Helambu pilgrimage

helambu-pilgrimageHelumbu is a beautiful and spiritually important area for Tibetan Buddhists. Tamang, Sherpa, Bahun and Chhetri ethnic groups inhabit the Helambu region. The Helambu region is about 100 km north of Kathmandu. The area until now remains untouched by modern development and local people still lead lifestyles that are centuries old. The literacy rate is very low and there are no roads connecting remote villages with the main center in Helambu. It’s a very isolated region and this has meant local traditions, culture and religion have been well preserved. The local monasteries (or Gompas ) have many ancient sculptures and Buddha images dating back from the 14th century. From Helambu, you can also see breathtaking views of the Himalayas, deep valleys, waterfalls and rives.

During the whole trek, you’ll be guided by an experienced trekker, who is also a deeply spiritual person well acquainted with the religious and spiritual history of the place.
Trip itinerary

Day 1. Early departure from Katmandu to Lower Timbu by vehicle (Luxury tourist couch, four wheel jeep or local bus ) (1460m)
2 

Arrive at Lower Timbu. Walk up to the Milarepa meditation Cave (dubphuk) 4 ½ hrs walk - (1620m). Tented camp will be arranged for night’s rest. Short meditation session before dinner at local meditation hall in the Milerepa Monastery.

Timbu Valley

Day 2. After breakfast depart from Milarepa meditation Cave to Melamchi village (5 hrs walk – 2548m) and  Monastery 4 hrs walks – (2517m). Guided tour of various  power places such as  Padmasambhava cave and his stone grinding mill,   Tea Kettle, his head print inside the cave.  Padmasambhava’s stone meditation seat can also be seen by walking about 1hr. 10 minutes.  Self-emanating signs of Chortens, lamps etc. can be observed in the rock. Yeshe Chhogyal cave can also be observed at the south end of the village. Lunch at Melamchi village. Short meditation session. Walk around the village. Stay overnight at tented camp.

1Melamchi Gaun
Day 3: Early departure after breakfast to Neding.

Arrive Neding, after slow 5 hrs walk. Since ancient time, many prominent Buddhist masters, like  H.E. Chhatral Rinpoche, Prince of Bhutan, have done long retreats in this area. Walk around the area, which will be followed by short meditation session as this place, since the site is considered very holy according to various Buddhist masters. Stay overnight at tented camp and share your experience with each other. There will be question and answer session on meditation and about the place before the dinner.

4Day 4: Start early after breakfast from Neding to Tarkeghyang which is around 3 hrs walk – (2510m). Tarkeghyang is a famous ancient monastery situated in the village.

After lunch, you’ll be involved in a guided tour of the meditation center and Gompas. There will be a short meditation in the afternoon at Chhetral Rinpoche’s meditation hall before dinner.  Spent the night at Tented camp. There is also the option of staying at a local lodge in the village.

Day 5: Start early after breakfast from Tarkeghyang to Bhumthang, which is a 3 hrs walk – (1912m) Arrive at Shermathang village. Guided tour of the village and Gompas at Shermathang village. Lunch at Shermathang. Walk to Bhumthang -1and half hours. Tented camp or stay at local resort at Bumthang. Short meditation session before dinner.

Day 6: Start early from Bhumthang after breakfast to Melamchi Pul Bazaar - 3 hrs walk – (1300m). Lunch at Pul Bazaar. Departure for Namo Buddha by vehicle. Rest at local guest house at Namo Buddha.

Tarkeghyang
Day 7:  After breakfast, orientation about Namo Buddha, a powerful place for meditation with a great spiritual significance.
Guided tour around the area and the famous Stupa. Lighting of butter lamp at Stupa.  Half day meditation after lunch. Short meditation teaching after high tea in the afternoon.

Day 8: Departure to Kathmandu. Tour of power places of Kathmandu (optional/done as per requirement)

Disclaimer: The above itinerary is subject to change depending upon the local circumstances.

All Destination:
All Activity: