sherpas

Sherpas are an ethnic group of the Himalayas native to eastern Nepal, especially the Solukhumbu and adjacent districts. They speak the Sherpa language, a Tibetic language, and many are bilingual in Nepali. The term "Sherpa" is believed to derive from Shyar-pa, meaning "people from the East" in Tibetan, reflecting their historic migration from eastern Tibet to Nepal between the 13th and 15th centuries. Most Sherpas practice Tibetan Buddhism, with monasteries and rituals central to community life; some also incorporate Hindu traditions.

Geographically concentrated in Nepal’s eastern Himalayas, Sherpas have long been known for their climbing skills. In the modern era they commonly work as climbing guides, porters, cooks, and camp staff for Everest and other expeditions, forming a cornerstone of the mountaineering economy. While many Sherpas support expeditions, not all are involved in mountaineering, and Sherpa communities also maintain traditional farming and trade. A prominent historical figure is Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa who, with Edmund Hillary, became one of the first to reach the Everest summit in 1953.

Culture and identity: Sherpa culture features Tibetan-influenced art, music, dress such as the chuba and khata, and annual religious festivals. The Sherpa language uses a Tibetan script in liturgical contexts, and many Sherpas are also fluent in Nepali and other local languages. The diaspora of Sherpas extends to India, Bhutan, and beyond, with other communities engaged in trade and service sectors.

Physiology and modernization: High-altitude adaptation has been studied among Sherpas, including genetic and physiological traits that improve performance at extreme altitudes. In recent decades, migration, tourism, and younger generations pursuing education have reshaped Sherpa society, with ongoing discussions about labor rights, safety standards on expeditions, and the preservation of traditional culture.