A heartfelt tribute program was jointly organized by the Nepal Tourism Board and Conservation Alliance Nepal to honor the late Chungba Sherpa, a celebrated wildlife photographer whose work significantly contributed to biodiversity documentation and conservation tourism in Nepal. The event, held at NTB premises, paid homage to Sherpa’s remarkable journey in wildlife photography and his enduring impact on conservation efforts.
The program was graced by the Hon’ble Minister for Forests and Environment, Ain Bahadur Shahi, as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, Minister Shahi praised Sherpa’s contributions, stating, “Chungba Sherpa’s dedication to wildlife photography and conservation has been instrumental in showcasing Nepal’s natural heritage to the world. His work will continue to inspire generations of photographers and conservationists.”
NTB CEO Deepak Raj Joshi also lauded Sherpa’s legacy, emphasizing how his photography transcended beyond just capturing images. “Chungba Sherpa’s work has played a pivotal role in bringing Nepal’s incredible wildlife and conservation efforts to the global stage. His images have inspired both travelers and conservationists, establishing Nepal as a sanctuary for diverse and endangered species,” Joshi remarked.
A Visionary in Wildlife Photography and Conservation
Chungba Sherpa’s photography significantly contributed to raising awareness about Nepal’s rich biodiversity. Through his lens, he documented rare and endangered species, including the elusive snow leopard in the Khumbu region, red pandas, and a diverse range of Himalayan birds. His striking images not only enriched global wildlife archives but also bolstered conservation initiatives by drawing attention to the need to protect Nepal’s natural heritage.
Born in Lukla, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, Solukhumbu, Sherpa had an intrinsic connection with the landscapes he captured. His contributions, however, were not limited to photography. As a well-respected community leader, he actively participated in local governance, serving as the Chief of Chaurikharka Village Development Committee. His dedication to community development also extended to education, where he played a key role as chairman of a school management committee, advocating for improved learning opportunities for local children.
A Late Bloomer in Photography, A Pioneer in Conservation Awareness
Although Sherpa ventured into wildlife photography at the age of 57, his passion and exceptional talent quickly gained him international recognition. His career in tourism and hospitality, including his tenure at Yeti Airlines and experience in hotel management, complemented his mission to promote Nepal’s natural beauty. His photographic masterpieces were showcased on prestigious platforms worldwide, further positioning Nepal as a premier ecotourism destination.
During the tribute event, a documentary highlighting Sherpa’s extraordinary journey and accomplishments was screened, offering a moving retrospective on his life’s work. The program served as a testament to his invaluable contributions, celebrating his unwavering commitment to conservation through photography.
Associated with various national and international photography organizations, Chungba Sherpa passed away at the age of 64 on January 12, 2025. His legacy, however, lives on through his breathtaking images, which continue to inspire conservationists, nature enthusiasts, and future generations of photographers.
The tribute event concluded with a call to preserve and continue Sherpa’s mission of promoting Nepal’s rich biodiversity through photography and conservation initiatives. His work remains a beacon of inspiration, reminding the world of the critical need to protect and cherish Nepal’s extraordinary wildlife and natural landscapes.
