In photographs shot from afar, Mount Everest seems like just a mountain. So why since the dawn of known humanity have so many been fascinated with and, in some cases, obsessed by this particular rock? For the brave it is arguably the toughest physical test—the apex. And while most people never try to conquer it, we all wonder what it would feel like to live the fantasy. On Earth, Everest is as big as it gets. The mountain is only the beginning of our fascination. The heart of what compels us is all about the challenge.
MOUNT EVEREST • One of the World’s Natural Wonders
WHY WE ARE FASCINATED BY MOUNT EVEREST • Being able to scale the highest peak—literally and symbolically—is the ultimate dream
THE GODDESS OF THE SKY
ANCIENT HISTORY • The name and origins of the mountain we call Everest vastly predate Western culture
A MAN OBSESSED • George Mallory was a pioneer when it came to climbing Everest, but he paid the ultimate price
ELITE COMPANY
EDMUND HILLARY AND TENZING NORGAY • 1953
REINHOLD MESSNER • 1980
MARK INGLIS • 2006
ERIK WEIHENMAYER • 2001
YUICHIRO MIURA • 2013
JORDAN ROMERO • 2010
JUNKO TABEI • 1975
KAMI RITA SHERPA • 2022
SCOTT PARAZYNSKI • 2009
BABU CHIRI SHERPA • 1999
THE EXPERIENCE
THE ROUTES • Two are most common, but some still embrace the challenge of paths less traveled
THE DEATH ZONE • The most notorious part of the Everest ascent begins 8,000 meters above sea level
EVEREST TRAGEDIES • The climb of a lifetime can quickly turn deadly
THE UNSUNG HEROES • It is almost impossible to reach the summit of Everest without the knowledge and help of the Sherpas
ON TOP OF THE WORLD • What is it really like to stand on the summit of Everest?
THE FUTURE OF EVEREST • Why one of the world’s natural wonders may need our help
Mount Everest - Exploring One Of The World's Natural Wonders
PHOTO CREDITS
EXPLORING MOUNT EVEREST
