Discover how long does it take to climb Mount Everest with a full detailed guide from training to summit. Climbing Mount Everest is the ultimate dream for many adventurers.
It’s a symbol of human endurance, grit, and the quest for glory. But beyond the glamour of standing on the world’s highest peak lies a tough, time-consuming journey. So, how long does it really take to climb Mount Everest?
Spoiler alert: It’s not just a few weeks. From planning and preparation to finally planting your boots on the summit, it can take months even years of your life. In this article, we break down every step of the process, give you a realistic time frame, and help you understand why the climb is as much a mental game as it is physical.
Table of Contents
How Long Does it Take to Climb Mount Everest
Its Takes About 6 to 10 Weeks
While every expedition varies, most Mount Everest climbs take around 6 to 10 weeks from arrival in Nepal to descent. This doesn’t include the months (even years) of training, preparation, and acclimatization beforehand.
Why Does It Take So Long?
Let’s be real: Mount Everest isn’t your local hiking trail. You’re dealing with extreme altitude, brutal weather, logistical nightmares, and a slow pace all for good reason.
Here’s why the climb is so time consuming:
- Acclimatization: Your body needs time to adjust to the thinning air.
- Weather Windows: Climbers wait days or even weeks for a safe summit window.
- Climbing in Rotations: You climb up and down the mountain multiple times.
- Rest Days: Fatigue is real. So are storms. Both demand rest days.
Breaking It Down: The Full Timeline
To understand how long it takes to climb Everest, we need to walk through the journey from start to summit step by step.
1. Pre-Trip Training and Preparation (6–12 Months Before)
Mount Everest isn’t a beginner’s mountain. Before you even book your trip, here’s what needs to happen:
- Mountaineering courses: Glacier travel, rope skills, ice climbing, etc.
- High-altitude climbs: Summiting 6,000–7,000m peaks to test yourself.
- Physical conditioning: Strength, endurance, flexibility, cardio training.
- Gear acquisition: Buying and testing boots, suits, tents, and safety tools.
Think of it as your Everest internship you need experience before getting the job.
2. Travel and Arrival in Nepal (Week 1)
You’ll likely fly into Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. After final briefings, gear checks, and permits, climbers typically fly to Lukla — the gateway to Everest.
- Time required: 3–5 days
- Activities: Meeting your team, sorting logistics, final packing
3. Trek to Base Camp (8–12 Days)
The trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is part of the journey. This 65km (40-mile) hike gradually takes you up to 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).
- Why it matters: This trek is your first stage of acclimatization.
- Stop points include: Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche.
You won’t be rushing. Going slow is the name of the game here.
4. Acclimatization at Base Camp (5–10 Days)
Once at EBC, climbers stay put for a week or more to get used to the altitude. It’s not just sitting around you’ll go on short hikes and prep climbs.
- Medical checks: O2 levels, heart rate, and overall condition
- Technical drills: Crampon use, ladder practice, rope handling
5. Climbing Rotations (2–3 Weeks)
Now the real fun begins. Climbers ascend and descend the mountain in stages to build red blood cells and adapt slowly. These are called rotations.
Typical Rotation Pattern:
- Base Camp → Camp 1 → Camp 2 → back to Base
- Base Camp → Camp 1 → Camp 2 → Camp 3 → back to Base
- Purpose: Prepares your body for thin air above 7,000 meters
- Time required: 14–21 days
The infamous Khumbu Icefall is crossed multiple times this ever-shifting glacier is one of the most dangerous parts of the climb.
6. Rest and Wait for the Summit Window (5–10 Days)
Once rotations are done, you’ll rest at Base Camp and wait for the “weather window.” Typically in May, climbers eye a narrow gap of stable weather.
- Why the delay? Everest weather is wild. You don’t summit during storms.
- Climbers rely on: Meteorologists, Sherpa advice, and gut feeling
This waiting period is crucial. One bad call can cost lives.
7. Summit Push (4–7 Days)
This is what you trained for. When the green light appears, teams move up the mountain to try for the summit.
Typical Summit Itinerary:
- Day 1: Base Camp to Camp 2
- Day 2: Camp 2 to Camp 3
- Day 3: Camp 3 to Camp 4 (The Death Zone)
- Day 4: Summit attempt (from Camp 4 to summit and back)
- Day 5-6: Descend to Base Camp
The climb from Camp 4 to the summit (8,848.86m) usually starts at night. You aim to summit early in the morning and descend before noon.
Read Also:
Read Also: How Long Does it Take to Climb Mount Everest?
Read Also: How to Withdraw From Cowrywise
How Hard Is It Physically and Mentally?
Harder than you think. Here’s why:
- Oxygen levels at summit: Only 33% of sea level
- Temperatures: Can drop below –30°C (–22°F)
- Mental strain: Sleep deprivation, fear, exhaustion, altitude sickness
You need every ounce of physical and emotional strength.
What’s the Success Rate?
As of recent data:
- Overall success rate: ~65% of climbers reach the summit
- Fatality rate: ~1% (improved over time with better gear and forecasting)
Training, good guides, and patience significantly increase your odds.
What About the Descent?
Reaching the top isn’t the end it’s only halfway. More than a third of Everest deaths happen on the way down due to exhaustion or poor weather.
Descending safely can take 2–3 days, followed by rest at Base Camp and trekking out.
Alternative Climbing Routes and Time Differences
1. South Route (Nepal Side)
- Most popular
- Longer but more supported
- Used by guided expeditions
2. North Route (Tibet Side)
- Less crowded
- Technically challenging
- Faster access via vehicle to Base Camp
Time difference: North side can sometimes save a few days, but political red tape in Tibet may cause delays.
Can You Climb Everest Faster?
Yes but only if you’re a pro.
Fastest Summit Attempts:
- Speed climbers: Alpine-style with minimal gear
- Sherpas and elite mountaineers: Have acclimatized bodies
Even so, these are rare exceptions. For 99% of us, slow and steady wins this race.
Is Climbing Everest Worth the Time?
Absolutely if you’re prepared. Everest isn’t just a mountain; it’s a lifelong journey. The time it takes is what makes it so meaningful.
You’ll face fear, fatigue, and frustration. But you’ll also witness beauty, courage, and camaraderie like nowhere else on Earth.
FAQs
1. Can beginners climb Mount Everest?
Technically yes, but it’s strongly discouraged. Beginners should first climb smaller peaks and gain experience before attempting Everest.
2. What is the best time of year to climb Everest?
Late April to late May is ideal. A second, less popular window occurs in autumn (late September to early October).
3. How much does it cost to climb Everest?
Anywhere between $35,000 to $100,000 depending on the route, guide service, gear, and support level.
4. Is oxygen always used during the climb?
Most climbers use supplemental oxygen above 7,000m. Only elite alpinists attempt Everest without it and it’s extremely risky.
5. What’s the biggest risk while climbing Everest?
The top dangers include altitude sickness, avalanches, icefalls, exhaustion, and sudden weather changes.