Helambu Valley Trek

The Helambu Valley Trek in Nepal winds through serene Sherpa villages amidst picturesque landscapes, featuring Buddhist monasteries and stunning views of the Langtang Himalayas.

The Helambu Valley Trek in Nepal is a captivating journey through the tranquil landscapes of the Helambu region, known for its lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional Sherpa villages. Starting from Sundarijal or Melamchi Bazaar, trekkers embark on a scenic route that meanders through charming settlements like Sermathang, Tarkeghyang, and Melamchi Gaon. Along the way, hikers are treated to panoramic vistas of the Langtang Himalayas, where snow-capped peaks dominate the horizon, creating a backdrop of unparalleled natural beauty.

This trek not only offers spectacular mountain views but also provides cultural insights into the Sherpa community's way of life. Visitors can explore ancient Buddhist monasteries, adorned with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, and engage with locals to learn about their traditions and hospitality. The Helambu Valley Trek is ideal for trekkers looking to immerse themselves in Nepal's Himalayan charm while enjoying a moderate hiking experience that showcases both natural wonders and cultural heritage.

 

Region
Nepal
Duration
9 day
Level
easy
Max Altitude
3800 ft.
Daily Activity
4 to 5 hour
Season
February, March, April, May, September, October,november
Starting From
$ 900
Helambu Valley Trek
Brief Introduction

The next day, we will follow a ridgeline to reach Kutumsang, enjoying the views of the Langtang mountains. Before reaching Kutumsang, you will pass through Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang.

After spending a night at Kutumsang, we head to Tharepati through dense rhododendron and fir forests past Magen Goth. Tharepati is the highest point of the trek.

From Tharepati, we trek along the Melamchi Khola to reach Melamchi Village - inhabited by the Sherpas. The monasteries in this village give us an insight into the local culture of these villagers. We trek ahead, passing several Sherpa settlements to reach Tarke Ghyang. Helambu is actually a loose term used to refer to several Tamang-Sherpa villages. Tarke Ghyang is one of those villages.

From Tarke Ghyang, we head to Sarmanthang, passing dense forests, waterfalls, and small villages, while enjoying mind-blowing views of several mountains. After reaching Sarmanthang, we move ahead to Melamchi Bazaar and drive back to Kathmandu, where the trek ends.

Highlights of the Helambu Valley Trek
  • Scenic Landscapes: Traverse through verdant forests, terraced fields, and picturesque Sherpa villages, experiencing the serene beauty of the Helambu region.

  • Cultural Exploration: Visit traditional Buddhist monasteries and interact with Sherpa locals, gaining insights into their unique customs, lifestyle, and hospitality.

  • Panoramic Mountain Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of the Langtang Himalayas, including snow-capped peaks like Langtang Lirung and Dorje Lakpa, providing memorable photographic opportunities.

  • Ancient Villages: Explore charming settlements such as Sermathang, Tarkeghyang, and Melamchi Gaon, each offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Sherpa community.

  • Local Cuisine: Savor authentic Sherpa cuisine and local delicacies at teahouses and lodges along the trekking route, providing a taste of traditional Nepalese flavors.

  • Moderate Trekking Experience: Ideal for both novice and experienced trekkers, the Helambu Valley Trek offers a moderate hiking challenge with rewarding cultural and natural encounters.

  • Close Proximity to Kathmandu: Conveniently located near Kathmandu, the trek starts from Sundarijal or Melamchi Bazaar, allowing for easy access and a quick getaway into the Himalayan wilderness.

Itinerary

Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.

