International Everest Day is celebrated every May 29 in commemoration of the first ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa of Nepal in 1953. Their ascent of Mount Everest was marked as a significant achievement and a landmark event in Mountaineering history. This day serves not only to recognize the accomplishments of the two climbers, but to celebrate the very spirit of adventure and the power of humankind's efforts.
In 2008, the Government of Nepal declared May 29 as International Everest Day after the death of Sir Edmund Hillary, and since then, the day has been observed every year, particularly within the Kathmandu and Everest region, through a variety of events including rallies, speeches, memorial functions and cultural programs. These events are attended by government leaders, local communities, mountaineers and tourists.
Sagarmatha Day is a celebration of Nepal's role in the international climbing community. It brings tourists to Nepal and connects everyone to the consideration, obligation and responsibility for climbing mountains at incredible altitudes. Everest Day pays tribute to Hillary and Norgay, but at the same time, honors all climbers who followed their footsteps, as well as climbers that have lost their lives in the Himalayas.
International Mount Everest day also reminds the world of the importance of Mount Everest, both as the highest peak on earth, but as a representation of exploration, perseverance and international cooperation. It inspires adventurers and highlights Nepal's cultural and economic relationship to the mountains.
Trekkers walking in single file along a fixed rope on a snow-covered mountain trail in the Everest region
What is International Everest Day?
The successful ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa is commemorated on a particular day known as International Everest Day. They were the very first people to reach the summit of the highest mountain in the world. The day recognizes their achievements along with the achievements of every climber, Sherpa, and support team member on a mountain expedition.The difficulties of climbing and other high-altitude activities, such as the requirement for training and a strong understanding of safety, are also brought to light on International Mount Everest Day. International Everest Day is celebrated through events like educational talks, exhibits, and clean-up events. It serves to promote awareness around caring for the mountain. This day of awareness serves people with information about Mount Everest, the Himalayan culture, and who the Sherpas are in relation to the mountain and climbing.
When and Why is International Everest Day Celebrated?
International Everest Day is celebrated on May 29 every year to commemorate the historic first successful ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953. The day is a celebration of their accomplishment and the many struggles they overcame to reach the top of the tallest mountain in the world.
Shortly after Sir Edmund Hillary's death in 2008, the Nepali government proclaimed International Everest Day. The day was a way to acknowledge not only the first ascent, but also Sir Edmund Hillary's ongoing humanitarian work, including the Himalayan Trust intended to improve the lives of Himalayan communities. The day also acknowledges Tenzing Norgay's efforts in bringing awareness to the Sherpa people and their role in mountaineering.
International Everest Day has been globally recognized by climbers, environmentalists, and cultural groups alike, ever since its announcement, in order to commemorate such an important passage in human and Himalayan history. The day centers on themes of bravery, tenacity, and cross-cultural cooperation that made Hillary and Tenzing ascent of Everest possible.
Even in freezing temperatures, avalanches, thin air & basic equipment, the determination of Hillary and Tenzing, ultimately resulted in one of the greatest ascents in mountaineering history, In addition to recognizing important climbs in mountaineering history The day, also serves to increase awareness about mountain safety and environmental protection of the Himalayas to allow them to be preserved for future generations.
Mountaineer summiting Mount Everest in full alpine gear, standing on the snow-covered peak
Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay: Pioneers of Mount Everest
Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay are well-known for being the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. Hillary was a beekeeper from New Zealand with fair climbing knowledge, and Tenzing Norgay was a Sherpa mountaineer from Nepal, and had a wealth of experience aiding expeditions in the Himalayas. The two men complemented each other nicely in that Hillary's technical skills and grit posed a valuable contrast to Norgay's extensive understanding of the mountain and high-altitude climbing.
They were part of the ninth British Mount Everest Expedition and led by Colonel John Hunt. After the summit attempts of the upward climbing team had been thwarted by the unforgiving weather and difficulty of using the oxygen equipment, Hillary and Norgay made their attempt to summit from the South Col, which was the last camp before the summit. They were forced to face freezing temperatures with extremely difficult terrain including an almost vertical rock wall that would now be known as the "Hillary Step" and oxygen at such high altitudes. Despite the treacherous conditions and previous attempts to reach the summit, Hillary and Norgay submitted at 11:30 a.m. on May 29th, 1953 and were the first humans to stand on the world's tallest mountain.
Their triumphant climb was a milestone in climbing, representing human perseverance, collaboration, and global cooperation. It focused the attention of the entire world on Everest and emphasized the important position of the Sherpa people in Himalayan climbs. The success was publicly announced on June 2, 1953, as Queen Elizabeth II was being crowned, further increasing its global impact. Hillary and Norgay's climb is a benchmark in exploration history and continues to motivate climbers globally.
Everest Base Camp The Gateway to the World's Highest Peak
Everest Base Camp is the primary gateway for climbers hoping to summit Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world. Situated on Everest's southern flank in Nepal, the South Base Camp is at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) on the Khumbu Glacier. Climbers typically rest here and become accustomed to the altitude before beginning their ascent via the southeast ridge route. The trek to EBC is a multi-day trek through the Khumbu region passing many villages, including Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, and offers spectacular views of surrounding mountains. EBC is the center for organizing supplies and preparations for the future climb. EBC is also the locked starting place for all higher camps and the last climbs to the summit. On International Everest Day, the EBC is a symbol of the start of what became many historic expeditions and modern day expeditions offering global success and failure.
Mount Everest Camp 1 with yellow tents set up on a snowy slope surrounded by ice and rock
Global Significance of Mount Everest Day
Celebrated annually on May 29th, Mount Everest Day honors Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's 1953 summit of the world's highest peak, which was the first successful ascent. In addition to commemorating the first ascent of the peak, Mount Everest Day has global significance in a number of ways.
