Mount Everest Travel Guide: Explore the Roof of the World

Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, rises majestically to an awe-inspiring height of 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet). Nestled in the Himalayas on the Nepal-Tibet border, Everest is not just a geographical wonder — it’s a symbol of human ambition, adventure, and endurance. For mountaineers, trekkers, and thrill-seekers, Everest represents the ultimate bucket-list destination.
 

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the history of Mount Everest, how to get there, the best trekking routes, climbing tips, travel logistics, and what to expect when visiting the most iconic mountain on the planet.

🗺️ Overvie

w of Mount Everest

Location: Nepal-Tibet border, Mahalangur Himal (part of the Himalayas)

Height: 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet)

First Successful Summit: Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, May 29, 1953

Local Names: "Sagarmatha" (Nepali), "Chomolungma" (Tibetan)

Best Time to Visit: April–May, September–November

📜 The History of Mount Everest

Discovery and Naming

Mount Everest was officially named in 1865 by the Royal Geographical Society in honor of Sir George Everest, the British Surveyor General of India. Prior to this, it was simply referred to as Peak XV. Local communities, however, had known the mountain for centuries: to the Nepalis, it’s Sagarmatha, meaning “Goddess of the Sky,” and to Tibetans, Chomolungma, or “Mother Goddess of the Universe.”

The First Ascent

On May 29, 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa from Nepal, made history as the first people to successfully summit Mount Everest. Their achievement marked the beginning of modern Everest mountaineering.

🧭 How to Get to Mount Everest

1. Reaching Nepal

Most travelers begin their journey in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. The Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is the main gateway for international visitors.

2. Lukla – The Gateway to Everest

From Kathmandu, trekkers typically fly to Lukla Airport, known as one of the world’s most thrilling airports. From Lukla, the trekking journey to Everest Base Camp (EBC) begins.

⚠️ Pro Tip: Flights to Lukla are often delayed due to weather conditions. Be prepared for flexible scheduling.

🥾 Trekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC)

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic hikes in the world. While it doesn't take you to the summit, it offers incredible views of Everest and a chance to experience Sherpa culture.

Trek Overview:

Duration: 12–15 days (round trip from Lukla)

Maximum Altitude: 5,364 m (Everest Base Camp)

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Best Season: March–May, September–November

Key Stops Along the Way:

Namche Bazaar: Sherpa capital and acclimatization stop

Tengboche Monastery: Spiritual center with panoramic views

Dingboche and Lobuche: High-altitude villages for rest and acclimatization

Gorak Shep: The final stop before reaching EBC

Tips for the EBC Trek:

Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.

Stay hydrated and maintain a slow, steady pace.

Hire a local guide or join a group for safety and cultural insight.

🧗 Climbing Mount Everest: The Ultimate Challenge

For many, summiting Everest is a lifelong dream. But it's a physically and mentally demanding expedition that requires careful preparation.

Popular Climbing Routes:

South Col Route (Nepal side) – The most commonly used route.

North Ridge Route (Tibet side) – More technically challenging and less crowded.

Climbing Season:

Pre-monsoon (Spring): April to early June – Ideal weather conditions.

Post-monsoon (Fall): Late September to early November – Less popular due to unstable weather.

Key Camps on the South Col Route:

Base Camp (5,364 m)

Camp I (6,065 m)

Camp II (6,400 m)

Camp III (7,200 m)

Camp IV (7,920 m)

Summit (8,848.86 m)

Requirements:

High-altitude mountaineering experience

Excellent physical condition

A guided expedition (mandatory for most climbers)

Everest climbing permit (~$11,000 USD from the Nepalese government)

⚠️ Note: Climbing Everest is dangerous. Be aware of risks such as avalanches, crevasses, altitude sickness, and the "death zone" above 8,000 meters.

🌄 Things to Do Near Mount Everest (For Non-Climbers)

Not everyone comes to Everest to climb it. The surrounding Khumbu Region offers amazing experiences:

Trekking in Sagarmatha National Park

Exploring Namche Bazaar

Visiting Tengboche Monastery

Helicopter Tours to Everest Base Camp

Photography and Wildlife Viewing

🛌 Where to Stay

In Kathmandu:

Luxury: Dwarika’s Hotel, Hyatt Regency

Mid-range: Hotel Shanker, Ambassador Garden Home

Budget: Zostel Kathmandu, Alobar1000

On the Everest Trek:

Teahouses (basic lodges) are available in every village. They offer:

Shared rooms or dormitories

Local Nepali meals (dal bhat, momos)

Hot showers (for a fee)

Wi-Fi and charging (in some locations)

🍛 What to Eat

Trekking in the Himalayas doesn’t mean going hungry! Enjoy:

Dal Bhat: Traditional Nepali lentils with rice and vegetables

Sherpa Stew: Hearty soup with noodles and meat

Momos: Nepali dumplings

Tsampa: Roasted barley flour, a Tibetan staple

🏔️ Essential Travel Tips for Everest

✅ Altitude Sickness Prevention:

Ascend slowly and acclimate at designated stops.

Drink 3–4 liters of water daily.

Avoid alcohol and smoking.

✅ Packing List:

Sturdy trekking boots

Down jacket and thermal layers

Sleeping bag rated for -10°C or colder

Sunscreen and UV sunglasses

Refillable water bottles and purification tablets

✅ Permits Needed:

TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)

Sagarmatha National Park Permit

Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Municipality Permit

Climbing Permit (if summiting)

🌤️ Climate and Best Time to Visit

Mount Everest's climate is cold year-round. The best time to visit is during pre-monsoon (spring) and post-monsoon (fall).

🙏 Culture and Respect

Everest is sacred to local communities. Show respect by:

Not pointing at mountains with a single finger (use whole hand)

Asking before taking photos of people or religious sites

Dressing modestly in villages

Learning a few words in Nepali or Sherpa dialect

🌟 Fun Facts About Mount Everest

Everest grows by about 4 mm each year due to tectonic activity.

Over 6,000 climbers have reached the summit since 1953.

The youngest person to summit Everest was 13 years old; the oldest was 80.

Reinhold Messner was the first to climb Everest without supplemental oxygen in 1978.

🧳 Final Thoughts

Mount Everest is more than just the world’s tallest mountain — it's a place of legend, beauty, and inspiration. Whether you dream of reaching the summit, trekking to Everest Base Camp, or simply experiencing the Himalayan majesty from afar, a journey to Everest is unforgettable.

From the rugged trails to the warm hospitality of the Sherpa people, every step is a testament to the human spirit and the allure of the mountains. Plan wisely, respect the land, and embrace the adventure of a lifetime.