Schedule for each day
Days: 01: Arrival in Kathmandu - 1,300m/4,264 ft  
Upon our arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Nepal New Generation who will drop us off at our hotel. After checking in, we take a rest or visit Nepal New Generation’s office. We may also stroll in the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Himalayan Glacier where you will be served excellent authentic Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the country's food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu. Included meals:Dinner
Days: 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Preparation for the Trek  
Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. The day will also be for finalizing official procedure and other necessary arrangements. You will be also briefed on the nature of the trek, equipments and team composition. Some of landmarks we visit include the World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupati Nath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhu Nath) and Buddhists shrine (Bouddha Nath). In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. You can also make your last minute buying of personal items as you will be flying to the Himalayas tomorrow. Included meals:Breakfast
Days: 03: Drive to Sundarijal & trek to Chisapani (2300m/7544 ft): Drive 1 hour, Trek: 4 hours  
Today, we make an hour's drive to Sundarijal (1350m), our trek start point. From Sundarijal, trek to Chisopani (2300m). We begin our trek along a small hydroelectric plant. The trail then enters through into the Shivapuri National Park. The first settlement we come across is Mulkharka mostly inhabited by the Tamang people. Then we walk along the ridge through a forest of oaks and rhododendron to Chisopani. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 04: Trek from Chisopani to Kutumsang (2446m/8022ft): 7 hours  
After taking our morning breakfast, we head for a journey to Kutumsang. Our today's trek starts with a decent crossing meadows and fields. Enjoy the magnificent views of the Langtang mountains. Thus we arrive at Pathi Bhanjyang and Gul Bhanjyang. From Gul Bhanjyang, the trail climbs the ridge to another pass. Another downhill trek from the pass takes us to Kutumsang. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 05: Trek from Kutumsang to Thadepati (3650m/11972ft): 6 hours  
We climb above Kutumsang on a steep trail mostly through fir and rhododendron forest where there are no permanent settlements. The trek continues to Yurin Danda with magnificent views of the Himalayas. Finally, we arrive at Tharepati for our overnight stay. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 06: Trek to Tarkeghyang (2560m/8397ft): 6 hours  
Today we head for Tarkeghyang. During early part of the trek, the trail descends until we cross the Melamchi Khola. Then we trek up to Tarkeghyang passing through Sherpa settlements. Enjoy the Himalayan peaks ofter appear before you glistening in the sunshine. Discover the village and its monastery which is one of the oldest and biggest monasteries in the region. The village is more popularly known as Helambu, since most of the inhabitants belong to the Helmu caste. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 07: Trek to Sermathang (2,610m/8,563ft): 3/4 hr  
Since, we do not gain altitude that much today, it's going to be comparatively easy walk today. We forests, streams, and waterfalls. The trail makes a sweep around the wide valley end between Parachin and the Sherpa village of Gangyul. From Gangyul, we arrive at Sermathang. Discover the village. There is also a Buddhist monastery at the highest point of the village. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 08: Trek to Malemchi Puul Bazaar: Drive to Kathmandu: 3/4 hrs trek/ 2 hr drive  
On our final day of the trek, we walk down to Malemchi Pul Bazaar. The village is mostly inhabited by the Sherpa, but there are also people of other ethnicities. From the Bazaar, we catch a bus to Katmandu. After reaching Kathmandu we have the rest of the day off to rest or do some souvenir shopping. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight in Kathmandu. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Days: 09: Farewell Friend  
Today you are saying goodbye to the Himalayas. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. A representative from Nepal New Generation Trekking will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight. Included meals:Breakfast Important Note Your safety is of paramount concern while traveling with Nepal New Generation. Please note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails travelling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather conditions, health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Reservation & Date
Monday
01 Jan 2024
Tuesday
31 Dec 2024
$0 Off
$900
$900
10 Seats
Available
Inclusion/ Exclusion

Seeking for a real adventure? Our travel itinerary is based on years of trekking expertise, ensuring that you have a fun and safe vacation. However, like with all such risky excursions, there may be instances where we must change the schedule, possibly without much notice. While we make every attempt to stick to the timetable, we humbly ask for your patience and flexibility if unforeseen circumstances like weather or unforeseen natural events come into play. You may be sure that our knowledgeable guides will adjust as needed to make your tour as enjoyable as possible.

Services Included
  • Kathmandu to Sundarijal (trek start) and Sermanthang (trek end) back to Kathmandu by a private transport
  • Tea house/ lodge accommodation during the trek (Twin Sharing Rooms) Total: 4 nights
  • All standard meals (5 Lunches, 4 Dinners, and 5 Breakfasts) during the trek
  • Government licensed, experienced trek leader (guide). An assistant trekking guide for groups of 12 or more. Porters to help trekkers luggage. 1 porter for every 2 trekkers. The luggage weight limit per trekker is 9kg.
  • Guide and porters' costs, their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and necessary equipment.
  • Langtang National Park entry permit fee
  • Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee
  • Water purification tablets
  • Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
  • All government, local taxes, and official expenses
  • Rescue operation arrangements in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
  • Souvenir - a company's T-shirt 
  • Nepal New Generation trek appreciation certificate after the successful trek
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at the end of the trek
Services Excluded
  • International flight costs
  • Visa fees on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. The current rate is USD 50 for 30 days.
  • Excess luggage charges (limit is 9kg per person)
  • All accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey
  • Extra night accommodations in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, and early return from trekking (for any reason)
  • Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boil bottled water, hot (tea/coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc
  • Personal clothing and gear.
  • Travel insurance, which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation (compulsory)
  • Tips for guide and porters
  • Additional costs due to circumstances beyond our control like landslides, bad weather conditions, illness, change of government policy, political instability, etc
  • All the costs and expenses not listed in "What is included?" will be counted as excludes
Frequently Asked Questions

The answers to your questions regarding the Nepal New Generation Trek, what this trip entails, and what is needed can be found in the following frequently asked questions. If your question isn't addressed there, don't hesitate to contact us.

The ideal trekking seasons are generally in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the views of the Himalayas are spectacular.

The trek is considered moderate, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. It involves some gradual ascents and descents through villages and forested trails.

Yes, trekkers need a Langtang National Park entry permit and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, which can be obtained through registered trekking agencies in Nepal.

Accommodation options range from basic teahouses with shared facilities to comfortable lodges with private rooms in villages along the route. Homestay experiences with local Sherpa families are also available.

The trek typically starts from Sundarijal or Melamchi Bazaar, both accessible by a scenic drive from Kathmandu. Private transportation can also be arranged for convenience.

While it's not mandatory, hiring a local guide is recommended for navigation, cultural insights, and safety. Porters can be hired to carry luggage, especially for those who prefer to trek lighter.

Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, lightweight and warm clothing layers, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, trekking poles, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Pack light but ensure you have essentials for varying weather conditions.

Altitude sickness (AMS) is generally not a concern on this trek as it does not reach extreme altitudes. However, trekkers should still acclimatize properly and stay hydrated throughout the journey.

Meals are typically provided at teahouses and lodges along the route, offering a variety of Nepali and Sherpa dishes. Vegetarian options are available, and meals are prepared using fresh, local ingredients.

The trek duration is usually around 5 to 7 days, depending on the exact itinerary and pace of the trekking group.
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