Khunde Hospital

Khunde Hospital, located at Khunde of Solukhumbu District, has been serving the locals of the Everest region for over five decades now, and is still the main hospital in this region. Over the years, the hospital has saved countless lives and continues to serve as a vital healthcare provider in a region that otherwise lacks access to modern medical facilities. It used to be the only proper hospital in the Khumbu region up until the last few years. Therefore, this hospital holds a great significance for the local people of the Khumbu valley, especially for the Sherpa people

Just like the Lukla airport, this hospital too was founded by Sir Edmund Hillary. Recognizing the lack of medical facilities in the remote, mountainous areas of Nepal, he established Khunde Hospital in 1966 through his charitable organization, the Himalayan Trust, to provide essential healthcare services to the Sherpa community. Before the hospital was built, healthcare in the Khumbu region was extremely limited, and many locals had to travel long distances to seek medical attention. In response to this, Hillary initiated the hospital’s construction to ensure that the people of the Everest region had access to the medical care they desperately needed. The hospital was built with the support of New Zealand doctors and volunteers. However, it is now mainly run by a handful of local doctors, nurses and medical staff.

For trekkers and climbers in the Everest region, Khunde Hospital is often the first place to contact in case of medical emergencies. Whether it is a case of altitude sickness, a minor injury, or a more serious health issue, the hospital offers treatment and care. In addition to treating patients, the hospital plays a significant role in raising health awareness among the locals of the Everest region. By providing the local community with knowledge about hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention, it contributes to a long-term improvement in the overall health of the Khumbu region.

Operating a hospital at such a high elevation obviously comes with various challenges. Mainly, the remote location of the hospital makes it difficult to transport medical supplies and equipment. Then there is often the shortage of qualified medical staff as most of them are unwilling to work in such a remote region. Additionally, Khunde Hospital faces challenges due to its limited medical infrastructure. While it can treat a wide range of conditions, it lacks the advanced equipment and facilities. For example, complex surgeries or specialized medical procedures are difficult to carry out, and patients requiring such care must be transferred to larger hospitals in Kathmandu or other regions.

Despite these challenges, shortcomings and difficulties, Khunde Hospital continues to thrive, thanks to the support of donors and volunteers, as well as the dedication of local healthcare workers. Today, Khunde Hospital remains a vital healthcare facility that not only provides medical services but also stands as a symbol of humanity and community service in one of the remotest corners of the earth.