Helambu Circuit Trek - 11 Days

Best Time to Visit Helambu Circuit Trekking

The best time to visit the Helambu Circuit trekking is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These are the peak trekking seasons. The weather and temperature change depending on the season. So, trekkers should choose a season that is comfortable and safe for trekking.

During the spring season, the temperature ranges around 10-20°C during the daytime. The Helambu Circuit Trek Trail gets dotted with wildflower colors. Whole rhododendron forests glow with red and pink blooms. The weather is also more comfortable for trekking, and the surrounding scenery is excellent.

Similar to spring, autumn temperatures also get around 10-20°C during the day. The best part of trekking from September to November is stable weather conditions, clear blue skies, great mountain views, dry trails, and crisp mountain air.

The Helambu Circuit Trek is possible to do all year round. Therefore, a winter (December-February) trek has a different charm. The daytime temperatures reach around 6-15°C. Nights are especially cold as the temperature drops below -15°C. Especially at high altitude, it is extremely cold, but the highest point of the Helambu Circuit Trek itinerary is only 3,690 m/12,106 ft. So, winter trekking is manageable.

Summer (June-Aug) is warm with green hills and good for trekking. The temperature goes as high as 20-30°C. However, monsoon rains make the trails slippery and leech-filled.

Trekking in the off-season is still possible, but it requires good experience, gear, and planning. But trekking in peak seasons is more suggested because they offer comfortable weather for trekking, clarity, and mountain views ideal for photography. For the best experience, plan when temperatures are cooler at higher altitude places like Chisapani (2,100 m) and Tharepati (3,650 m).

Helambu Circuit Trek Elevation, Distance, and Maximum Altitude

In the Helambu Circuit Trek, you don’t need to worry about extreme height and altitude sickness. It is an easy-to-moderate-level trek and stays between 1,300 m and 3,650 m.

The starting altitude of the trek is 1,350 m at Sundarijal, then it gradually climbs through Shivapuri National Park to Chisapani, which is at 2,140 m altitude. The Helambu Circuit Trek routes the pass along the valleys, ending the day at 2,500-2,600 m for overnight villages like Kutumsang (2,470 m) and Melamchi Ghyang (2,530 m).

The highest point is Tharepati at 3,650 m. From the top of this hill station, trekkers can see absolute nature greatness, as it offers 360° views of snow-capped Langtang peaks and Gauri Shankar. More adventure seekers add an additional itinerary for a trek to Ama Yangri summit (3,771 m) from here on.

This 11-day Helambu Circuit Trek route’s total distance is roughly 100 kilometers. On average, you have to walk for 5-7 hours continuously. The walking pace is slow and comfortable. This trek has a low risk of altitude sickness, so there are no acclimatization days included in the itinerary. Still, altitude gains are not drastic; it has safe altitude gain. Around 500-600 meters of altitude gain is there, which gives your body enough time to acclimatize while trekking.

This much elevation and distance during the trek are moderate by Himalayan standards. The Helambu Circuit Trek is a low-altitude adventure, so there is “no risk of altitude sickness” for fit beginners. During the trek, drink plenty of water and ascend step by step.

Helambu Circuit Trek Distance Highlights:

• Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
• Day 2: Kathmandu (1,440 m) ➔ Sundarijal (1,350m) ➔ Chisapani (2,140 m), about 20 km (4-5 hr)
• Day 3: Chisapani ➔ Golphu (Gul) Bhanjyang (2,140m), 10 km & 5-6 hr
• Day 4: Golphu Bhanjyang ➔ Kutumsang (2,470 m), 10 km & 5 hr
• Day 5: Kutumsang ➔ Tharepati (3,650 m) 15.7 km & 6-7 hr
• Day 6: Tharepati ➔ Melamchi Ghyang (2,530m), 6 km & 4-5 hr
• Day 7: Melamchi Ghyang ➔ Tarke Ghyang (2,590m), 6.1 km & 5-6 hr
• Day 8: Tarke Ghyang ➔ Sermathang (2,600m), 16.7 km & 5-6 hr
• Day 9: Sermathang ➔ Melamchi Pul Bazaar (770 m), 20 km & 8 hr
• Day 10: Melamchi Pul Bazaar ➔ Kathmandu (1,440 m), 43 km & 6-7 hr drive.
• Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu

The longest day during the Helambu Circuit Trek is 16 km. It is still manageable in 7 hours. During the trek, the route passes through villages and wildlife at leisure. The trek ends each day early in the afternoon. Trekkers can get enough rest and enjoy the views.

Helambu Circuit Trek Climate and Temperature

If you want to make your trip fun, then travel when the climate and temperature are travel-friendly. The Helambu Circuit Trek temperature and climate are generally comfortable.

Spring and autumn have the most favorable climate and temperature for trekking. The daytime temperature usually reaches around 10-20°C. At night it can drop near 0°C at high elevation.

Summer is especially warm along the Helambu trails. The highest it reaches is 25-30°C at lower elevations. However, summer and monsoon coincide in Nepal. So, occasional rainfall is common, especially at lower areas.

If you are trekking in Dummer, carry raincoats, waterproof jackets, and boots. In the months of July and August, monsoon makes the forest trails muddy and thick with fern and other plants. Beware of leeches and landslides as well. Though lush green surroundings make the journey pleasant.

Moving on, in winter, the temperature ranges from 5 to 15°C. Views and air get clear and crisp ideas for trekking around. Prepare for chilly nights as the temperature easily drops to -15°C at high altitudes.

Each season and month has charm and something to offer. Cherry blossoms, rhododendrons, and alpine flowers in April-May; monsoon greenery from June to September; and golden autumn leaves in October-November. Whatever the season, bring a warm layer of clothes for chilly evenings/nights.

1. Spring/Autumn: Dry, sunny, great views, stable weather, clear scenery, 10-20°C day, >5°C night.
2. Monsoon (Jun-Aug): Warm (20-30°C), frequent rain, greenery.
3. Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool days (6-15°C), freezing nights (down to -15°C).

Teahouses & Hotels during Helambu Circuit Trekking

During the Helambu Circuit Trek, trekkers will stay in comfortable teahouses. Night stops include Chisapani, Golphu Bhanjyang, Kutumsang, Tharepati, Melamchi Ghyang, Tarke Ghyang, and Sermathang. Hotel rooms are cozy and clean with twin-bedded rooms with warm blankets.

Attached bathrooms and hot showers are available at Kutumsang, Thadepati, Tarke Ghyang, Sermathang, and Melamchi Pul Bazaar. Chisapani, Gol Bhanjynag, and Melamchi Ghyang have bathrooms on a sharing basis.

In Kathmandu, trekkers will stay in comfortable 3-star hotels with twin rooms, free wifi, and attached bathrooms. We choose family-run teahouses for homely hospitality.
Accommodation can be upgraded with an additional price.

Carry a sleeping bag for nights. If you do not have one, Access Nepal Tours and Trekking can provide one free of cost.

Helambu Circuit Trekking, Food & Drink

Our Helambu Trek package includes full board meals with 3 cups of tea/coffee. All meals provided during the trek are healthy, organic, and nutritious. They all are locally sourced and cooked in homemade style.

Breakfast includes hot porridge or egg omelets and bread with jam/butter. Lunches and dinners will be nutritious Dal Bhat Tarkari (rice, lentils, and veggies/chicken). They comes in unlimited refill and are deliciously hearty.

Other food options include noodles, stew, mo:mo (dumplings), noodle soups (thukpa), Tibetan bread, pasta, noodles, soups, butter tea, pancakes, and local buckwheat breads. Food won’t be boring; you can expect some variations.

Yak cheese, fresh butter tea, and chhaang (millet beer) are local specialties. Don’t miss trying lassi (yogurt drink), ginger tea, or sweet Nepali chai.

Trekkers get to eat in a cozy kitchen/dining room with a gas or wood stove, which offers good surrounding views. We provide purification tablets for drinking water. Do not drink water without boiling or purifying it.

For personal snacks like chocolate, energy bars, biscuits, etc., purchase them from Kathmandu. As you go higher, snacks are quite expensive.

