Helambu Trek - 9 Days - 9 Days

This trek is a perfect short trek nearby Kathmandu Valley. Despite being near to Kathmandu, the Helambu region remains relatively unspoiled. Besides the Hyolmo culture of high mountain people, the presence of green rhododendron and bamboo forests, majestic waterfalls, and the snow-capped Himalayas will make the trek one of the most diverse treks near Kathmandu. The great Himalayan scenery at the border with Tibet and monasteries make a trek to the region a fascinating experience. The people living in the highlands of the Langtang region are certainly the Nepalis, being the descendant of the Tibetan origin, they still look like Tibetans. The Helambu Trek begins from Sundarijal, an hour’s drive from Kathmandu. After about an hour’s walk, we enter Shivapuri National Park. Continuing along the Chisopani, Kutumsang, Thadepati, and Sermathang, the trek ends at the Melamchi Pul Bazar in the Helambu region. The trek passes through thick mountain forests with great Himalayan views. Towards the end of the trip, you will trek through some beautiful rice terraces and a number of splendid Buddhist monasteries.

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative from Alpine Club of Himalaya who will drop you off at our hotel. After check-in, you can freshen up or stroll around the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by the Alpine Club of Himalaya where you will be served excellent authentic Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to our food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Included Meal: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: 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 the official procedure and other necessary arrangements. You will be briefed on the nature of the trek, equipment, and team. Some of the landmarks we visit include the World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath), and Buddhists shrine (Boudhanath). In the afternoon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where you can meet our trek leader and other team members. You can also make some last-minute buying of personal items as you will be flying to the Himalayas tomorrow.
(Included Meals: Breakfast)

Day 3: Drive to Sundarijal & trek to Chisapani (2300m/7544 ft) (Drive 1 hrs, Trek 4 hrs)
Today, we make an hour’s drive to Sundarijal (1350m), where our trek point start. From Sundarijal, trek to Chisopani (2300m). Begin trek along with a small hydroelectric plant. The trail then enters through into the Shivapuri National Park. The first settlement that will come across is Mulkharka mostly inhabited by the Tamang people. Then walk along the ridge through a forest of oaks and rhododendron to Chisopani.
(Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Trek from Chisopani to Kutumsang (2446m/8022ft) (7 hrs)
After breakfast, we head for a journey to Kutumsang. Today’s trek starts with decent crossing meadows and fields. Enjoy the magnificent views of the Langtang Mountains. We will 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)

Day 5: Trek from Kutumsang to Thadepati (3650m/11972ft) (6 hrs)
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 will arrive at Tharepati for our overnight stay.
(Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Trek to Tarkeghyang (2560m/8397ft) (6 hrs)
Today will head for Tarkeghyang. During the early part of the trek, the trail descends until we cross the Melamchi Khola. Then trek up to Tarkeghyang passing through Sherpa settlements. Enjoy the Himalayan peaks that often 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 Hemu caste.
Included Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Trek to Sermathang (2,610m/8,563ft) (3-4 hrs)
Since, we do not gain altitude that much today, it’s going to be a 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, and let’s discover the village. There is also a Buddhist monastery at the highest point of the village.
(Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Trek to Malemchi Puul Bazaar: Drive to Kathmandu (3-4 hrs trek/2 hrs drive)
On the final day of our trek, 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, catch a bus to Katmandu. After reaching Kathmandu we have the rest of the day off to rest or do some souvenir shopping. Farewell dinner in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
(Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Farewell
Today you will bid goodbye to the Himalayas. There is nothing to do but exchange contacts and emails with travel companions and organize the photos. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. A representative from Alpine Club of Himalaya will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight.
(Included Meals: Breakfast)

Cost Include

All airport/hotel pick up and drop in private car/van
3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara; and teahouses during the trek
Breakfast in Kathmandu and All meals during the trek ( Breakfast Lunch and dinner with a cup of tea only
Welcome and farewell dinners
Salary, food, insurance, and lodging cost for guide and porter
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea/Coffee during trek
Welcome and Farewell Meals and Breakfasts while in Kathmandu
Transportation in a comfortable private vehicle(s)- Kathmandu to SundariJal by Car and Melamchi to Kathmandu by bus
English speaking, trained, and experienced local tour guide
Alpine t-shirt and map
Heritage sites entrance fees and National Park permit
All government and local taxes

Cost Exclude

Nepalese visa fee
Airfare and international flights to and from Kathmandu
Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Extra night accommodation if required
Excess baggage charges
Personal expenses, desserts, hot shower, hot water, mineral water
Service not mentioned in the Cost Included section