The Helambu region is a relatively low altitude trek and one of the most convenient of the short treks close to Kathmandu and it is less crowded. For a spectrum of Nepali people and the Himalayas, the Helambu trek is unrivalled. The trek passes through some beautiful forests and very interesting villages on route. As the journey progresses you visit the homes of Brahmins, Tamangs and Sherpa people of Nepal. This place has scenic grandeur and pleasant climate as well as a long history of Buddhism, culture and ancient tradition of Tamang and Sherpas. In Helambu region the Sherpa are quite distinct from the Sherpas of Solukhumbu (Everest region) both in language and customs.
The ranges of mountains that rise above us match the diversity of the people we meet. From low altitudes we have excellent views of mountains that include Langtang, the Annapurnas, Manaslu and even Everest on a clear day. This is a pleasant and exciting journey, a time to relax and become immersed in the beauty of the Himalayas.
The Helambu trek is a perfect short trek nearby Kathmandu Valley. Despite being so close to Kathmandu, the Helambu region remains relatively unspoiled. Besides the Hyolmo culture of high mountain people, the company of green rhododendron and bamboo forests, majestic waterfalls, and snow-capped Himalayas make the trek one of most diverse treks near Kathmandu. The great Himalayan scenery at the border with Tibet and monasteries make a trek to the region an enthralling experience. The people living the highlands of the Langtang region are certainly the Nepalis, being the descendant of the Tibetan origin, they still look like Tibetans.
The Hyolmo or Yolmo people, the "Helambu Sherpas" are an indigenous group of people that natively reside in the Helambu and Melamchi Valleys of northeastern Nepal.The Hyolmo people speak the Hyolmo language which has a high similarity to Tibetan. The Hyolmo people work mainly in agriculture growing potatoes, radishes, and some other crops. Hyolmo people are also known for their yak herding and for making yak cheese.
The Helambu Trek begins from Sundarijal, an hour's drive from Kathmandu. After about an hour's walk, we enter Shivapuri National Park. Continuing along the Chisopani, Kutumsang, Thadepati and Sermathang, the trek ends at the Melamchi Bazaar in the Helambu region.
| Trip Details |
| Best Season | : | Sep - Dec / March - May |
| Trekking Duration | : | 8 Days |
| Trekking Grade | : | II (Moderate Trek) |
| Maximum Altitude | : | 3,490m / 11,450ft |
| Destination | : | Therapati view point |
| Trip Region/Area | : | Langtang |
| Trip Route | : | Kathmandu - Sundarijal - Chisapani - Kutumsang - Therapati - Melamchigaon - Ganjwal - Kakani - Kathmandu |
| Trip Style | : | Lodge / Tea House |
| Group Size | : | Min. 2 People |
| Starting From | : | Kathmandu and Sundarijal |
| Ending Point | : | Melamchi and Kathmandu |
| Culture | : | Local communities with ethnic majority of Tamang, Brahmin & Tibetan |
| Mode of Trekking | : | Tea house style (lodge trek) |
| Himalayan Sights | : | Langtang Range, Langtang Ri, Dorje Lakpha, Ganesh Himal Range, Manaslu, Hiunchuli |
| Highlight | : | Cultural Highlights - Temples, Monasteries & Stupas, Traditional Villages, Varied Landscapes, Dense Forest, Rice-Terraces, River Valleys, Local Flora & Fauna |
| Days | Destinations | Hours (hr) |
| 01 | Kathmandu | |
| This is your introduction day to meet our representative in Kathmandu. Full trek briefing will follow about any necessary formalities and program itinerary, appropriate gear to pack, time for last minute shopping. This is a day of preparation for your trek. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu. | ||
| 02 | Kathmandu - Chisapani 2,300m/7,545ft | 1 hr drive, 5hr trek |
| We drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal on the northern edge of Kathmandu Valley in about 1 hour by private transport. From Sundarijal we start to hike up to Mulkharka - a sprawling Tamang settlement. The trail continues climbing gently through forests ridges and then it drops down to Chisapani situated on the ridge. From here you can see countless snow peaks. Stay overnight in Chisapani. | ||
| 03 | Chisapani - Kutumsang 2,440m/8,000ft | 6hr trek |
| The trail initially drops down to Pati Bhanjyang and then starts climbing up to Chipling where we can stop for lunch. From here to Kutumsang the trail traverses through delightful, classic hill villages with stone paved streets and some little local shops on the backdrop of great mountain views. Overnight at Kutumsang. | ||
| 04 | Kutumsang - Therapati 3,490m/11,450ft | 5hr hike |
| From Kutumsang the first part of the trail climbs on a steep, eroded trail and rhododendron forest without settlements but few shepherd's huts. When we get onto the ridge we can see views of Langtang and Gosaikunda Peaks. The trail now descends to Magen Goth where we will stop of lunch then the trail undulates up and down passing through forests to reach Therapati. Stay overnight at Therapati. | ||