Note: If you have any dietary needs like vegetarian, allergies, vegan, or gluten-free, please inform us beforehand.

Visa Information

A Nepal tourist visa is mandatory for traveling in Nepal. Foreigners visiting Nepal can easily apply for a visa online or obtain it on arrival.

For online, you can apply through the Online Visa Application, the official website, and receive it after arrival without waiting in line.

For the second option, the Nepal tourist visa on arrival is obtained at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.

Nepal tourist visa fees are US$30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, and $125 for 90 days. Visa rules might change often, so check Nepal’s Immigration site before applying.

To get a visa, your passport must have at least 6 months of validity. Also bring two passport-size photos and cash (USD, euros, or NRS). Online payment and credit cards are also accepted but not reliable. The best option is to carry cash.

Indian citizens do not need visas. They can simply enter after showing their IDs. Other SAARC nationals’ visa fees in Laos vary depending on which country you are from.

For visa extensions, you can extend it in the Kathmandu or Pokhara immigration offices. You have to pay an extra amount. Do not forget to carry your passport, visa receipt, and photo during the trek. You might be asked to show them at park checkpoints.

Travel Insurance

For the Helambu Circuit Trek, travel insurance is strongly recommended. Make sure to get a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Your insurance policy must cover trekking up to 4,000 m, emergency evacuation, and medical expenses.

The Helambu trails take you into the remote hilly villages. It has limited hospitals. In case of an emergency situation, insurance comes in handy.

During emergencies like severe altitude sickness or injury, insurance covers helicopter evacuations.

Travel insurance packages also cover trip cancellation, lost baggage, etc., which is wise in Nepal, where roads can be closed by weather.

Helambu Circuit Trek Permit

The Helambu Circuit Trek Permit requires three permits. Heambu is located inside the Langtang National Park, which is a protected area. Therefore, trekking permits are mandatory while doing this trek.
Permits that are needed for Helambu Trekking are:

• A TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): NPR 2,000 ($15-20)
• Langtang National Park entry permit: NPR 3,000 ($20-25)
• Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park permit: NPR 1,000 ($10-15)

All these permits are included in the Helambu Trek package. Access Nepal Tours & Trekking covers the fees and obtaining process. So, you can trek with ease.

Safety Precautions During Helambu Circuit Trekking

This 11-day Helambu Trek is easy and safe. It’s a beginner-friendly trek that doesn’t take you to too much height. Still, precaution is better than cure.

The Helambu Circuit Trek route is well-marked. Not dense, but human inhabitation and villages are not rare. Throughout the journey, every night will be spent in teahouses. Though trails pass through forests, encountering dangerous wildlife is rare. Non-aggressive animals like goats, monkeys, and sometimes red pandas are more common, especially inside the Langtang National Park.

To stay safe, do not feed animals and make loud noises.

Concern about this trek is the weather and terrain. For safety, it is best to avoid trekking in monsoon season (July-August). During the rainy season, trails get slippery, have risks of landslides (though it’s uncommon), and have leeches. Lower regions especially experience heavy rainfalls and chances of flooding.

If you are still visiting Helambu in the monsoon, bring waterproof gear, raincoats, and leech socks/insect repellent. Also beware of rockfalls due to heavy rains anywhere in Nepal. Before starting the hike, every day our guides will monitor weather conditions.

Similarly, winter is cold, and above 3,000 m, trails freeze and have ice patches. For safety, wear trekking boots with microspikes. Otherwise, this route is safe, unlike other high-altitude trekking routes.

For your safety, we provide local guides with lots of experience, government licenses, and first-aid training. In case of emergency, we will arrange emergency helicopter evacuation and medical service, which is covered by your insurance.

Since the maximum height of this trek is below 4,000 m, it has a low risk of altitude sickness. So trekkers with zero experience can also complete this trek comfortably.

Precautions: Walk slowly and gradually. Drink lots of water (3+ liters), do not skip meals, and avoid smoke/alcohol. If you feel any of the symptoms of altitude sickness, like headaches or nausea, inform your guide and descend immediately. Otherwise, the Helambu Circuit Trek is safe since it’s considered low-risk for altitude.

