Helambu Circuit Short Trek

9 reviews in TripAdvisor
16 reviews in Google Reviews
Duration
9 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal

Helambu Circuit Trek Overview

Helambu circuit trek is also well-known trekking destination near the Kathmandu valley. Which is just 80 km far from Kathmandu valley northeast side, in Sindhupalchowk district Nepal. This trekking route is easiest and famous and it just takes 9 days to complete your trek. Helambu region is renowned due to the Buddhist religion sites so every year lots of pilgrimages comes to visit the religious sites from both national and international side. The region is settlement by the Hyolmo, Tamang, Sherpa, and other indigenous community groups.

Highlights

  • Trek through Shivapuri National Park, which is Nepal’s least crowded trail.
  • Natural scenery and lovely towns like Kutumsang Tharepati, Melamchi Gayang Tarke Gayang, and Sermathang are present in the Helambu circuit trek route.
  • Hemabu trek takes you through the dense forests, and rhododendron flowers special in the months of spring.
  • Offers lovely panoramic views of the Langtang range including Jugal Himal, Ama Yangri Peak, Dorje Lakpa Himal, and other peaks.
  • Explore Melamchi Ghyang religions such as Hyolmo villages, cultural heritage sites, and traditions.
  • Get breathtaking mountain vistas from the Ama Yangri peak viewpoint and experience 360-degree views.
  • Engage with local community people and gain knowledge as well experience about their traditions customs and ornaments, foods and beverages, and dances.
  • Discover the old monasteries of Chiri village on the way while trekking.
  • Explore sweet apple and kiwi farms (helambu is famous for apple farms).
  • Observe the culture tradition and lifestyle of the Hyolmo people.
  • Encounter exotic flora and fauna.

What can be Observed and Experienced during the Helambu Circuit Trek?

Helambu Circuit Trek is one of the greatest short and nearest trekking destinations of Nepal, which is located around 80 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu Valley. Helambu trek is specifically made for those searching for less traveled places close to Kathmandu. The overall elevation of Helambu Valley is around 3000m. This trekking trail is far better for trekkers to walk along with the beautiful scenery of surrounding areas, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, sustainable bridges, wooden bridges, locally made bamboo cottages and forests.

Helambu is the home of Hyolmo here most Hyolmo community people are inhabited apart from that some Sherpa and Tamang community people also live. Helambu Valley is influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and the trek will be more precious and memorable through this homogeneous community. Although People are friendly and respective with each other. This trekking trail is both environmentally and culturally rich.

Trekkers go through stunning hills, and dense forests, crossing woods bridges, and communities on 9-day Helambu circuit trekking routes. Along the way variation of animals such as red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan Thar, musk deer, and white monkeys may be spotted on the trail during the trip.

The Helambu trek offers majestic views of Langtang Mountain Ranges, which include the Jugal Mountain (6,095m), Dorjee Lhakpa Mountain (6,966m), Gangchempo Peak (6,387m), Ama Yangri Peak (3,771m) and from the Ama Yangri peak people can see 360 views of surrounding not only that from here people can see the night views of Kathmandu city in the sharp morning. The marvelous monasteries, painted Mani walls, stupa and breathtaking vistas of snow-capped Himalayas draw plenty of tourists to this hiking path.

Furthermore, Ama Yangri Peak is considered to be the highest peak around Kathmandu city. According to the myth, Ama Yangri Peak is reflected to be a deity which has turned into a protector of the Helambu region. This peak can be compared to the poon hill of Annapurna region in terms of views of the Himalayas.

Why does the Helambu circuit short trek 9 days?

Helambu Circuit Short Trek is one of the easy and short trekking destinations near Kathmandu Valley. For people who have limited time to explore new places near the valley, this itinerary is for you which will fulfill your desire to trek within a certain period to experience trekking.

On the one hand, the Helambu trek is famous for its culture most people travel for cultural sightseeing. It is the hidden valley where guru Padmasambhava went while traveling to Tibet. You will explore Guru Padmasambhava's meditated place, seat, footprint, and tea gas stop place as well as Milarepa cave and Dakini’s secret cave (where Guru Padmasabhava's wife used to take baths in her menstruation period) this is situated in Melamchi Ghyang village.

On the other side, in these 9 days of short trekking, you will spend plenty of time exploring the cultural heritage sites such as stupas, monasteries, Mani walls, places, and people's lifestyles, local cultivated sweet apples, kiwi farms and observing the surrounding snow-capped mountain’s landscape views. Likewise 360-degree views from Ama Yangri Peak, sunrise and sunset time breathtaking views. You will spend the night at the local community’s homestay. These are the Hyolmo ethnic group people villages.

