🧳 Helambu Trek Equipment & Packing List
Clothing
Base Layers (inner wear): Thermal tops and bottoms (lightweight, quick-dry).
Trekking Shirts: 2–3 moisture-wicking T-shirts or long-sleeves.
Fleece Jacket / Sweater: For warmth in the evenings and mornings.
Insulating Jacket: Down or synthetic jacket for cold nights (especially at Thadepati, 3,650m).
Outer Shell / Rain Jacket: Waterproof, windproof, breathable jacket.
Trekking Pants: 2 pairs of quick-dry, lightweight pants.
Warm Trousers / Track Pants: For evenings in tea houses.
Underwear & Sports Bras: Comfortable and moisture-absorbing.
Sleepwear: Lightweight set for tea houses.
Headwear
Sun Hat / Cap: For daytime protection.
Woolen Hat / Beanie: For cold evenings and mornings.
Buff / Scarf / Neck Gaiter: Useful for warmth and dust protection.
Sunglasses (UV-protection): Essential at higher altitudes.
Handwear
Inner Gloves: Lightweight, liner gloves.
Outer Gloves: Warm fleece or insulated waterproof gloves.
Footwear
Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof, well-broken-in boots with good ankle support.
Camp Shoes / Sandals: Comfortable for evenings in tea houses.
Trekking Socks: 3–4 pairs (wool or synthetic).
Warm Socks: For cold nights.
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag: 3-season (comfort rating around –5°C). Tea houses provide blankets, but a sleeping bag ensures extra warmth and hygiene.
Sleeping Bag Liner (optional): For added insulation and cleanliness.
Backpacks & Bags
Main Backpack / Duffel Bag (50–70L): For all gear (usually carried by porter if hired).
Daypack (20–30L): For water, snacks, camera, rain jacket, and daily essentials.
Rain Cover: For both bags.
Hydration
Water Bottles (1–2 liters) or Hydration Bladder.
Water Purification Tablets / Filter: Tea houses sell bottled water, but purification is eco-friendlier and cheaper.
Trekking Essentials
Trekking Poles (highly recommended for descents).
Headlamp (with spare batteries).
Map / Guidebook (or follow your guide).
Quick-dry Travel Towel.
Personal Snacks (energy bars, chocolates, nuts).
Toiletries & Personal Care
Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap/shampoo.
Wet wipes & hand sanitizer.
Toilet paper (available on the trail but better to carry).
Lip balm with SPF.
Sunscreen (SPF 30+).
Moisturizer / face cream.
Health & First Aid
Personal medications (carry enough for the whole trek).
Small First Aid Kit (band-aids, antiseptic cream, blister plasters).
Painkillers (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen).
Rehydration salts / electrolytes.
Diamox (for altitude, optional – consult doctor).
Electronics
Camera / smartphone.
Power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).
Universal travel adapter.
Chargers & spare batteries.
Documents & Money
Valid Passport + copies.
Trekking Permits (Langtang National Park Permit & TIMS).
Travel Insurance (with trekking & evacuation coverage).
Cash in Nepali Rupees (ATMs are not available on the trail).
Optional but Useful
Gaiters (for muddy or snowy trails).
Lightweight book / Kindle / journal.
Playing cards / small games.
Reusable shopping bag (for carrying items bought on the trail).