Trekking · Helambu
Helambu Trek from Sundarijal
The classic walk-in to Helambu from Sundarijal, through Shivapuri forest, Chisapani and Kutumsang.
The Helambu trek from Sundarijal is the classic walk-in route from Kathmandu, beginning right at the edge of the valley with no flight and only a short drive. From Sundarijal the trail climbs through the forest of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park to the ridge at Chisapani, then follows high ground through Kutumsang and over Thadepati pass before dropping into the Hyolmo villages. It is the most complete way to walk the region and a cornerstone of the Helambu trekking and Hyolmo culture cluster.
Getting to the trailhead
Sundarijal lies at the northeastern corner of the Kathmandu Valley, roughly an hour by road from the city centre. There is no airport transfer or long highway drive: you arrive and start walking the same morning. For the area's waterfalls and forest, see our national guide to Sundarijal and Shivapuri.
The walk-in, day by day
| Day | Route | Altitude |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sundarijal to Chisapani | 2,165 m |
| 2 | Chisapani to Kutumsang | 2,470 m |
| 3 | Kutumsang to Thadepati pass | 3,650 m |
| 4 | Thadepati to Tarkeghyang | 2,600 m |
The first day climbs steadily through dense forest, with the reservoir and the cascades above Sundarijal early on. Chisapani's ridge gives the trek's first big Himalayan views. The route then undulates along forested ridges through Kutumsang to the high point near Thadepati, before descending into the monastery village of Tarkeghyang. For the full loop and onward stages, follow our Helambu trek itinerary.
Difficulty and altitude
The walk-in is easy to moderate. The main effort is the sustained climb on the first day and the height near Thadepati pass, the trek's high point. Because most of the route sits below 2,700 metres, the risk of altitude sickness is low, but pace the climb to the pass.
Permits and practicalities
You need the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park ticket at Sundarijal plus the Langtang National Park permit and a TIMS card for the northern section, with a licensed guide required. Accommodation along the way is in simple teahouses; from the Hyolmo villages onward see where to stay in Helambu. For costs and broader logistics, consult the Helambu trek circuit overview and our national Nepal trekking guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Sundarijal and why start there?+
Sundarijal sits at the northeastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, about an hour's drive from the city. It is the traditional starting point for the Helambu trek because you can step straight onto the trail through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park without any long drive or flight.
What is the first day of the Helambu trek from Sundarijal like?+
From Sundarijal the trail climbs steadily through the forest of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park to the ridge village of Chisapani at about 2,165 metres, which offers early views of the Langtang and Jugal Himal. It is a half to full day of mostly uphill walking.
Does the Sundarijal start need a permit?+
Yes. Entering Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park at Sundarijal requires its entry ticket, and the northern Helambu section needs the Langtang National Park permit and a TIMS card. A licensed guide is required for trekking.
Can I trek Helambu without the Sundarijal walk-in?+
Yes. You can drive higher up the valley to Melamchi and on toward Tarkeghyang or Sermathang to start walking from there, shortening the trek. The Sundarijal walk-in is the traditional, more complete way to experience the full route.
