Mount Everest — the mighty peak that has captivated explorers, climbers, scientists, and dreamers for over a century — remains one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth. Towering above the clouds at the edge of Nepal and Tibet, Everest is more than just the tallest mountain on Earth; it’s a symbol of challenge, endurance, and natural wonder.
Whether you’re a mountain lover, a travel enthusiast, or just curious about the world’s highest point, here are 10 fun and surprising facts about Mount Everest you probably didn’t know — updated with the latest discoveries and data as of 2025.
1. Everest Is Still Growing!
Yes, Mount Everest is getting taller. Thanks to the ongoing tectonic collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates, Everest grows by approximately 4 millimeters per year. In a joint 2020 survey, Nepal and China confirmed Everest’s height as 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet). And in 2025, satellite-based measurements suggest that the growth continues at a steady pace due to geological activity beneath the Himalayas.
2. The Summit Has Internet and 5G
In a surprising modern twist, Mount Everest now has 5G connectivity. In 2020, China Mobile and Huawei installed 5G base stations at the Everest base camp and along climbing routes on the Tibetan side. By 2023, Nepal had joined in, expanding internet access to Base Camp and even higher elevations. This allows climbers to livestream their ascents and improves rescue coordination.
3. The Air Is So Thin You Need Supplemental Oxygen
At the summit, there’s only about one-third of the oxygen available at sea level. That’s why most climbers use bottled oxygen above 8,000 meters (in the “death zone”). Without it, even fit climbers can suffer from severe altitude sickness, hallucinations, and life-threatening conditions. In 2024, researchers emphasized how oxygen deprivation impacts decision-making, making Everest one of the most mentally challenging climbs.
4. Over 6,000 People Have Summited Everest
As of May 2025, more than 6,500 individuals have successfully summited Mount Everest, many multiple times. According to the Himalayan Database, Kami Rita Sherpa holds the record for most ascents — an astonishing 30 times! Despite the extreme difficulty, improved gear, weather forecasting, and guided tours have made the summit more accessible than ever before.
5. The Oldest Person to Summit Everest Was 80
Japanese climber Yuichiro Miura set the record in 2013 at the age of 80. Since then, several climbers over 70 have reached the summit, proving age is no barrier with proper training. In 2024, a 76-year-old Indian climber, Pushkar Saini, completed his summit and made headlines for doing it while raising awareness about senior fitness.
6. The Youngest Climber Was Just 13
In 2010, American climber Jordan Romero became the youngest person to reach the summit at just 13 years old. While Nepal has since implemented age restrictions (no one under 16 can climb from the Nepal side), this record still stands. Everest attracts young adventurers globally, though most countries now promote responsible age limits and rigorous training.
7. It’s Home to the World’s Highest Weather Station
In 2019, scientists installed the world’s highest weather station on Everest’s Balcony (at 8,430 meters). This high-tech station, upgraded in 2024, provides real-time data on temperature, wind, and atmospheric pressure. It plays a key role in understanding climate change and forecasting dangerous conditions like avalanches and blizzards.
8. Everest Has Its Own Traffic Jams
During peak climbing season (May), traffic jams at the summit ridge have become increasingly common. In 2019, viral images of long queues of climbers just below the summit sparked global concern. By 2024, Nepal began considering permit limits, crowd control, and tighter qualifications for climbers to reduce risks and preserve the mountain’s environment.
9. There’s a Growing Trash Problem on Everest
With more climbers comes more waste. Everest has been called the “world’s highest garbage dump”, with discarded oxygen bottles, plastic, tents, and even human waste scattered across routes. In 2023, Nepal’s government mandated that every climber must bring down at least 8 kg of waste, and expedition operators are held accountable for cleanup. Several cleanup drives, including one in 2024 that removed over 4 tons of waste, have made notable progress.
10. Everest Is Sacred to Locals
To the Sherpa people and many Tibetans, Everest is not just a mountain — it’s a sacred entity. Known as “Sagarmatha” in Nepali and “Chomolungma” in Tibetan, Everest is revered as the “Goddess of the Sky.” Every expedition begins with a puja ceremony, a traditional Buddhist ritual to seek blessings and protection from mountain spirits before the climb.
Bonus: You Can See the Summit from a Plane
If climbing isn’t your thing, you can still catch a breathtaking view. Scenic mountain flights from Kathmandu (like those operated by Buddha Air) offer aerial views of Everest — a surreal experience that gives you a front-row seat to the world’s roof without the physical effort!
Final Thoughts
Mount Everest isn’t just the highest mountain on Earth — it’s a world of extremes, stories, science, and spirituality. From advanced 5G tech to age-defying adventurers, and from sacred traditions to pressing environmental challenges, Everest continues to evolve with time while holding its place as Earth’s most iconic peak. Whether you’re climbing it, studying it, or simply admiring it, there’s always more to discover at the top of the world.
