7 Facts about Mount Everest

Mount_Everest_as_seen_from_Drukair2.jpg: shrimpo1967derivative work: Papa Lima Whiskey 2, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Height of Mount Everest

At a staggering height of 8848 meters, Mount Everest stands just below the cruising altitude of a jumbo jet. Initially established at 8840 meters in 1856, it remains the world's highest peak according to the official measurement provided by the Nepalese government, a height that was confirmed in 1955.

Changes in Mount Everest Height

However, there is a discrepancy as the Chinese estimate Everest's height to be 8844 meters. The devastating 2015 earthquake led to speculation that the mountain's height might have changed, prompting ongoing remeasurements by scientists, a project slated for completion before 2020.

Formation of Himalayas

Everest's origins trace back over 60 million years when the collision of the Indian and Asian continental plates gave birth to this majestic peak. The formation of the Himalayas, the world's loftiest mountain range, occurred as India's plate slid beneath Asia, elevating vast landmasses.

Growth of Himalayas

The mountain continues to rise, increasing approximately 44 millimeters each year due to the constant movement of massive tectonic plates beneath the Himalayas.

Mountain more higher than Himalayas

Interestingly, while Everest is renowned as the world's highest peak above sea level, the title of the tallest mountain belongs to Mauna Kea, rising a massive 10,200 meters from its base on the ocean floor. However, most of Mauna Kea's mass remains submerged beneath the ocean's surface.

Original name of Mount Everest

Furthermore, the name "Mount Everest" is often mispronounced. Originally identified by Sir George Everest in 1841 and named Peak 15, it was officially named Mount Everest in 1865 in honor of Sir George. Therefore, the correct pronunciation is 'Eve-rest' and not 'Ever-est,' following the pronunciation of the British surveyor’s surname.

Mount everest, Napalese view

Interestingly, Everest carries different names in local cultures. Nepalese refer to it as Sagarmatha, meaning ‘Goddess of the Sky,’ while Tibetans call it Chomolungma, translating to ‘Goddess Mother of Mountains.’ The peak holds deep religious significance, requiring climbers to seek permission and perform a sacred ritual, known as the puja ceremony, at Everest Base Camp before attempting to summit. This ritual ensures safe passage and respect for the sacred site.