Mount Everest, the tallest peak on Earth, is not just a breathtaking sight, but also a realm of adventure waiting to be explored. While you might know the basics, like its location, transportation, and climate, there’s so much more to discover!

Here, we share 10 interesting facts about Everest that you might not know. Get ready for some fun and inspiration before your journey to the top of the world.

1. Mount Everest Has Two Heights

Both 8844.43 meters and 8848.86 meters are official heights of Mount Everest, determined by different measurement methods in China and Nepal. The former is based on the height of the snow top, while the latter is based on the height of the rock formation on the top of the mountain.

In 2020, China and Nepal reached a consensus and jointly announced that the latest height of Mount Everest is 8,848.86 meters.

The latest recorded altitude of Mount Everest is 8,848.86 meters.

2. Mount Everest is the Highest but NOT the Tallest Mountain in the World

Although Mount Everest has an altitude of 8,848 meters and is currently the highest mountain above sea level, it is actually not the tallest mountain in itself.

The tallest mountain on Earth is Mauna Kea, a volcano in Hawaii. From its base to peak, the Manua Kea is 10,210 meters but 6,005 meters are below sea level. The altitude is just 4,205 meters.

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour: Marvel at Mt.Everest Real Close from 4 Different Viewing Platforms

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Shigatse - Lhasa

Price from USD949 p.p

3. Mount Everest Rises 4mm Every Year

Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, is still growing up. As part of the Himalayas, Mount Everest has been pushed up along with the mountain range as the Indian and Eurasian plates collide and has risen about 40 centimeters in height over the past century.

Mount Everest and the Himalayas are still growing due to crustal movement.

4. Mount Everest was First Attempted in 1921 (Failed to Summit)

Mount Everest was first attempted in 1921 by a British expedition led by Charles Howard-Bury. The team explored the northeastern ridge of Mount Everest and reached around 7,000 meters. Though they did not succeed in summiting the peak, they collected a lot of valuable data about Mount Everest and brought the mountain to the world's attention.

5. Mount Everest was First Successfully Summited on May 29, 1953

On May 29, 1953, a New Zealand Explorer, Edmund Hillary, and his Sherpa Guide, Tenzing Norgay, successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest via the South Col route. After weeks of acclimatization and preparation, they reached the summit early in the morning. It was the first time that human beings reached the summit of the world’s highest peak.

6. About 200 People Climbed Mount Everest Without Oxygen Supply

Believe it or not, it is possible to climb Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen. Among the more than 5,000 people who have successfully climbed Mount Everest, only about 200 have achieved the feat of climbing Mount Everest without oxygen. This is not showcasing extraordinary physical demand but also extraordinary mental endurance.

7. There are Traffic Jams on Mount Everest

Surprisingly, even the roof of the world experiences traffic jams! As more climbers seek to conquer Mount Everest, the peak season from April to May and September to October has become increasingly crowded. Particularly in the golden period of May, the brief climbing window attracts a large number of mountaineers, resulting in lengthy waits on the route. This congestion not only makes Mount Everest climbing more challenging but also increases the risk of ice breakage.

The traffic jams on Mount Everset

8. Mount Everest Looks Different in Nepal and Tibet

Located on the border between China and Nepal, Mount Everest presents two distinct faces on either side. From the southern side of Nepal, Mount Everest is often seen as majestic and imposing, surrounded by lush landscapes and bustling base camps.

Mount Everest in Nepal looks different from its appearance in Tibet.

In contrast, the northern side of the Tibet Autonomous Region reveals a more barren, stark beauty, characterized by rugged terrain and remote landscapes. The snow-capped triangle rising in the wilderness is the highest peak in the world.

You can take an Everest trek in Nepal to witness the southern side of Mount Everest, while in Tibet, you can easily reach the northern Everest Base Camp without trekking or climbing, allowing you to see the summit up close.

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour: Marvel at Mt.Everest Real Close from 4 Different Viewing Platforms

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Shigatse - Lhasa

Price from USD949 p.p

9. There are no Humans but Spiders at 6,700 Meters on Mount Everest

At 6,700 meters above sea level on Mount Everest lies the inhabited area, where a unique spider species thrives. The tiny jumping spiders, known as Euophrys Omnisuperstes, are the only animals that permanently reside at such high altitudes. These remarkable spiders are among the world’s highest permanent residents, feeding on insects that strong winds carry up the mountain.

There are more creatures living at altitudes of 5,000 to 6,000 meters, such as snow leopards, blue sheep, Tibetan wild donkeys, etc.

10. Birds can Fly over Mount Everest

The bar-headed geese are the only birds known to fly over Mount Everest, soaring above 8,00 meters (about 26,200 feet) in altitude, flying through the thin air with amazing efficiency. Their unique physiology, including more powerful lungs and a high concentration of hemoglobin, allows them to extract oxygen more efficiently. As migratory birds, the bar-headed geese fly over the Himalayas twice a year.

Bar-headed geese are birds known for their ability to fly over Mount Everest.

11. 5G Signal Now Available on Mount Everest

Mount Everest now features 5G signal coverage, which is particularly notable on the northern side of Mount Everest in China, where improved Wi-Fi signals provide better communication options. Moreover, the world’s highest 5G base station is located at an elevation of 6,500 meters on the northern side of Mt.Everest, providing coverage even at the peak of Mount Everest. It's incredibly convenient to share your travel experiences during your Everest Base Camp tour.

10 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp, Namtso Lake and Holy Elephant Gate Small Group Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - EBC - Shigatse - North Tibet Grassland - Bange - Namtso Lake - Holy Elephant Gate - Lhasa

Price from USD1299 p.p

12. About 231 Guinness World Records about Mount Everest

In the Guinness Book of World Records, there are about 231 world records related to Mount Everest, such as the first ascent of Everest, the first blind man to conquer Everest, the fastest ascent of Everest, the longest stay on Everest summit, etc. Each record tells a story of determination and self-discovery, as adventurers push their limits to conquer this majestic giant. This is why Mount Everest is so special to attract countless brave souls eager to take on its challenges, making it a must-visit destination for adventurers.

Visiting Everest Base Camp at over 5,000 meters is also a personal achievement for you.

Conclusion

Known as the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest isn’t technically the tallest mountain on Earth when measured from base to summit. Yet, at over 8,000 meters, there are still birds to soar above. Since the first successful summit in 1953, Mount Everest has drawn countless adventurers eager to challenge themselves. Many have left their mark with remarkable world records, enriching the experience for ordinary tourists.

If these fun facts about Mount Everest have sparked your interest, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! Visiting Everest is more accessible than you might think. Join us for an unforgettable Mount Everest tour to explore this iconic peak together!