When you think of Mount Everest, you likely picture snow-capped peaks piercing the sky at 8,848 meters. But behind every successful summit stands an extraordinary community whose strength, knowledge, and cultural heritage have shaped Himalayan mountaineering for generations. The Sherpa culture Everest connection runs deeper than most travelers realize, it’s a story of resilience, tradition, and an unbreakable bond with the world’s highest mountains.
The Sherpa history Nepal encompasses centuries of migration, adaptation, and cultural evolution in one of Earth’s most challenging environments. Today, when climbers worldwide attempt to stand atop Everest, they depend on the Everest Sherpa lifestyle expertise that has been refined through generations of living at extreme altitudes. This isn’t just about carrying loads or fixing ropes—it’s about a people whose entire identity is woven into the fabric of the Himalayas.
Quick Overview of Sherpa history Nepal:
- Origin: Sherpas migrated from Tibet to Nepal’s Khumbu region over 500 years ago
- Cultural Hub: Namche Bazaar and surrounding villages in Solukhumbu District
- Primary Religion: Tibetan Buddhism with unique mountain deity worship
- Key Role: Expert high-altitude porters, guides, and mountaineering specialists
- Famous Figure: Tenzing Norgay, first to summit Everest in 1953
Understanding Sherpa Culture and Identity
The word “Sherpa” literally means “people from the East” in Tibetan, referring to their migration from the Kham region of Tibet around the 15th and 16th centuries. These hardy settlers found their new home in the Khumbu region of northeastern Nepal, where they developed a unique culture perfectly adapted to life above 3,000 meters.
Sherpa culture Everest traditions are inseparable from Tibetan Buddhism. Prayer flags flutter from every mountain pass, mani stones line trekking trails, and monasteries like Tengboche serve as spiritual centers for the community. The Sherpas believe mountains are sacred dwelling places of gods and goddesses, with Chomolungma (Everest) revered as the “Mother Goddess of the World.”
Their traditional lifestyle revolved around yak herding, potato farming, and trans-Himalayan trade between Tibet and Nepal. The arrival of mountaineering expeditions in the early 20th century transformed their economy and culture, though many traditional practices remain strong today.
Pro Tip: When visiting Sherpa villages, always walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas and mani walls. This shows respect for their religious customs and demonstrates cultural awareness.
The Migration Story: From Tibet to Nepal
Sherpa history Nepal began when groups of Tibetan people crossed the high Himalayan passes seeking new pastures and trading opportunities. They settled in the Solukhumbu District, establishing villages like Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, Khunde, and Pangboche. The harsh environment shaped their resilience—growing barley and potatoes at 4,000 meters requires determination that few cultures possess.
These early settlers developed specialized knowledge of high-altitude survival. They learned which routes were safe during different seasons, how to read weather patterns in the mountains, and which medicinal plants could treat altitude-related ailments. This accumulated wisdom would later prove invaluable when Western climbers arrived seeking to conquer Everest.
The Sherpa language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman family and shares similarities with Tibetan dialects. While many younger Sherpas now speak Nepali and English, the traditional language remains an important part of cultural identity. Storytelling, religious texts, and oral histories are preserved in Sherpa, connecting each generation to their ancestors.
What is the Role of Sherpas on Everest?
The question “What is the role of Sherpas on Everest?” reveals the complex reality of modern Himalayan mountaineering. Sherpas serve as the backbone of virtually every Everest expedition, performing roles that range from logistics coordinators to life-saving rescuers. Their contribution goes far beyond carrying equipment—they are expert mountaineers, weather interpreters, route engineers, and cultural ambassadors.
Before any climbing season begins, Sherpa teams perform the dangerous work of establishing the route from Base Camp to the summit. They fix ropes through the treacherous Khumbu Icefall, set ladders across gaping crevasses, and establish camps at critical elevations. This work happens in April, weeks before most climbers arrive, and involves navigating some of the most hazardous terrain on the mountain.
During expeditions, Sherpas prepare campsites, cook meals, carry supplies, and monitor climbers’ health. Many serve as personal guides, staying close to their clients during summit pushes. Their ability to function efficiently at extreme altitudes—where oxygen levels are just one-third of sea level—makes them indispensable to commercial mountaineering operations.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to climb Mount Everest, understand that your success depends heavily on your Sherpa team. Build respectful relationships, follow their advice about weather and timing, and recognize their expertise.
