The Sherpa village of Tarke Ghyang that forms the focus of Helambu is a charming enclave of farmers and yak herders. The trip starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal. Helambu provides an instant Himalayan trek for those with limited time. This trek is an easy and enjoyable trip conducted at the average altitude of 3500m. The trek takes you through Thadepati to Tarke Gyang, where a choice of trails opens up. However we go along the south ridge through Sermathang, down to the river at Melamchi, the site of a mega project to bring drinking water to Kathmandu via a series of tunnels. The trek concludes with a drive down to Kathmandu via Panchkhal, after a night's camp at Melamchi Bridge.