This exhibition provides insight into the lives of Sherpa communities, during and leading up to the first successful ascent by Sherpa Tenzing Norgay.

The Sherpa communities of Nepal and Tibet are known worldwide for their knowledge, climbing skills and loyalty to visiting climbers.

The images were taken over a 30 year period by visiting British climbers, unveiling the scale of the operations involving Sherpas and their everyday lives.

  Other details
Prints are from original colour and black and white negatives. Text panels provide background information, quotes and commentary

  Education resources
Available on our ‘Unlocking the Archives’ website for Geography Key Stages 3/4. Adaptable for informal education programmes

  Size of exhibits and space required
40 prints, each approximately 60 x 50 cm. Wall space of 50 – 80 m.