KATHMANDU, Jan 5: The upper belt of Helambu rural municipality in Sindhupalchowk district has been witnessing heavy snowfall since Friday.

People's normal life has been affected due to the chilly weather and schools have remained closed in the area.

“The Himalayas in this region have received 3 to 5 feet of snow where villages including Melamchi Ghyang, Tarkeghang, Semathang and Ghangyul have received up to 3 inches of snow,” vice-principal of Melamchi Ghyang Secondary School Tika Ram Limbu told Republica Online by phone.

The vice-principal informed children and elderly people are most affected.  “It is difficult to collect fodder for yaks and sheep since the local forests are covered with snow,” he said.

However, it is welcome news for farmers. "Snowfall coupled with rains is highly favorable for the growth of crops and vegetables such as wheat, garlic, apples and potatoes," Kami Lama, a local farmer of Melamchi Ghyang said.

Helambu has emerged as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal. It is about 84 kilometers from Kathmandu. Helambu lies in the highlands of Sindhupalchowk district.

The word Helambu comes from Hyolmo that signifies a group of people that have been living in this place for generations. Famous for its aesthetic Buddhist villages and pilgrimage sites, it is also a popular trekking route that leads to Langtang. A warm welcome from the locals adds up to the breathtaking views of the Rolwaling range, Langtang Himal and Ganesh Himal. 

 
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• Helambu.