Nepal · Trekking

8-Day Helambu Circuit Trek in Nepal through Shivapuri and Helambu

8 Days Strenuous pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek through Shivapuri National Park, one of Nepal's least crowded and most peaceful trekking routes.
  • 02 Visit historic monasteries in the Helambu region and gain deeper insight into Tibetan Buddhism.
  • 03 Enjoy a short yet rewarding hike through serene oak and rhododendron forests.
  • 04 Pass through charming villages such as Kutumsang, Tharepati, Tarke Ghyang, and Sermathang, rich in culture and natural beauty.
  • 05 Marvel at panoramic mountain views of the Annapurna Range, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, Manaslu, and Mount Everest.
  • 06 Experience the lifestyle, traditions, and hospitality of Tamang and Sherpa communities.
  • 07 Excellent opportunity to spot wildlife such as red pandas, Himalayan thar, musk deer, white monkeys, and other Himalayan species.

The Helambu Circuit Trek is an 8-day Himalayan journey close to Kathmandu, ideal for trekkers seeking a less-traveled route with a rewarding mix of mountain scenery, forests, and village culture. The trail passes through Shivapuri National Park, traditional Hyolmo, Sherpa, and Tamang settlements, and culturally significant monasteries, including Tarke Ghyang Monastery. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Langtang, Jugal Himal, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, Annapurna, and even Mount Everest ranges, with chances to spot wildlife such as red pandas, Himalayan thar, musk deer, and various bird species. With moderate trekking days, tea house stays, and private transfers at the start and end, this trek offers a memorable and comfortable Himalayan experience.

The Helambu Circuit Trek is an 8-day Himalayan journey close to Kathmandu, ideal for trekkers seeking a less-traveled route with a rewarding mix of mountain scenery, forests, and village culture.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Strenuous
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Cities Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Chisapani
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Helambu Trek Journey

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative from Marvel Treks will welcome you outside the terminal and transfer you to your hotel by private vehicle. You may visit our office later in the day for a pre-trip meeting and briefing about the Helambu Circuit Trek.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, Trek to Chisapani

Drive: Kathmandu (1,400m) - Sundarijal (1,460m)
Trek: Sundarijal - Chisapani (2,165m)

After breakfast, drive to Sundarijal, the gateway to Shivapuri National Park. The trail begins with a steady ascent through oak and rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and stone staircases. Entering the national park, you pass Mulkharka and continue through farmlands and forested ridges to reach Chisapani.

From Chisapani, enjoy panoramic views of Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Rolwaling, and Gauri Shankar, along with stunning sunrise and valley views.

Accommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 10.5 km

Day 3: Trek from Chisapani to Kutumsang

Chisapani (2,165m) - Kutumsang (2,470m)

Early morning offers breathtaking views of the Langtang range. The trail descends through meadows and farmlands to Pati Bhanjyang and continues to the Sherpa village of Thakune Bhanjyang. Passing Chipling, Thotung, and Golphu Bhanjyang, you gradually climb to a ridge before descending to Kutumsang.

Kutumsang is a charming village with traditional houses and misty hillsides, offering excellent views of Dorje Lakpa.

Accommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 13.3 km

Day 4: Trek from Kutumsang to Melamchigaon

Kutumsang (2,470m) - Melamchigaon (2,530m)

Today is one of the most rewarding yet demanding days of the trek. You ascend toward Thadepati (Tharepati), the highest point of the Helambu Circuit Trek. Along the ridge of Yurin Danda, enjoy your first clear views of Langtang Range, Gosaikunda Peak, and Jugal Himal.

After reaching Tharepati, the trail descends steeply through ancient pine forests and ridgelines to the Sherpa settlement of Melamchigaon.

Accommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 15.7 km

Day 5: Trek from Melamchigaon to Sermathang

Melamchigaon (2,530m) - Sermathang (2,590m)

Descending to Melamchi Khola, you pass through Buddhist villages such as Nakote, Dozum, and Chiri before reaching Tarke Ghyang, home to the oldest monastery in the Helambu region. The trail then continues gently through forests, fields, and small settlements like Setighyang and Ghangyul to Sermathang.

Sermathang features three large monasteries and spectacular views of Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Gauri Shankar.

Accommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 16.7 km

Day 6: Trek from Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar

Sermathang (2,590m) - Melamchi Pul Bazaar (870m)

After breakfast, descend through rice terraces, green meadows, and subtropical forests. The trail passes villages such as Kakani and Thimbu, along with chortens and mani walls. Crossing several bridges, you arrive at Melamchi Pul Bazaar, which is connected by road.

Accommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 20 km

Day 7: Drive from Melamchi Pul Bazaar to Kathmandu

Melamchi Pul Bazaar (870m) - Kathmandu (1,400m)

Drive back to Kathmandu, passing terraced farmlands, rivers, and hills. The journey connects to the Arniko Highway via Dhulikhel, Banepa, and Bhaktapur. After checking into your hotel, enjoy free time for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing in Thamel.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 43 km

Day 8: Final Departure

Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal, Marvel Treks will be happy to arrange additional activities or tours.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
4 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle
  • 2 nights' accommodation in Kathmandu (BB basis, standard tourist hotel)
  • Private transportation: Kathmandu-Sundarijal & Melamchi Pul-Kathmandu
  • 5 nights' tea house accommodation during the trek
  • All meals during trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide (salary, food, accommodation, insurance)
  • Entry permits for Shivapuri National Park and Langtang National Park
  • Government taxes and service charges
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu

What's Not Included

  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast)
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, phone charging, etc.)
  • Porter service (available on request)
  • Expenses due to unforeseen circumstances (road conditions, delays, etc.)
  • Tips for guide and staff

What to bring

  • Trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Warm down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket & trousers
  • Thermal base layers
  • Trekking pants & shirts
  • Fleece or insulating mid-layer
  • Warm hat, sun hat & gloves
  • Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
  • Daypack (30-40L)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sunglasses & high-SPF sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle / purification tablets
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Personal toiletries & quick-dry towel
  • Personal medications & basic first-aid kit
  • Passport, permits & some cash

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Ring Rd, Kathmandu, Nepal
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began.

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