Helambu Circuit Trek takes us on a 9-day trekking tour to explore the Helambu Valley in the Langtang Region. This trek shows us the real meaning of multiculturalism as we come across the Tamang, Sherpa, Brahman, Chhetri, and Hyolmo people. We’ll also experience Langtang peaks up close during this trek.
We start the Helambu Circuit Trek with a short drive to Sundarijal. Sundarijal is famous for its waterfalls. From here, a full-day hike uphill will take us first to Mulkharka, a Tamang village, and then to Chisapani.
This village offers great views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Langtang, and even Everest peaks. From Chisapani, we hike downhill along a muddy trail to Pathi Bhanjhyang, which is a Bhraman and Chhetri village. Some while later, we’ll be at the Sherpa village of Thakuni.
After a few ascents and descents, we’ll arrive at Gul Bhanjyang, a Tamang settlement. Through a rhododendron, oak, and pine forest get to Tharepati and Tarkeghyang, another Sherpa village. Tarkeghyang is famous for its monastery and nearby 3771m tall peak, Ama Yangri, which offers great views of Langtang, Ganesh, Jugal, and other peaks of the Langtang Region. Trekkers can also get a view of the Gosaikunda Lake. Hike downhill along the pine forest to make it to Sermathang, which lies just below the Langtang National Park. The last day will see us at Melamchi Bazaar, the last Hyolmo settlement for our tour.
This trail is easier compared to the Langtang Valley Trek which also follows a similar route. This Helambu Circuit Trek is designed for those who want to learn more about the local culture and tradition while also enjoying astounding Himalayan views.
Email our trip experts if you need to modify this trail for the best experience in the Langtang Region. Simply email us at info@adventurewalkway.com
There are many reasons why you will love the 9-day Helambu Circuit Trek. It is ideal for any kind of trekker looking to explore the beauty of Nepal. Similarly, it is also a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of the Langtang region.
While there are many reasons, we have highlighted the major attractions of Helambu Circuit Trek.
The Helambu Circuit route treats the trekkers with diverse and scenic landscapes of the Langtang region. They can trek through the lush green rhododendron forests to the highland pastures. During the spring season, trekkers can enjoy the rhododendron forests and Himalayan wildflowers in full bloom. Similarly, the trekking route will take the trekkers through scenic hills, picturesque valleys, and terraced fields. One can witness the majestic mountain views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal Range, and Jugal Himal Range. Likewise, the route offers a view of Gosaikunda Lake.
While on the Helambu Circuit Trek, the route takes trekkers through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and Langtang National Park. Both national parks are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Langtang National Park is among the oldest national parks of Nepal. The scared Gosaikunda Lake also lies within the national park. Trekkers can witness the view of Langtang Valley, Mount Langtang Lirung, and other peaks. Meanwhile, from Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, one can view the panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Aside from these
The Helambu Circuit Trek is a spiritually enriching experience. The route goes through several ancient and historical monasteries. Trekkers will come across monasteries like Tarke Gyang, Melamchi Gyang, Sermathang, Tharepati, and other monasteries. Similarly, during the trek, trekkers will come across many small stupas, chorten, and prayer flags. These all provide a unique sense of cultural and spiritual ambiance during the Helambu Circuit Trek.
The majority of settlements in Helambu Circuit Trek are of Tamang and Sherpa ethnic groups. Trekkers can get a glimpse into their culture, tradition, and local customs. Additionally, they can fully immerse in the experience by interacting with the locals and getting a taste of their hospitality. It is also common to see traditional houses with age-old architecture. One can come across the Tamang and Sherpa settlements in villages like Tharepati, Tarkeghyang, Sermathang, and Melamchi Bazaar.
Although trekkers do not need any restricted permits for the Helambu Circuit Trek, they do need to take three permits. These permits include:
TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) Card is required by all trekkers including for trekking in the Langtang region. It takes the information of the trekkers and ensures the safety of the trekkers. It can be obtained through the Nepal Tourism Board. The TIMS Card costs NPR 1000. But normally this card is included in trekking packages. Adventure Walkway’s 9-day Helambu Circuit Trek packages come with this card.
The Helambu Circuit route goes through the Shivapuri National Park. Hence, trekkers are required to take the Shivapuri National Park Permit. It can be obtained at the Shivapuri National Park entry point. It can also be obtained in Kathmandu. Adventure Walkway’s 9-day Helambu Circuit Trek package includes the Shivapuri National Park Permit.
The fee for the Shivapuri National Park Permit differs for SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and non-SAARC nationals.
The next permit trekkers will require is the Langtang National Park Permit. The Helambu Circuit Trek route falls in the Langtang region. Hence, they are required to get the permit. The permit can be obtained at the park entry point. Similarly, it can also be obtained in Kathmandu. And yes, Adventure Walkaway’s 9-day Helambu Circuit Trek package also includes the Langtang National Park Permit.
