A common Helambu circuit takes five to seven days. It starts at Sundarijal, climbs to Chisapani and follows the ridge to Kutumsang and Tharepati before descending to Melamchigaon and out.
A five-day circuit with options
The classic Helambu circuit can be done in five days of walking. Many operators add a day at each end for flexibility, so the trip is six or seven days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. Heights and times below are approximate.
Day 1: Sundarijal to Chisapani
Drive to Sundarijal in about an hour, register at the Shivapuri park gate and climb through forest and alongside the pipeline to Chisapani at about 2,165 m. The ascent takes five hours. At sunrise the Himalayan ridge is visible from the village.
Day 2: Chisapani to Kutumsang
Five to six hours of walking along ridge paths and through forest, with a descent to Gul Bhanjyang and a long climb to Kutumsang at about 2,470 m. This is a larger village with a police post and several lodges.
Day 3: Kutumsang to Tharepati
A steady climb of five hours through rhododendron and fir to the saddle of Tharepati, at about 3,690 m. This is the high point and the coldest night of the trek, so bring a warm layer.
Day 4: Tharepati to Tarke Ghyang
About four hours, mostly downhill, through forest to Tarke Ghyang at around 2,600 m. The village is known for its old monastery and traditional Yolmo houses.
Day 5: Tarke Ghyang to Sermathang
Five hours of walking to Sermathang at about 2,620 m, followed by a drive to Kathmandu. Sermathang has a monastery and a school and is a pleasant finishing point.
A day on the trail
Days start with a simple breakfast at seven, and walking begins around eight. Lunch is taken in a village, followed by a few more hours of walking. Arrive at the next village by mid afternoon to rest. Evenings are spent with tea, dinner and a short walk around the village.
Cultural stops worth making
In Tarke Ghyang, visit the old gompa and the mani walls. In Sermathang, see the monastery and school. Always walk clockwise around religious structures.
Extensions
From Tharepati you can cross the Laurebina La to Gosaikunda, which adds three to four days. See the Gosaikunda hub. Another option is to shorten the walk by finishing at Melamchi Pul.
