Langtang Helambu Trek – A short trek near Kathmandu
The Helambu trek is the best short trek near Kathmandu valley. If you are looking for short days trek around
Kathmandu Nepal, you can make this trip. Although it is closer to the capital city and the route is
rich in nature and culture, it’s unspoiled. Hence you can take experience of the off the beaten path.
On this trip , you can experience Hyalmo culture of Langtang residents. In addition, green Rhododendron and
Bamboo forests,
waterfalls, and the snow-capped Himalayas makes the trek lifetime memorable. In short, Hyolmo culture and Lantang
mountain scenery is focal attractions of Helambu.
Review of Trail – Why trekking to Helambu ?
This trek is comparatively easier for beginners trekkers as the elevations are lower which ranges between
800m and 3600m. During the Helambu journey, you can experience stunning views of Langtang, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal,
Rolwaling, and Gauri
Shankar.
The highest point of Helambu trek is Tharepati Pass(3,650m) from where travelers can see a glimpse of Dorje
Lakpa,
Langsisa, Gauri Shankar, and many more snow-capped mountains. So for the beginners trekking in Nepal, this short hike can be best.
Highlights of Helambu Trekking
- Nice views of the Trans Himalaya.
- Culture of Sherpa and Tamang
- Amazing mountain views from Tharepati.
- A short trip from Kathmandu
Detailed Day Wise Itinerary
Day 1:Drive to Sundarijal and Trek to Chisopani
15km drive from Kathmandu to the northern side you’ll reach trekking starting point Sundarijal. On arrival there, you can also visit Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve.
From Sundarijal, the trail heads up to the concrete steps beside the pipeline which supply drinking water for the Kathmandu valley. The first settlement that we get today is Mulkharka ( a village inhabited by the Tamang people). Then we’ll walk along the ridge through a forest of oaks and Rhododendron( Shivapuri National Park) to Chisopani.
Major attractions of the day- Rhododendron Forest, panoramic Himalayan views, and Waterfalls.
Overnight at Chisapani-Hotel
- Teahouse at Chisapani/li>
- 1 Hour drive and 4 hour trek
- B, L, D
- 2300m/7544 ft
Day 2: Chisopani to Kutumsang
After breakfast, today you’ll trek along with the picturesque village Shigane, capturing the beautiful view of the highest peak, Mt. Everest, Numbur Himal, the Rhododendron forest, and visit the local monastery. Upon arrival at Jhapre, overnight stay at Jhapre.
- Teahouse at Chisapani
- 6 hour
- B, L, D
- 2446m/8022ft
Day 3: Kutumsang to Thadepati
Following a ridgeline, the trail continues to the Yurin Danda. Yurin Danda is a viewpoint of the day from where you can see the view of the Himalayas.
Some hour ascending from Yurin Danda, you’ll reach Tharepati. Overnight at Lodge of Tharepati.
Major attractions of the day- Langtang Himalayas, Meadows.
- Teahouse at Thadepati
- 6 hour
- B, L, D
- 3650m/11972ft
Day 4: Tharepati to Tarke Gyang
By turning east from the spot, we move down to the Malemchigaon (Sherpa village ). There you’ll see old and artistic Gompas.
Descending from Malemchigaon, you’ll reach Malenchi Khola. Some hours climb from Malenchi Khola, you’ll reach Tarke Gyang.
Highlights of the day: Sherpa Village, Monasteries, and Melamchi Gaun
Tarkey Gyang is the largest village in the Helambu area.
- Teahouse at Tarke Gyang
- 6 hour
- B, L, D
- 2560m/8397ft
Day 5: Tarke Gyang to Sermathang
If we compare Tharepati to Tarke Gyang, it’s an easy trek today. The trail makes a curve around to the wide valley and ends between Parachin and the Sherpa village of Gangyul.
At Sermathang, we will explore the village as well as the Buddhist monastery at the top of the village.
- Teahouse at Sermathang
- 4 – 5 hour
- B, L, D
- 2743m/9000ft
Day 6: Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazar (846m) and drive to Kathmandu
On this day, we will trek to Melamchi Bazar. The Melamchi Pul Bazaar is a small village which is inhabited by the Sherpa people.
From the Bazaar, we catch a bus to Kathmandu.
- Hotel at Thamel, Kathmandu/li>
- 4 – 5 hour
- B, L
- 1350m/4429ft
What types of permits do we need for a trek to HELAMBU? You should have Shivapuri National Park Permit and TIMS.
When is the best time to visit HELAMBU? The best time to visit Helambu is spring (March to June) and autumn (September to December).
Do I need prior experience or physical exercise before a trip? No need. It’s easy to explore the Helambu area. So no need to have physical exercise before a trip. But if you
do more physical exercise such as some hours jogging in the day can make comfort while trekking. Many people reviewed this trek as an easy short trek.
