Sagarmatha Diwas

Every year, Sagarmatha Diwas, also known as International Everest Day, is celebrated to honor Mount Everest (Sagarmatha in Nepali), the world’s highest peak and a symbol of national pride. Observed on May 29, Sagarmatha Diwas commemorates the historic achievement of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, who were the first climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. 

The Importance of Sagarmatha Diwas

Mount Everest stands at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) above sea level, the highest peak on Earth. For Nepal, Sagarmatha is not just a peak; it represents courage, strength, and solidarity. Sagarmatha Diwas serves to honor the Sherpa community and other indigenous people who have lived in the Himalayan region for centuries and have played a vital role in mountaineering expeditions. It also promotes ecological awareness, emphasizing the need for protecting the fragile Himalayan environment, which is increasingly vulnerable to global warming and mass tourism. Furthermore, this day also celebrates national pride by highlighting Nepal’s unique contributions to world history, adventure travel, and nature conservation.

Historical Background

The Hillary-Norgay successful ascent of 1953 brought Nepal to the world map and initiated mountaineer tourism. Recognizing the importance of this achievement, Nepal began officially celebrating Sagarmatha Diwas since 2008. The day acknowledges the mountain’s global stature, honor all mountaineers who have dared to dream and reached for the heights. It also acts as a reminder to future generations the importance of preserving Sagarmatha and the entire Himalayan range.

How Sagarmatha Diwas is Celebrated

Various programs are organized throughout Nepal, mainly in Kathmandu and the Solukhumbu district. Educational exhibitions and events are organized to unveil the history, biodiversity, and cultural significance of Sagarmatha, and offer an avenue to enable people to learn more about the mountain beyond its reputation as a climbing summit. 

Additionally, awards and honors are conferred upon individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions in mountaineering, tourism, and environmental protection.

In recent years, as awareness of the environmental issues Everest is facing has grown, Sagarmatha Diwas has also become a platform for discussion on key topics such as climate change, sustainable climbing, and eco-tourism. It is a platform for self-reflection, strategizing, and taking action towards conserving the mountain and its environment.

The Call for Preservation

Even as Sagarmatha remains an inspiration to millions of people worldwide, it is also facing critical issues, including melting glaciers, sanitation problems, and an increasing number of climbers and congestion. On Sagarmatha Diwas, Nepal reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding this natural wonder for future generations, emphasising the need for international cooperation in conserving the Himalayas. The plea to save is not only a national concern but also an international one, as the Himalayas play a significant role in the global ecological balance.

Conclusion

Sagarmatha Diwas is more than a remembrance of an historic ascent; it’s a celebration of Nepal’s enduring connection with nature, grit, and global collaboration. As we pay tribute to the memory of Hillary, Norgay, and countless other brave souls, we also take up our responsibility to protect Sagarmatha, the roof of the world with honor and sustainable action.

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