2008 Helambu Charity Trek
This autumn CAN ran a charity trek to the Helambu region of Nepal. 7 trekkers embarked on this adventure and the trek was excellently supported by Community Action Treks.
The 8 days of the trek enabled everyone to see a small part of life in this predominantly Buddhist region – with scenes of village life, visits to projects supported by CAN, interaction with the porters and Sherpas, and the trip was also blessed with superb weather so that the views of the mountains were spectacular – as these photographs show.
Children are always pleased to talk with passing trekkers.
And often they want to look their best
The terracing on the hillsides is unbelievable
The trekkers were able to see Kutumsang health post in action – and were shown round by the 2 nurses, Uma and Goma and Dr Julia Thornley, our volunteer doctor who was working there supporting the nurses at the time.
Sharing a bonfire party with the porters
Evenings are often spent playing games
Breakfast with a stunning view!
Views of the Langtang range
Lunches were often prepared under very make-shift conditions,
but were always delicious
Spectacular views of the mountain ranges
The trekkers enjoying the views
Spectacular sunsets
And sunrises
The village of Melamchigaun – where the trekkers visited the school
and the new hostel currently under construction.
A warm welcome from the teachers at the school
The new hostel funded by West Yorkshire Scouts and built by them with support from the village committee. It will be completed by the villagers and be used by children who have to travel too far to school to go home each night.
The children in their current hostel. It is planned that this building
will be re-furbished and used for vocational training.
Yet another spectacular breakfast spot.
There is much evidence of the Buddhist way of life all along the trek.
The last night of the trek is always an opportunity for the cook to
demonstrate his amazing skills – a cake cooked on a kerosene stove!
There is also the last night party! A chance for the sirdar, cook, sherpa guides, porters and trekkers alike to join in the singing and dancing.
Not only did all of the trekkers have an experience of a lifetime – they also raised over £7,000 for the charity and had the opportunity to see some of CAN’s projects in action.
CAN – in conjunction with CAT – will be organising more of these treks in the future. Keep an eye on the website for future planned treks.