High-Altitude Porters: The Unsung Heroes
The term high-altitude porters often describes Sherpas, but this label barely captures their expertise. While porters in lower regions might carry 20-30 kilograms, Sherpas routinely transport loads exceeding 40 kilograms through the Everest Death Zone—above 8,000 meters where human survival is measured in hours, not days.
These loads include oxygen bottles, tents, food, fuel, and climbing equipment needed for summit attempts. A single Sherpa might make multiple trips between camps, ascending and descending thousands of vertical meters while acclimatizing clients take rest days. This physical workload would be impossible for most people even at sea level, let alone in the extreme conditions of Everest.
Beyond physical strength, Sherpas possess exceptional technical climbing skills. They navigate vertical ice walls, cross snow bridges over bottomless crevasses, and assess avalanche danger with practiced eyes. Many have summited Everest multiple times—Kami Rita Sherpa holds the record with 29 successful ascents as of 2024.
The economic reality drives many Sherpas to this dangerous work. A single Everest season can earn a Sherpa more than several years of income from traditional farming or trekking guide work. However, the risks are substantial—Sherpas account for roughly one-third of all Everest deaths despite making up a smaller percentage of climbers.
Tenzing Norgay Heritage: The First Summit
No discussion of Sherpa culture Everest is complete without honoring Tenzing Norgay heritage. On May 29, 1953, Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary became the first confirmed climbers to stand atop Mount Everest. While Hillary received much of the Western media attention, Tenzing’s achievement resonated profoundly within the Sherpa community and across the Himalayan region.
Tenzing wasn’t just a porter—he was an experienced mountaineer who had attempted Everest six times before his successful summit. He had served on expeditions since the 1930s, learning from Swiss, British, and other international teams. His summit with Hillary proved that Sherpas weren’t merely support staff but equal partners in Himalayan exploration.
The legacy extends beyond the achievements of one man. Tenzing’s success inspired generations of Sherpas to pursue mountaineering careers, transforming what was once subsistence mountain living into professional high-altitude work. His children and grandchildren continued the tradition—his son Jamling Tenzing Norgay summited Everest in 1996, exactly 43 years after his father.
Today, statues and memorials throughout Nepal honor Tenzing’s contribution to mountaineering history. The Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award in India recognizes exceptional mountaineering achievements. His story reminds us that the first summit of Everest was a partnership between cultures, not a conquest by outsiders.
Pro Tip: Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling, India, where Tenzing served as director. The museum offers deep insights into his life and the evolution of Himalayan mountaineering.
Everest Sherpa Lifestyle: Daily Life in the Khumbu
The Everest Sherpa lifestyle balances ancient traditions with modern mountaineering economics. In villages like Namche Bazaar—the gateway to Everest Base Camp—you’ll find stone houses with solar panels, monasteries broadcasting prayer chants via loudspeakers, and tea houses equipped with WiFi for international trekkers.
Traditional Sherpa homes are sturdy two-story structures built from stone with wooden frames. The ground floor typically houses livestock during harsh winters, providing warmth to living spaces above. Family life centers around the kitchen, where a central hearth burns yak dung or wood for cooking and heating. Elaborate Buddhist altars occupy places of honor, displaying photos of the Dalai Lama, offerings to deities, and family heirlooms.
Daily life follows the rhythms of Buddhism and agriculture. Many Sherpas wake before dawn to light butter lamps and recite prayers. During planting and harvest seasons, entire communities work together in fields carved into steep mountainsides. The diet centers on potatoes, barley, dairy products from yaks, and hearty soups that sustain energy in the cold climate.
Khumbu Traditions: Festivals and Ceremonies
Khumbu traditions remain vibrant despite increasing tourism influence. The Dumji festival in summer celebrates Guru Rinpoche, the Buddhist saint who brought Buddhism to Tibet. Monks perform elaborate masked dances, families gather for feasts, and communities renew their spiritual connections.
Mani Rimdu, celebrated at Tengboche Monastery in autumn, is the region’s most significant festival. This three-day event features intricate sand mandala construction, ceremonial dances, and blessings from high lamas. The festival coincides with the peak trekking season, allowing visitors to witness these sacred traditions. However, remember this is a religious ceremony, not a tourist performance—respectful observation is essential.