Symbol of Human Achievement and Adventure
Mount Everest is the ultimate exploration and physical endurance achievement label. The 1953 successful summit epitomizes what determination paired with dexterity can achieve, inspiring millions of adventurers and climbers around the world. This day salutes the very spirit of mountaineering and pushing envelopes while conquering nature's severe limits.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
For the local Sherpa of Nepal, and the Tibetan community, Mount Everest is much more than a mountain, but is sacred. Referred to as Sagarmatha in Nepal, and Chomolangma in Tibet, the peak, viewed as a goddess of the sky, is culturally important as a spiritual representation of the world. Every year Everest day serves to recognize and respect the mountain's cultural history, and the indigenous beliefs about it.
Advocating for Sustainable Tourism
Everest day Nepal addresses the economic significance of mountain tourism to both Nepal and Tibet, as there is an influx of thousands of visitors each year who interest themselves in trekking and climbing activities. Everest Day advocates for responsible tourism practices which ensure that visitors are taking steps to offset the burden on the natural environment, and the local communities are able to thrive. The day intends for visitors to respect the local culture, and to lessen their environmental footprint.
Environmental Awareness and Protection
The Himalayan ecosystem around Mount Everest is fragile. Climate change is a visible threat, glacial retreat, and improper waste disposal due to an increase in tourism-related activities has made a significant impact. Everest Day provides a global platform for raising awareness of the importance of this unique ecosystem, and the need for continued efforts locally and globally to improve our trekking routes, lessen pollution, and advocate for climate action for a healthier future for Mount Everest.
Economic impact on local economies and livelihoods
Mount Everest tourism lessens the burden of livelihood and provides important income generation and job creation for the local economy and livelihoods in the area. This is especially true for the Sherpas who work behind the scenes as guides, porters and providing hospitality services. Everest Day reminds everyone of the importance of the mountain in ensuring that these local communities are economically sustainable and as a result, providing for their social development through responsible participation in mountaineering activities.
Mount Everest in the background from Kala Patthar, with Pumori and Lhotse peaks below
Inspiring Quotes from Everest Climbers
Mount Everest has motivated thousands of mountaineers, especially the Nepalis who carry the Himalayan spirit in their hearts. Here are ten motivational quotes of some of the most legendary climbers, the majority of them being Sherpas and Nepali explorers, that reflect the courage, perseverance, and wisdom needed to conquer the highest point on earth.
Tenzing Norgay said "It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves."
Apa Sherpa (Sherpa climber who holds the record for most Everest summits) states "Each step on the mountain teaches me patience and respect for nature."
Pasang Lhamu Sherpa (first Nepali woman to summit Everest) asserts "The mountain does not discriminate; it challenges us all equally."
Ang Rita Sherpa (known as the “Snow Leopard” for his many Everest summits without oxygen) points out "Strength comes not only from muscles but from the heart."
"Preparation and perseverance are the keys to the summit," says Nawang Gombu Sherpa, the first person to summit Everest twice.
Phurba Tashi Sherpa explains "Every climb is a new story of courage and respect for the mountain."
Jamling Tenzing Norgay (son of Tenzing Norgay) shares "Following my father’s footsteps, I learned that humility is the greatest strength on Everest."
Babu Chiri Sherpa (held the record for fastest ascent) recounts "The mountain is unforgiving; respect and carefulness save lives."
Lhakpa Sherpa (woman with most Everest summits) states "Determination breaks all barriers."
Kami Rita Sherpa (currently holds the record for most Everest summits) notes "I climb not just for myself but to honor my people and culture."
FAQs
Who started International Everest Day?
The Government of Nepal formally created International Everest Day in 2008, after the death of Sir Edmund Hillary. The day was established to commemorate mountaineer Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay Sherpa's first ascent of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953.
Is Everest Day recognized internationally?
Although International Everest Day is primarily celebrated in Nepal, it is recognized by climbing communities, mountaineering clubs, and adventure organizations around the world. Though not an official international holiday, many groups acknowledge the day with tributes and events.
Are there any events outside Nepal for Everest Day?
Yes, some international climbing organizations, agencies, and adventure organizations create events, talks, or social media campaigns on Everest Day, usually in countries where there is an active mountaineering community, such as New Zealand, the UK, and the USA.
How is International Everest Day celebrated in Nepal?
In Nepal, Everest Day is celebrated with many events and activities, predominantly in Kathmandu and the Everest region (e.g. Namche Bazaar). Activities include: rallies, tribute programs, speeches by mountaineers, cultural performer's and exhibitions related to Everest and Himalayan mountaineering.
Can tourists take part in Everest Day celebrations?
Yes, tourists can be part of the Everest Day events in Nepal! Visitors can partake in public rallies and ceremonies, or cultural programs. Many tourists time their Everest Base Camp Trek or other Himalayan trips so they can take part in the celebrations.
Mount Amadablam seen on Everest Base Camp Trek
Conclusion
International Everest Day is a commemoration of human achievement acknowledging the first successful ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay . The day is celebrated annually on May 29 and is an opportunity to pay respect to not only the historic climb, but also the continued role of the Sherpa people as well as the cultural, environmental and economic importance of the Himalayas.
International Everest day is a day that allows for reflection on the challenges involved in high altitude mountaineering , and brings attention to the fragile nature of the mountain environment. It is a way for climbers, local communities and travelers alike to come together in respect for Everest and what it represents.
If you are considering a trek into the Himalayas, please do so responsibly! Travel with us and you can take part in an experience that puts livelihoods first, respects traditions in the mountains and provides positive movement towards more sustainable trekking. Contact us today for your unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
