About Khumbu
The Khumbu region, also referred to as the Everest region, is a popular trekking destination in Nepal. Although it is known as “Sagarmatha” in Nepali, Mount Everest is known to by its native Sherpa people as “Chhomolongma”, which means "Mother Goddess of the Earth." Along with Mount Everest, the region is home to numerous other famous mountains, including Lhotse, Nuptse, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, Pumori, Kongde, and Ama Dablam, as well as a number of smaller ones. This region has been home to the Sherpa community for many generations.
The Sagarmatha National Park, which was established in 1976 covering a 1,148 km2 area, covers the Khumbu region. The park's elevation ranges from 2,845 to 8,848 m (9,334 to 29,029 ft), with the highest point at Mount Everest's summit. It borders the Qomolangma National Natural Preserve in Tibet to the north, Makalu Barun National Park to the east, and the Dudh Kosi River to the south. It was the first national park in Nepal to receive this status and is regarded as a part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape. In 1979, it was designated a Natural World Heritage Site.
A Buffer Zone covering 275 km2 (106 sq mi) was added in January 2002, with the preservation of cultural heritage, the preservation of wildlife and forests, and the promotion of alternative energy sources being given first priority. This area is governed by the Khumbu Pasangalhamu Rural Municipality, which has five ward offices in Kharikhola, Lukla, Nachipang, Khumjung, and Namche. The Rural Municipality covers a total area of 1539.11 square kilometers having its administrative office in Chaurikharka.
The Khumbu region is rich in biodiversity and is home to a wide range of wildlife and plants that have adapted to survive in the harsh alpine environment. Lower elevations are home to pine and hemlock forests, whereas higher elevations are home to coniferous forests as fir, oak, juniper, birch, rhododendron, and scrub forests.
A wide range of wildlife can be found in the region, including Himalayan black bears, musk deer, red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, marten, and Himalayan mouse hare (pika). More than 118 different bird species can be found here, including the Impeyan pheasant, Himalayan monals, snow pigeons, blood pheasant, and red-billed cough.
In accordance with Sherpa beliefs, Khumbu is a Beyul, which is regarded as a sacred region and hidden valley that protects the native people and their beliefs in times of crisis and disaster. Through religious practices and taboos, these beliefs promote the preservation of the natural environment by prohibiting behaviors and actions that harm the environment.