June 4, 2025 • 14 mins
In this episode of Global Treasures, join us as we take a journey to Sagarmatha National Park, located in Nepal. This site is home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. Join us as we discuss the history, travel tips for those planning to visit and more.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Abigail (00:00):
Imagine a place that tells a story spanning centuries where
culture and nature intertwine tocreate something truly extraordinary.
That's the beauty of UNESCOWorld Heritage Sites.
I'm Abigail, and this is GlobalTreasures, the podcast that covers
(00:22):
the history, travel tips, andlegends surrounding one of the 1,223
World Heritage sites each episode.
These places have been identifiedas having universal cultural, or
natural significance that is soexceptional, that it transcends
national boundaries and is of importanceto present and future generations.
(00:46):
Welcome to season two, wherewe'll explore the 45 sites that
UNESCO added in 1979 together.
Thank you for listening tothe Global Treasures Podcast.
We appreciate all of your support and youcan continue to support us by subscribing
at Apple Podcasts or any major platform.
(01:07):
You can also follow uson TikTok and Facebook.
Please tell your friends about us as well.
Positioned high within the Himalayasof Eastern Nepal lies Sagarmatha
National Park home to one of theseven natural wonders of the world.
Spanning 4 43 square miles,
(01:28):
its substantial elevations rangefrom 9,334 feet to the very summit of
Mount Everest towering at 29,029 feet.
The word sagarmatha roughlytranslates to "sky head".
To the north, the park shares aninternational boundary with China's
(01:50):
Qomolangma National Nature Preservein the Tibet autonomous region.
Its eastern edge
meets Makalu Barun National Park whilethe Chinese Nepalese border runs along
the summit point of Mount Everest.
The story of Sagarmatha NationalPark began in July of 1976 when
(02:12):
it was officially established.
Its global Significance was recognizedin 1979 when it became Nepal's
First National Park to be inscribedas a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In January of 2002, the protectedarea expanded with the addition of
a buffer zone that spans 106 miles.
(02:36):
Within the zone, the conservationof forests, wildlife, and
cultural resources is prioritized.
The allure of this majestic regionbegan drawing tourists all the
way back in the early 1960s.
This site, notably, is also one ofthe few UNESCO sites where individuals
(02:56):
live within the boundaries of the park.
Around 6,000 Sherpa people residein villages and seasonal settlements
that have been around for atleast four centuries, scattered
along the main tourist trails.
The Sherpas considered Sagarmatha NationalPark to compromise a significant part of
the larger sacred Himalayan landscape.
(03:20):
It's believed that Mount Everestis home to a goddess, and these
beliefs guide the lives andtraditions of those who live there.
The landscape of the park encompassesthe upper catchment areas of the
Dudh Kosi and Bhotekoshi rivers,as well as the serene Gokyo lakes.
(03:41):
Now, Everest may be the crown jewel, butthere are several other daunting peaks.
A few include Pumori and Nuptse,which also exceed 20,000 feet.
Barren land accounts for themajority of the park at 69%,
while only 3% is forested.
Despite the harsh conditions at higheraltitudes, Sagarmatha National Park
(04:07):
Houses an astonishing diversity of life.
The forests are characterizedby fur, Himalayan Birch.
and Rhododendron trees.
As the elevation increases,Juniper and rhododendron
become the dominant plant life.
At above 16,000 feet,
mainly, its mosses that manage to grow.
(04:29):
In total, over a thousand floralspecies have been documented
within the parks boundaries.
Very few flowers or types of plantlife can thrive on Mount Everest.
However, jumping spiders have beenfound at elevations above 22,000
feet, which is the highest elevationany non microorganism native species
(04:53):
has been documented to live on earth.
Of course, it had to bespiders and not a bunny.
At lower altitudes, the park is ahaven for numerous animal species
including bird species such as themajestic bearded vulture, the Hardy
Snow Cock, and the Nimble Alpine Show.
(05:15):
Recognizing its avian importance,the National Park has been
designated as an important bird area.
The hoofed creatures that roam its slopesinclude the agile Himalayan tahr, the
shy musk deer, and the elusive Himalayanserow, A creature which resembles a goat.
(05:35):
The solitary snow leopardand the endangered red panda
calls this park home as well.