Additionally, during the Helmabu circuit short trek, you will eyewitness magnificent mountain scenes of the Langtang range containing Jugal Himal (6,095m), Dorjee Lhakpa Himal (6,966m), Gangchempo Peak (6,387m), Phurbi Chhyachu (6,637m), Ganjal Pass (5,130m), Ama Yangri (3,771m/12,372ft), Loenpo Gang (6,979m), Chang Samarphu (3,905m), Gumba (6,316m), Naya Khang (5,344m/19,173ft), Langshish-Ri (6,427m/21,086ft), and Gangchempo Expedition Peak (6,378m/20,925ft).

Extend your Helambu Circuit Trek to the Panch Pokhari 4,100 meters

Your Helambu circuit trek descends to Thulo Bhotang from the Sermathang and you will reach Thulo Bhotanag after a two-day trek overnight stay at Thulo Bhotang. Trek towards Panch Pokhari a three-day walk from Thulo Bhotang, you will reach Panch Pokhari this trek takes you to the off-the-beaten-path, steep through some of the rocky terrains but you will visit gorgeous five holy lakes and the surrounding mesmerizing views from the top viewpoint spot.

This trek will be long but you will complete two trekking destinations in one trek. So if you are interested in extending your Helmabu circuit short trek along with the Panch Pokhari trek then this will be the best option for you.

Are you ready for the Helambu circuit short trek? How to prepare for the trip?

The Helambu circuit trek is relatively easy as well it’s a perfect escape from the bustling city without requiring weeks of preparation. This trekking destination is for beginner trekkers, there is no need for previous trekking experiences but if you have the trekking experience that will be far better. Per day you have to trek for 5 to 6 hours approximately, some preparation can significantly enhance your experience. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Physical preparation

  • Cardiovascular fitness: Engage in regular aerobic exercise like running, hiking, or swimming to build endurance.
  • Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises to build leg and core muscles.
  • Hiking practice: If possible, go on shorter hikers to acclimatize your body to altitude and build stamina.

Helambu circuit trek packing lists

For the short Helambu circuit trek, you will need the following things:

  • Head wears: Woolen hat, buff mask, cap, 100% UV-protected sunglasses
  • Hand wears: Glove thin pair, glove warm pair gore-tax 1 to 2 pairs
  • Upper Body wears: Thermal layers and fleece, quick dry T-shirt, gore-tax jacket, down jacket, soft shell jacket
  • Lower body wear: Trekking pants, gore-tax pants, trekking socks, comfortable trekking boots, slippers
  • Miscellaneous: Sun lotion, sunscreen, lip bam, headlamp, batteries, reusable water bottles, water purification tablets, thermos, trekking pole, raincoats, map, compass, trekking bag, backpack, personal first aid kit, toiletries, Adapter, charger, power bank, dry fruits, nuts and chocolates, sun protection camera

Acclimatization

  • Gradual Ascent: the Helambu trek involves gradual altitude gain, which helps with acclimatization. However, if you’re coming from a low altitude, allow a few days in Kathmandu to adjust.
  • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to symptoms of altitude sickness like headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath. If symptoms worsen, descend to a lower altitude.

Get the Best Helambu Circuit Trek Service with Sherpa Summits

We, Sherpa Summits, organize treks for both foreigners and domestic tourists in Nepal. Our team supports the trekkers throughout their trek and expedition. We arrange permits, transportation, and all other logistics. You will get good quality services as per your requirements with us as well as at a reasonable Helambu circuit trek cost.

Whether you are trekking solo or with your team, family, friends, and your partner, you will enjoy a free and safe trek with us. Our guides and porters are reliable and trustworthy. They can speak English and other languages, so you will have no issues with communication because we provide you only experience and good communicators’ guides.

Additionally, you can customize the Helambu circuit trek itinerary. Choose your preferred departure date, group size, day-to-day, and other factors of the trip. We do not have any age limit if the participants are physically and mentally fit enough for the trek. There are no hidden charges involved in our trip and you will get an actual poon hill short trek cost.

Bookings for the Helambu Circuit Trek 2025 and 2026 are open. If you have any questions or queries, feel free to contact us.

