The Tigers of Everest
To most people, the name “Sherpa” conjures up images of a hardy-looking porter who diligently carries heavy loads up Mount Everest for mountaineers seeking to make it to the top of the peak.
Were it not for Sherpas, however, the successes that exist today for mountaineers on Everest would not have taken place. Sherpas’ knowledge and experiences, combined with their natural physiological ability to thrive at high altitude, made them the force behind all the significant summits of the world’s tallest mountain. The strength and prowess of Sherpas allowed heavy loads of supplies to be hauled up to the high-camps on Everest as climbers push for the summit.
Sherpas, however, literally translate to “People of the East” because they are Tibetans who originated from eastern Himalaya to settle in what is called the “gateway” to the south side of Mount Everest. Prior to outsiders’ interest in scaling Everest, Sherpas were traders, farmers and herders. They were Buddhists and animists who believed the mountain was considered sacred and the people had no interest in climbing it.
However, when Westerners began showing up to try their luck at summiting the high peak, the role of porter and partner for these outsiders translated into an economic and financial boost for Sherpas and their high-altitude communities. The work, however, also pits them against deadly situations on the mountain. Many Sherpas have paid with their lives to go on the treacherous journey. Despite the associated dangers, though, mountaineering continues to be a part of Sherpa lifestyle and livelihood. For some Sherpas, it’s an aspiration to be recognized among the best in their line of work.