As you go Everest trekking, you will pass thousands of stones carved with the mantra 'Om Mani Padme Hum'. These Mani stones are more than landmarks; they are the spiritual protection of the Mount Everest expedition route.
The mantra translates roughly to 'the jewel is in the lotus'. It represents the path to enlightenment. For Sherpas, these stones offer blessings for those attempting the Mount Everest summit and safe passage for trekkers.
The rule of the mountain is to always keep Mani stones to your right. This ritual shows respect and aligns the trekker with the clockwise movement of prayer wheels found throughout the Everest trekking region.
New Mani stones are still carved today, often to commemorate a successful Mount Everest summit or to honor a family member. They are a living record of the spiritual history of the Himalayas.
The Mani stones remind us that the journey to Everest Base Camp is as much a pilgrimage as it is a trek. Honor the culture as you walk toward the Mount Everest summit.
