1) The Everest Height Debate:
We have all been hearing this ever since we were kids that Mt. Everest is the tallest peak in the world and it stands at the height of 8,848 meters. In fact, in 2020, Nepal and China jointly confirmed the height of the peak to be 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 ft).
But did you know that this iconic peak is still growing? Yes, Mt. Everest is growing a few millimeters every year as the Indian tectonic plate pushes against the Eurasian plate. Thus, the official height of Mt. Everest is constantly subject to change. Don’t get shocked if you hear in a few years that the height of the peak is a different number. When exploring Everest region, you are literally witnessing Sagarmatha rise before your very eyes.
2) It Used to Be an Ocean Floor:
Now, this one might be boggling for most of the readers but Mt. Everest once used to be an ocean floor. Yes, the highest point on earth today used to be at the bottom of an ancient ocean. And this is not a made-up fact; it has been proven by science that the rocks found on the summit of Mt. Everest are made up of marine limestone and sandstone which used to be found in ocean beds.
Scientists have even found fossils of sea creatures on the Everest. This means that the land we trek and climb now used to be submerged under a primordial ocean millions of years back. This fact also puts the monumental forces of the Earth into perspective.
3) There are Actually 2 Everest Base Camps:
Many trekkers have heard about only one Everest Base Camp, the one that is located on the Nepali side. Most of the trekking routes are made encompassing this base camp itself. However, Mt. Everest features not just one but two base camps. One lies in the side of Nepal, which is world famous, and the other less famous one lies towards the China side.
- EBC South (Nepal): This is the south base camp and the destination for the popular EBC trek. It is located on the Nepalese side and can be reached entirely on foot. This is the base camp where Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay began their historic ascent.
- EBC North (Tibet): This is the north base camp of Mt. Everest which is accessible by vehicle and thus is often considered a less authentic trekking experience. However, it does offer a closer initial view of the mountain’s face.
While both base camps have their own journey and overall experience, the journey to the South Base Camp is considered a more rewarding experience in terms of trekking.
4) The Airport You Fly Into is World’s Most Extreme:
For most trekkers, their journey towards the Everest Base Camp begins from Lukla airport, also known as the Tenzing-Hillary airport. Now, this airport is the most dangerous airport in the world. This airport is located at an altitude of 2,840 meters (9,318 feet) and it features a single airstrip, just of the length of 527 meters, that is perched on top of a steep mountainside. Flying from here and landing here is a very challenging task which is why only limited number of pilots have the permission to operate flights to and from the Lukla airport.
You will be taking the most thrilling flight of your life to begin your EBC journey and the mountain views that you will get from this flight along with the adrenaline rush is worth the giddiness that you are going to feel.
Also, despite the challenging structure and location of the airport, the Lukla airport has reported only 3 fatal incidents since it began its operation in 1971 and is considered rather safe. So, enjoy your flight without being worried.
5) Genetic Uniqueness of Sherpa People:
It is not possible to discuss about the Everest region without mentioning the people who make your expeditions possible, the unsung heroes of Everest region- the Sherpa people. Regarded as the guardians of the Himalayas, these people display a unique level of agility when it comes to surviving in the mountains due to which they are regarded as the undisputed masters of mountaineering.
However, it is not just their dedication behind it. You will be surprised to know that this agility is fueled by a genetic and psychological uniqueness. Because the Sherpas have lived in the Khumbu region for years, their body has adapted to the conditions.
Their bodies utilize oxygen far more efficiently than those of other people going from lower altitudes. This gives them a "superhuman" advantage at altitudes where other people struggle.
6) You Can Send a Postcard from the Roof of the World:
Imagine the feeling of sending someone, or yourself, a postcard from the top of the world. Isn’t it a different kind of thrill and joy? This is made possible at the Everest Base Camp. The Tibet Side of the Everest Base Camp features the Qomolangma post office which is the highest post office in the world. And it is not just a dummy post office, it is operational (intermittently). The post office located at an altitude of 5,200 meters is not operational throughout the year due to the harsh conditions, and it is merely even a proper official structure. However, you will be able to send a unique and cherished souvenir in the form of a postcard from here.
7) You Can’t See Everest from EBC:
While it might come as a shocker for most first time trekkers, you actually can’t see the Mt. Everest from the Everest Base Camp Trek. Now, isn’t that counterproductive? You can see glimpses of Mt. Everest on the way to the base camp, but from the base camp, the view of Mt. Everest is blocked by the Nuptse-Lhotse ridge that stands directly in the way.