Helambu Circuit Short Trek Itinerary

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Max Altitude: 1,400m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert 🍰Accommodation: Hotel

On arrival day your airport representative will be waiting for you at the waiting area of Tribhuvan International Airport, and after welcoming you, the vehicle will already be standing by to pick you up at the hotel. If you arrive early morning at the airport, we will organize a short hike near Kathmandu Valley, and if you arrive in the evening, we will do a briefing about further schedules of your trip as well as the gear and equipment required for the trek and introducton with team while welcoming dinner night. 

 

Max Altitude: 2,165m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert 🍰Accommodation: Hotel

Your Helambu circuit trek begins today through Kathmandu, Sundarijal, and up to Chisapani. After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you will move towards Sundarijal from Kathmandu by jeep, which takes only 45 minutes to reach, and from there you will start your trek towards Chisapani following the rhododendron forests through Shivapuri National Park areas. The total time it takes to reach Chisapani is around 5 to 6 hours, and the distance it covers is nearly 15 km.

The route will go up and down the slope; after an hour of walking, you will reach the Shivapuri National Park entrance. Chisapani is one of the famous hiking destinations near Kathmandu Valley. From here, you can see a mesmerising glimpse of several mountains, including Jugal Himal, Dorjee Lakpa Himal, Ganesh Himal, Rolwling, Gaurishankar Himal, and numerous peaks of the Langtang Himalayan and Gauri Shankar Himalayan ranges that may be enjoyed from Chisapani.

Max Altitude: 2,470m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert 🍰Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge

Today you will gain a bit of altitude with the route tailing off as it approaches the little settlements of Pati Bhanjyang, passing through scenic farmland and meadow. You will arrive at the Sherpa settlement of Thankune Bhanjyang as you ramble through farming communities with scenic scenery. As you continue your trek, you will come across terraced farms and trails leading into the local woodlands.

Before arriving in the Tamang villages of Thotung and Golphu Bhanjyang, you will first pass via the Sherpa settlement of Chipling. Thereafter, you will climb for another 1.5 hours to reach a ridge. From this ridge, it will take you another 45 minutes of downward hiking to reach Kutumsang. When you arrive at Kutumsang, a settlement with traditionally constructed dwellings and mist-covered slopes, your walk for the day comes to an end. Kutumsang offers breathtaking views of the pyramidal top of Dorje Lhakpa. The distance it covers is approximately 12 km, and the time it takes is close to 6 to 7 hours.

Max Altitude: 2,530m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert 🍰Accommodation: Lodge/Hotel

As you move toward Thadepati Bhanjyang today, you will ascend more than 1200 meters in elevation. The highest point on your Helambu circuit trek itinerary is Thadepati. You will reach the ridgeline of the Yurin Danda during the first portion of the hike. As you continue on the hiking trail, you will start to see the Langtang Range, Gosaikunda Peak, and Jugal Himal for the first time. You will continue your ascent through some degraded trails to Mera Danda. After that, you will descend to Mangengoth, a small settlement.

You will eventually reach Tharepati after hiking beyond the Thare Danda Ridge. The Langtang range's most breathtaking panoramic vistas may be seen from Tharepati. You will arrive at a ridge as you continue your hike just above the settlement. This peak is a great location to get spectacular views of the sun rising. Backing that, you will turn eastward before making your way through an ancient pine forest on a steep descent. You will reach a ridge's spine if you continue walking. After that, the route descends to Melamchi Ghyang, a beautiful Hyolmo settlement. The distance it covers is almost 18.2 km, and the time it takes is about 5 to 6 hours by walking.

 

Max Altitude: 2,549m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert 🍰Accommodation: Lodge

The beautiful morning starts with the incredible view of Ama Yangri Peak. Melamchi Ghyang village is famous for religious sites. The village is also called the beyul, the hidden valley. Here you can explore the Milarepa cave, Khandro Sang-phug (the dakini’s secret cave), monasteries, and Shug-tri (the seat of Guru Rinpoche), aged old stupas, loom, head print, guru Rinpoche shoe print, and a cave of the self-arisen sun and moon. These are the main significant places of this village.

You will continue your trip downward, crossing the Melamchi River, and you will reach Nakote village, where you can observe plenty of stupas and Buddhist monasteries and the local organic kiwi farmhouses. Again you hike up a gentle slope path through forests, and after an hour's hike, you reach Chiri village, where the years-old monastery is located. In Trake Ghyang village, you reach it around 2 hours from Chiri village, and here are large settlements of Hyolmo community people. Overnight stay at Tarkeghyang. Today you're covering roughly 6.3 km, and the time it takes is nearly 4 to 5 hours.

