Sherpa Life and Culture

This GO Short program will focus on the cultural, geographical and physiological aspects of the life of the Sherpa people in the mountain kingdom of Nepal while providing a challenging physical experience that in itself will be life-defining for the participants.

Location: Kathmandu and the Khumbu Valley, Nepal. This program will give students insight into the role of culture and geography in the lives of Sherpa people, experience trekking in a high-altitude environment (our high point is Kala Patthar at 18,540 feet in the shadow of Mount Everest at 29,029 feet), and clear examples of the effects of climate change.

Dates: December 2013 - January 2014

Prerequisite: Biology 550: The Biology of Life in the Khumbu

Academic credit: Two semester hours, this program and reflection course following it satisfy the GO requirement

Majors of interest: Open to any major. This trip is suitable for students who are fit, adventurous and ready for a unique cross-cultural experience

Applicatin: More information will be posted soon

Cost estimate: $5,800.  Includes all flights, accommodation, activities, and some meals

Financial aid: Need-based financial aid may be available for students satisfying the GO requirement

Program Directors: David S. Richard, associate dean of arts and sciences and professor of biology, and Maria T. Finch, associate director of cross-cultural programs

Visit the Sherpa Life and Culture website!