Once you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, make your way to your hotel to freshen up. Meet with your reps to plan further about the upcoming trek. Once the meeting is over, the company guide will tell you about the things you can do in Kathmandu during your free time.
This is a significant day for you-you can do the last check journeying gear with our Trekking Leader on the off chance that you need any things more, you bring with you then you can lease or purchase in Kathmandu (hiking bed and down coat can be leased in Kathmandu). you can visit the world legacy site sanctuary cloister and Durbar square in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, we’ll drive to Sundarijal. The drive wouldn’t take much time as Sundarijal lies just around 20km away. Walk up the stone and concrete steps along the water pipelines to reach the entry point of Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve. Keep on hiking up to first get to Mulkharka and eventually to Chisapani.
Wake up to a scenic backdrop! Hike downhill through a muddy trail to get to a Bhraman and Chhetri village of Pathi Bhanjhyang. Ascend towards the Sherpa village of Thakuni Bhanjhyang. Keep on the uphill hike to get to Chipling and then to Jhogin Danda. A short downhill trek through the rhododendron forest will see us at Gul Bhanjyang, a Tamang settlement.
Ascend via a rhododendron and oak forest to get to Yurin Danda. Keep on hiking uphill to arrive at Kutumsang. From here, it’s a downhill hike through another rhododendron forest to Magen Goth. From here, it’s a steep uphill climb to Tharepati.
Walk past another forest to enter the Helambu valley. Cross a small river and hike uphill to get to Nakote. Keep on hiking uphill until we get to the Sherpa village of Tarkeghyang. The Ama Yangri (3771m) peak is the nearest mountain to this village, but we’ll also be able to see Langtang, Jugal, Numbur, and other peaks from here. If time persists, we’ll visit a nearby monastery, Chiri Gompa. Overnight in Tarkeghyang.
An easy downhill hike through the pine forest will take us to Sermathang. En route, enjoy the views of Langtang, Ganesh, Jugal, Gosaikunda, and other peaks of the Langtang region. Also, get to see the whole of Helambu valley. This village lies just below the Langtang National Park’s forest area.
Today, we’ll trek to the Melamchi Bazaar which is our final stop for the Helambu Circuit Trek. A short downhill hike will take us to Dubhachaur and eventually to Melamchi Bazaar. After a short rest, we’ll drive back to Kathmandu for an overnight stay.
The glorious 11 days trip to the Helambu Circuit trek comes to an end today. Move on to your next destination or travel back home safely. Adieu!
We offer fixed departure dates. If these dates are not suitable for you or if you prefer to schedule your own departure, please contact us.
In terms of difficulty, Helambu Circuit Trek is a moderately difficult trekking route. It lies in a relatively low altitude. The highest altitude one will get to during the 9-day Helambu Circuit Trek is 2597 meters. Therefore, it is also suitable for beginners. But trekkers need to be physically fit. There is a minimum risk of trekkers contracting altitude-related sickness. Still, it is best to ascend to the higher elevation gradually.
The trail condition is also well-defined. However, trekkers must be ready to climb up and downhill on uneven terrains. The trails can vary and as you ascend higher, the trail can get steeper, rougher, and rockier. Similarly, trekkers may have to cross rivers using suspension bridges. It can be physically and mentally challenging. The route goes through remote areas where facilities like internet and mobile networks can get limited.
Adventure Walkway provides last-minute bookings for the Helambu Circuit Trek. Similarly, you can also pre-book the trek package with us. You can contact us 24 hours before the scheduled time for us to arrange your last-minute booking for the Helambu Circuit Trek. The package will include everything like in the normal booking packages. Similarly, the price of the package will also remain the same. So, rest assured that Adventure Walkaway will provide you with the best value for your money. For more information feel free to contact us.
Helambu Circuit lies in the Himalayan region and the climate varies depending on the time of the year. The Helambu Circuit has four distinct seasons, i.e., spring (March to May), Summer (June to August), Autumn (September to November), and Winter (December to February). The average temperature ranges between 10-20 degrees Celsius in the daytime during spring and autumn.
No, there are no restricted permits required for the Helambu Circuit Trek. However, trekkers will require a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System), Langtang National Park Entry Permit, and Shivapuri National Park Permit.
From March to May and September to November are the best times for Helambu Circuit Trek. The weather and climate are most favorable. The trail is well defined with minimal risk for landslides. Similarly, the visibility is excellent with perfect views of the surroundings.
No, there are no ATMs, banks, or money exchanges along the Helambu Circuit Trek. Almost the majority of the tea houses, lodges, and guesthouses take cash as a payment method. So, trekkers are advised to take cash with them before embarking on the journey. There may be a few ATMs at Sundarijal or Melamchi Bazaar.
There are mostly tea houses, homestays, and lodges available at the Helmabu Circuit Trek route. These accommodations provide moderate facilities with beds, breakfast, food, and bathrooms. The facilities and amenities can be limited as trekkers go to the higher elevations.