Max Altitude: 3,771m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert 🍰Accommodation: Teahouse

Your magnificent morning starts at Tarkeghyang village; from here, you will ascend Ama Yangri Peak in the sharp morning as soon as possible to look at the views of Ama Yangri Peak (3,771 m). It takes almost 4 to 5 hours and  distance it covers about 4.5 km, from Tarkeghyang village, and from the top of the peak, you can see 360 views of the surrounding areas, including the Langtang Himalayan Range, Dorjee Lakpa Himal, Panchpokhari, and Ganjal Pass, which provides a thrilling view to everyone apart from Ama Yangri, which is the protector deity of the surrounding village.

Ama Yangri Peak is the main viewpoint of the Helambu area, offering early morning views of Kathmandu city including nearby breathtaking vistas of mountains. After summiting the peak and spending plenty of time looking around the trek descends to Ama Yangri Base Camp. Overnight stay will be at Chomotang Resort.

Max Altitude: 2,500m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert 🍰Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge

Lovely morning starts at Ama Yangri Base Camp in Chomotang Resort and after having breakfast you will move downward at Sermathang Village, through the Langtang National Park jungle, where you may see the red pandas, musk deer, and white monkeys on the way and often hear birds chanting sounds. After around 2 to 3 hours of walkin and covering roughly 8.2 km distance, you will arrive at Sermathang village.

Hyolmo people inhabit Sermathang, where you can explore old stupas, Mani walls, house decorations, communities’ homestays, and monasteries, although Sermathang is well-known for the Great Wall. In Sermathang, the chechu ceremony is an important festival where the lama shows a mask dance every year, which attracts tourists. Sermathang is culturally and environmentally rich; here you can experience the local Hyolmo people's cultural dance. People are so friendly with each other to learn and share their culture and lifestyle. After a few hours of hiking from the village, you will reach the eco-lodge of Sermathang, where the whole building is constructed of marijuana. Here you can research and explore.

Max Altitude: 1,400m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and 🍰Accommodation: Hotel

Today is your last day of the Helambu Circuit Trek. You will move after taking the locally available breakfast and enjoying the lovely Sermathang scene, and you will drive by jeep from Sermathang to Katmandu for 5 to 6 hours. Drive via rice fields and large, green meadows. You will pass through charming communities like Kakani and Timbu as you head out of the village of Sermathang.

At Melamchi bazaar, you will reach around 1 and a half hours, and here you can have your lunch at the beautiful riverside, or if the weather is hot, you can also swim in the river’s fresh water.Taking some time, you can explore Melamchi Bazar and their local shops or markets and try authentic foods and drinks. You will drive from Melamchi Bazar Pul Bhotechaur, and Naglebari Sankhu to Kathmandu. After getting fresh at your hotel, you can spend your further time sightseeing at Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath (monkey temple), and Pashupatinath, and for local handicrafts shopping, you can go to Thamel, Bhaktapur, and Patan Durbar Square. You might spend the evening enjoying Thamel’s charming nightlife.

Meals: Breakfast

Today is the final day of your itinerary. We hope you enjoyed this short and beautiful Helambu circuit trek. Your staff will drop you at the airport from the hotel, and if you want to stay longer in Kathmandu, we are happy to book your hotel. Thank you, and again, welcome to Nepal. We are delighted to give you quality service from our company side as much as we can.

Helambu Circuit Short Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport transfer at arrival and departure time. 
  • Kathmandu to Sundarijal private (car, jeep).
  • Langtang National Park Entry permit.
  • TIMS permit (Trekker’s Information Management System).
  • Tea house and lodge accommodations during the trekking.
  • Three meals every day while on the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Dessert, and Tea or Coffee).
  • Experienced English-speaking government license holder mountain/trekking Guide and assistant guide.
  • Trip achievement certificate (If you want).
  • Seasonal fruit while trekking such as apples, kiwi.
  • First Aid Kit with an Oximeter (an oximeter measures the saturation of oxygen carried in your red blood cells).
  • Shoulder Bag, (should return after the trip).

Excludes

  • Meals ( Lunch & Dinner) and accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • Your Travel/ Trekking insurance, - International airfare.
  • All kinds of alcoholic drinks, desserts, foods.
  • Personal shopping, laundry, trekking equipment, etc.
  • Nepal Entry Visa fee.
  • Tips for trekking guides, porters, and assistant guides (Tipping is expected).
  • All types of personal nature expenses such as snacks, telephone, Wi-Fi, and hot shower during the trekking.
  • Any other things that are not mentioned in the included.
  • Excluded are all costs and expenses not listed under "cost includes".

