8 Days Helambu Trekking 2025

Helambu Trek Transportation

The Helambu Trek begins near Kathmandu, and transportation is easily accessible. The most common beginning point is Sundarijal, which is about a 1-hour ride from Kathmandu. You can make the journey to Sundarijal by public transportation and private jeep. You can also take a taxi for better roads. Upon completing the trek, the standard finishing point is Melamchi Pul Bazaar or Tarke Gyang, from where you can utilize a local bus or private car to head back to Kathmandu.

Helambu Trek Food and Drinks

Helambu valley is a blend of traditional Nepali and Tibetan cuisine. Local teahouses and lodges offer dal bhat (lentil soup, rice, and vegetables), momo (dumplings), Tibetan bread, and noodles. As Helambu is a culturally rich Sherpa and Tamang area, locally brewed chhang (barley beer) and butter tea are also available. It is wise to carry some snacks and energy bars as the food becomes more simple at higher altitudes.

Helambu Trek Cost

The Helambu Trek comes at a cost, depending on factors like transportation, permits, food, shelter, and guide charges. On average, a 7-8 day trek will cost between USD 400 to USD 600 per individual. Budget travelers can take public transport and stay at basic lodges to save money, while comfort travelers can opt for private vehicles and stay in good-quality lodges. Hiring a guide or porter will add to the expenditure but significantly enhances the trekking experience.

Helambu Trek Guide and Porter

Although the Helambu Trek can be done without a guide, it is always best to hire one for safety, direction, and cultural knowledge. A guide costs between USD 25 to USD 30 per day, and a porter (who also brings baggage) will charge USD 15 to USD 25 per day. Because the trek is less frequented than some of the popular treks, a guide comes in handy in case of any unforeseen change in route or an emergency.

Helambu Trek Difficulty

Helambu Trek is fairly demanding, suitable for both novices and experienced trekkers. Helambu Trek involves a daily 5-6 hour trek with an altitude fluctuation of 1,500m to 3,650m. Even though no high altitudes are traversed, there are steep ups and downs which are exhausting. Physical training and acclimatization are recommended.

Helambu Trek Permit and Cost 

Two permits for the Helambu Trek are required to be provided by the trekker

1. Langtang National Park Entry Permit – Foreigners pay NPR 3,000 (around $25).
2. TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card – NPR 2,000 (around $17) for independent trekkers and NPR 1,000 (approx. $17) for independent trekkers and NPR 1,000 (approx. 8) for those who have a guide.

These can be bought in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board or from registered trekking agencies.

Helambu Trek Route

The classic Helambu Trek route is a loop path starting at Sundarijal and ending at Melamchi Pul Bazaar. Key stops are:

• Sundarijal to Chisapani (2,300m)
• Chisapani to Kutumsang (2,470m)
• Kutumsang to Thadepati (3,650m)
• Thadepati to Tarke Gyang (2,600m)
• Tarke Gyang to Sermathang (2,600m)
• Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar (800m)

The trek offers stunning views of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges, forests, and ancient villages.

Best Time for Helambu Trek

The ideal seasons to undertake Helambu Trek are:

• Spring (March to May) – Pleasant weather, rhododendrons in flower, and clear mountain views.
• Autumn (September to November) – Stable temperatures, minimal rainfall, and excellent visibility.
• Winter (December to February) is cold and may have snow, while the monsoon season (June to August) makes trails slippery and unattractive.

Helambu Trek Accommodation

Accommodation on Helambu Trek is basic teahouses and lodges. The rooms are basic, with shared bathrooms and a shared dining room. The prices range from 5−5−15 per day. Some of the bigger villages like Tarke Gyang and Sermathang have slightly better facilities with attached bathrooms and Wi-Fi (extra charge).

Helambu Trek Map

An equally good trekking map is needed to navigate through. Good Helambu trekking maps are printed by Himalayan Map House and Nepa Maps. Other digital maps like Maps.me and Google Maps, used offline mode, can prove useful too. Trekkers usually purchase maps in Kathmandu or preload GPS routes beforehand.