So, if the view of Mt. Everest is really what you are after, your trek doesn’t end at the Everest Base Camp. You have to go further ahead to Kalapathhar from where you will get the most famous and unobstructed panoramic view of Mount Everest’s iconic summit, especially stunning at sunrise.
8) Culinary Experience at High Altitude:
Yes, the Everest region is located at a significantly high altitude which might even pose many challenges for people coming from lower altitudes near the sea level. However, this doesn’t stop the region from offering delicious food and other items.
You have all heard of the highest placed hotel in the world, i.e. Hotel Everest View located at 3,880 meters. Yes, you can get warm hospitality here along with good food and majestic views of Mt. Everest. But, did you know that the Everest region is also home to the highest bakery in the world which is located at an altitude of 4,910 meters in Lobuche? It is known as the ‘World’s Highest Bakery’.
And the desserts here are an absolute delight, especially when you have come here after a long day of trekking and are looking for a warm cup of coffee and an apple pie while you enjoy the mountain views.
Beyond that, the Everest region also has the highest Irish pub in the world. Sounds weird doesn’t it? On one hand we say the Khumbu region is remote, on the other hand it has the highest Irish Pub? This pub is made for the tourists that trek the Everest Base Camp every year. Need a pint to celebrate your acclimatization or to celebrate the success of your trek while you come back?
You can go to the Irish Pub in Namche Bazaar. However, make sure to not drink much, especially during your ascent as alcohol negatively impacts the acclimatization process and can make you prone to altitude sickness.
9) The ‘Capital of Khumbu’ Has All Sorts of Modern Luxuries:
Namche Bazaar, regarded as the capital of the Khumbu region, is home to all kinds of modern amenities. Here, you won’t feel like you have come to trek in one of the most remote corners of the world. You want to get a Wifi connection strong enough that you can post updates on your social media? You got it. You want to give your clothes for laundry? You got it.
You want to take long hot showers without worrying about the bucket being empty? You got it. You want to go out and enjoy some delicious meals from an international cuisine? You got it. Namche Bazaar features everything ranging from laundry stores, shops, bakeries, restaurants, cyber cafes, and more. You can even enjoy a few drinks at the Irish Pub as mentioned above.
Here, people often stay for acclimatization and that is the time when they go for souvenir shopping or simply to shop for trekking essentials. The village has everything that can make your trek more convenient and fun.
10) The Region is Full of Monasteries:
The people living in the Everest region are the followers of Tibetan Buddhism, and they are quite religious. This reflects in their attire, culture, as well as their festivals. However, the main glimpse into this is given by the number of monasteries, memorials, mani walls, and colorful prayer flags present along the region. You will be transferred into a spiritual realm.
From the beginning of the trek, you will notice the fluttering prayer flags with each one carrying thousands of wishes. Around these are the prayer wheels and mani walls which also symbolize religious connection. The Everest region is home to many small and big monasteries, locally known as gompas, including the Khumjung Gompa, Tengboche Monastery, Dingboche Monastery, Thame Monastery, and Pangboche Monastery.
Each of these monasteries have their own religious significance. The Tengboche monastery is considered the biggest monastery in the Everest region and it is also held in the highest regard. The monastery celebrates a 3-day long festival every year called the Mani Rimdu. This features all the people coming together to celebrate the victory of good over evil through spiritual dances and various rituals.
11) World’s Highest Marathon in the Everest Region:
You think trekking in the Everest region is tough? Think how tough it might be to actually run the entire trek. Yes, you heard it right. The Everest region features the highest marathon in the world. It is called the Tenzing-Hillary Everest Marathon which starts at Everest Base Camp and finishes near Namche Bazaar. So, you are not exactly climbing up throughout, you are mostly descending. But is it still equally tough. This marathon is held in May every year. The purpose of this marathon is to highlight the incredible endurance required to thrive at this altitude and it also serves as an exhilarating post climbing celebration.
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Conclusion
Now, you know that the Everest region is about much more than the Mt. Everest. It is the place where mountains whisper, legends breathe, and life thrives against all odds. From mythical tales to modern feats, every corner of Khumbu holds a story worth telling.legends breathe, and life thrives against all odds.
From mythical tales to modern facts, every corner of Khumbu holds a story worth telling. So much so that this journey is capable of surprising you every day. Now that you know some facts about the region, your trek can be an interactive journey.
Experience this fun side of Everest today by booking your Everest Base Camp adventure with Beyond the Limits Treks and Expeditions.