Losar, the Tibetan New Year, brings families together in February or March for elaborate celebrations. Homes are cleaned, new prayer flags are hung, and special foods like khapse (fried pastries) are prepared. Younger generations receive blessings from elders, and communities visit monasteries to begin the year with positive spiritual energy.
Marriage customs blend Buddhist and Sherpa traditions. Arranged marriages were once common, though love marriages are increasingly accepted. Wedding ceremonies involve Buddhist lamas, elaborate gift exchanges, and multi-day celebrations where entire villages participate. Traditional Sherpa clothing—colorful striped aprons for women and wrapped robes for men—are worn during these important occasions.
Pro Tip: If you’re trekking during festival times, arrive early at monasteries as viewing space is limited. Dress modestly, turn off camera flashes, and don’t interrupt ceremonies for photos.
The Economic Impact of Mountaineering
Mountaineering transformed the Sherpa economy from subsistence agriculture to a cash-based system centered on tourism. Before the 1950s, most Sherpas survived through farming, herding, and trade. Today, many families derive primary income from guiding, operating tea houses, or working for expedition companies.
This economic shift brings both opportunities and challenges. Young Sherpas can afford education, families build better homes, and communities have access to healthcare facilities. Namche Bazaar now has schools, clinics, internet cafes, and shops selling mountaineering equipment. The standard of living has improved dramatically compared to pre-tourism eras.
However, this dependence on tourism creates vulnerability. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated this when expedition seasons were cancelled in 2020 and 2021. Families with no trekking or climbing income struggled, and some returned to subsistence farming. The concentration of wealth among successful expedition Sherpas also creates economic inequality within communities.
Environmental concerns grow as tourism increases. Garbage from expeditions, deforestation for lodge construction, and waste management challenges threaten the pristine Himalayan environment. Some Sherpas actively participate in cleanup campaigns, recognizing that protecting their homeland ensures future economic sustainability.
Risks and Rewards of High-Altitude Work
Working as high-altitude porters on Everest offers financial opportunities unavailable elsewhere in rural Nepal, but the risks are severe. The 2014 Khumbu Icefall avalanche killed 16 Sherpas in a single day—the deadliest disaster in Everest history until the 2015 earthquake triggered another avalanche that killed 22 people at Base Camp.
These tragedies sparked conversations about Sherpa working conditions, insurance, and compensation. Families of deceased Sherpas previously received minimal support, often leaving widows and children in financial hardship. Advocacy efforts have improved death benefits and insurance coverage, though many argue compensation remains inadequate given the risks.
The physical toll extends beyond immediate dangers. Repeated exposure to extreme altitude causes long-term health problems. Many veteran Sherpas suffer from chronic joint pain, respiratory issues, and cardiovascular conditions. Some develop altitude-related brain damage from years of working in oxygen-depleted environments.
Despite these risks, mountaineering remains attractive because alternatives are limited in remote mountain regions. A successful Everest season can earn a Sherpa $5,000-8,000—potentially more than ten times the average annual income in rural Nepal. This economic disparity explains why families continue sending sons (and increasingly daughters) to work on expeditions.
Pro Tip: If you hire Sherpa guides for Everest Base Camp trekking, ask expedition companies about their Sherpa support policies, insurance coverage, and fair wage practices. Ethical tourism supports better working conditions.
Modern Sherpa Mountaineering Achievements
While Tenzing Norgay opened the door, contemporary Sherpas have shattered records and redefined what’s possible at extreme altitude. Apa Sherpa summited Everest 21 times between 1990 and 2011, earning the nickname “Super Sherpa.” His achievements brought international recognition to Sherpa mountaineering capabilities.
Phurba Tashi Sherpa reached the summit 21 times, matching Apa’s record before it was broken. Kami Rita Sherpa currently holds the record with 29 successful Everest summits as of 2024, demonstrating extraordinary endurance and skill. These aren’t just guided ascents—these Sherpas often lead route-setting teams, rescue stranded climbers, and summit while carrying heavy loads.
Female Sherpas are also making history. Lhakpa Sherpa holds the record for most Everest summits by a woman—10 successful climbs as of 2024. Pasang Lhamu Sherpa became the first Nepali woman to summit Everest in 1993, though she tragically died during her descent. Today, more Sherpa women work as female trekking guides and high-altitude workers, challenging traditional gender roles.
