History

Helambu is a demographically diverse region, rich in culture, and deeply significant to both Hinduism and Buddhism. The Helambu region has several distinct ethnic groups, all with their own unique linguistic and cultural traditions and heritage. The groups from the region are primarily Yolmo, Sherpa, and Tamang; ethnic groups who once descended from the Tibetan Plateau into Nepal centuries ago. The region is considered a sacred beyul, a hidden valley discovered by Guru Rinpoche used for the protection and teaching of Buddhism. Now the area is still rich with monastery, retreat centers, and sacred caves where monks and lamas meditate for years. Recent out-migration and high rates of urbanization now threaten the culture of the region, and a void is created between the eldest and youngest generations, as parents are forced to go abroad for work, leaving behind their heritages and traditions.

In order to try and prevent a rapid loss of cultural heritage for future generations Helambu Proejct has begun recording oral literature from the elders, lamas, monks, and other from the region in order to give to the surrounding communities and to be used at the school to educated future generations of children. Oral literature is an essential part of our work to give the children pride about their history, religion and traditions.

Get Involved

Volunteers for the Oral literature project need to have special skills or prior experience in Nepal. Please contact us for more details about how you might be able to contribute to this project. It is ongoing and will require many different types of people with a wide range of skills.