The short answer
The Khumbu villages of Namche, Khumjung, Khunde, Pangboche and Phortse are the heart of Sherpa culture. You will see monasteries, mani stones, yak pastures and houses with carved windows. Tengboche monastery and the Sherpa museum in Namche give context.
Lower-altitude Sherpa communities exist in Solu and Helambu too. Visit with respect, walk clockwise round mani walls and learn the history of mountaineering from locals.
Key facts
- Khumbu
- Namche, Khumjung, Pangboche
- Monastery
- Tengboche
- Etiquette
- Walk clockwise
- Also
- Solu, Helambu
How it works
- Pick a villageSee Khumjung and Khunde.
- Visit the monasterySee Tengboche.
- Learn etiquetteClockwise, no touching.
- Eat localTry Sherpa stew or tea.
- Buy locallySupport family shops.
Insider tip
Stay a night in a village lodge to meet the family.
Avoid this
Do not touch religious objects or step over prayer items.
Related questions
Can I visit without trekking to Base Camp?
Yes, Namche and Khumjung are enough for culture.
Are Sherpas a caste?
Sherpa is an ethnic group.
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