Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, is a fascinating and awe-inspiring natural wonder. Here are 10 interesting facts about Mount Everest.
1. Height
Mount Everest is 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) tall, making it the highest point on Earth above sea level.
2. Name
The mountain is named after Sir George Everest, a British surveyor general of India. Its original name in Nepali is "Sagarmatha" which means "Forehead in the Sky," and in Tibetan, it is called "Chomolungma" which means "Goddess Mother of the World."
3. First Ascent
The first successful ascent of Everest was made by Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa of Nepal, on May 29, 1953.
4. Death Zone
The area above 8,000 meters (26,247 feet) on Everest is known as the "Death Zone" because of the extremely low levels of oxygen and harsh weather conditions, making it extremely difficult for climbers to survive.
5. Fastest Ascent
The fastest ascent of Everest without supplemental oxygen was accomplished by Spanish climber Kilian Jornet in 2017, who reached the summit in just 26 hours from the base camp.
6. Environmental Concerns
Due to climate change, the glaciers around Everest are melting, leading to concerns about the long-term viability of climbing routes and the impact on local communities.
7. Most Climbs
The record for the most number of ascents of Everest is held by Kami Rita Sherpa, who has reached the summit 25 times as of 2021.
8. Trash on Everest
Over the years, Everest has become littered with trash left behind by climbers. Efforts are being made to clean up the mountain and reduce the environmental impact of climbing.
9. Communication
Despite its remote location, Everest is equipped with 3G and 4G coverage, allowing climbers and visitors to stay connected.
10. Sherpas
The Sherpa people, native to the Himalayas, are known for their skill in mountaineering and often serve as guides and support for climbers attempting to summit Everest.