Mount Everest is famous as the tallest mountain in the world, attracting adventurers and thrill-seekers from every corner of the globe. But beyond its towering height, there are some lesser-known facts about this epic mountain that you might not know. Here are a few tidbits that reveal there’s more to Everest than just being the world’s highest peak. Up for a climb?
Work in Progress
Did you know that Mount Everest hasn’t finished growing yet? Yep, it’s still getting 1 inch taller annually. The reason: tectonic activity. In fact, this nonstop growth over the course of millions of years is what formed the Himalayas.
Summitted Over 7,000 Times
While Mount Everest is incredibly tall, looking down on all of us from its 29,032-foot peak, quite a few ambitious souls have made it to the top. In fact, more than 7,000 people have (literally) risen to the challenge and summited it so far; and counting.
A Mountain of Many Names
Why should such an epic mountain have only one name? Mount Everest has multiple. Nepalis call it Sagarmartha, literally meaning “peak of heaven,” while Tibetans call it Chomolungma, which means “goddess of the valley.” Sounds about right.
