Helambu Trek is an eco-natural beauty and culturally rich adventure trek in Nepal. Helambu Valley is a short hike and close to Kathmandu, for those seeking less crowded trails and wanting to learn more about Tamang and Sherpa racial history and culture deeply. The Helambu Trek in Nepal, which requires no prior expertise, is ideal for families and anybody else who prefers a short, pleasant trip versus a lengthy, hard hike. The journey is more popular since the elevations are lower, ranging from 2,600 to 12,400 feet. There are less people on this journey than on the Annapurna and Everest hikes, and it is never congested, even during peak season. The atmosphere is peaceful. This is one of the easiest treks to get to from Kathmandu. The local Sherpas have a unique culture from the Solukhumbu Sherpas, who live in the Everest area, most notably in terms of attire and speech. The women are regarded as the most beautiful in Nepal. Despite its proximity to Kathmandu, the inhabitants continue to live a very traditional and authentic way of life. The Helambu trip is more of a cultural experience than a glacier or mountain excursion. Make a point of sampling one of Helambu’s famed delicious apples!
While trekking Helambu region, you may observe and spot red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and other wildlife on this trip, as on others in Nepal. The vistas of Langtang (23,734 feet), Ganesh (24,429 feet), and several more 20,000-foot peaks are the most appealing feature. The sights are incredible, especially considering you don’t get very high.
This journey could take anywhere from 7 to 12 days, making it perfect for anyone looking for a true Himalayan experience but are short on time. From north of Taramarang to the tree limit of Gosainkunda Lake and lower slopes of Jugal Himal, the Halambu trek is 45 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu. To each side, there are tall mountains – or hills as the locals call them – yet none are giants. The area is relatively unspoiled, despite its proximity to Kathmandu.
Here is a 7 Days Itinerary of Helambu Trek:
Day 1: Drive to Sundarijal by private car early in the morning and hike to Chisapani (2165 meters) which is 5 hours trekking and spend the night at the Lodge.
Day 2: Hike to Kutumsang (2470 m) which is a 5-6 hours trekking and spend the night at the Lodge.
Day 3: Trek to Tharepati (3690 off-limits, 5 hours trekking) and spend the night at a lodge.
Day 4: Trek to Tarke Ghyang (2600 meters) on day four. (Walking time: 4 hours) Spend the night at the Lodge.
Day 05: Trek to Sarmathang (2621 m) which is a 5 hours trekking) and spend the night at the Lodge.
Day 06: Trek to Melamchi (870 m, 4 hours trekking) and spend the night at the lodge.
Day 07: Return to Kathmandu by local bus (4/5 hours driving).
Best time to Trek: Because of the low altitude, this journey may be completed at any time of year, although the ideal seasons are autumn (mid-September to mid-December) and spring (March to May). The rhododendrons flowers are in full bloom during April and May. Winter — January and February – is a possibility because of the mild temperatures. During the summer months of June to August, visibility may be limited and rain fall may take place. The weather may be fickle.
Helambu Trek cost: Prices vary greatly; at the low end, we’ve seen prices as low as $700. You should anticipate to pay approximately $2,000 with a competent international operator.
Can Altitute Sickness be a Problem for Helambu Trekking? The Helambu Trek takes you to some high elevations. You will reach an altitude of 4,085 meters at its highest peak, Tharepati (13,400 feet). As a result, having a full knowledge of the dangers connected with high altitude trekking as well as how the body ability to complete a task to high altitude is essential.
Difficulty of Helambu Trek: Beginners and families will enjoy the Helambu Trek. It is not a difficult hike and can be done by anybody with a reasonable degree of fitness.
Helambu Trek requires climbing insurance. If an accident or event occurs that necessitates emergency medical attention and evacuation, you’ll need enough trekking insurance to cover the expenses of an air ambulance and treatment. Make sure you’re covered for any travel-related hazards, such as lost, stolen, damaged, or delayed luggage, as well as disruptions and airline delays, as well as tour operator default. Helambu Trek is particularly well-known for its outstanding natural beauty, fascinating cultural heritages with favorable climates, traditional Buddhist monasteries, Buddhist fellow villages, grassy forests, Rhododendron, conifers, oak, and mountain cattle grazing on rich alpine pastures under the close supervision of their nomads.
-Article written by: Saru Niraula for Land Nepal