Yeti Is Real

Many people who live in the part of the world around the Himalayas firmly believe in the creature known as the Yeti. It's a legend passed down through generations about a mystical, albeit real, being that protects the forest and mountains... and snacks on the occasional yak. The Yeti is seen as a positive force by the locals, but they are concerned about the reopening of the rail line through Forbidden Mountain. They're worried that it will disturb and anger the Yeti.

Here in Serka Zong, the Yeti is regarded with respect. Throughout the village are symbols of that reverence, from totems honoring the Yeti to the Yeti Mandir. A mandir is a Hindu temple, typically devoted to a primary deity, in this case the Yeti. Under the pagoda is a central shrine, including a statue of the Yeti and carvings dating to the 17th century.

A pair of stone guardians mark the entrance to the temple, where on the porch one finds a series of bells. In Hindu tradition, the ringing of the bell invokes the deity, calling up forces of good and casting out those of evil.

Visitors to the Yeti Mandir often bring symbolic offerings of fruit, flowers or other natural objects, placing them at the base of statues of the Yeti. It is their hope that these offerings will please the Yeti and encourage his protection.

Located further from town, right at the edge of the Forbidden Mountain, is an ancient fortress since converted into a shrine to the Yeti.

Inside the shrine are prayer flags, gongs, bells and all manner of items used in ceremonies to honor the Yeti. The mural on the inner wall depicts the Yeti as protector. It is seen standing guard over Forbidden Mountain, casting away evil spirits. As we set out on our expedition to Everest base camp, let's just hope the Yeti doesn't consider us a threat to this sacred land.