tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65991004820514727962024-03-08T12:27:36.571-08:00Sherpa CultureThe himalayanpasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-12028288325442758022012-03-13T02:40:00.001-07:002012-03-14T00:25:36.556-07:00Namche Bazaar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Sherpa Village Namche Bazaar Trekking is starts from Lukla, the get way to Khumbu region by domestic flight. The trek follows the ethnic Sherpa villages like Namche, Khumjung, Thame and Phakding. Namche it self is a historic Sherpa village well known as the business center for Tibetan & Nepalese trade from last hundreds of year. After crossing altitude 3,500 m the alpine environment starts with the beautiful views of Khumbu Mountains. The trek will experience you culture, religion & typical settlement of ethnic highlanders with numerous flora & fauna of Sagarmatha National park. We arrange Sherpa Village Namche Bazaar Trekking in Everest region area.Sherpa Village Trekking offers excellent views of Mountain Everest 8,848m. and the main peaks of the Khumbu without going to extreme altitudes. This Sherpa Village cultural trail is the most popular trek in the world which follows the highly praised trekking route through the Dudh Koshi River to the Thame monastery. We start this trek from Lukla after 35-minute scenic mountain flight.The trail continues north up towards Dudh Kosi valley to Monjo, where the trail officially enters Sagarmatha or Everest National Park. We take a rest day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization. There are a number of local excursions that we might enjoy. We can hike up above Namche to the Sagarmatha National Park Visitor’s Center and Museum, where there are terrific views of the Everest region and numerous educational displays on the culture, geography, geology, climatology, and wildlife within the park and the Khumbu. Tengboche is a popular place in Everest Region. In Tengboche there is a traditional Buddhist Monastery where lots of visitors come for traditional yoga and meditations. This is also the homeland of famous Sherpa </div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-69381630376433493912012-03-13T02:33:00.000-07:002012-03-13T02:33:01.616-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="left"><b>
Welcome to Sherpa Ascent International </b></div>
<div class="body">
<span class="bodyTitle">SHERPA ASCENT INTERNATIONAL</span>
is an adventure travel company that offers cultural tours, trekking,
mountain expeditions, river expeditions and mountain biking worldwide.
We are dedicated to seeking out the most spectacular destinations
and offering a wide range of adventure travel options.</div>
<div class="bodyTitle">
Featured Expedition: Khumbu Trek, Island Peak Climb </div>
<img align="right" alt="Island Peak" border="1" height="180" hspace="10" src="http://www.sherpaascent.com/images/thumbs/Islandpeak.jpg" vspace="10" width="336" /><span style="font-family: arial;">I<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">sland
Peak expedition offers a unique chance for beginning mountaineers
to climb in a relatively lesser traveled region amidst the
mighty Himalayas. The summit of Island Peak stands adjacent
to one of the world's largest ice walls and offers stunning
views of Ama Dablam and the pyramid of Makalu. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This trip walks
us through the renowned Khumbu region. In the "land of the
Sherpa" we partake in Nepalese and Tibetan cultures as they
have existed for centuries. The Khumbu journey offers striking
scenery as we venture through unspoiled terrain.</span></span><br />
<span class="bodyTitle"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Date:
September 27th-October 18th 2010</span></span><br />
Pemba Sherpa, who grew up in the Khumbu in these
Himalayan mountains as a child, and 12 CMC trip leader to Nepal, is
returning to his homeland with a group of trekkers and climbers. He
will lead the classic trek in the Everest region, including Chukkung
ri, with an optional climb of Island Peak. In addition, all CMC trips
spend a day visiting the village where Pemba grew up, and having dinner
with Pemba's mother!<br />
<strong>ITINERARY</strong><br />
<strong>Depart U.S. on Saturday, September 29, 2010. Return to
U.S. On Friday, October 19, 2010</strong>.<br />
<strong>Day 1: Depart for Kathmandu. </strong><br />
<strong>Day 2: En route to Kathmandu.</strong><br />
