Ethnic Groups

Sherpa People

Sherpas are perhaps Nepal’s most famous ethnic group due to their proximity to Mt. Everest. Sherpas are actually found in many places in northern Nepal along the border of Tibet. The name Sherpa literally means “from the east,” a reference to their migration from Tibet over 400 years ago. Sherpas are primarily followers of Nyingma Buddhism but can be found practising other forms of Buddhism depending on the area. They are famous for their ability to climb and carry heavy loads up mountains, a skill which brought them international renown when they guided Sir Edmund Hillary to the summit in 1953.