These achievements showcase Sherpa culture Everest expertise extending beyond support roles. Many Sherpas now lead their own expedition companies, guide international clients on peaks worldwide, and work as mountain rescue specialists. The evolution from porters to professional mountaineers reflects both increased opportunities and growing recognition of their skills.
Training and Skill Development
Modern Sherpa climbers often receive formal mountaineering training through organizations like the Nepal Mountaineering Association and Khumbu Climbing Center. These programs teach advanced rope techniques, rescue procedures, first aid, and expedition management. Combined with their inherent high-altitude adaptation, this training creates world-class mountaineers.
Many young Sherpas now pursue education alongside mountaineering careers. Some attend universities in Kathmandu or abroad, studying tourism management, environmental science, or business. This education enables them to operate trekking agencies, advocate for Sherpa rights, and participate in Himalayan conservation efforts.
The Khumbu Climbing Center in Phortse village provides free mountaineering training to Sherpa youth. Founded after the 2014 icefall disaster, it aims to improve safety skills and create alternative income opportunities. Graduates work not just on Everest but on peaks throughout Nepal and internationally.
Language skills have become increasingly important. Many Sherpas speak Nepali, Sherpa, English, and sometimes additional languages like Japanese, Korean, or Mandarin. This multilingual ability allows them to guide diverse international clients and expand their professional opportunities beyond Nepal.
Buddhism and Mountain Spirituality
Sherpa history Nepal is fundamentally intertwined with Tibetan Buddhism. The religion shapes daily life, cultural practices, and even mountaineering activities. Before any major expedition, Sherpas perform puja ceremonies at Base Camp, seeking blessings from mountain deities and protection for climbers.
These ceremonies involve burning juniper branches, chanting mantras, and making offerings of rice, barley, and chang (Tibetan beer). Prayer flags are strung between tent poles, carrying mantras into the wind. Lamas bless climbing equipment, and each team member receives a red protection thread to wear throughout the expedition.
Monasteries serve as community centers throughout the Khumbu region. Tengboche Monastery, perched at 3,867 meters with stunning Everest views, is the spiritual heart of Sherpa Buddhism. Monks here maintain centuries-old traditions while also welcoming thousands of trekkers each year during their journey to Base Camp.
The concept of impermanence—central to Buddhist philosophy—shapes how Sherpas approach the dangerous work of high-altitude mountaineering. Many believe that karma and fate determine outcomes, though this doesn’t mean recklessness. Rather, it provides spiritual framework for accepting risks while maintaining reverence for the mountains.
Pro Tip: When trekking through Sherpa villages, contribute small donations at monasteries you visit. These support the monks and the preservation of cultural traditions. Always remove shoes before entering, and ask permission before photographing inside sacred spaces.
Sacred Mountains and Deities
Sherpas view Chomolungma (Everest) as the embodiment of Miyolangsangma, a Buddhist goddess depicted riding a tiger. The mountain isn’t just a climbing challenge—it’s a sacred entity deserving respect and offerings. This spiritual perspective influences how Sherpas interact with Everest, approaching with humility rather than conquest mentality.
Other peaks in the region also hold sacred status. Ama Dablam (6,812m) is considered the “Mother’s Necklace,” named for its protective embrace of the valley below. Khumbila (5,761m), the protector deity of the Khumbu region, is strictly off-limits to climbers out of religious respect—a prohibition that demonstrates how Khumbu traditions balance economic opportunities with spiritual values.
Mountain deities are believed to punish those who approach with arrogance or disrespect. This belief system encourages environmental protection and mindful behavior in the mountains. Many Sherpas attribute accidents and disasters to spiritual causes, reinforcing the importance of proper religious observances before expeditions.
The synthesis of pre-Buddhist Bon traditions with Tibetan Buddhism creates a unique spiritual landscape. Mountain spirits, local deities, and Buddhist teachings coexist in Sherpa belief systems. This layered spirituality shapes their worldview and their relationship with the landscape they call home.
Preserving Culture in a Changing World
As tourism and modernization increase, preserving authentic Sherpa culture Everest traditions becomes more challenging. Younger generations attend schools where instruction happens in Nepali or English, potentially weakening connection to the Sherpa language. Western clothing replaces traditional dress in daily life, and smartphones connect Khumbu villages to global culture.