| 05 | Tharepati - Melamchigaun 2,530m/8,300ft | 4hr trek |
| Today we walk just about 4 hours steeply down through the oaks and rhododendron forests. When we cross a stream on a suspension bridge down, the trail makes a short final climb to reach the prosperous Sherpa village of Melamchigaun. We will reach the settlement early and the rest of the time we can just stroll around the village. Melamchigaun is a very nice village. It has a glossy gompa with a line of prayer flags at the front and brightly painted walls and statues. Stay overnight at Melamchigaun. | ||
| 06 | Melamchigaun-Gangjwal 2,500m/8,200ft | 5hr trek |
| From Melamchigaun, the trail continues to descend to the Melamchi river. After crossing its suspension bridge at 1890m the trail begins the ascent towards Tarke Gyang, which is the largest village in Helambu region. We will have a lunch here and then we will walk on a gradual trail to attractive village of Gangjwal. Stay overnight at Gangjwal. | ||
| 07 | Gangjwal - Kakani 2,000m/6,560ft | 5hr trek |
| The trail is quite easy today, it continues at around the same altitude along the side of the ridge, crossing a number of streams in the heart of Helambu region. Then we reach the large village of Sermathang where there's an old gompa and Langtang National Park Office. We have lunch at Sermathang and then the trail follows the ridge passing chortens and drops to the tiny pretty village of Kakani situated on the ridge. This is a wonderful place for splendid mountains views where we will stop overnight. | ||
| 08 | Kakani- Melamchi Bazaar- Kathmandu | 3hr trek, 4hr drive |
| From Kakani the trail traverse several picturesque small villages and drops to Melamchi Bazaar in about 3 hours, where we can have lunch. Malamchi Bazaar has a collection of shops and teahouses and abundant lodges. After lunch we drive to Kathmandu for about 4 hours on the Kodari road. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu. |
Morning:
Afternoon:
Evening:
Note: Each day & trek is different, depending on a number of factors ranging from availability of some facilities and trail conditions to the general pace of the whole group. Exact timetable cannot always be followed and would in fact destroy the free and easy going atmosphere of the trek that you have come along to enjoy. Therefore the following schedule serves as a general guideline only.
On your request we can arrange an extension of your holiday and there are many activities you can choose from, depending on your personal preferences. Here is what we can help you arrange:
We have various residential yoga retreat programs available from 1-21 days in duration. Typical daily program includes meditation, two yoga classes, jala neti, sound immersion with singing bowls and gong, guided relaxation and daily wellness activities of foot bath, steam bath, mud bath or aromatherapy steam inhalation. Our food is organic and delicious, always cooked fresh by our skilled chef with accordance to ayurvedic principles. You can also learn to make a hand-crafted mandala, have a private sound healing session or get an ayurvedic massage during your stay on request.www.purnayoga.com.np
Seated high on the back of an elephant, gain a unique viewpoint of the Chitwan National Park which is a home to significant populations of one horned rhino, tigers, leopards, wild hogs, sloth bears, many species of deer, monkeys, langurs, Gharial crocodiles, Indian bisons and many beautiful peacocks. Packages start from 3 days/2 night and longer with a variety of activities including elephant jungle safari, river canoe trip, cultural performance of Tharu stick dance, elephant bathing, jeep safari and more.
Nepal is a home to many raging mountain rivers and streams originating from the Himalayas, which makes it a perfect destination for a river rafting adventure. The excursions start from a short half day rafting tour on Upper Seti river, 1 day for Trisuli river and 2 days for Lower Seti and Marshyangdi. A longer 3 day camping excursion is required for rafting on Kali Gandaki. There are rafting tours suitable for beginners as well as more experienced thrill seekers, grades from II to V, changeable with the seasons.
Pokhara is a paradise for paragliding, on one side towering snow-capped mountains, on the other side a stunning lake surrounded by hills and terraced fields. Such landscapes are sure to take your breath away as you glide through the air seamlessly like a bird in flight. Tandem flights are perfect for beginners, a 30min adventure that gives you a taste of thermal lifts and even some acrobatics if you’re keen. Cross country is the next step with a 60min flight that takes you higher and further. All flights start from Sarankot hill, nearby Pokhara.
