What it takes to climb the tallest mountain on the planet? Let us delve deep into the story of this famous mountain on the occasion of Mount Everest Day. From its rich past to the hurdles faced by climbers, along with the victories, to understanding the environmental impact of climbing it and what Everest means to the people who live nearby.
Discover the answers to 7 important questions about Mount Everest Day!
When is Mount Everest Day?
The day that commemorates Mount Everest is May 29. But do you know why? Not many know that such a day is a tribute to the first pioneers who conquered the mountain back in 1953. Their significant achievement went beyond personal victory; it was a huge milestone for all of humankind.
Where is Mount Everest Located?
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Mount Everest is in the Himalayas, on the border between Nepal and Tibet. Precisely, nestled within the Mahalangur Himal subrange of the Himalayas, its peak pierces the “death zone,” where the atmosphere thins to an unbreathable level. Likewise, temperatures plummet, and winds rage, which is a cruel test to the limits of human endurance. Only the most determined mountaineers, equipped with bottled oxygen, can attempt to conquer this frigid realm.
Mount Everest is much more than just the tallest mountain on Earth. It represents how Nepal and China worked together and highlights the power of human dreams. Since the first climb, it has been a beacon of adventurous spirit, human strength, perseverance, and the thrill of exploration.
Who Were the first to conquer the Everest?
Edmund Hilary, a beekeeper from New Zealand, and Tenzing Norgay, a Nepali Sherpa, were the first climbers to conquer Mount Everest. This historic ascent capped years of grueling expeditions for them. Hillary, a man of adventure, continued to push his limits and explored the North and South Poles. Norgay, on the other side, became a national hero in Nepal and India and inspired generations with his achievements.
Their success served as a stark reminder of the challenges of climbing such dangerous mountains. Climbers encounter freezing temperatures, the air is so thin it’s hard to breathe, and accidents that can happen fast. Only the most brave and resilient like Edmund and Tenzing can surpass their own limits. Not in vain, stories of Everest expeditions highlight these traits, with tales of inspiring successes and tragic losses, showing just how unforgiving the mountain can be.
What Does it Take Emotionally to Summit Mount Everest?
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Would you dare to climb Mount Everest? While the views might be breathtaking, your body would be under immense stress. Headaches would throb, sleep would be elusive, and dizziness might make every step a challenge. Even breathing would become a struggle, leaving you breathless and exhausted. To add to that, nausea, coughing, and a complete lack of appetite would make the climb even more grueling. This is because of altitude sickness, and it’s why the most elite climbers only can reach the summit without extra oxygen. The lack of oxygen can cloud your thinking and even damage brain cells. Then there’s the extreme, unpredictable weather, and bone-chillingly cold. Those are just some reasons why conquering Everest is such an incredible feat not everyone can achieve.
In What Ways Does Climbing Everest Influence its Ecosystem?
The beauty of the Himalayas hides a troubling truth about Mount Everest. The allure of reaching the summit for many climbers comes with a hefty environmental impact. Tons of discarded equipment, such as empty oxygen tanks, abandoned tents, food envelopes, and various debris litter the mountain. Some estimates throw a staggering 30 tons!
It isn’t an aesthetic blemish, but a serious threat to the health of the local communities. The waste pollutes the water sources they rely on and harms their well-being. But the environmental effects go further than just trash. The influx of visitors has also put a lot of pressure on the nearby resources. For example, forests are disappearing as they’re cut down for campfires, and traditional clothing and food are being replaced by mass-produced goods. Overall, all of these raise worries about losing culture and harming nature.
Why Do We Celebrate Mount Everest?
For over five centuries, the Sherpa people have called the Everest region their home. They revere the mountain as a sacred place inhabited by Miyolangsangma, a Tibetan Buddhist goddess that represents infinite generosity. According to their beliefs, in the beginning, it was feared as a terrifying demon, but it transformed thanks to a Buddhist master. Mount Everest thus embodies not only stunning beauty but also the inherent dangers and unpredictable power of nature.
How is Mount Everest Day Observed?
Every year, Nepal celebrates under the towering presence of its renowned mountain, paying tribute to Everest’s storied past and breathtaking beauty, and also highlighting the captivating world of Himalayan tourism. Climbers who’ve braved the peak share their stories alongside government officials and local businesses. Parades wind through the streets of Kathmandu, and special events and memorials take place closer to Everest itself.
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