Altitude, Acclimatization & Altitude Sickness

Altitude and acclimatization matter the most during the trek. The Helambu Circuit Trek altitude gain is gradual and doesn’t require extra days. The rise in altitude is at a moderate pace.

On day 4, the itinerary jumping from 2,470m (Kutumsang) to 3,690m (Tharepati) happens in one day, but at a friendly pace. Above 2,500 m, there are chances of getting altitude sickness. So this day, we trek carefully. You might feel mild symptoms like headaches and fatigue. To avoid this, we avoid walking too fast. But trekkers actually get acclimatized during their last nights at 1,000 m below the maximum.

Key tips: Climb at a slow pace. Avoid hiking at night or too late into the afternoon on big climb days, and stay hydrated. Include a short break every couple of hours. Helambu’s villages at 2,500-3,000 m give trekkers a good chance to recover each night.

If you feel any of the altitude sickness symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and difficulty in breathing, communicate with your guide immediately.
In case of altitude sickness, the guide will help you descend down and rest for a day at the same altitude depending on how severe your condition is.

As the Helambu route is altitude friendly, altitude sickness medicine and portable oxygen are rarely needed.

Remember: Always be mindful of symptoms and follow the guide’s instructions throughout the trek. The adventure will be only enjoyable when everyone is safe and healthy.

Maximum and Minimum Walk per Day

In the 11-day Helambu Circuit Trek, your average walking day is 4 to 7 hours per day. The average walking distance you will cover is 6-16 km.

The maximum walking day of the Helambu trek is 16 km on day 2, driving to Sundarijal and trekking to Chisapani, and on day 3, when you trek to Kutumsang. It takes around 7-8 hours of walking, including breaks.

The minimum walking day is the trek from Tharepati to Melamchi Ghyang. Trekkers have to only walk for 3 to 4 hours as the route involves a downhill stretch.

• Max distance/day: 16 km (7-8 hrs)
• Min distance/day: 6-8 km (3-5 hrs)

However, walking duration can vary depending on the trekkers’ or group’s pace. After hiking all day, overnight will be at teahouses. Along the hike, there will be frequent stops where you can rest for chai and click photos.

Fitness Level and Preparation for Helambu Trek

The Helambu Circuit Trekking is a beginner-friendly trek. It is easy to moderate and doesn’t require high physical fitness or experience. Anyone with a good level of physical fitness can do this trek. This trek doesn’t demand technical skills.

If trekkers can walk continuously and hike uphill and downhill for 4-7 hours on an uneven trail, they are fit to do this trek.

To prepare for the Helambu Circuit Trek, do some basic endurance training. Starting from one month is best suggested. Exercises like walking (1 or 2 hours), stair climbing, treadmill incline, squats, and lunges are very helpful.

Helambu is an easy-graded adventure than Everest Base Camp or Annapurna; still, you will need a healthy heart and lungs.

Trekkers with chronic illnesses like asthma or heart issues must consult with their doctor before booking. And carry any personal medications prescribed by your doctor.

Tip: To break in your trekking boot, use it before the trek. For support, use trekking poles if you have knee concerns. Carry a water bottle, snacks (energy bars), and a camera in your backpack.

Helambu Circuit Trek Route and Alternative Routes (Helambu Circuit Map)

Our Helambu Circuit Trek itinerary follows a standard route. It starts with a drive from Kathmandu towards the north side and trekking through Chisapani and Helambu villages. Given below is the outline of the Helambu Circuit route:

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 2: Drive to Sundarijal (1,350m) ➔ hike up to Chisapani (2,140 m)
• Day 3: Trek from Chisapani through Pati Bhanjyang to Gol Bhanjyang (2,380 m)
• Day 4: Climb steeply to Kutumsang (2,470 m)
• Day 5: Climb uphill through forest to Thadepati (3,650 m)
• Day 6: Trek from Thadepati to Melamchi Ghyang (2,530 m)
• Day 7: Trek from Melamchi Ghyang to Tarke Ghyang (2,560 m)
• Day 8: Trek from Tarke Ghyang to Sermathang (2,610 m)
• Day 9: Trek from Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar (870 m)
• Day 10: Drive to Kathmandu from Melamchi Pul Bazaar
• Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu

Besides this classic route, there are also other alternative routes to do the Helambu Circuit Trek.