The red panda has become moreculturally relevant thanks to the
Disney Pixar film Turning Red.
There are also a host of storiesabout a cryptid creature that is
yet to be caught on film or photo,well photos or videos that can be
(05:58):
proven to be real, I should say.
My research kept bringing meback to the legend of Yeti.
I discussed the Yeti briefly in our pastepisode on Kathmandu Valley, which is
a UNESCO site, also located in Nepal.
If you wanna check it out,it's season two, episode 20.
So the Yeti is an apelike creature thatsupposedly resides in the Himalayas and
(06:24):
is the equivalent to the Bigfoot legendwe have here in the United States.
Sometimes it's referred toas the abominable snowman.
The Yeti is usually described as beingseven to eight feet tall with white hair.
Sightings
started all the way back in the early1830s with trekker and naturalists who
(06:45):
claim to have seen a big hairy creature.
Though again, many thought it was an ape.
Reports skyrocketed as Westernersattempted to hike the area with
newer, safer equipment becomingmore affordable for the masses.
Even Sir Edmund Hillary, the first toclimb Mount Everest, went up to the
(07:06):
Himalayas in the early 1960s to try tofind evidence that this creature exists.
While his existence may be amyth, the legend continues to
draw interest and tourists.
Mount Everest, and the park by virtuehold prominent occupancy in pop
culture, inspiring or being filmedas the backdrop of numerous movies,
(07:32):
books, and other forms of media.
This park truly challenges theimagination, human spirit, and what
we as a species are truly capable of
summiting.
Sagarmatha National Park is a metaphorfor the tenacity of humankind.
Now, for those planning on trekking to thepark, here's some information for how to
(07:56):
get there and other important logistics.
Before you even leave home, knowthat this is going to be a physically
intense trip and likely willspan at least a couple of weeks.
This is going to encompass miles and milesof walking each day up steep inclines.
People often train formonths prior to going.
(08:20):
Be sure to pack good walking shoesand boots, as well as layering.
Even if you do go during thesummer, the higher peaks are still
going to be freezing, so you'regoing to wanna bring a jacket.
In fact, there are places that sellspecialized clothing and equipment.
If you're traveling in from anothercountry, your best bet is to fly into
(08:42):
the Kathmandu International Airportand then take the 25 minute flight to
Tenzing - Hillary Airport in Lukla.
From there, you'll trek a fewdays before arriving to the park.
There are no roads to getinto the park directly, so you
can't rent a car and drive.
However, taking a directhelicopter flight is an option.
(09:05):
The majority of travelers come herefor the sole purpose of trying to
climb or partially climb Mount Everest.
While it's expensive, we'retalking $35,000 and up,
booking a hiking tour that has navigatedthis park previously is so important.
That can't be understated.
(09:26):
So while this price tag may seem overthe top expensive, understand this is
because it includes helping you geta permit, which is required, climbing
gear such as oxygen tanks, food, tents,rope to ascend, of course, a guide and
other medical support if necessary.
(09:48):
Also, the Sherpas move theluggage and equipment for you.
And many know English andother languages as well.
The guides will also know whichare the designated paths to stay
on and the rules of the park.
For example, while the park istechnically open 24 7, it's strongly
(10:10):
advised not to trek at night.
I will add that much of thesignage is in English, though
if you're navigating independently.
If you aren't going to use a tour,you can camp or book one of the hotels
within the boundaries of the park.
None of these are going to be chainhotels, but should have wifi, places to
(10:31):
charge devices, and other essentials.
There are some restaurants andtea houses in the park as well.
Sites such as these, where you aren'tstopping for many restaurant meals, are
interesting because they tend to encourageshared meals in an unusual sense.
A protein bar suddenly becomes a moregourmet experience when you're eating
(10:54):
it while staring at the vast landscapesfrom base camp, taking pride in the
endurance it took you to get up there.
This is a one of a kind travelexperience you'll be able to
share with others for a lifetime.
Other tips you might find helpful,you will want to be mindful of
altitude sickness, even if youaren't going to try to summit.
(11:18):
Hydration is essential, andthis rule might seem comical,
but please be sure to obey.
Climbers are now requiredto bring poo bags.
Yes, poo bags.
To bring back to base camp so thatthe waste can be properly disposed of.