There are two bungee jump locations in Nepal. Pokhara has a 70m vertical drop tower bungee, located just 20 minutes away from Lakeside. The jump site offers a spellbinding view of the Himalayas, the hills and the rivers that will take your breath away. The second bungee site is located on a suspension bridge hanging over a 160m deep Bhote Kosi river gorge, 100km east from Kathmandu. Both locations offer superb adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience.
Take this 1 day tour and journey through intimate passages of contorted rock and powerful blasts of water as experienced guides lead you climbing, abseiling, jumping, scrambling, sliding & swimming down steep canyon walls to pristine natural pools below. Jalberi Canyoning Zone, which is located half way between Pokhara and Kathmandu, features breath-taking scenery of untouched jungle, karst rock formations and multiple cascading waterfalls dropping one after the other into refreshing pools and rainbow gardens.
Pokhara has the world's longest, fastest and steepest zipline, which is over 1.8km long, with a 600 metre vertical drop and which can travel at speeds up to 100 miles per hour. The descent is only 2min long but it is sure to leave a lasting impression as you're flying over treetops, Pokhara Valley with Seti River below you and a vast space in front of you with beautiful mountain panorama in sight. Make the most of your trip, you can't zipline to such extreme anywhere else in the world.
Pokhara offers a range of ultralight flight experiences. The shortest flight is just 15min and it takes you around Pokhara Valley with a mountain panorama view. A 30min flight can take you around the valley and also bring you close and personal with the Fishtail Mountain.
The 60min flight takes you into the heart of the mountains, where you will fly in between the Himalayan mountain ranges for a once in a lifetime experience and an incredible vantage point to snap some stunning photos.
Mountain flights operate from Kathmandu airport and once you take off you don't have to wait long before you see spectacular mountain views beneath you. You get to fly over the highest mountain ranges in the world and you will also see what Mt Everest looks like from above. This is as close as you can get to the world's tallest mountain without trekking. This flight is operated in a 17 seater Beech aircraft and everyone gets a window seat, the flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
Please note these Terms and Conditions contain important information. It is essential that you read them carefully and understand them prior to making your reservation with Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt. Ltd. Please note that while booking a trip, you are agreeing to be bound by these Terms and Conditions as well as the cancellation policy and certain limitations of liability. When making your booking with Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt Ltd it is implied that you have read, understood and accepted all these terms and conditions and agree to abide by them.
1. Booking
To make your reservation you must fill out the booking form and make a booking deposit payment. Your reservation will be confirmed by email once we have received your booking deposit and a copy of your booking form duly filled out.
All treks require a booking deposit of 200 USD per person at the time of booking. Some longer treks like Everest Base Camp and Upper Mustang require a booking deposit of 500 USD per person at the time of booking.
2. Payment Methods
Booking deposit payment can be made by bank transfer, by Visa / MasterCard or by Western Union. The remaining balance can be cleared upon your arrival in Nepal by cash or credit card (credit card payment incurs a 4% charge).
a. Payment by Credit Card (MasterCard or Visa Only)
There is a 4% surcharge when you make your payment with a credit/debit card. Please download the credit card payment form and complete the necessary details in the form including your complete card details, signature (same as in your passport & credit card) and send a scan/photo of this filled form as well as a scan/photo of your passport and both sides of your card by email to info@nepalyogatrek.com
Your credit card will be charged by Alpine Travel Service (Credit Card Division) on behalf of Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt. Ltd. Please do not send the form details directly to Alpine Travel Services.
b. Payment by Wire/Bank Transfer
Please use the below details to complete a wire/bank transfer. Please note that Nepal banks do not operate the IBAN system, the below details are full and complete:
Beneficiary Name: PURNA YOGA & TREKS PVT.LTD
Beneficiary Address: TEKU, KATHMANDU, NEPAL
Bank Name: MEGA BANK NEPAL LIMITED
Bank Address: KANTIPATH, KATHMANDU, NEPAL.
Bank Account No: 0010010103716
Bank Swift Code: MBNLNPKA
Please put down your own name as the transaction reference for easy recognition.
Please note that your transfer may be subject to an intermediary bank fee on the way to Nepal as well as your own bank's transfer fee. Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt. Ltd is not liable for any bank charges incurred at any stage of the transfer process.
c. Payment by Western Union or Moneygram
Send the payment option "pickup at location" to the following receiver details:
Company Name: Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt. Ltd
First Name: Manohar
Last Name: Shrestha
Address: Teku, Kathmandu, Nepal
City: Kathmandu
Country: Nepal
Telephone Number: +977 9841436877
Note: After making the transfer please email us the receipt of your payment to info@nepalyogatrek.com We need the MTCN code, full sender name & address to receive the money in Western Union office.