<strong>Day 3: Arrival in Kathmandu.</strong> We will be
met at the airport by Pemba's Kathmandu staff, who will escort us to
our hotel. The group is then free to explore Kathmandu or relax from
the long trip.<br />
<img align="left" alt="bung" border="1" height="197" hspace="10" src="http://www.sherpaascent.com/images/bung.jpg" vspace="10" width="300" /><br />
<br />
<strong>Day 4: Kathmandu Sightseeing.</strong> We have
arranged for a private sightseeing tour of the mystical city of
Kathmandu that includes the Buddhist shrines of Swayambunath (the famed
monkey temple) and Bodhnath, as well as the Hindu funeral pyres of
Pashupatinath. The evening is free to finish final packing
arrangements.<br />
<br />
<strong>Day 5: Kathmandu to Lukla and Phakding (8,661ft.).</strong>
We fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (9,350ft.), and land on the memorable
Lukla airstrip. We are then met by our trekking crew, and begin our
trek by following Dudh Kosi River and traditional Sherpa villages to
Phakding.<br />
<br />
<strong>Day 6: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (11,319ft.).</strong>
We’ll continue to move up the Dudh Kosi valley, past a waterfall at
Benkar (2700m) and on the Chomoa. Magnificent forests of firs,
rhododendrons and manolias grace much of this part of the trail. We
drop to the Dudh Kosi to cross it and climb again to Jorsale (2850m)
where we will enter the Sagarmatha National Park. After lunch at
Jorsale, it’s all uphill to Namche, but our first views of Everest,
Nuptse, and Lhotse make the climb worth it!<br />
<img align="right" alt="weaving" border="1" height="274" hspace="10" src="http://www.sherpaascent.com/images/weaving.jpg" vspace="10" width="300" /><br />
<strong>Day 7: Acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar (11,319ft.). </strong>Acclimatization
is critical before going higher, so you have the day to explore Namche
Bazaar. Some members of the group may want to take a long
acclimatization hike up to the monastery at Thame. We will also be here
for the famous Saturday market, with many Tibetan, having crossed the
Nangpa La, selling their wares.<br />
<br />
<strong>Day 8: Namche Bazar to Khumjung (12200ft.). </strong>We’ll
visit the market in morning and have a lunch in Namche Bazar after
lunch we'll trek to famous Sherpa village Khumjung. We’ll camp near
Hillary school. <strong> </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Day 9: Khumjung to Tengboche (12,664ft.).</strong>
It’s up to Punkitanga and then on to the famous monastery of Tengboche
with its background of mountain peaks, including Ama Dablam and
Everest. The original monastery burned down in 1988, but the new
structure, built in 1990, is also striking. This still remains the
largest and most active monastery in the Khumbu. We’ll camp near the
monastery so you’ll have plenty of time to photograph and explore this
beautiful site.<br />
<br />
<strong>Day 10: Tengboche to Dingboche (14,271ft).</strong>
We continue on the Dingboche, passing some small chhusas (yak herding
stations) on the way. We'll visit the Himalayan Rescue Association post
in Pheriche while acclimatizing.<br />
<img align="left" alt="ama" border="1" height="450" hspace="10" src="http://www.sherpaascent.com/images/5.1_-view.jpg" vspace="10" width="284" /><br />
<strong>Day 11: Dingboche to Chukung (15,507ft.).</strong> Today we have a beautiful walk to the village of Chukkung, with Lothse (and Chukkung ri) "leading the way".<br />
<br />
<strong>Day 12: Chukung ri (18,283ft.). Return to Chukung (15,584ft.). </strong>Another
day to trek higher and sleep lower. After breakfast we will climb
Chukkung ri. This classic vantage point is superb for viewing Lhotse,
Makalu, Island Peak and the high himal. We’ll return to Chukkung for a
good night’s sleep.<br />
<br />
<strong>Day 13: Chukung to Island Peak High Camp (18,200ft.). </strong>Those
climbing Island Peak will head east to Island Peak base camp, and then
continue up the endless switchbacks to high camp. Our tents will be
firmly planted on a series of platforms, protected from the wind. The
altitude will now be quite noticeable, so we will rest and drink plenty
of fluids and preparation for the climb.<br />
<br />
<strong>Day 14: Island Peak Climb (20,252ft.). Return to Chukung (15,584ft.).</strong>
We begin with a predawn start, lighting our way by headlamp up the
rocky trail. The trail is fun, at places requiring easy scrambling.
We’ll enjoy a beautiful sunrise on the edge of the glacier as we don
our crampons and climbing equipment and slowly climb up to the base of
the headwall. From there, we will jumar up the steep, final pitch, and
then cross the fantastic ridge to the summit (20,252ft.)!<br />
Members of the group not climbing Island Peak today will
travel to Lhotse glacier and enjoy breathtaking views of the
surrounding himal.<br />
<img align="right" alt="Summit Island Peak" border="1" height="197" hspace="10" src="http://www.sherpaascent.com/images/Summit-Island-Peak.jpg" vspace="10" width="300" /><br />
<strong>Day 15: Chukung to Tengboche (12,664ft.).</strong> We'll retrace our steps back to Tengboche today.<br />
<strong>Day 16: Tengboche to Namche Bazaar (11,319ft.).</strong> We'll continue to retrace our steps back to Namche.<br />
<strong>Day 17: Namche Bazar to Sewangma (8,900 ft.).</strong>
Today we descend down to Phakding, then cross the Dudh Kosi river to
Sewangma, Pemba's boyhood village. This is an "off-the-beaten path"
excursion where we will see no other tourists and will be welcomed by
Pemba's family <br />
<strong>Day 18: Sewangma to Lukla (9,350ft.).</strong> We will complete the trek in the village of Lukla, bustling with tourists, porters, and guides.. <br />
<strong>Day 19: Lukla to Kathmandu.</strong> We’ll catch
an early morning flight on the memorable Lukla airstrip and return to
the luxuries (e.g., hot showers) of Kathmandu!<br />
<strong>Day 20: Kathmandu.</strong> An open day in Kathmandu to visit more of the temples, shop, and relax.<br />
<strong>Day 21-22: Return to U.S.</strong><br />
<strong>LAND COST</strong><br />
$2,310 ($2,490 for those climbing Island Peak)<br />
<strong>PAYMENT SCHEDULE:</strong><br />
Initial deposit to hold space: $300<br />
Balance due: Six weeks before departure<br />
Make a check payble to Pemba Sherpa and mail it to Pemba Sherpa 455 S. 39th St. Boulder, CO. 80305<br />
<strong>COST INCLUDE:</strong><br />
Land cost of trek and climb.<br />
Round-trip flight, Kathmandu to Lukla<br />
Guide, siddhar, porters, cook, and staff<br />
Tent and foam sleeping pads<br />
Climbing permit and trekking permit<br />
Sagarmatha National Park entrance fee<br />
Four nights lodging (double occupancy) in Kathmandu<br />
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu<br />
One day sightseeing in Kathmandu<br />
Airport transfer in Kathmandu<br />
<strong>NOT INCLUDED:</strong><br />
International airfare<br />
Bangkok lodging and Bangkok airport tax<br />
Lodging in Kathmandu beyond four days.<br />
Airport tax in Kathmandu<br />
Nepali Visa<br />
Immunizations<br />
<strong>CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT</strong><br />
In addition to personal gear, you should bring a sleeping
bag (rated 0 degrees or less), a daypack, and a large duffel bag with a
double zipper that locks (for porters or yaks to carry with your
personal gear). You will be provided with a two-person tent,
full-length foam sleeping pad, all commissary gear, and eating/drinking
utensils.<br />
All personal gear, camp stools, folding tables, and
dining tent are carried by porters and/or pack animals. Trekkers carry
only a daypack with water bottles, camera, extra jacket, and items you
may need during the course of the day. A full equipment list is
provided after sign-up.<br />
<strong>HEALTH</strong><br />
Immunizations will be necessary before leaving the United
States. You and your doctor are responsible for determining what is
necessary for you, although we will send a list of recommended
vaccines. All cost for evacuation, hospitalization, and other medical
expenses are the responsibility of the individual.<br />
<strong>LEADERSHIP</strong><img height="379" src="http://www.sherpaascent.com/images/Pembaamadablam.jpg" width="243" /><br />
Pemba Sherpa will organize and lead this trip. He grew up
in the Khumbu in these Himalayan mountains as a child. He has been a
guide throughout Nepal since 1986. He has lead over 20 trips to Nepal
for the Colorado Mountain Club and the HEC, including Island Peak,
Lobuche Peak, Chulu East, and Ama Dablam. He has lived in the Colorado
since 1991, but spends four months a year guiding trips throughout the
world.<br />
<strong>QUALIFICATIONS</strong><br />
Participants should be strong, experienced hikers in
good physical condition. Experience of ice and snow travel over glaciers
is helpful, but not necessary. You must have the willingness to
undergo the hardships of outdoor living and long days of strenuous
hiking, often at high altitude, with a smile!</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-11834372039597669242012-03-13T01:53:00.000-07:002012-03-13T01:53:29.386-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div align="left">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;"><marquee>SHERPAS AND THE KHUMBU VALLEY</marquee></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><b><u><img align="left" alt="Tibetan man" border="0" height="156" src="http://peakfreaks.com/images/faces_and_ethan_093.jpg" width="206" />WHO
ARE WE?</u> </b>Our name , Sherpa means
"easterner" because we came from the Kham in eastern Tibet. One of the
first persons to come to Khumbu came by way of the Rolwaling valley and Tashi
Labrsa (pass). He opened this valley so other people could come to settle. Later
many families came from Tibet over the Nangpa La (pass).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">This person came to Khumbu from
Kham-Salmo-Gang (east of Tibet). His clan was called Thimi. When he came to Tibet, the people asked where he came from- "the
cast part of Kham." That is how the name Sher-pa, meaning east-people, came
to be.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">For 600 years, people have migrated
from Tibet to these mountain valleys in Nepal. There was a time of great unrest
in Tibet when many lamas, their families and followers left their homes looking
for new places to live. They settled in the mountain valleys of northern
Nepal. These places came to be called Yolmo (Helambu), Langtang, and Khumbu. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Now we live in the Solu-Khumbu
district, Sagarmatha zone of Nepal. We live in the highest places. In the Khumbu,
we number about 3,200, with another 30,000 Sherpas living in the Solu, Langtang,
Helmabu, and Rolwaling valleys.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">The Sherpa language (a dialect of
Tibetan), literature, history, and philosophy came from old Tibetan religious
books. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Today approximately 30,000 Sherpas live in Nepal,
and around 3000 of them live in the Khumbu region on the south side of Everest.
Since the 1950s, tourism has become the dominant source of employment and income
in the area. Many Sherpas, as well as people from other ethnic groups, work as
part of the climbing and tourism industry.</span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">While the Sherpa people retain their Buddhist
religion and many of their traditional practices, this shift in the local
economy and way of life has necessarily meant changes in the Sherpa culture.
Among these, there has been a shift from regarding climbing the mountain as
blasphemous, to regarding it as a source of economic opportunity and pride.</span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Sherpas hold many impressive Everest records,
including most times summitted for men and women, quickest ascent, quickest
descent, most time spent on top and youngest climber to reach the summit.</span><br />
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><b><img align="left" border="0" height="141" src="http://peakfreaks.com/images/cairns.jpg" width="234" /><u><a href="" name="About the Khumbu Valley"></a>ABOUT
THE KHUMBU VALLEY</u>; </b>To tell a short story about the Khumbu: here is the
highest mountain in the world. They call it Jomolangma, because a goddess, one
of the five sisters of long life, resides there.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Guru Ringpoche, the found of Tibetan
Buddhism, hid the Khumbu and other Himalayan valley for future times when people
would need them as sanctuaries. He described Khumbu in religious books as a
valley surrounded by snow peaks. Following directions in these tests, some people
moved into there area of northern Nepal. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">There are two main areas where the
Sherpas live. In the old times, they called the upper Khumbu valley, Khumbu-te,
and the lower Solu valley, Shorung. When they first came here, now covered the
Khumbu Valley and the glaciers here were much bigger. Hence, the first
settlements were down near Lukla. As the snow and ice gradually melted, people
moved up to Tashinga, and then eventually started villages at Khumjung and
Pangboche.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">The main villages in Khumbu are
Khumjung, Kunde, Thamichhok, Namche, Pangboche, and Phortse. Most Sherpas have
home in one of these villages but often stay for the summer monsoon in huts at
the high pastures.</span><div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><b><u><img align="left" border="0" height="269" src="http://peakfreaks.com/images/Base_Camp_and_Climbing_870.jpg" width="400" />
<a href="" name="Religion and Culture"></a>RELIGION AND CULTURE;</u></b> In solu-Khumbu the most common sect of Tibetan
Buddhism is the Nyingmapa, the oldest tradition. Sherpa and Tibetan lamas taught
this religion to the people and organized the communities.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">These sherpa and Tibetan ngagpa (lay
lamas) brought teaching from Tibet to Khumbu that were from Books hidden by the
founder of Tibetan Buddhism, Gura Rinpoche. Lamas called tertons are
incarnations of Guru Rinpoche who rediscovered these hidden teachings. Ter means
"spiritual treasure" in Tibetan. A lama named Rigdzin Godem found some
of these books, the Chang-ter, hidden in northern TIbet. The other lama, Nyatak-
Nyung, found the Lho-ter in southern Tibet. The terton, Terdak Lingpa found the
books and wrote the texts used in the Sherpa's <b>pujahs</b>,
religious rituals. </span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">As more people came to Khumbu,
traditions started that helped to unite the villagers and to project the valley.
Daily life revolves around each villages gompa (temple). Closely tied to
Buddhist beliefs are their daily activates of farming, herding and trading.
Since the 1950's they have worked for tourists and earned fame on climbing
expeditions.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><b><u><a href="" name="Sherpa Language"></a>SHERPA LANGUAGE</u></b></span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">The Sherpa language originated from
the old Tibetan religious books. There are many different dialects used in
Tibet. As well, words from other languages such as Newar, Nepali, Tamang, and
English have gradually come into their speech. The Tibetan language from Lhasa
has also changed since that time.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><b><u><a href="" name="Sherpa Occupations"></a>SHERPA OCCUPATIONS</u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Before 1959, most Sherpas farmed and
traded with Tibet. The business with Tibet was usually for salt and wool. Today,
most people work mountaineering, trekking, portering, or doing religious
services. The old people spend some of their time saying whatever prayers they
know, going around stone mani walls and village <i>lha-khangs</i>, and helping
with their families.</span></div>
<div align="left">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><b><u><a href="" name="Sherpa Food"></a>SHERPA FOOD</u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Potatoes, buckwheat, and barley are
traditionally the main foods in Khumbu. Except for items brought up by traders,
Sherpa food is limited to crops that can grow at the cold, high altitudes of the
Khumbu. Sherpas eat some Tibetan foods, such as tsampa (roasted barley flour),
and some Nepali food such as rice. Unique to the Sherpas are green vegetables
that are cooked then fermented to keep, and <i>kyu,</i> a sour or salty porridge
of many grains-corn, rice, millet.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">The Sherpas grow potatoes,
buckwheat, barley turnips, and greens. Dairy products include butter, yogurt,
and cheese. They purchase rice, lentils, corn, millet and fresh meat from
down-valley traders at the market. Salt and dried sheep meat is obtained from
traders coming from Tibet.</span></div>
</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-12978796118771629562012-03-13T01:09:00.000-07:002012-03-13T01:09:03.037-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
A trek is walking at your own pace along
well-established village trails, enjoying
close contact with people in remote mountain villages
whose lifestyle has not changed for generations. Perhaps
the most enjoyable parts of a trek are the clean
mountain air and the magnificent views of the
mighty Himalayan peaks. You will feel at peace
with nature and with yourself. <br />
Whichever trek you choose, it is essential to remember
that a trek is not a climbing experience.
Campsites are carefully selected to afford you
a walk each day at your own pace and our
staffs are always around to guide you. All
camping equipment and foodstuffs are provided, and
will be carried by porters who will also carry your duffel
bags. All you need to carry is your daypack with
camera equipment, water bottle and toilet kit.
Should you find it difficult to even cope
with this; our staffs will be more than happy
to assist you.<br />
<div class="hr">
</div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td class="border" width="50%"><div class="subtitlebar">
Annapurna Region </div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle" width="34%"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/anna_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_4.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td align="left" width="66%"><div align="left">
Central
Nepal is dominated by the Annapurna Himal and the village of Pokhara.
There are three major trekking routes in central Nepal </div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Everest Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/everest_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_1.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td>The Khumbu or Everest region is the most popular trekking area in Nepal. It would probably be the most popular destination, </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td height="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Langtang Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle" width="34%"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/langtan_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_2.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td width="66%"> Lang
tang area is toward the north of Kathmandu Valley.
The scenery here is spectacular, and the
trek more adventurous as fewer
tourists visit the area. </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Dhaulagiri Region </h2>
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<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/dhaulagiri_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_3.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td> Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
is the seventh highest peak in the world. It's
a long difficult trek around Dhaulagiri</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td height="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Dolpo Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/dolpo_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_5.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td> Dolpo
is a hidden valley created by a Buddhist deity
for his worshippers. Today, it is celebrated as
a sample of original Tibet. </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Mustang Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/mustang_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_6.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td> The
fabled, long forbidden Kingdom of Mustang awaits
those interested in exploring the high altitude
trails and extreme deserts of this remote part
of the world </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
<tbody>
<tr><td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Manaslu Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/manaslu_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/n_img1.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td> This fascinating trek
is constantly rewarded with biological diversity,
unsurpassed beauty of brilliant mountain
vistas of the Ganesh, Manaslu Himal
(8118m) </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2>
</h2>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-16771985408057407852012-03-13T00:57:00.002-07:002012-03-13T00:57:32.310-07:00Trekking & Expeditions<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
A trek is walking at your own pace along
well-established village trails, enjoying
close contact with people in remote mountain villages
whose lifestyle has not changed for generations. Perhaps
the most enjoyable parts of a trek are the clean
mountain air and the magnificent views of the
mighty Himalayan peaks. You will feel at peace
with nature and with yourself. <br />
Whichever trek you choose, it is essential to remember
that a trek is not a climbing experience.
Campsites are carefully selected to afford you
a walk each day at your own pace and our
staffs are always around to guide you. All
camping equipment and foodstuffs are provided, and
will be carried by porters who will also carry your duffel
bags. All you need to carry is your daypack with
camera equipment, water bottle and toilet kit.
Should you find it difficult to even cope
with this; our staffs will be more than happy
to assist you.<br />
<div class="hr">
</div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td class="border" width="50%"><div class="subtitlebar">
Annapurna Region </div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle" width="34%"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/anna_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_4.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td align="left" width="66%"><div align="left">
Central
Nepal is dominated by the Annapurna Himal and the village of Pokhara.
There are three major trekking routes in central Nepal </div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Everest Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/everest_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_1.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td>The Khumbu or Everest region is the most popular trekking area in Nepal. It would probably be the most popular destination, </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td height="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Langtang Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle" width="34%"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/langtan_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_2.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td width="66%"> Lang
tang area is toward the north of Kathmandu Valley.
The scenery here is spectacular, and the
trek more adventurous as fewer
tourists visit the area. </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Dhaulagiri Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/dhaulagiri_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_3.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td> Dhaulagiri (8,167m)
is the seventh highest peak in the world. It's
a long difficult trek around Dhaulagiri </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td height="5"></td>
</tr>
<tr valign="top">
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Dolpo Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/dolpo_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_5.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td> Dolpo
is a hidden valley created by a Buddhist deity
for his worshippers. Today, it is celebrated as
a sample of original Tibet.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Mustang Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/mustang_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/trek_6.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td> The
fabled, long forbidden Kingdom of Mustang awaits
those interested in exploring the high altitude
trails and extreme deserts of this remote part
of the world </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
<tbody>
<tr><td class="border" width="50%"><h2 class="subtitlebar">
Manaslu Region </h2>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr valign="top">
<td align="center" valign="middle"><a href="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/manaslu_main.htm"><img border="0" class="imageborder" height="100" src="http://www.sherpaadventure.com/image/n_img1.jpg" width="85" /></a></td>
<td> This fascinating trek
is constantly rewarded with biological diversity,
unsurpassed beauty of brilliant mountain
vistas of the Ganesh, Manaslu Himal
(8118m) </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
<td> </td>
<td class="border" width="50%"><h2>
</h2>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-70305013001558400812012-03-13T00:47:00.002-07:002012-03-13T00:47:23.232-07:00Sherpa - Religion and Expressive Culture<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<b> Religious Beliefs.
</b>
The Tibetan form of Mahayana Buddhism, sometimes called Vajrayana,
"The Thunderbolt Vehicle," is universally observed among
the Sherpas. In past centuries, religion was organized on a village and
clan level; since the turn of the present century, celibate monasticism,
Imported from Tibet, has flourished in the Sherpa region. The Sherpa
pantheon is vast, ranging from the great Buddhist divinities connected
with the quest for enlightenment and salvation to local gods, spirits,
and demons influencing health, luck, and day-to-day concerne. The former
are the object of temple and monastic worship, the latter of exorcisms,
commensal feasts, purification rites, and curing rites performed by
married lamas and shamans.
<br />
<b>
Religious Practitioners
</b>
. On the village level, married lamas who are also householders preside
over community and life-cycle ceremonies. Monks and nuns take lifetime
vows of celibacy and live in institutions isolated from daily life.
Their interaction with the community is mainly limited to the reading of
sacred texts at funerals and annual monastic rituals to which the public
is invited. The monks' and nuns' pursuit of merit in turn
brings merit to the entire Community. Sherpa monks and nuns are not
supported by the state, as in Tibet, nor do they beg widely, as in
Southeast Asian traditions, but rather support themselves from their own
inheritance, through trade, or through donations by sponsors from
wealthy households. Outstanding religious figures may be reincarnated,
and the highest ecclesiastical offices at the Present time are held by
reincarnations of earlier religious figures. In addition, shamans
perform exorcisms and cures, though this is now less prevalent than
previously.
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden;">
<br />
<b> Arts.
</b>
An indigenous style of choral singing and line dancing is favored; as
elsewhere in the hills, dancing parties with beer are a preferred social
activity for the young people. Many Sherpas have become masters of the
Buddhist ecclesiastical arts, including religious painting or
iconography. The monastic dance dramas feature elaborate costumery and
choreography. The traditional religious orchestra includes the drum,
cymbals, telescopic horns, oboelike flageolets, conch shells, trumpets
made from human thighbones, and hand drums made from the tops of two
human skulls placed back to back. Liturgical chanting is an art mastered
by many laypeople as well as by monks and lamas.
<br />
<b>
Medicine.
</b>
Indigenous cures include herbal medicines, shamanic exorcism, the
reading of exorcism texts by lamas, and the use of amulets and medicines
made or blessed by high religious figures. More recently, Western
medicine has been widely sought.
<br />
<b>
Death and Afterlife.
</b>
Funerals are the longest and most elaborate life-cycle ceremonies; the
body is cremated, and the soul of the deceased is encouraged, through
ritual action and instruction, to seek an advantageous rebirth. Rebirth
is believed to occur forty-nine days after death; ideally the entire
seven-week period is occupied with a rich cycle of ceremonies and the
chanting of funerary texts from the Buddhist tradition. Although
relatives and lamas do the best they can to Influence future rebirth in
a favorable body, it is generally agreed that the main determining
factor is the working of karma, the principle by which meritorious and
nonmeritorious behaviors are appropriately rewarded or punished in
countless future lives.
<br />
<div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: medium; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: medium; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: medium; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: medium; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-43834051550867530822012-03-13T00:21:00.001-07:002012-03-13T00:21:40.114-07:00Sherpa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">The word Sherpa (pronounced Shar-pa) often conjures up images of assistants helping western climbers reach the top of Mount Everest. Though the word has developed into a position title for anyone hired to help with an mountaineering expedition, it comes from the name of the Sherpa people of Nepal.</span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
The Sherpa migrated from eastern Tibet to Nepal hundreds of years ago. Prior to Western intrusion in the twentieth century, the Sherpa didn't climb mountains, they reverently passed by the high peaks of the Himalaya, believing them to be the homes of the gods. The Sherpa eked their livelihood from high-altitude farming, cattle raising, and wool spinning and weaving.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
It wasn't until the 1920s that Sherpa became involved in climbing. The British, who controlled the Indian subcontinent at the time, planned mountain climbing expeditions and hired Sherpa as porters. From that point on, due to their willingness to work and ability to climb the world's tallest peaks, mountaineering became part of the Sherpa culture.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
Though numerous expeditions made the attempt, it wasn't until 1953 that Edmund Hillary and a Sherpa named Tenzing Norgay managed to reach the 29,028 foot (8,848 meter) peak of Mount Everest. After 1953, countless teams of climbers invaded the Sherpa homeland, making western snacks more common than traditional Sherpa food. In 1976, the Sherpa homeland and Mount Everest became protected as part of Sagarmatha National Park. The park was created through the efforts not only of the government of Nepal, but also through the work of the Himalayan Trust, a foundation established by Hillary.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
With the transformation of the Sherpa culture and way of life has also come increased income. Sherpa who work as guides, cooks, and base camp staff have an income far exceeding that of the average Nepalese. For the most part, Sherpa no longer serve as porters - they contract that job out to other ethnicities but retain positions such as head porter.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
Through the Sherpa have experienced westernization, their income from climbers has helped them to preserve their society. They've managed to keep alive most of the important parts of their culture.</div>
</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-88568640090782128882012-03-11T23:40:00.000-07:002012-03-11T23:40:02.049-07:00Sherpa History<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="inset left border1 marginRight1 marginBottom1" style="width: 400px;">
<div class="media mediaVertical">
<span class="img"><img src="http://static.ddmcdn.com/gif/sherpa-map-2.gif" style="height: 400px; width: 400px;" /> </span><div class="bd">
<div class="caption">
Mount Everest is located in the upper reaches of the Solukhumbu region.</div>
<div class="credit marginClearTop">
2008 HowStuffWorks</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="content">
<h1 class="articlePageTitle">
Sherpa History</h1>
Sherpas migrated from the Tibetan province of Kham to the uninhabited Solu-Khumbu region in the northeast corner of Nepal around in the 16th century because of warfare. At that time, there was much more forest and wood for fuel than exists today. That, along with the ability to grow wheat and buckwheat, provided the foundation for the first Sherpa inhabitants.<br />
During that time, Sherpas crossed the Tibetan border to trade crops and yak meat. In 1880, the introduction of the potato to the region revolutionized agriculture, giving Sherpas another staple crop that they rely on even today. But aside from farming, the only other way to make money was as a tax collector.Darjeeling, across the eastern border of Nepal in India became a popular draw for seasonal employment for Sherpas since it was developing into a resort area for British military and political officials. This British presence would soon kick off the evolution of the Sherpa mountaineering professionSoon, the Nepalese Sherpas who worked in Darjeeling became the desired guides and porters on the treks. Most credit the Englishman Alexander Kellas as the first person to advertise the Sherpas' superiority on Everest. Kellas reported that they were not only physically strong and nimble on the trails but also possessed a friendly demeanor and cheerful attitude.The Chinese takeover of Tibet in 1950 also effectively cut off trade with Tibet, turning more Sherpas' focus to the economic prospects of mountaineering.<br />
In 1996, the ripple effect of the Maoist insurrection in western Nepal led by Comrade Prachanda and an army of poor, rural farmers affected Sherpas not so much because of a direct threat, but negative publicityAlthough some rebels did appear in the Khumbu valley, by and large, the majority of the violence was restricted to the other side of the country. Nevertheless, images of Nepalese soldiers patrolling the Sagarmatha National Park resulted in a drop in tourism in the early 2000s. The 9/11 attacks in the United States also put a damper on international tourism.<br />
As you can see throughout the Sherpa history, the mountains have constantly played an integral role. Read on for a closer look at the Sherpas' relationship with Mount Everest and how the mountaineering profession has impacted them as a people.</div>
</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-38919475084639185402012-03-11T23:24:00.002-07:002012-03-11T23:24:55.719-07:00Sherpa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The word Sherpa (pronounced Shar-pa) often conjures up images of assistants helping western climbers reach the top of Mount Everest. Though the word has developed into a position title for anyone hired to help with an mountaineering expedition, it comes from the name of the Sherpa people of Nepal. <br />
The Sherpa migrated from eastern Tibet to Nepal hundreds of years ago. Prior to Western intrusion in the twentieth century, the Sherpa didn't climb mountains, they reverently passed by the high peaks of the Himalaya, believing them to be the homes of the gods. The Sherpa eked their livelihood from high-altitude farming, cattle raising, and wool spinning and weaving. <br />
It wasn't until the 1920s that Sherpa became involved in climbing. The British, who controlled the Indian subcontinent at the time, planned mountain climbing expeditions and hired Sherpa as porters. From that point on, due to their willingness to work and ability to climb the world's tallest peaks, mountaineering became part of the Sherpa culture. <br />
Though numerous expeditions made the attempt, it wasn't until 1953 that Edmund Hillary and a Sherpa named Tenzing Norgay managed to reach the 29,028 foot (8,848 meter) peak of Mount Everest. After 1953, countless teams of climbers invaded the Sherpa homeland, making western snacks more common than traditional Sherpa food. In 1976, the Sherpa homeland and Mount Everest became protected as part of Sagarmatha National Park. The park was created through the efforts not only of the government of Nepal, but also through the work of the Himalayan Trust, a foundation established by Hillary. <br />
With the transformation of the Sherpa culture and way of life has also come increased income. Sherpa who work as guides, cooks, and base camp staff have an income far exceeding that of the average Nepalese. For the most part, Sherpa no longer serve as porters - they contract that job out to other ethnicities but retain positions such as head porter. <br />
Through the Sherpa have experienced westernization, their income from climbers has helped them to preserve their society. They've managed to keep alive most of the important parts of their culture.</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-32119267583962415402012-03-11T23:15:00.000-07:002012-03-11T23:15:40.347-07:00Tenzing Norgay | The Sherpa who Conquered Mt. Everest<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
At 19, Tenzing Norgay moved to Darjeeling, India, where there was a sizable Sherpa community. There, the British Everest expedition leader Eric Shipton noticed him, and hired him as a high-altitude porter for a 1935 reconnaissance of the northern (Tibetan) face of the mountain. Tenzing would act as a porter for two additional British attempts on the northern side in the 1930s, but this route would be closed off to westerners by the 13th Dalai Lama in 1945.<br />
Along with Canadian mountaineer Earl Denman and Ange Dawa Sherpa, Tenzing snuck over the Tibetan border in 1947 to make another attempt on Everest. They were turned back at about 22,000 feet (6,700 meters) by a pounding snow-storm.</div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6599100482051472796.post-9765020956131477772012-03-11T23:02:00.000-07:002012-03-11T23:02:33.912-07:00Sir Edmund Hillary<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Edmund Hillary was born on July 20, 1919 in Auckland, New Zealand. Shortly after his birth, his family moved south of the city to Tuakau, where his father, Percival Augustus Hillary, acquired land. <br />
From an early age, Hillary was interested in having a life of adventure and when he was 16, he became attracted to mountain climbing after a school trip to Mount Ruapehu, located on the North Island of New Zealand. After high school, he went on to study math and science at Auckland University. In 1939, Hillary put his climbing interests to the test by summiting the 6,342 ft (1,933 m) Mount Ollivier in the Southern Alps. <br />
Upon entering the workforce, Edmund Hillary decided to become a beekeeper with his brother Rex, since it was a seasonal job that allowed him the freedom to climb when he was not working. During his time off, Hillary climbed numerous mountains in New Zealand, the Alps, and eventually the Himalayas, where he confronted 11 peaks over 20,000 feet (6,096 meters) in elevation. </div>pasanghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09007519532889438357noreply@blogger.com0