Essential Information

Good to Know

  • Your Helambu circuit trek itinerary can be 3 to 4 days but the trek will be fast and can take plenty of time so we made a 9-day trek itinerary.
  • The trekking trail is easy and there is no chance of losing trekkers while trekking in the Helambu circuit.

Helambu Circuit Trek Difficulty

The Helambu circuit trek is generally considered an easy-to-moderate trek. It’s an excellent option for those who are new to trekking or looking for a shorter, less strenuous adventure. This route and destination may be suitable for you. The trails are generally well-maintained and offer a mix of uphill and downhill sections through lush forested paths. A reasonable level of fitness is required, but it does not demand the same level of endurance as higher altitude treks.

  • Trek distance: On the Helambu circuit trek, you will trek approximately 80 kilometers. Daily walking distance ranges from 10 to 16 km.
  • Daily walking hours: The daily walking hours are 5 to 6.
  • Tourist infrastructure: The tourist infrastructure along the Helambu circuit trek route is superb. You will get comfortable lodges, teahouses, or community homestays to spend the nights in and enjoy delicious food. Likewise, charging, hot showers, and Wi-Fi services are also available.

Trekking Routes

There are two trekking trails for the Helambu circuit trek on the one hand from Sundarijal, Shivapuri National, Chisapaani via Helambu and on the other hand from Shankhu, Jarsing Pawa, Milamchi via Helambu both trekking routes are perfect but the Shankhu, Jarsing Pawa Milamchi via Helambu route is the shortest and easiest route for trekkers but trek takes you by drive up to Nokote village. So, if you want to trek through trekking trails then Sundari Jal, Shiv Puri National Park, and Chisapaani are the best trekking routes for trekkers.

Altitude Sickness

The Helambu circuit trek carries a lower risk of altitude sickness because it takes you up to 3,771 meters above sea level. The gradual ascent of the Helambu circuit trek route makes it easier for trekkers to adjust to elevation without taking an acclimatization break but have to know about the altitude sickness symptoms and preventive measures while trekking, hiking, and expeditions.

  • Symptoms: Vomiting, headache, nausea, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, insomnia, loss of appetite, etc.
  • Preventive measures: Stay hydrated, ascend slowly, maintain your pace, listen to your body, get abundant rest, drink plenty of water using water purification tablets, eat carbohydrate-rich food, and do not drink alcohol or smoke while ascending.

Travel Insurance for Helambu Circuit Trek

Travel insurance in Nepal is compulsory for everyone. It helps to cover the medical insurance of trekkers if he or she get injuries while trekking. Likewise, it ensures that you get quick helicopter evacuation and medical assistance services in case of an emergency. While purchasing a travel insurance plan, make sure it covers helicopter evacuation from the Himalayas and medical bills.

Helambu Circuit Trek Permits

The Helambu circuit trek requires these two permits- a TIMS Card and a Langtang National Park entry permit.

  • TIMS Card (Trekkers Information System Card): It is compulsory in Nepal in every region for trekker’s safety.
  • Langtang National Park entry permit: Required and compulsory to enter this region.

Best Time to Explore Helambu Circuit Trek

The best time to explore the Helambu circuit trek in Nepal depends on the season you prefer and the weather conditions. Here are the recommended times:

  • Spring (March to May): spring offers moderate temperatures and clear skies. The views of the mountain ranges are spectacular during this time. It’s an excellent season for trekking.
  • Autumn (October to early December): Autumn is another ideal time. The days are sunny and you will have outstanding mountain views. The evenings can be chilly, so pack accordingly.

Accommodation and Food during the Trek

On this 9-day Helambu circuit trek, you will spend the night at a teahouse, lodges, and community homestay. Lodges, teahouses, and community homestays are simple accommodations with proper meals. On average most rooms have twin beds, few have single beds, and have attached bathrooms overall. But few may have shared bathrooms. Spend the night in lodges, teahouses, or community homestays. While trek carry all toiletries with you including toilet paper.

  • Service in the Lodge: Services like hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging are available free of cost in accommodation packages but it depends on the lodges someone may have or may not have.
  • Drinking Water: You can either buy boiled water in the lodges or make sure that if you do not want to buy water then you can use water purification tablets to filter it further.
  • Snacks: Buy light snacks in Kathmandu for the trek. Pack nuts, energy bars, chocolates, and other things you love to eat during your trek journey.
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