Exploring perceptions of high-altitude climbing guides from Magar community in Nepal

Abstract

The history of mountain tourism in Nepal is closely linked with the Sherpa community, mainly because of their strong reputation and success in climbing high mountains, including Mount Everest. However, in recent years, guides from various ethnic groups have also become active in this climbing sector. Among them, Magar climbers and guides have been involved in climbing high Himalayan peaks and helping clients reach the summit. They also play an important role in promoting adventure tourism and supporting Nepal’s economy. Despite their hard work and contributions, they are not properly recognized for the real challenges they face in the mountains. This study explores their experiences by focusing on their career paths, challenges, and achievements so far. The researcher used a qualitative method and an ethnographic approach to collect in depth data. One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 Magar guides who have climbed peaks above 6000 meters, including Dhaulagiri and Mount Everest. The main aim was to understand how their careers develop, the opportunities and difficulties they face. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common themes, including career opportunities, professional identity, and access to training. The findings show that Magar guides play key roles in ensuring safety, managing logistics, and supporting clients during high-Himalaya expeditions. For them, success means not only reaching the summit but also returning safely. However, many Magar guides struggle to access advanced training and certification, uneven job opportunities, and hidden cultural discrimination - a major challenge that deserves more attention in the future.