International Everest Day: Why climbing Mount Everest remains a monumental achievement

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International Everest Day is observed on May 29 every year to honour the first successful ascent of Mount Everest by Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary on this day in 1953. Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth, stands at an elevation of 8,848.86 meters above sea level.

Climbers are required to obtain a climbing permit. The cost of climbing Mount Everest can vary widely depending on several factors, including the route chosen, the guiding company, the level of support provided, and individual preferences. On average, climbers can expect to spend anywhere from $40,000 to $100,000 or more for an expedition to Mount Everest.

An Everest expedition typically takes between 60 to 70 days to complete, encompassing acclimatisation periods, climbing rotations, rest days, and summit attempts.

Mount Everest climbers confront extreme cold, low humidity, low air pressure, and intense UV radiation. These extreme environmental factors pose significant challenges to climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest and require careful preparation, acclimatisation, and protective measures to mitigate risks and ensure safety.

Everest climbers take two weeks to reach the Base Camp, then acclimate there for two more weeks before ascent

At altitudes above 5,000 feet, Everest climbers experience breathlessness due to decreased oxygen levels

Above 6,600 feet, Everest climbers encounter mountain sickness symptoms: Headache, fatigue, stomach illness, dizziness, and sleep disturbance

Above 8,000 feet, individuals may experience acute mountain sickness (AMS), which can impact the brain and lungs

At altitudes above 10,000 feet, climbers may experience hallucinations and impaired decision-making due to low blood oxygen levels.

At altitudes ranging from 11,500 to 18,000 feet, individuals may experience extreme hypoxemia, which can be fatal if ignored