Climbing Everest
Nepal
Mount Everest, standing majestically at 8,848 meters, is the highest peak in the world, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas in Nepal. This colossal giant challenges even the most experienced mountaineers with its extreme altitude and unpredictable weather conditions. The iconic South Col route is the most frequented path, offering climbers the classic Everest experience. The ascent is grueling, with the notorious Khumbu Icefall, the Lhotse Face, and the grueling push from Camp IV to the summit, where the infamous Hillary Step once stood. The thin air, compounded by fierce winds and bone-chilling temperatures, demands physical endurance and mental fortitude.
Everest is not just about reaching the summit; it’s about surviving the journey. The conditions above the Death Zone are unforgiving, with oxygen levels plummeting to a third of those at sea level. Acclimatization is crucial, and patience is key as climbers wait for the perfect weather window to attempt the summit. The route is often crowded, and the timing of your ascent can be the difference between success and an arduous retreat. The summit itself, a small dome of snow, offers a brief moment of triumph before the equally challenging descent begins. Respect for the mountain and the elements is paramount, as Everest has seen its fair share of triumphs and tragedies.
While the allure of Everest is undeniable, it's essential to approach it with humility and preparedness. The mountain’s history is rich with tales of heroism and perseverance, testament to the human spirit. It's not merely a climb but a profound experience that tests one's limits. For those determined to take on this formidable challenge, there are 44 guides offering expeditions to the summit. Each journey up Everest is unique, with every climber leaving with stories etched into their memory, forever changed by the experience.
Table of contents
Route
- 6,008 m gain over 60 days
- Starting and ending in Lukla
- approach: walk in, fly, helicopter
Walk in
- +2,524 m over a 65 km approach
- 7 - 10 days in
- 3 - 4 days out
Climb
- +3,484 m over 40 days.
- 4 high camps. All four high camps are typically used during the climb for acclimatization and logistical staging.
Difficulty
- AD: Fairly hard (alpine grade 3)
When to go
- April and May
Guide mandatory?
- yes
- Either hiring a guide or being part of an expedition team is mandated by Nepali law.
These are pictures taken while climbing Everest. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of mountaineering Everest, to help the community of climbers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (there own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.
Guide links
Everest History
Climbing history of Everest
The history of Mount Everest is rich with tales of adventure, triumph, and tragedy. Early summit attempts began in the 1920s, when British expeditions made several bold efforts to reach the peak. The first reconnaissance mission in 1921, led by George Mallory and Guy Bullock, mapped out possible routes from the north. The 1922 and 1924 expeditions marked the first serious summit attempts, with Mallory famously disappearing during the latter, sparking debate over whether he and Andrew Irvine reached the top.
It wasn't until May 29, 1953, that Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa of Nepal, successfully reached the summit of Everest, forever etching their names in the annals of mountaineering history. This ascent opened the door for countless others to attempt the climb, transforming Everest into a symbol of human determination and the ultimate mountaineering challenge.
The region surrounding Everest is home to the Sherpa people, whose rich culture and knowledge of the high-altitude landscape have been integral to the success of many expeditions. Their expertise and resilience in the harsh conditions of the Himalayas have made them invaluable companions on the treacherous journey to the top of the world.
Base Camp
Camp 1
Camp 2 (Advanced Base Camp)
Camp 3
Camp 4 (South Col)
Summit
Walk in from Lukla while acclimating. Walk back out (or heli). Plenty of alternate routes if you want to walk both ways and mix things up.
Everest weather
How is the weather on Everest, and when is the best time to go.
The best time to climb Everest is in these months:
- Apr
- May
Everest Services
Gear rental, porters, guides, transport, internet, accommodation
Accommodation
Above base camp, climbers use high-altitude tents set up at designated camps (Camp 1 through Camp 4). Base camp accommodations include expedition tents with cooking and dining facilities provided by operators.Food
At base camp, operators provide prepared meals tailored to high-altitude nutrition. Above base camp, dehydrated and lightweight meals are the norm, often prepared by climbers or expedition staff using portable stoves.Guides
High-altitude guides, often Sherpas, are essential for navigation, safety, and carrying gear. Costs can range from $5,000 to $10,000 depending on the services provided, with expertise in handling emergencies and route fixing.Porters
Porters are typically used to carry loads to base camp. Above base camp, high-altitude porters or Sherpas may assist with carrying gear to higher camps, charging significantly more due to the altitude and risk.Medical facilities
Base camp often has medical tents staffed by professionals specializing in high-altitude medicine. Above base camp, climbers rely on their training, first aid kits, and emergency oxygen for medical issues.Gear rental
Specialized gear like down suits, crampons, ice axes, and oxygen systems are critical and often provided or rented through expedition operators. It's recommended to bring personal equipment for comfort and reliability.Transport
Climbers typically fly to Lukla and trek to base camp. Helicopters may be used for gear transport or emergency evacuations. Some use helicopters back to Lukla for a faster way out, but on the way in walking is used in order to acclimate.Internet / Phone
Satellite phones and radios are the primary means of communication above base camp. Internet and cell coverage are limited to base camp, where paid Wi-Fi services are available.ATMs
There are no ATMs past Namche Bazaar (which you'll pass walking in from Lukla.Shops
Base camp has limited access to expedition operators' gear and supplies, but climbers are expected to bring all essential gear and consumables with them to the mountain.Everest access - getting there
How to get to Everest
Everest questions
What to know about climbing Everest
Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.
These climbs are similar in length, difficulty, and elevation. Offering a similar level of challenge as the Everest climb.
