As the highest mountain on earth and head of the Eight Thousanders, reaching the summit of Mount Everest is often considered to be the ultimate achievement for mountaineers and because of the cost involved in the expedition as well as the lengthy duration, it is for many people a once in a lifetime experience.
Everest is situated in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas on the border of Nepal and Tibet and even though there are a number of recognised routes to the summit, the two most common approaches to the mountain begin from Nepal in the South, and Tibet in the North.
The South Col route which takes the South East Ridge to the summit is known as the standard route. Most tour operators opt to use this route as the Base Camp is very well established and allows climbers access to all the facilities and comforts that it has to offer. It is also technically easier than the North Col route.
The North Col route takes the North East Ridge to the summit is increasing in popularity but remains a little less travelled as the weather conditions tend to be a bit tougher than the South Col route and the Base Camps are not as equipped as the south side.
Mount Everest is best climbed in the spring months of April to May. Though summer may seem the obvious choice, it is monsoon season so heavy rain can hinder your progress.
1st Summit, Success Rates & Deaths
- First recorded successful summit made in 1953 by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay
- Approximately 800 people attempt the summit every year and of those roughly 60% successfully summit
- From 1953 to date there have been 297 deaths recorded on Everest
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