Sherpa Museum – A Mini Museum of Tatra Porters

A mini-museum dedicated to the stories of Tatra porters

Sherpa Museum
Starý Smokovec
Since 2018

Inclusion on the Cultural Heritage List

Real-Life Stories

Active and Legendary Tatra Porters

Under One Roof

A museum, a café, and lodging

A museum that tells the stories of the Tatra porters

The Sherpa Museum in Starý Smokovec highlights the unique profession of high-mountain porters and their significance for the Tatra Mountains. Štefan Bačkor has created a space in the Swiss House filled with authentic artifacts, memories, and stories from both active and legendary porters.

Since 2018, high-altitude porters in the Tatra Mountains have been included on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Slovakia. You can combine a visit to the mini-museum with a coffee at Sherpa Caffe or a stay in the oldest building in Starý Smokovec.

Artifacts of the Tatra Porters
Stories of the Legends of Noser
The Historic Swiss House
What We Offer
Museum Exhibition
Historical artifacts
Stories of Porters

The Tatra Mountains wake up differently every day

Current conditions, upcoming events, and editorial recommendations. Everything you need to know before heading to the Tatras.

Webcams

Most sidewalks are open
The chairlifts are in operation
The bike trails are open

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the High Tatras region.

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    The High Tatras have something to offer all year round. The best time for high-altitude hiking is from June to October, when the hiking trails at higher elevations are open. Fall brings more stable weather, pleasant temperatures, and beautiful views. Winter is ideal for skiing, winter walks, and visiting locations that are accessible year-round. Before setting out on a trip, always check the current weather conditions and any trail closures.

    You do not need a special permit for regular hiking on marked trails. However, you must comply with TANAP’s visitor regulations and seasonal closures, and you may only hike on open trails. Special rules apply, for example, to rock climbing, ski mountaineering, hiking off marked trails, or bringing a dog into the park.

    You can easily reach the main Tatra resorts by train. The Tatra Electric Railways connect Poprad, Starý Smokovec, Štrbské Pleso, and Tatranská Lomnica. A cog railway runs from Štrba to Štrbské Pleso. You can also take advantage of regular bus routes and seasonal shuttle services in the region.

    You can park in designated parking lots in the various Tatra villages. During peak periods, we recommend using the P+R park-and-ride lot at Eurocamp in Tatranská Lomnica and continuing by shuttle bus. From this parking lot, you can take public transportation to destinations such as Tatranská Lomnica, Tatranské Matliare, Biela Voda, or the Belianska Cave.

    For hiking, choose sturdy hiking boots with non-slip soles that stabilize your feet and protect them on rocky or wet terrain. Your gear should also include weather-appropriate clothing and a rain jacket. Sandals and regular city shoes are not suitable for more demanding hikes.

    When a storm is approaching, leave peaks, ridges, saddles, mountain passes, and open areas as soon as possible. Descend to lower elevations, avoid standing near isolated trees or metal objects, and keep your distance from other members of your group. If possible, take shelter in a mountain hut or a safe building. The best prevention is to check the weather forecast, set out early in the morning, and shorten or cancel your hike in a timely manner if conditions take a turn for the worse. Safety must take precedence over reaching your destination.