While there are some publicrestrooms within the park, you may
(11:38):
not find them as often as you need.
The locals have a profound respectfor nature and are committed to
helping preserve the park, so pleasebe sure to clean up your trash
when you leave generally speaking.
This is their home.
Please be a mindful visitor.
In terms of the best time of yearto visit, march to May is widely
(12:00):
considered to be the most comfortable.
July and August are the hottestand very rainy with winters
getting into the negative digits.
Also, as I mentioned before, theweather can be wildly unpredictable.
So between the weather, the need toadapt to the time change if you're from
(12:20):
another time zone, and adjusting to thealtitude as well, you may want to plan
for an extra buffer day or even twoat the end of your trip just in case
something happens and you have to stayin the country a little bit longer.
Some spots other than peaks youmay want to visit within the park
(12:40):
include Tengboche monastery, whichis one of the most prominent Buddhist
monasteries in the region and servesas a place of worship for Sherpas.
It hosts a festival each year dedicatedto the celebration of Buddhism.
In fact, the area has a lotof festivals, so you may wanna
look online before visiting.
(13:02):
Gyko Lake also has picturesque views.
Whether you're a photography fanatic,or birdwatching hobbyist, you are
going to get fantastic photos ofthe gorgeous mountains, glaciers,
and animals within the park.
Finally, you can also hike toSagarmatha National Park Museum, and
(13:25):
the Sherpa Museum, which has artifactsand you can learn more about the
history of well-known expeditions.
And if you informationfor planning your trip,
check out our show notes for some linksand tools to help make it a bit easier.
Sagarmatha National Park, withits dramatic landscape, is a place
(13:48):
of exceptional natural beauty.
Culturally, its deeply intertwinedwith the traditions and spiritual
beliefs of the people who haveresided within these valleys for
centuries, their way of life shaped
by their coexistence withthe Sacred Mount Everest.
(14:09):
Join us for our next episode where we'lluncover the history and travel tips for
visiting Stari Ras and Sopocani in Serbia.
This UNESCO site is a complex thatcontains a monastery with remarkable
frescoes and Byzantine architecture.
(14:30):
Come find out why this site
needs to be on your travel bucket list.
Until then, keep exploring, keepwondering, and keep treasuring
the remarkable diversityof our world's Heritage.
Imagine a place that tells a story spanning centuries where
culture and nature intertwine tocreate something truly extraordinary.
That's the beauty of UNESCOWorld Heritage Sites.
I'm Abigail, and this is GlobalTreasures, the podcast that covers
(00:22):
the history, travel tips, andlegends surrounding one of the 1,223
World Heritage sites each episode.
These places have been identifiedas having universal cultural, or
natural significance that is soexceptional, that it transcends
national boundaries and is of importanceto present and future generations.
(00:46):
Welcome to season two, wherewe'll explore the 45 sites that
UNESCO added in 1979 together.
Thank you for listening tothe Global Treasures Podcast.
We appreciate all of your support and youcan continue to support us by subscribing
at Apple Podcasts or any major platform.
(01:07):
You can also follow uson TikTok and Facebook.
Please tell your friends about us as well.
Positioned high within the Himalayasof Eastern Nepal lies Sagarmatha
National Park home to one of theseven natural wonders of the world.
Spanning 4 43 square miles,
(01:28):
its substantial elevations rangefrom 9,334 feet to the very summit of
Mount Everest towering at 29,029 feet.
The word sagarmatha roughlytranslates to "sky head".
To the north, the park shares aninternational boundary with China's
(01:50):
Qomolangma National Nature Preservein the Tibet autonomous region.
Its eastern edge
meets Makalu Barun National Park whilethe Chinese Nepalese border runs along
the summit point of Mount Everest.
The story of Sagarmatha NationalPark began in July of 1976 when
(02:12):
it was officially established.
Its global Significance was recognizedin 1979 when it became Nepal's
First National Park to be inscribedas a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In January of 2002, the protectedarea expanded with the addition of
a buffer zone that spans 106 miles.
(02:36):
Within the zone, the conservationof forests, wildlife, and
cultural resources is prioritized.
The allure of this majestic regionbegan drawing tourists all the
way back in the early 1960s.
This site, notably, is also one ofthe few UNESCO sites where individuals
(02:56):
live within the boundaries of the park.
