How to Climb Mount Everest: A Step-by-Step Guide
Dreaming of climbing Mount Everest? It takes more than just courage. Learn the step-by-step process—from preparation to summit—for a successful Everest expedition.
Many adventurers dream of climbing the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest. However, what are the real steps to make that happen? It’s not just about physical strength—it takes preparation, planning, and patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what it takes to climb Everest
1. Build Your Mountaineering Experience
Everest is not a beginner’s mountain. Before attempting it, you need years of high-altitude climbing experience. Popular training climbs include:
• Island Peak or Lobuche East in Nepal
• Aconcagua in South America
• Denali in Alaska
• Manaslu or Cho Oyu as a preparatory 8000er
You should know how to use crampons and ascenders, rope procedures, ice climbing, and crevasse rescue.
2. Get in Peak Physical Shape
You’ll need exceptional cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina. Train with:
• Long-distance hikes with a loaded backpack
• Altitude training, if accessible
• Strength training focused on legs, core, and shoulders
• Mental endurance and resilience exercises
3. Choose the Right Expedition Company
Select an experienced and reliable expedition company that prioritizes safety and has a strong track record
· Experienced Sherpa guides
· Good climber-to-guide ratio
· Oxygen and medical support
· Logistics and weather monitoring
Alpinist Club offers expertly led Everest expeditions with a strong focus on safety, acclimatization, and personalized support.
4. Plan and Book Early
You must secure permits and prepare months in advance. The main climbing seasons are:
· Spring (April–May) – ideal season with generally stable weather conditions
Required Documents:
· Everest climbing permit issued by the Government of Nepal
· TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
· Insurance that includes high-altitude helicopter rescue coverage
· Recent medical check-up report
5. Understand the Climb Route
The most popular route is from Nepal via the South Col. Here’s the general route:
• Kathmandu to Lukla – by plane
• Trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) – ~10 days
• Climb through 4 camps:
• Camp 1: Khumbu Icefall
• Camp 2: Western
• Camp 3: Lhotse Face
• Camp 4: South Col
• Summit push via Hillary Step and South Summit
• Total expedition duration: 6–8 weeks
6. Acclimatize and Be Patient
The body needs time to adjust to high altitude. Climbers usually do multiple rotations up to higher camps and back to base camp before the summit push. Patience is key.
7. Use Supplemental Oxygen
Most climbers use bottled oxygen above Camp 3 to increase safety and performance. It’s essential to learn how to manage your oxygen system.
8. Summit and Return Safely
Reaching the summit of Everest is a major achievement, but it’s important to remember that it marks only the halfway point of your journey. Statistically, most accidents and fatalities occur during the descent, when climbers are often exhausted, dehydrated, and less alert. After the adrenaline of summiting fades, it’s easy to let your guard down—this is when critical mistakes can happen. To stay safe, maintain your focus, pace yourself, drink plenty of fluids, and continue to monitor your physical and mental condition, return to base camp.
Climb Everest
Climbing Mount Everest is not an impulsive decision—it’s a serious, multi-year commitment. But with the right preparation, mindset, and support team, it’s one of the most rewarding achievements you’ll ever experience.
Bonus: Best 7000m Peaks in Nepal
🏔️ Himlung Himal (7,126m) – Best for stepping up from 6000m peaks
🏔️ Baruntse (7,129m) – Perfect for Everest training
🏔️ Putha Hiunchuli (7,246m) – Remote and challenging