Helambu Region

Located north of the Kathmandu Valley, Helambu Region is popular for its short hiking trails and apple farms. It is one of the few trekking regions that lie close to Kathmandu. Inhabited by the Hyolmo community who come from Tibetan stock, a journey through Helambu will let you experience traditional Hyolmo hospitality and culture. Trails along the Helambu, overlook the majestic snow-covered summits of Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Yala Peak, Ganesh Himal, and other giants. Dotted with verdant forests and mountain villages, a hike through the Helambu Region offers a perfect respite from the chaos of Kathmandu.

Most of the treks to Helambu begin from Chisapani, Sundarijal or Timbu. The trails traverse the dense forests of the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and follow the narrow mountain ridges skirting the valley. One of the popular destinations in the region is Ama Yangri Peak. Regarded as a guardian deity of Helambu by the Hyolmos, the peak can be easily accessed on foot without any technical maneuvers. To explore the region one can embark on the Helambu Trek. Its route meanders through the Hyolmo villages of Tarke Ghyang, Sermathang, and Melamchigaon.

The Helambu Region is also a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage destination. The region is regarded as a 'beyul' (sacred hidden valley) by the followers of Tibetan Buddhism. One can find several ancient Buddhist shrines and caves where saints like Milarepa and Padmasambhava meditated.