• Ama Yangri side trip: This route is an extension of the current existing route. It’s popular among those who want more challenges.
• Melamchi Danda: Once reaching Chisapani, some add a hike north to Nagarkot. This extension is suitable for those seeking more of nature.
• Gosaikunda Extension: It’s a popular trekking destination that continues from Thadepati to Gosainkunda Lake. However, this is a separate trek.
• Direct Melamchi Bazaar exit: Another Helambu Circuit Trek route is to directly descend to Melamchi Pul from Tarke Ghyang, instead of going to Sermathang and Gyangul. It shortens the itinerary, but you will miss these beautiful villages.

The Helambu Circuit map follows this loop from north of Kathmandu to Sundarijal, a drive, and officially starts a trek from Chisapani. The trek continues towards Thadepati, slowly dropping to Melamchi. Our Helambu itinerary follows the classic Helambu map route. Each stop is included to offer trekkers the best experience.

Notable landmarks: Shivapuri NP gate at Sundarijal, Chisapani, Kutumsang monastery, Thadepati Hill station, Melamchi Ghyang, Sermathang, and Melamchi Bazaar.

Helambu Circuit Trek Cost

Our Helambu Circuit Trek package is all-inclusive. The trek cost includes accommodation, meals, permits, guides, porters, transportation, and first-aid kits. Lower price doesn’t mean we will compromise on your safety or the service we provide. Hot showers are also included but limited in some places.

The cost of the Helambu Circuit Trek is USD $990 per person. This trek is budget-friendly and perfect for backpackers.

At Access Nepal Tours and Trekking there are no hidden fees, and once booked, it’s guaranteed to run. Our package fees cover all required meals and permits during the Helambu Circuit Trekking.

The only extra money you will need is for personal expenses like snacks and tips. Our Helambu Circuit Trek itinerary is customizable, but the above is our standard.

Packing List for Helambu Circuit Trek

Pack light but smartly. Bring things depending on which season you are traveling in. Given below is the packing list for the Helambu Circuit Trek:

1. Waterproof hiking boots
2. Sandals or camp shoes
3. Wool or synthetic trek socks (plus 2 spare)
4. Moisture-wicking base layers
5. Fleece jacket
6. Warm down jacket (for high camps)
7. Waterproof/windproof shell jacket and pants
8. Trekking pants
9. Moisture-wicking shirts
10. Thermal suits
11. Gloves
12. Warm hat (fleece or wool)
13. Sunglasses (UV protection for snow)
14. Backpack
15. Poncho or rain jacket/pants (for July-Aug trek)
16. Sunblock (SPF 30+), lip balm, and insect repellent
17. Personal toiletries (toothbrush, biodegradable soap)
18. Toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a small towel
19. Water bottles
20. Water purification tablets (included in the package)
21. Sleeping bags (provided but must be return after trek)
22. Camera/binoculars
23. Power bank and charger
24. Photocopies of important docs
25. Personal first-aid kit

Note: This trek takes you to a reasonable altitude where nights and mornings are especially cold. Layering is key for your health.

Guide and Porter for Helambu Trek

Our package includes both a guide and a porter. The guides provided are highly experienced, local, government-licensed, English-speaking, and first-aid trained. Their insurance and costs are covered.

Guides are key during the trek, as they know about the Helambu region intimately. They are also very important for your safety. Guides will help you with navigation, permits, weather, support, and other logistics.

A guide will help you throughout the trek and help in making your trip more memorable and safe. They also carry a satellite phone/radio for emergencies.

You can enjoy the trip with ease, as our porters will carry your heavy baggage. The only thing you need to carry is a light daypack. All their costs and insurance are also included in the package. Tipping porters is customary for hardworking porters.

If you are trekking independently, a guide is still recommended for safety reasons.