Helambu Scenic Circuit Trek - 7 days

Helambu is located in Sindhupalchok District also known as a part of Helambu Region, known for its highland villages, situated at a distance of approximately 80km from the capital city. Helambu trek is one of the shortest treks accessible from Kathmandu. People residing in Helambu are commonly known as Hyolmo and speak the Yolmo language. So you may be wondering what helambu is popular for. The Helambu region is popularly known for sweet apples, artistic Buddhist monasteries, and scenic views of the Himalayas.

Helambu circuit trek starts from Sundarijal (1350m), an entrance to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Throughout the trek, you pass through different villages that offer a mixture of different cultural experiences, scenic mountain views, lush green forests, blooming rhododendrons, and stunning landscapes such as Chisapani(2165m), Kutumsang(2470m) which is the first permit checkpoint for the trekkers.Similarly,Tharepati(3650m),Tarkeghyang(2560m) ,Sermathang(2610m) and Melamchi Bazar(870m).

Tharepati is the highest point on the Helambu circuit trek, also a junction to head towards Gosainkunda and a trek route for Helambu, located at 3690 meters with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view including  Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Jugal ranges. Tarkeghyang is also one of the most beautiful villages in the Helambu region. You can enjoy the final scenic view from Sermathang and  Melamchi Bazar is the end point of the trek. 

Highlights of Helambu Scenic Circuit Trek

• Breathtaking views of lush green forests, snowcapped mountains, multi-colored rhododendron forests, and waterfalls throughout the trek.
• Opportunity to experience Hyolmo culture and tradition.
• Explore artistic Buddhist monasteries Located in Helambu. 

Best Seasons for Helambu Circuit Trek

 If you are planning for the Helambu circuit trek, the ideal period for the trek is between Spring  (March to May)  and Autumn (September to November).In both seasons, you can find a moderate temperature that makes you feel at ease for trekking. Throughout the time of spring season, there are long daylights so you can trek a bit longer and reach your destination in a short time. Weather is almost clear and unbothered so, you can enjoy blooming multi-colored rhododendrons all over the streams with beautiful scenic mountain views, waterfalls, flora, and fauna that make you feel butterflies in your stomach and give you a heavenly experience. During the Autumn season, the skies are clear which makes the panoramic mountain views more beautiful and scenic. Whether is neither too hot or too cold which makes trekkers more comfortable. If you want to experience snowfall then the winter season(December to February) is the perfect time for the trek however one must be careful and bring necessary warm clothes, and non-slippery boots. Due to heavy rainfall, more slippery trails and a high chance of landslides, Monsoon(June to August) is not an ideal period for the trek. Trekking at the ideal season with proper planning makes the journey more fruitful, that’s why we are here to provide you necessary guidance for the trip.

Trek Difficulty

Talking about the difficulty of the helambu scenic circuit trek, the trek is of moderate difficulty. Experienced as well as beginners are suitable for the trek. However, it depends on your physical health. Trek difficulty depends upon your experience of trekking as well, if you are a beginner with no past trek experience you may feel slight difficulty. If you are an experienced trekker, it depends on your health conditions and elevation adaption. The altitude is comparatively lower than other treks, so there will be less chance of altitude sickness, however, one should be prepared as prevention is better than cure. 

It takes nearly six days to complete the journey. There are uphills and downhills you need to climb. In Sundarijal, there are long stone staircases to climb on the way to Chisapani so you need to maintain good stamina. The main challenging part of climbing uphill on this route is from Kutumsang to Thadapati but not as hard as of Annapurna or Everest treks. To achieve something higher one needs to struggle for it and trust the process, likewise, you should be patient throughout the journey and you will be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of mountain peaks and beautiful landscapes.

Flora and Fauna in Helambu Region

Helambu region is rich in natural beauty that includes a wide range of species of  Flora and Fauna. The perfect blend of flora and fauna throughout the trails of the Helambu region makes the trekking journey more exciting and less tiring. Talking about the flora i.e. Plants and trees you can find variants of Rhododendrons trees during spring, oak and pine forests, Bamboo groves, Juniper and Fir Trees, Orchids and Wildflowers, Terraced Farmlands.

There are a variety of Fauna(wildlife) that you can find in the Helambu region such as Musk Deer can be found occasionally in forest areas. Birds such as Pheasants, Eagle, and Owls, Nepal’s National bird Himalayan Monal (Danphe) with multicolored, colorful feathers can also be found. Since Helambu is a part of the Himalayan Region Himalayan Black Beer can also be found but you rarely get to see it. At the high altitude of the Helambu Region, Red Fox and Himalayan Weasel can be seen.

People and Their LifeStyle in the Helambu Region

People living in the Helambu region are known as Hyolmo(Yolmo) and it is believed that the “Helambu” name of the region has emerged from the word “Hyolmo”.The majority of the people residing in the Helambu are Tamang, and Some Sherpa people also live there. Almost all of the Hyolmo people follow  Tibetian Buddhism, you can find different kinds of artistic monasteries that are related to their cultural beliefs and traditions.

Hyolmo people generally live a simple life and follow the traditional Himalayan lifestyle. For their source of income, they do agriculture, producing potatoes, millet, maize, vegetables and Some people are involved in herding sheep, yak from which they produce butter,churpi, and other milk products. They are also known for providing warm hospitality for tourists. Visitors are welcomed with butter tea and their homemade local food which includes Dal, Bhatt, and Ghundruk in lodges or guest houses, So, this way you can experience the local lifestyle in the Helambu region.

Recommended Gears for the Trek

Before starting a trek, if you are ready with all the mentioned equipment and clothing it will surely help you to avoid any consequences you may face during the trek. Getting the small things to the most necessary ones will make you pleasant and us too.

So, please be packed up with all the necessary packing list for the trek which is mentioned under the following points:

Clothing:

• Pair of Thermal Base Layer
• One Fleece Jacket/ Pull-over hoodie
• One Down Jacket
• Full Body Set Raincoat
• Two pairs of Trekking pants
• Water proof Jacket and Pants
• Hiking T-shirts
• Warm Cap and Gloves

Footwear:

• Trekking boots
• Easy shoes or sandals
• Synthetic socks
• Snow gaiters/crampons

Accessories:

• UV protection Sunglasses
• Moisturizer and Sunscreen
• Lights for emergency

Personal Accessories:

• Water Bottle
• High protein snacks while trekking
• Personal hygiene products(Toiletries, medications, wash towel, wet tissues)
• Towels
• Head Lamp
• Micro fleece buff
• Day bag pack with rain cover
• Trekking poles
• Sleeping Bags
• Sleeping Bag liner

First Aid:

• Personal Medication
• Basic first aid Kit

Documents:

• Passport and Permits Paper
• Travel Insurance

Extras: (Optional)

• Camera 
• Powerbank

Why Helambu Circuit Trek?

Helambu is one of the popular trekking destinations and is also easily accessible from the capital city Kathmandu. Helambu region includes a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. A six-day journey will help restart your daily schedule fresh as the lush greenery forests and the environment free from chaotic city life help restart your brain and think you. So, are you Feeling anxious? Feeling pressured by daily work??  It is a sign to take a break, pack up your bags, and be ready for the exciting journey Planning for a trek? Helambu might be a perfect destination for you.