Trekking in Nepal >> Langtang Region Trekking >> Helambu Trekking

The trek is easy and provides the spectacular views of the Langtang (7245m), Ganesh Himal (7405m), Dorje Lhakpa (6990m) and other small mountains of Langtang Himalayan range. The warm and friendly people of Helambu are mostly Buddhists. It is an ideal trip for those who have a short time and like to combine both cultural scene.

Helambu is situated 75 km. north east of Kathmandu. It is famous for its scenic grander and pleasant climate. There are many Buddhist Monasteries amidst a rich and enchanting landscape as well as dense Rhododendron forest and local traditional culture. A relatively low altitude trek, the Helambu circuit is one of the most convenient of the short treks close to Kathmandu. It can be completed in only seven days and is well supplied with good camping places in each settlement. The local people are predominantly Tamang with Sherpa people inhabiting the higher villages, particularly Melamchi Gaon, Tarkegyang and Sermathang.

Just to the north of Kathmandu are two lovely regions where one may experience Tamang and Sherpa life, temperate forest and alpine pastures, glaciers, lakes and snowy peaks. Helambu valley noted for its scenic grandeur and pleasant climate, lie in the north of the Kathmandu Valley. One can stay in highland monastery villages and small settlements in pristine forests. Above Helambu is a mountain pass through the lakes of Gosainkunda reaching the valley of Langtang. Gosaikunda lake itself is situated at 4,380 meters. It is sacred to Lord Shiva and every summer there throng thousands of Hindu devotees to take a holy dip into the waters of the holy lake. Nearby are other lakes including Nagkunda, Bhairavkunda, Saraswatikunda and Suryakunda. The trek passes through a varied landscape ranging from evergreen forests, cascading waterfalls and turbulent streams to sub-alpine grasslands and stark, beautiful mountainsides. Langtang valley stretches north of Gosainkunda . One travels through pristine forests to the village of Ghoda Tabela, then the valley opens out into a high, Himalayan river plain full of beautiful camping sites, spectacular peaks and wide glaciers. One can hike to the back of the valley or take numerous optional trips to explore glacier-filled side canyons.