The Sir Edmund Hillary Visitors Centre in Khumjung received the International Award for Architecture at the New Zealand Architecture Awards 2024. This incredible recognition highlights the hard work, dedication, and excellence that went into creating a world-class visitors’ center amidst the majestic Himalayas.

This award is not just an architectural milestone but a testament to the enduring legacy of Sir Edmund Hillary, connecting visitors to his inspiring story and the vibrant culture of the Khumbu region.

Rick Pearson  (Pearson & Associates) and Alexa Johnson were there for all their work on the project and Alexander Hillary attended on behalf of Sarah and Peter Hillary. 

“This modest ‘school house in the clouds’ has a huge cultural significance to the local community and Nepal at large,”

Pearson & Associates Architect said in their submission.

The visitors centre opened on May 29 last year and has been well received and well visited since. 

The Himalayan Trust is incredibly proud that this centre tells the incredible story of Sir Ed and the many Kiwi and Sherpa volunteers that made the work possible. We also acknowledge the commitment and dedication from Sarah Hillary, Peter Hillary, Rick Pearson, Alexa Johnson and the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative that made the centre possible. 

Read more about the Architecture awards and the visitors centre at the link below: 

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/534585/architecture-awards-recognise-sir-edmund-hillary-visitor-centre-dunedin-heritage-railway?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Mail%20by%20Runner%20-%20%20The%20New%20Zealand%20Architecture%20Awards%20in%20the%20Himalayas%21&utm_campaign=Mail%20by%20Runner%20%28130%29