However, many Sherpas actively work to maintain their heritage. Elders teach traditional songs, dances, and oral histories to youth. Community organizations promote Sherpa language education. Festivals and religious ceremonies continue with full community participation, anchoring cultural identity across generations.
The Sherpa Cultural Museum in Namche Bazaar documents traditional lifestyle, clothing, tools, and religious practices. It serves as both tourist attraction and community resource, reminding visitors and residents alike of the rich heritage that predates mountaineering tourism.
Some worry that commercial mountaineering reduces Sherpa identity to stereotypes—the smiling porter, the fearless ice doctor, the exotic mountain guide. Sherpas themselves push back against these limited narratives, asserting their complex identity as educated professionals, business owners, environmental advocates, and cultural inheritors.
Environmental Stewardship
Everest Sherpa lifestyle increasingly includes environmental activism. The Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, run by local Sherpas, manages waste removal from the Everest region. Annual cleanup expeditions retrieve tons of garbage, human waste, and abandoned climbing equipment from Base Camp and higher camps.
Sherpa environmentalists recognize that their economic future depends on preserving the natural beauty attracting tourists. They advocate for sustainable tourism practices, limits on expedition numbers, and strict waste management protocols. The tension between economic opportunity and environmental protection creates ongoing community discussions.
Climate change threatens Sherpa homeland in visible ways. Glaciers retreat, snow patterns shift, and extreme weather events increase in frequency. The Khumbu Icefall—already the most dangerous section of the Everest climbing route—becomes less stable as ice melts. These changes directly impact both traditional livelihoods and tourism economics.
Some Sherpas participate in international climate advocacy, sharing their community’s experiences with global audiences. They argue that mountain communities, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, face disproportionate impacts. Their voices add crucial perspective to climate policy discussions.
Pro Tip: Practice responsible trekking by carrying out all waste, using refillable water bottles with purification systems, and supporting tea houses with eco-friendly practices. Your choices directly impact the environment Sherpa communities depend on.
Planning Your Sherpa Cultural Experience
Experiencing Sherpa culture Everest traditions authentically requires thoughtful planning and respectful engagement. The best approach combines trekking through Sherpa villages with cultural immersion activities that benefit local communities.
The classic Everest Base Camp trek passes through numerous Sherpa settlements, offering natural opportunities for cultural interaction. Villages like Namche Bazaar, Khumjung, Pangboche, and Dingboche each have unique characteristics and cultural sites worth exploring.
Hiring a Sherpa guide rather than just a porter creates opportunities for deeper cultural exchange. Many guides share stories about their families, explain religious practices, and introduce trekkers to community members. This personal connection transforms a trek from mere sightseeing into cultural education.
Homestays in Sherpa villages provide immersive experiences. You’ll sleep in traditional homes, share meals with families, and participate in daily activities like milking yaks or harvesting potatoes. These experiences directly support local economies while offering authentic cultural insights unavailable in standard tea houses.
Respectful Cultural Engagement
Understanding Sherpa history Nepal helps you engage respectfully with communities. Learn basic Sherpa phrases like “Tashi Delek” (hello/good luck) and “Thuche” (thank you). Small linguistic efforts demonstrate respect and often prompt warm responses from locals.
Dress modestly when visiting villages and monasteries. While trekking attire is acceptable on trails, covering shoulders and knees shows cultural awareness in settlements. This matters especially when visiting religious sites or attending festivals.
Photography etiquette is crucial. Always ask permission before photographing people, and respect if someone declines. Don’t photograph inside monasteries without explicit permission from monks. Consider that not everything needs to be captured for Instagram—sometimes observing without cameras shows greater respect.
Support local economies by purchasing handicrafts directly from artisans, eating at family-run tea houses, and hiring porters through cooperatives that ensure fair wages. Avoid buying counterfeit mountaineering gear—choose authentic products even if more expensive.
Pro Tip: Time your trek to coincide with major festivals like Mani Rimdu (October/November) at Tengboche Monastery. You’ll witness authentic cultural celebrations while trekkers are present, though remember you’re an observer, not the focus of these sacred events.
The Future of Sherpa Culture
The Everest Sherpa lifestyle continues evolving as each generation balances tradition with modernity. Young Sherpas increasingly pursue diverse careers—doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs—while maintaining cultural identity. Some return to their home villages after university, applying new skills to improve community infrastructure and services.