Please note you can only send the payment in NPR (Nepali Rupee) to Nepal so we will use the current exchange rate NPR/USD to calculate the deposit amount received in USD
3. Cancellation
a. Cancellation by Guest
Written cancellation notice must be received and acknowledged by Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt. Ltd. Such notice commences from the day your cancellation note is received and cancellation shall be valid with acknowledgement from the company. Trip shall then be termed as cancelled and the cancellation charge would be deducted from the advance paid. Any cancellation by a Client must be made in writing and acknowledged by the Company. The Client is strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of making the booking.
The cancellation charges are expressed hereafter as a percentage of the total tour price
| DATE OF CANCELLATION | CHARGE INCURRED |
| 60 days or more before departure | Loss of deposit |
| 59 - 21 days before departure | 50% of services booked |
| Less than 21 days before departure | 80% of services booked |
Please note no refunds will be made if you voluntarily or involuntarily leave the trip for any reason after the trip has begun. No refunds will be made for any accommodation, transport, sightseeing, meals and any other services not utilized. Under no circumstance will there be a refund of any kind if you don't show up on the trip departure date or if you leave the trip after the trip has started for any reasons.
Guests have to pay for the hotel or any extra costs incurred after leaving the itinerary, Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt Ltd is not financially responsible to provide alternative accommodation after the guest has left the itinerary voluntarily or involuntarily. However we will do our best to assist if help is requested to make any alternative arrangements.
b. Cancellation by Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt. Ltd
The tour once confirmed will not be cancelled unless we are forced to do so due to circumstances outside of our control (force majeure) such as major natural disaster, major political unrest or war - only when it directly affects our operations, not due to singular localized events in any part of the country.
In the event of cancellation of the booked trip due to reasons out of our control, you are free to reschedule your trip or take an alternative trip of the same category. While rescheduling the trip, you will receive the full credit from your previously booked trip, and you will only pay the difference amount between old and new prices if the price increases for the rescheduled departure. Refunds are not possible in such circumstances but credit transfer is offered. toward an alternative trip within 24 months.
Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt Ltd shall not be liable to refund any additional expenses that you may have incurred (such as flight costs, insurance, accommodation and any other costs).
4. Change of itinerary due to reasons beyond our control
Travelling in Nepal requires a degree of flexibility, good humour and understanding as unforeseen changes to the itinerary, modes of transportation and accommodation can occur at any time. Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt. Ltd shall not be responsible for any changes in the itinerary due to unavoidable circumstances such as government restriction, extreme weather, road blockage, political unrest, flight cancellation or delay, sickness or accident, any natural disaster (earthquake, landslide, flood, snowfall, avalanche, etc) or any other circumstances beyond our control. The given itinerary is an indication of what the group should accomplish, but not a contractual obligation. No refunds are given for unused services or unrealized dreams. But we will always do our best to keep your itinerary unchanged as much as possible.
If a domestic flight is part of the itinerary at the end of the trip (ie Jomsom-Pokhara or Lukla-Kathmandu) and the flight becomes cancelled or delayed, the guest is responsible to bear all additional expenses incurred including food and accommodation costs. If you wish to make alternative arrangements such as helicopter flight to avoid international flight delays, all additional cost would be your responsibility. Moreover, Purna Yoga & Treks does not accept any responsibility for costs incurred as a result of missed international flights, but would assist to make alternative transport arrangements wherever possible.
5. Risk & Liabilities
Your safety is our number one priority and the tour leaders have an authority to make changes in the itinerary based on their risk assessment due to weather or trail conditions while the trek is in progress. Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt Ltd will not be liable for any accident, injury, health problem, emotional distress or any other health condition suffered by the client during the trip. Our packages do not include any kind of personal insurance so it is guests' own responsibility to purchase travel insurance from their own country before their trip starts. Similarly Purna Yoga & Treks will not be liable for any loss or damage of property, lost or stolen valuables or luggage.
6. Insurance
Personal travel insurance is not included in the prices quoted. While every effort is made to ensure the safety of all participants at all time, it is a condition of booking that you take out a personal travel insurance policy. To protect against unforeseen circumstances it is advisable to take a comprehensive travel insurance cover from your own country and before your arrival to Nepal. Such insurance should cover personal injury, medical expenses, death, repatriation expenses, land and helicopter rescue from high altitude (up to the max altitude of your trek - please check this carefully with your insurance provider before booking).
We also recommend that the insurance cover includes trip cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
7. Privacy & Publicity
Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt Ltd has to collect your personal information in order to obtain the necessary trekking permits and for records purposes. No private or personal information that you supply to us when making a booking will ever be used for any other purposes.
You agree that Purna Yoga & Treks Pvt Ltd may use images of you taken during the trip without compensation to you, for publicity and promotion purposes through whatever medium it chooses.
