The Helambu Short Trek is a 9-day luxury journey designed by Amazing Himalaya, combining stunning mountain vistas, rich cultural heritage, and diverse ethnic experiences, all set in the beautiful landscapes near Kathmandu.
Helambhu Short Trek is a Luxury trek designed by Amazing Himalaya that is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and diverse ethnic communities. On this 9-day short trek to Helambu, you will be treated to stunning snow-capped mountains and an interesting contrast between the middle hills called Mahabharat.
The Helambu region, just a short distance from Kathmandu, is a hidden cultural treasure brimming with rich traditions, spiritual heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible biodiversity. The trek takes you through areas mainly inhabited by the Sherpa and Tamang people, offering a unique insight into the Sherpa culture, distinct from their counterparts in the Khumbu region. You’ll have the chance to visit peaceful Buddhist monasteries and experience the renowned warmth and beauty of the Sherpa community.
The trek starts from Sundarijal (1,460m), a popular hiking spot and gateway to Shivapuri National Park. It takes you through the heart of the Helambu region, ending at Melamchi Puul Bazaar. If you’re looking for a short, refreshing getaway with a mix of adventure and cultural immersion, this trek is the ideal choice for a meaningful and rewarding holiday.
This nine-day short trek involves trekking in the Helambhu region and two days of sightseeing around Kathmandu Valley. It visits sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Shyambhunath, Boudhanath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square, all of which are listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, a representative from Amazing Himalaya will greet you and take you to your hotel. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Before starting our hike to Helambhu, we will do a full-day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu, visiting famous tourist spots like Swaymbhunath, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Patan.
In the morning, you will be driven to the renowned Swayambhunath Monkey Temple, the oldest Buddhist stupa with monasteries in Nepal. From this vantage point, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu Valley.
Another spot is Kathmandu Durbar Square. Subsequently, you will explore the old town of Kathmandu, visiting Durbar Square, a palace complex adorned with numerous temples and monuments, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the afternoon, your sightseeing journey continues to Patan, the oldest Buddhist city rich in cultural heritage. You’ll visit Durbar Square, home to stunning temples like the Krishna Temple and the Golden Temple. After a day of exploring, you’ll head back to Kathmandu for an overnight stay.
After having breakfast at your hotel, you will be picked up and driven to Sundarijal, marking the beginning of your Helambu Circuit trek. The trek kicks off with a delightful section through oak and rhododendron forests. As you leave Sundarijal, the route leads along a steep slope. After an hour’s walk, you reach Shivapuri National Park. The trail ascends through a series of narrow stairs to Mulkharka.
From Mulkharka, hike through rural farm fields, cool woodlands, and the charming settlement of Borlang Bhanjyang, ultimately reaching Chisapani. Chisapani is renowned as one of the most popular short-hiking destinations near the Kathmandu Valley. It offers breathtaking views of several snow-capped mountains. Overnight in Chisapani.
Chisapani offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Langtang Himal range. After breakfast, start today’s hike to Kutumsang. The route descends as it approaches the small settlement of Pati Bhanjyang, passing through picturesque meadows and farmland. You’ll arrive at the Sherpa settlement of Thankune Bhanjyang, strolling through farming communities with scenic views.
Continuing your trek, you’ll encounter terraced farms and trails leading into a small forest. Passing through the Sherpa settlement of Chipling, you’ll then climb to reach a ridge. From here, it will take another hour of downhill hiking to reach Kutumsang.
Upon arrival at Kutumsang, a settlement with traditionally constructed dwellings and mist-covered slopes, it’s charming to visit the village. Your walk for the day comes to an end.
After breakfast, you’ll head towards Thadepati Bhanjyang, climbing over a thousand meters in elevation to reach the highest point of your trek. The hike begins by taking you along the ridgeline of Yurin Danda, offering incredible views of the Langtang range, Gosaikunda Peak, and Jugal Himal.
As you ascend through some rugged trails, you’ll pass Mera Danda before descending to the small settlement of Mangengoth. Continuing beyond the Thare Danda ridge, you’ll arrive at Thadepati, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Langtang Ranges.
Just above the village, a ridge offers a prime spot for spectacular sunrise views. From there, you’ll turn east and descend steeply through an ancient pine forest, walking along the spine of a ridge until you reach Melamchi Gaon—a large Sherpa village known for its warm hospitality and rich cultural traditions. You’ll spend the night in a cozy Trekkers Lodge.
After breakfast, your trek begins with a descent from Melamchi Gaon to Melamchi Khola, passing through several Buddhist villages like Nakote, Dozum, and Chiri. These villages are named after their ancient monasteries, some of the oldest in the Helambu region, giving you a glimpse of life in traditional western Nepali settlements.
From Tarkeghyang, the trail heads southwest, taking you along gentle forest paths. Along the way, you’ll cross small streams, pass fields, and wander through quaint villages until you reach Setighyang. After a 4 to 5-hour trek, you’ll arrive at your destination for the day—Sermathang.
Take a leisurely breakfast in Sermathang, and begin your trek by descending through rice fields and expansive green meadows. As you leave the village, you’ll pass through charming communities like Kakani and Thimbu, noticing the shift in vegetation as you enter a subtropical zone. Along the way to Melamchi Pul Bazaar, a Sherpa settlement, you’ll cross several bridges and stroll past villages adorned with chortens and mani walls.
Upon arriving at Melamchi Bazaar, your vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Kathmandu. The scenic drive takes about 4 hours, and by late afternoon, you’ll reach Kathmandu. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Your itinerary for the final day of your trip includes visits to Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
Early in the morning, you will visit Pashupatinath, the most significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple area attracts countless pilgrims, yogis, and devotees, hosting daily Hindu rituals. On the banks of the Bagmati River, cremation ceremonies for the deceased take place. While non-Hindus are not permitted to enter the temple complex, you can still enjoy a panoramic view from a terrace nearby.
Boudhanath presents a contrasting experience as the largest Buddhist stupa, surrounded by numerous Tibetan monasteries. It has a different, serene vibe, and visitors can see chanting mantras. You can enjoy coffee from the rooftop restaurant of Boudha and enjoy a beautiful view of the stupa.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a visit to the enchanting royal city of Bhaktapur. Highlights include Durbar Square, the pottery market, the renowned Peacock Window, and the five-story Nyatapola, the tallest pagoda in Nepal. Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Your 9-day short trek to Helabhu ends today. According to your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport. We hope you had a great experience with Amazing Hiamalaya Trekking and hope to serve you soon.
The Helambu Trek typically spans 5 to 7 days, depending on your pace and chosen itinerary. It’s one of the shorter and more accessible treks in Nepal, with beautiful cultural villages and serene landscapes, ideal for trekkers looking for a more relaxed journey near Kathmandu.
By road, Helambu is approximately 80 kilometers (about 50 miles) from Kathmandu. The drive generally takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic.
The best seasons for the Helambu Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
Although it’s possible to do this trek independently, many prefer a guide for added safety and insight into the local culture and environment.
Creating a customized itinerary for your tour allows you to personalize your travel experience to match your interests, schedule, and preferences.customize this itinerary
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