Women’s roles are expanding. More Sherpa women operate tea houses, guide treks, and participate in expedition work. Education rates for girls have increased dramatically, creating opportunities previous generations couldn’t imagine. These changes challenge some traditional norms while strengthening communities through diverse participation.
Climate adaptation will shape future Sherpa culture Everest patterns. As glaciers retreat and weather becomes less predictable, traditional agricultural practices may need modification. Some Sherpas already diversify income sources, reducing dependence on seasonal mountaineering work.
Technology brings both opportunities and challenges. Internet connectivity allows Sherpa business owners to market directly to international clients, manage bookings, and share their culture globally. However, it also exposes youth to outside influences that may weaken connections to traditional ways.
The Sherpa story isn’t one of passive victimhood or romantic primitivism. It’s a narrative of active adaptation, cultural resilience, and strategic negotiation with modern forces. Sherpas shape their own future while honoring ancestors who crossed Himalayan passes centuries ago seeking better lives.
Conclusion about Everest Sherpa lifestyle
The Sherpa culture Everest connection represents one of humanity’s most remarkable stories of adaptation, resilience, and expertise. From their migration centuries ago to their current status as world-class mountaineers, Sherpas have shaped Himalayan exploration while maintaining deep cultural and spiritual traditions.
Understanding Sherpa history Nepal enriches any visit to the Everest region. When you trek past mani walls, stay in Sherpa tea houses, or share chang with villagers, you’re engaging with a living culture that has thrived in one of Earth’s most challenging environments. The Everest Sherpa lifestyle you witness today reflects both ancient wisdom and modern adaptation.
As you plan your Nepal adventure, remember that Sherpas aren’t merely service providers, they’re custodians of Khumbu traditions, protectors of sacred mountains, and partners in creating meaningful travel experiences. Approach with respect, engage with curiosity, and recognize that their contributions to mountaineering represent just one facet of a rich, complex culture.
The mountains of Nepal are calling, and the Sherpa people welcome you to experience their homeland with open hearts. Whether you’re attempting to reach Everest Base Camp or simply exploring the cultural treasures of the Khumbu, you’ll carry the Sherpa legacy with you long after you descend from the Himalayas.
FAQs about the Sherpa history Nepal
Q: Are all mountain guides in Nepal Sherpas?
No. While many high-altitude workers are Sherpa, Nepal has diverse ethnic groups who work as guides, including Rai, Tamang, and Gurung people. “Sherpa” refers to a specific ethnicity.
Q: Can women become Sherpa guides on Everest?
Yes. Female Sherpas increasingly work as guides and expedition staff. Lhakpa Sherpa holds the female record for Everest summits with 10 successful climbs.
Q: What languages do Sherpas speak?
Most Sherpas speak Sherpa, Nepali, and English. Many also speak additional languages like Japanese, Korean, or Mandarin depending on their client base.
Q: Do Sherpas live at Everest Base Camp year-round?
No. Sherpas live in Khumbu villages and travel to Base Camp during climbing seasons (spring and autumn). Their permanent homes are in settlements like Namche and Khumjung.
Q: Why are Sherpas so strong at high altitude?
Centuries of living above 3,000m created genetic adaptations. Sherpas have more efficient oxygen processing, higher hemoglobin levels, and better altitude tolerance than lowlanders.
Q: How much do Sherpa guides earn per Everest season?
Experienced Sherpas can earn $5,000-8,000 per season, with bonuses for summits. Elite climbers with multiple summits may earn significantly more through sponsorships.
Q: Is it offensive to call someone a Sherpa if they’re not?
Yes. Sherpa is an ethnic identity, not a job title. Use “porter” or “guide” for non-Sherpa mountain workers to respect cultural identity.
Q: What’s the best way to support Sherpa communities?
Hire Sherpa guides, stay in family tea houses, buy local handicrafts, donate to Sherpa schools/monasteries, and practice responsible tourism.
Q: Do Sherpas still practice traditional farming?
Many families maintain small farms growing potatoes and barley. Tourism income supplements rather than replaces traditional agriculture in most households.
Q: Can I visit a Sherpa home during my trek?
Yes. Many families offer homestay experiences. Arrange through guides or ask at tea houses. Always respect household customs and offer fair payment for hospitality.