Helambu, about 75 kms north of Kathmandu is an area inhabited by Sherpas. You can include Helambu in the Langtang trek, either via Gosainkund or across the 5,106m. Ganja La. In winter, both of the high routes from Langtang are usually snow covered and dangerous, which makes it difficult or impossible. The Helambu trek is popular because it is short stay below 3,500m. and is feasible all winter. The language, culture and dress of the Helambu Sherpas are very different from the Solu Khumbu Sherpas. The accessibility of Helambu has created an influx of tourists who have encouraged begging, the sale of ‘genuine antiques’ aged over the family fireplace, and several incidents of thievery.

The trail to the Ganesh Himal leaves Syabrubesi to the north and almost immediately turns east to cross the Bhote Koshi and enters the valley of the Chileme Khola. Here you suddenly leave the busy way of life of the tea house trekking scene and enter a quiet, unspoiled valley of magnificent proportions. By now you should be storming along perfectly acclimatized and ready for the rigorous trails ahead. The hiking in this area is a real treat for your trekking feet, passing idyllic hamlets with terraced barley fields, dotted with whitewashed chortens (stupas) and mani walls (carved prayer stones).