Where is Mount Everest Located? Facts & Location
Discover where Mount Everest is located: on the Nepal-China border in the Himalayas. Learn its height, history, climbing facts, and why it's the world's highest peak. Essential guide for adventurers and explorers.
Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain above sea level at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet), straddles the border between Nepal and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Known locally as Sagarmatha in Nepal and Chomolungma in Tibetan, it anchors the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas. This iconic peak draws climbers, scientists, and tourists seeking its breathtaking views and challenges.
Precise Geographical Location of Mount Everest
Mount Everest lies at coordinates 27°59′17″N 86°55′31″E, precisely on the Nepal-Tibet border. From Nepal's side, access is via Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Nagarik Hila in Solukhumbu District, while the north approach is through Tibet's Qomolangma National Nature Preserve. The mountain forms part of the Great Himalaya range, separating the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which continue to push it upward by about 4 mm annually.
Nepal Base Camp: South Col route at 5,364 meters, starting from Lukla Airport.
Tibet Base Camp: North Col route at 5,150 meters, accessible via Rongbuk Monastery.
Surrounding Peaks: Shares ridges with Lhotse (8,516 m) and Nuptse (7,861 m).
Physical Features and Height Measurement
Everest's summit features a yellowish limestone cap from ancient seabeds, with steep rock and ice faces. Its height was first precisely measured in 1955 as 8,848 meters, refined in 2020 to 8,848.86 meters via GPS by a Chinese-Nepali survey. The Khumbu Icefall and Western Cwm are key challenges on ascent routes. Weather extremes include winds over 280 km/h and temperatures dropping to -60°C.
History of Discovery and Naming
Named after Sir George Everest, Surveyor General of India, in 1865 by the Royal Geographical Society, though locals used Chomolungma ('Goddess Mother of the World'). First sighted by Westerners in 1802, its height was calculated in the 1850s via triangulation. Nepal opened it to foreigners in 1950, leading to the first confirmed ascent by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on May 29, 1953.
1953 First Ascent: British expedition via South Col.
1975 First Woman: Junko Tabei from Japan.
1990s Boom: Commercial climbing exploded, with over 600 summits yearly.
Climbing Mount Everest: Routes and Challenges
Over 6,000 summits recorded by 2023, with Southeast Ridge (Nepal) being the standard route. Dangers include altitude sickness, avalanches, and overcrowding—2019 saw 11 deaths. Permits cost around $11,000 (Nepal) or $38,000 (Tibet), requiring experienced Sherpa guides. Fixed ropes and ladders aid the Hillary Step, now altered by earthquakes.
- Trek to Base Camp (8-10 days).
- Acclimatization climbs to Camp 2.
- Summit push from Camp 4 at 7,920 meters.
- Descent within 24 hours to avoid storms.
Cultural and Environmental Significance
Sacred to Sherpas and Tibetans, Everest hosts prayer flags and monasteries. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site via Sagarmatha National Park. Climate change melts glaciers, increasing lake outburst floods, while 12 tons of trash have been removed in cleanups. Tourism boosts Nepal's economy but strains resources.
Conclusion: Why Visit or Climb Everest
Mount Everest symbolizes human endurance and nature's majesty. Whether trekking to Base Camp or summiting, preparation and respect for its power are essential. Ongoing surveys monitor its growth amid geological shifts.