The north side of the Everest mountain has been a long time attraction of such climbers, adventure and dreamers who will want to know more about the wildest and the most mysterious side of the mountain. Unlike the south route which is more frequently tried in Nepal, the north face is ascribed steeply out of the Tibetan Plateau, and this in the world where the weather, land and altitude has to be respected completely. To most it is a symbol of true mountaineering, where the mountain demonstrates its unbridled strength and truly reveals the definition of endurance.
This is a historical face of Everest both in terms of challenge and beauty. It is sacred and frightening and has sceneries that extend to the high valleys of Tibet and a landscape that can be crafted during millions of years. Knowledge of this distant face not only concerns climbing but also about the appreciation of a special section of the earth that only a few individuals in their lives would ever location an eye on directly.
Understanding the North Face of Mount Everest
Imagine that when you consider the north side of Mount Everest, you are thinking of high walls of rocks, high winds blowing across the ridges and temperatures that may hit well below freezing at any point in time. The north side is found in Tibet and it has a firsthand view of some of the tallest features in the earth. Due to its position, this side is characterized by heavy wind, colder weather and more open and exposed, to the extent that even the most experienced mountaineers would find it difficult.
Its strategy is also different. Tibet can be approached by road to the north base camp thus minimizing the distance of trekking as compared to the southern side. The ease of arrival does not however make the climb any easier. The further up the mountain requires strength, patience and respect. The climb to the summit, had it been taken, is a tedious process through airiness, precipices and jaggy rocks.
This face dates back to the 1920s when British expeditions had ventured on it. This side was visited by such climbers as George Mallory and Andrew Irvine who visited in times when Nepal was not open to foreigners. They were missing mysteriously on the mountain which only contributed to the intrigue and mystery of the north face. These pioneer explorers opened the path to the coming adventurers despite the fact that the trail is still one of the hardest in the world.
The Unique Beauty of the North Face of Mount Everest
The beauty of the north face of the mountain Everest is the one that is silent and expansive. It has no thick woods, no long gullies and no wiggy walks. Rather, the Tibetan Plateau leads to a broad horizon which appears to merge the sky and the mountains. One of the most serene points to view Everest is the Rongbuk Monastery which offers a perspective of the mountain that is both majestic and religious.
Going to the base camp, the north face looks like a high wall of rocks and ice. The mere size of the face makes you remember that nature is much higher than anything man can create. The snow shapes are changing according to the wind and form natural lines on the hilly side that seem to be almost artistic. During the sunset and sunrise, the face shines with the tints of gold, orange and deep blue, providing the unforgettable moments to people who are lucky to see them.
The glaciers, the winds and the sky creates a landscape that is untouched and old. It does not just make you see a mountain on the north face, it makes you feel humble and respect the forces of nature of the earth.
Challenges of Climbing the North Face of Mount Everest
Northern side of Mount Everest has been said to have one of the hardest climbing conditions around the world. The topography is steep rock steps, icy and long and naked ridges. There is a threat of falling rocks, abrupt storms, and extreme cold to the climbers. The infamous Three Steps on the ridge of the summit are also considered as the highest level of challenges to the climbers because it needs both the technical expertise and the huge strength in the high level.
When the altitude becomes more than 8000 meters in what is termed as the Death Zone, oxygen levels are greatly reduced. Each movement becomes corporeal and lumbering. The body is undermined and the threat is escalating with the course of every hour. Climbers need to make rational choices, be focused and know their limits. Several expeditions are forced to turn back the peak because the conditions of the mountain are varying incredibly fast.
Nevertheless, the north face still is a challenge to the climbers as they do not have much to lose when they reach the peak using this route since it is one of the most uncontaminated manifestations of climbing. It is an adventure of training, manliness and strong admiration of nature.
Experiencing the North Face Without Climbing
Mount Everest has its north face, which is not limited to mountaineers. There are a lot of tourists who visit Tibet just to see its beauty in secure and convenient positions. The trip to the north base camp provides breathtaking views, snow pinnacles and serene Tibetese villages. Tourists will be able to gain knowledge about the cultural importance of the mountain, visit some of the most ancient monasteries as well as get familiar with local communities living in harmony with the mountain since time immemorial.
This would be a relaxing option to the travelers who would be able to appreciate the grandeur of Everest without climbing it. The mere presence in the base camp creates the feeling of awe that cannot be forgotten.
Conclusion
Mount Everest still leaves the north face which amaze and admire. It is an image of the power and beauty of nature, and we can be reminded of the beautiful scenery our planet has to offer. The north Face is one of the most incredible places on the earth whether one would be looking at it at the base camp in Tibet or whether one is trying it as a climber and wants to challenge. Knowing its past and its beauties and difficulties will allow us to better appreciate the mountain in a more intensive and significant manner.
Frequently Asked Questions About the North Face of Mount Everest
Does the north face of the mountain everest have a harder time climbing as compared to the south face of the mountain?
Yes, it is quite true that the north face is usually tougher, because of cold winds and bare land and other complicated technical aspects like the Three Steps.
Are there any tourists visiting the north side of the Mount Everest without climbing?
Yes, it is possible to reach the north base camp by a road in Tibet and view the mountain without any mountaineering experience.
What is so historically significant about the north face?
Climbers and historians explored the north face first and thus, the north face was used when the Nepal was closed and this made this side the first side in the history of the exploration of the country by the British on expeditions.
When is the most appropriate time to visit the north face of the Mount Everest?
The spring and early fall have clear skies and good weather hence they are best to see and photograph.
Do climbers risk their lives when climbing the north face?
Attaining any of the sides of Everest is hazardous; however, the north face presents additional hazards because of its exposure to wind, technical areas and extreme cold.
