Mount Everest, standing at 29,035 feet (8,848 meters) above sea level, is the tallest mountain in the world and sits directly on the border between Tibet and Nepal. The first successful ascent of Mount Everest was made by Edmund Hillary, a New Zealander, and Tenzing Norgay, a Nepalese Sherpa, on May 29, 1953. Since then, many climbers have attempted to reach the summit, with varying degrees of success and tragedy.
There are two primary routes to the summit: the South Col Route and the Northeast Ridge. The South Col Route starts in Kathmandu, Nepal, and involves trekking to the South Side Everest Base Camp. From there, climbers typically establish three camps at varying altitudes before attempting the final push to the summit. The Northeast Ridge Route, on the other hand, starts in Lhasa, Tibet, and involves a drive across the Tibetan Plateau to the North Side Everest Base Camp.
Climbing Mount Everest is a significant financial investment. As of 2023, the cost of an Everest expedition can range from $30,000 to $160,000, with the average cost around $50,000. This cost includes gear, which can range from $6,000 to $8,000, permits, which can cost up to $11,000 plus additional fees, and the cost of hiring Sherpas, which can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more. Food and transportation to and from the mountain are additional costs.
The climbing season for Everest is typically between April and June. However, the 2023 season was the deadliest in history, with a record number of climbing permits issued and a high number of fatalities. As a result, the Nepalese government has implemented new rules requiring climbers to have prior experience climbing a peak in Nepal of at least 6,500 meters, to complete a basic mountaineering training, and to submit a certificate of health and physical fitness.
Despite the risks and costs, many climbers are drawn to Everest for the challenge and the chance to stand on the roof of the world. However, it’s important for anyone considering such an endeavor to be fully prepared, both physically and mentally, and to understand the potential dangers involved.
