Helambu

Helambu begins at the northern rim of the Kathmandu valley and runs up into the hills toward Langtang, and its advantage is that the trek starts where the city ends: from Sundarijal a path climbs through Shivapuri forest to Chisapani and on along ridges to Kutumsang, Tharepati and down into the Melamchi valley, taking five to eight days without ever going very high, which makes it a good choice for anyone short of time or wary of altitude. The people are Hyolmo, of Tibetan origin, and the villages of Tarke Gyang and Sermathang have old gompas and carved houses. Rhododendron forest covers the ridges and flowers in spring. The 2015 earthquake hit this area hard and rebuilding is visible.

What you actually see

• Ridge walking - days along forested crests with valley views.
• Hyolmo villages - Tarke Gyang and Sermathang with their gompas.
• Rhododendron forest - the ridges in flower through March and April.
• The start from the city - a trek beginning at Kathmandu's edge.

When to go

October to May, a longer window than the high treks because altitudes stay moderate. March and April for rhododendrons, October and November for clear mountain views. Monsoon brings leeches.

Honest expectations

Mountain views are more distant than on the high treks. The 2015 earthquake destroyed much in these villages and some lodges are still basic replacements. Road building has reached parts of the route and shortened some sections. Water sources can be scarce on the ridges.

Nearby

Gosaikunda lies north; the Langtang valley is beyond it.