Around 6,000 Sherpa people residein villages and seasonal settlements
that have been around for atleast four centuries, scattered
along the main tourist trails.
The Sherpas considered Sagarmatha NationalPark to compromise a significant part of
the larger sacred Himalayan landscape.
(03:20):
It's believed that Mount Everestis home to a goddess, and these
beliefs guide the lives andtraditions of those who live there.
The landscape of the park encompassesthe upper catchment areas of the
Dudh Kosi and Bhotekoshi rivers,as well as the serene Gokyo lakes.
(03:41):
Now, Everest may be the crown jewel, butthere are several other daunting peaks.
A few include Pumori and Nuptse,which also exceed 20,000 feet.
Barren land accounts for themajority of the park at 69%,
while only 3% is forested.
Despite the harsh conditions at higheraltitudes, Sagarmatha National Park
(04:07):
Houses an astonishing diversity of life.
The forests are characterizedby fur, Himalayan Birch.
and Rhododendron trees.
As the elevation increases,Juniper and rhododendron
become the dominant plant life.
At above 16,000 feet,
mainly, its mosses that manage to grow.
(04:29):
In total, over a thousand floralspecies have been documented
within the parks boundaries.
Very few flowers or types of plantlife can thrive on Mount Everest.
However, jumping spiders have beenfound at elevations above 22,000
feet, which is the highest elevationany non microorganism native species
(04:53):
has been documented to live on earth.
Of course, it had to bespiders and not a bunny.
At lower altitudes, the park is ahaven for numerous animal species
including bird species such as themajestic bearded vulture, the Hardy
Snow Cock, and the Nimble Alpine Show.
(05:15):
Recognizing its avian importance,the National Park has been
designated as an important bird area.
The hoofed creatures that roam its slopesinclude the agile Himalayan tahr, the
shy musk deer, and the elusive Himalayanserow, A creature which resembles a goat.
(05:35):
The solitary snow leopardand the endangered red panda
calls this park home as well.
The red panda has become moreculturally relevant thanks to the
Disney Pixar film Turning Red.
There are also a host of storiesabout a cryptid creature that is
yet to be caught on film or photo,well photos or videos that can be
(05:58):
proven to be real, I should say.
My research kept bringing meback to the legend of Yeti.
I discussed the Yeti briefly in our pastepisode on Kathmandu Valley, which is
a UNESCO site, also located in Nepal.
If you wanna check it out,it's season two, episode 20.
So the Yeti is an apelike creature thatsupposedly resides in the Himalayas and
(06:24):
is the equivalent to the Bigfoot legendwe have here in the United States.
Sometimes it's referred toas the abominable snowman.
The Yeti is usually described as beingseven to eight feet tall with white hair.
Sightings
started all the way back in the early1830s with trekker and naturalists who
(06:45):
claim to have seen a big hairy creature.
Though again, many thought it was an ape.
Reports skyrocketed as Westernersattempted to hike the area with
newer, safer equipment becomingmore affordable for the masses.
Even Sir Edmund Hillary, the first toclimb Mount Everest, went up to the
(07:06):
Himalayas in the early 1960s to try tofind evidence that this creature exists.
While his existence may be amyth, the legend continues to
draw interest and tourists.
Mount Everest, and the park by virtuehold prominent occupancy in pop
culture, inspiring or being filmedas the backdrop of numerous movies,
(07:32):
books, and other forms of media.
This park truly challenges theimagination, human spirit, and what
we as a species are truly capable of
summiting.
Sagarmatha National Park is a metaphorfor the tenacity of humankind.
Now, for those planning on trekking to thepark, here's some information for how to
(07:56):
get there and other important logistics.
Before you even leave home, knowthat this is going to be a physically
intense trip and likely willspan at least a couple of weeks.
This is going to encompass miles and milesof walking each day up steep inclines.
People often train formonths prior to going.
(08:20):
Be sure to pack good walking shoesand boots, as well as layering.
Even if you do go during thesummer, the higher peaks are still
going to be freezing, so you'regoing to wanna bring a jacket.
In fact, there are places that sellspecialized clothing and equipment.
If you're traveling in from anothercountry, your best bet is to fly into
(08:42):
the Kathmandu International Airportand then take the 25 minute flight to
Tenzing - Hillary Airport in Lukla.
