Day 19 - The Helambu Sherpa Nationality 

Found mostly in Kathmandu and the districts of Rasuwa and Nuwakot

The Helambu Sherpa are believed to have migrated from Tibet to Nepal around the 15th century.  The Helambu Sherpa are often confused with the Solokumbu Sherpa because both groups are referred to only as "Sherpa."  However, each group is totally distinct from the other, with different cultures and languages.

The language of the Helambu Sherpa is very similar to Tibetan and they can often understand a simple form of the Tibetan language.  Their primary occupation is farming, but much of their income also comes from tourism because of the many trekkers that come through their area.

They observe all the Tibetan festivals and follow the religion of Tibetan Buddhism, but also put much faith in Shamans (witch doctors).  One of their festivals is called Gyawa and it occurs 49 days after a person dies.  They gather together and everyone eats as much as they can because they believe that all the food eaten at the festival will go directly to the dead person for him or her to eat.

Many Helambu Sherpas are aware of Christianity and even know what the cross symbolizes.  Almost half of them have heard the name of Jesus or received Christian literature and about 10% have even visited a church.  However, they are highly protective of their religious and cultural identity and are likely to persecute new believers or those interested in the gospel.  They may be willing to listen to someone if the person is their friend or it the person has come to give practical assistance and not just to preach.

Key Prayer Points: