Respecting Local Customs on Your Trek
The Khumbu is a sacred landscape for the Sherpa people. Following cultural rules shows respect and ensures a warm welcome on your Everest trekking journey. Here is how to behave on the trail to Base Camp.
Always pass Mani walls, stupas, and prayer wheels to your right (clockwise). This follows the motion of the universe in Buddhist belief. Walking the wrong way is considered disrespectful and bad luck for your Everest expedition.
Sherpa culture is conservative. Avoid revealing clothing. When entering a monastery for a blessing before your Mount Everest summit attempt, take off your shoes and hat. Never point your feet at the altar or the monks.
The hearth in the teahouse is the home of the fire deity. Do not throw trash (like plastic wrappers or tissues) into the fire. It is offensive to the hosts of your Everest trekking lodge.
Small gestures of respect go a long way. Namaste to everyone you meet, and respect the spirit of the mountains.
