Overview

Helambu is one of the most picturesque and culturally rich areas close to Kathmandu. Over the last few years, new road construction has meant that the access to this region has also improved dramatically. Although a bit bumpy, the ride is not that long (about 5 hours) and reaches you to picturesque Sherpa villages. We start this trek in Shermathang, which rests at around 2600 meters.

This is an ideal trip for a family, as the days are not long and the trekking relatively easy. We do not reach any complicated altitudes, and the longest trek day is only about four to five hours, and that with breaks makes it quite easy. The lodges are clean, small, family run and with good food.

 

Extensions
One could even make this into a 7 day trek and end up walking all the way to Kathmandu via the north south ridge just north of Kathmandu, or take more days to get into the Langtang region and exit from Dhunche. These extensions are also available upon request

Option 1
Day 1:  Drive from Kathmandu - Shermathang
Day 2: Trek from Shermathang - Gangyul
Day 3: Trek from Gangyul to Tarkeghyang
Day 4: Trek from Tarkeghyang to Timbu
Day 5: Drive from Timbu - Kathmandu

Option 2
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu - Shermathang
Day 2: Trek from Shermathang - Tarkeghyang
Day 3: Trek from Tarkeghyang - Melamchighyang
Day 4: Trek from Melamchghyang - Timbu
Day 5: Drive from Timbu - Kathmandu

Location

Helambu lies just Northeast of Kathmandu. Earlier the access to this area was via the Arniko Highway that goes towards Tibet, and taking a diversion from 'zero kilo' - a bit after Dhulikhel and Panauti. However, nowadays there is a new road from Sankhu and that goes directly into the area. The drive will take approximately 5 hours, and depending on road conditions that particular day, the vehicle will reach the village of Shermathang.

Our exit will be from the village of Timbu.