Mount Everest: The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Highest Peak

Mount Everest, towering at 29,031.7 feet (8,848.86 meters), is the highest point on Earth. Straddling the border between Nepal and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, it belongs to the Mahalangur Himal section of the Himalayas. In Nepal, it’s known as “Sagarmatha,” or “Forehead of the Sky,” while Tibetans call it “Chomolungma,” meaning “Holy Mother.” Local Sherpa communities refer to it as “Deudhunga” or “Third Pole,” reflecting the mountain’s cultural and spiritual significance. The English name “Everest” was given in the 19th century to honor Sir George Everest, a British surveyor general of India.

A Natural Wonder Formed Over Millions of Years

Mount Everest formed around 60 million years ago when the Indian tectonic plate collided with the Eurasian plate, thrusting the Himalayas skyward. Everest is still rising today—about 0.04 inches per year—making it a living, growing mountain.

Its neighboring peaks include Lhotse (27,940 feet), Nuptse (25,771 feet), and Changtse (24,870 feet), forming part of a stunning massif that defines the skyline of the Everest region.

A Brief History of Exploration

The earliest documented efforts to reach Everest’s summit began in the 1920s, with British expeditions approaching from the Tibetan side since Nepal didn’t allow foreign climbers at the time. George Mallory and Andrew Irvine’s mysterious disappearance during a 1924 summit attempt remains one of the greatest unsolved mysteries in mountaineering.

The first confirmed ascent came on May 29, 1953, when Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa of Nepal, reached the top via the southeast ridge.

Routes to the Summit

There are two main climbing routes:

Southeast Ridge (Nepal)

This is the most popular and commercially used path. Climbers begin their journey in Kathmandu, fly into the mountain airstrip in Lukla, and hike through the Khumbu Valley to Base Camp at 17,700 feet. The climb involves navigating the dangerous Khumbu Icefall, ascending through the Western Cwm, scaling the Lhotse Face, and making a final push to the summit from Camp IV at the South Col.

Reaching the top usually takes about 60 days, including time to acclimate.

North Ridge (Tibet)

This route is technically more challenging and starts from the Tibetan side. Climbers move through the Rongbuk Glacier to base camp and gradually make their way up through a series of camps and steep rock steps before reaching the summit pyramid. This climb typically takes about 50 days.

Only a small number of climbers attempt non-standard or more technical routes such as the West Ridge or East Ridge (Fantasy Ridge), which are rarely completed and carry a higher risk.

The Everest Base Camp Trek

For those not aiming to summit, trekking to Everest Base Camp is a bucket-list adventure in its own right. The trek takes 12 to 14 days, beginning in Lukla and passing through Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Trekkers are treated to incredible Himalayan views and cultural experiences. A highlight is the panoramic view of Everest from Kala Patthar (18,192 feet).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Mount Everest’s weather is extreme and unpredictable. January is the coldest month, with summit temperatures plunging to -76°F. The best time to climb is between April and May or from mid-June to August. Trekkers typically visit in the high seasons, spring (March to May) and fall (September to early December), when the skies are clearest.

Risks and Challenges

Climbing Everest is no walk in the park. Altitude sickness, avalanches, frostbite, and unpredictable storms make it a serious undertaking. The “death zone” above 26,000 feet has dangerously low oxygen levels, where the smallest mistake can be fatal. As of 2024, over 340 climbers have lost their lives on Everest, with more than 200 bodies remaining on the mountain.

The Cost of Climbing

Climbing Everest is also an expensive venture. A fully guided expedition can cost between $30,000 and $45,000, or more. Nepal charges a climbing permit fee of $11,000 (set to rise to $15,000 in 2025). Additional costs include oxygen, equipment, Sherpa support, guide services, and insurance. Budget expeditions are available for around $7,000 but offer minimal support.

Who Can Climb?

Climbers must be between 18 and 75 years old and are strongly encouraged to have prior experience on high-altitude peaks. Most climbers train for months beforehand and often attempt summits of 6,500-meter peaks like Lobuche East as preparation.

Nature and Culture

Despite its harsh environment, life exists high on Everest. You’ll find alpine mosses, high-flying bar-headed geese, and even tiny spiders at extreme altitudes. Yaks are commonly used to carry gear up to Base Camp. The southern side of Everest is protected within Sagarmatha National Park, while the northern side lies within China’s Qomolangma Nature Reserve.

Sherpa culture plays a central role in the Everest region. These resilient mountain people serve as guides and porters and regard the mountain as sacred. The Rongbuk Monastery near the northern base camp is a revered pilgrimage site.

Environmental Concerns

The mountain faces growing issues with pollution, especially human waste and trash left by climbers. Nepal now requires climbers to carry out 18 pounds of waste each. China closed its base camp to visitors without permits in 2019 due to excessive pollution. Cleanup campaigns are ongoing but need stronger global support.

Extreme Records and Feats

Everest has seen its share of world records. Reinhold Messner and Peter Habeler were the first to summit without supplemental oxygen in 1978. Kami Rita Sherpa has reached the summit a record 30 times. Erik Weihenmayer became the first blind climber to reach the top in 2001. Others have skied, snowboarded, BASE-jumped, and even paraglided from Everest’s flanks.

A Global Symbol of Adventure

While Mount Everest is not officially listed among the 7 natural wonders of the world, many believe it deserves a place on that list. Its sheer scale, dramatic beauty, and cultural significance make it one of the most iconic landmarks on the planet. Towering above the clouds and drawing adventurers from every corner of the globe, Everest stands as a true natural marvel.