The Sherpas are now famous for their mountaineering activities around the Himalayas and are known as the guides of the area, assisting in various climbing expeditions.

Some of their settlements are located above 3,000 metres which are among the highest human settlements in the world. Everything is covered in snow there in winter, so many people go into the lower regions for these months. Any agricultural work is only possible after the winter months.

Of course, not everything grows in the cold mountain climate. The main crops are barley, wheat and buckwheat, followed by potatoes, which were imported in the mid-19th century. The spices used there are also a little simpler than in the rest of the country. They mainly use onions, garlic, chillies and turmeric. Maize and millet are also grown in the lower regions.

One of their most characteristic dishes is tsampa, which is roasted barley that is ground into flour. One way to eat it is to mix it with water or tea and knead it into balls, which is called paag. It is also eaten as porridge, also mixed with tea, which is called chamdur. Tsampa is also often offered in religious rituals.

Potatoes are another indispensable part of the Sherpa kitchen with many uses. They are used in pancakes, stews, curries and even alcohol. 

Animal husbandry also plays an important role. For example, butter made from yak milk is part of many of their dishes. In general, meat is not a common part of their diet, but on certain occasions they will eat yak, buffalo or lamb meat.