Signature Kathmandu Helambu Trek and Bhotekoshi Rafting Adventure – 5 Days Himalayan Trek & River Trip

Starting Point Kathmandu

Duration 5

Difficulty Trekking Difficulty: Moderate, Bhotekoshi: II–III+ Balephi: II–III

Activity Trekking, White Water Rafting

Max. altitude 3,690 m (Tharepati)

Best Season Mar–May, Sep–Nov

Group Size Minimum 4, Maximum 28

Ending Point Kathmandu

Helambu Trek Bhotekoshi Balephi Rafting Overview

The Kathmandu–Helambu Trek and Bhotekoshi–Balephi Rafting Adventure is a short multi-activity itinerary combining Himalayan ridge trekking with white water rafting in Sindhupalchok District.

The trekking section follows the Sundarijal–Chisapani–Kutumsang–Tharepati–Melamchi Gaun route, a classic Helambu trekking corridor known for forested ridges, Tamang and Hyolmo settlements, and panoramic Himalayan viewpoints. The trek reaches Tharepati Pass (3,690 m), the highest point of the itinerary.

After trekking, the trip continues by road to the Bhotekoshi corridor near Sukute for rafting on the Bhotekoshi and Balephi rivers, which offer Grade II–III+ rapids suitable for beginners with professional guides.

This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a short Himalayan trek combined with river adventure close to Kathmandu. The Helambu region is recognized by the Nepal Tourism Board as one of the closest trekking destinations from Kathmandu.

Detailed Itinerary for Kathmandu Helambu Trek and Rafting

Drive Duration: ~1 hour
Trekking Duration: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Chisapani

Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal, the entry point to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. The trail ascends through forested hills and stone staircases, passing Mulkharka village before reaching Chisapani, a ridge-top settlement with views over Kathmandu Valley and the Langtang Himalayan range.

Trekking Duration: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Kutumsang

The trek continues through terraced farmland, pine and rhododendron forests, and rural settlements such as Pati Bhanjyang and Chipling. Kutumsang is a traditional mountain village inhabited mainly by Tamang and Sherpa communities and serves as an important stop on the Helambu trekking route.

Trekking Duration: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Melamchi Gaun

This is the highest and most scenic day of the trek. The trail climbs through dense forests to Tharepati Pass (3,690 m), offering panoramic views of the Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Jugal Himalayan ranges.

After crossing the ridge, the trail descends to Melamchi Gaun, a culturally rich Hyolmo village known for traditional architecture and Buddhist heritage.

Drive Duration: 3–4 hours
Rafting Duration: 2–3 hours
Rafting Grade: II–III+
Overnight: Riverside lodge or camp

After early morning breakfast, drive to the Bhotekoshi corridor near Sukute in Sindhupalchok District. Upon arrival, receive a safety briefing and professional rafting equipment before rafting on the Bhotekoshi River, known for continuous Himalayan rapids and steep gradient.

Rafting Duration: 2–3 hours
Rafting Grade: II–III
Drive Duration: ~3–4 hours

Raft on the Balephi River, a tributary of the Bhotekoshi, offering fun and splashy rapids suitable for beginners. After rafting, drive back to Kathmandu via Araniko Highway.

What to pack for Trekking-cum-Rafting trip?

Shorts / ½ pants
Sport Sandals
Shirts that will dry quickly
Swim suit
Warm layers (fleece, trousers)
Towel
Toiletries
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Camera and batteries/chargers
Water Bottles
Flashlight
A little cash

What’s Included?

Licensed trekking and rafting guide
Rafting equipment (helmet, life jacket, paddle)
Shivapuri and Langtang National Park permits
Accommodation during trekking and rafting days
Ground transportation as per itinerary
Meals during trekking and rafting activities
First aid kit and emergency support
All applicable government taxes, including VAT.

What’s Not Included

International flights and visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses and alcoholic beverages
Tips for staff
Personal trekking and rafting gear
Extra meals not mentioned in itinerary

Permits and Entry Requirements

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Permit (Sundarijal–Chisapani section)
Langtang National Park Entry Permit (Kutumsang, Tharepati, Melamchi Gaun)

FAQ – Kathmandu Helambu Trek and Bhotekoshi Rafting

Yes. The Helambu trekking route is considered moderate and suitable for beginners with good physical fitness.

The highest point is Tharepati Pass at 3,690 meters.

Yes. The commercial sections are Grade II–III+ and guided by professional rafting guides with safety equipment.

No prior rafting experience is required. Training and safety briefings are provided before rafting.

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons. Monsoon has high water levels but reduced visibility.

The drive typically takes 3–4 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park Permit and Langtang National Park Entry Permit are required.

Yes. The itinerary can be customized for private groups, corporate trips, and educational tours.

This package can be booked from our booking page in any day you like.

Signature Kathmandu Helambu Trek and Bhotekoshi Rafting Adventure – 5 Days Himalayan Trek & River Trip

Helambu Trek Bhotekoshi Balephi Rafting Overview

Detailed Itinerary for Kathmandu Helambu Trek and Rafting

Day 1: Kathmandu to Helambu Trek

Day 2: Helambu Trekking Route

Day 3: Drive to Bhotekoshi

Day 4: Bhotekoshi Rafting

Day 5: Balephi Rafting and Return

What to pack for Trekking-cum-Rafting trip?

What’s Included?

What’s Not Included

Permits and Entry Requirements

FAQ – Kathmandu Helambu Trek and Bhotekoshi Rafting

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

What is the highest altitude on this trip?

Is rafting on Bhotekoshi and Balephi safe?

Do I need previous rafting experience?

What is the best season for this trip?

How far is the Bhotekoshi corridor from Melamchi Gaun?

What permits are required?

Can this trip be customized?