide a duffel bag, seasonal sleeping bag, down jacket, and a trekking map. Complimentary items like an NHT cap and T-shirt are also included.
Carry a 20–35 L daypack for daily essentials. Porters carry duffels up to 25 kg, shared between two trekkers (about 12 kg per person).
Accommodation includes family-run teahouses, lodges, and village homestays. Rooms are usually twin-shared with basic heating and shared bathrooms, offering an authentic cultural trekking experience.
Wi-Fi and phone coverage are available in lower villages, though signals weaken at higher altitudes. Expect to pay NPR 200–500 for Wi-Fi access. A local SIM (NTC or Ncell) is recommended for phone coverage.
Yes, most teahouses offer charging for phones and cameras at a fee (NPR 200–500). Carrying a power bank is highly recommended.
Single rooms may be available in lower villages but are limited, especially in peak season. If requested in advance, we’ll do our best to secure one (additional charges may apply).
Teahouse menus offer Nepali staples like dal bhat, plus soups, noodles, rice dishes, and Western options. Meals are freshly cooked to keep you energized on the trail.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly options are available. Inform your guide of dietary needs in advance for smoother coordination with teahouses.
Yes, boiled or filtered water is available at teahouses. Natural springs are also common. We recommend carrying a water filter bottle or purification tablets and refilling at lodges to reduce plastic waste.
We suggest NPR 8,000–10,000 for on-trail expenses like hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging, snacks, and tips. ATMs are rare on the trail, so withdraw cash in Kathmandu.
Tipping is not mandatory but highly appreciated. It’s usually given at the trek’s end, based on service satisfaction. Consider tips as a recognition of guides and porters’ effort.