From there, you'll trek a fewdays before arriving to the park.
There are no roads to getinto the park directly, so you
can't rent a car and drive.
However, taking a directhelicopter flight is an option.
(09:05):
The majority of travelers come herefor the sole purpose of trying to
climb or partially climb Mount Everest.
While it's expensive, we'retalking $35,000 and up,
booking a hiking tour that has navigatedthis park previously is so important.
That can't be understated.
(09:26):
So while this price tag may seem overthe top expensive, understand this is
because it includes helping you geta permit, which is required, climbing
gear such as oxygen tanks, food, tents,rope to ascend, of course, a guide and
other medical support if necessary.
(09:48):
Also, the Sherpas move theluggage and equipment for you.
And many know English andother languages as well.
The guides will also know whichare the designated paths to stay
on and the rules of the park.
For example, while the park istechnically open 24 7, it's strongly
(10:10):
advised not to trek at night.
I will add that much of thesignage is in English, though
if you're navigating independently.
If you aren't going to use a tour,you can camp or book one of the hotels
within the boundaries of the park.
None of these are going to be chainhotels, but should have wifi, places to
(10:31):
charge devices, and other essentials.
There are some restaurants andtea houses in the park as well.
Sites such as these, where you aren'tstopping for many restaurant meals, are
interesting because they tend to encourageshared meals in an unusual sense.
A protein bar suddenly becomes a moregourmet experience when you're eating
(10:54):
it while staring at the vast landscapesfrom base camp, taking pride in the
endurance it took you to get up there.
This is a one of a kind travelexperience you'll be able to
share with others for a lifetime.
Other tips you might find helpful,you will want to be mindful of
altitude sickness, even if youaren't going to try to summit.
(11:18):
Hydration is essential, andthis rule might seem comical,
but please be sure to obey.
Climbers are now requiredto bring poo bags.
Yes, poo bags.
To bring back to base camp so thatthe waste can be properly disposed of.
While there are some publicrestrooms within the park, you may
(11:38):
not find them as often as you need.
The locals have a profound respectfor nature and are committed to
helping preserve the park, so pleasebe sure to clean up your trash
when you leave generally speaking.
This is their home.
Please be a mindful visitor.
In terms of the best time of yearto visit, march to May is widely
(12:00):
considered to be the most comfortable.
July and August are the hottestand very rainy with winters
getting into the negative digits.
Also, as I mentioned before, theweather can be wildly unpredictable.
So between the weather, the need toadapt to the time change if you're from
(12:20):
another time zone, and adjusting to thealtitude as well, you may want to plan
for an extra buffer day or even twoat the end of your trip just in case
something happens and you have to stayin the country a little bit longer.
Some spots other than peaks youmay want to visit within the park
(12:40):
include Tengboche monastery, whichis one of the most prominent Buddhist
monasteries in the region and servesas a place of worship for Sherpas.
It hosts a festival each year dedicatedto the celebration of Buddhism.
In fact, the area has a lotof festivals, so you may wanna
look online before visiting.
(13:02):
Gyko Lake also has picturesque views.
Whether you're a photography fanatic,or birdwatching hobbyist, you are
going to get fantastic photos ofthe gorgeous mountains, glaciers,
and animals within the park.
Finally, you can also hike toSagarmatha National Park Museum, and
(13:25):
the Sherpa Museum, which has artifactsand you can learn more about the
history of well-known expeditions.
And if you informationfor planning your trip,
check out our show notes for some linksand tools to help make it a bit easier.
Sagarmatha National Park, withits dramatic landscape, is a place
(13:48):
of exceptional natural beauty.
Culturally, its deeply intertwinedwith the traditions and spiritual
beliefs of the people who haveresided within these valleys for
centuries, their way of life shaped
by their coexistence withthe Sacred Mount Everest.
(14:09):
Join us for our next episode where we'lluncover the history and travel tips for
visiting Stari Ras and Sopocani in Serbia.
This UNESCO site is a complex thatcontains a monastery with remarkable
frescoes and Byzantine architecture.
(14:30):
Come find out why this site
needs to be on your travel bucket list.
Until then, keep exploring, keepwondering, and keep treasuring
the remarkable diversityof our world's Heritage.
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