Mount Everest, the tallest peak on Earth, is a dream destination for many adventurers and nature enthusiasts. This awe-inspiring mountain has captivated people worldwide with its towering presence and rugged beauty, drawing thousands of travelers each year. But where exactly is Mount Everest located? And what are the best ways to reach it? Let’s explore its location, how to get there from both the Tibet and Nepal sides, and what you can expect on this unforgettable journey.

Is Mount Everest Located in Nepal or China? On the Border

The answer to this common question is, in fact, both. Mount Everest sits directly on the international border between Nepal and China. Its northern face lies within Tibet, an autonomous region of China, while the southern face is part of Nepal.

Each side offers a distinct approach to Everest, with unique landscapes and routes that provide different experiences and challenges. In Nepal, the trek to Everest Base Camp is a popular, well-established route that requires hiking to reach. On the Tibetan side, you can drive the entire way to the northern base camp, where you’ll have the closest view of the peak without needing to climb the mountain.

Mount Everest in Tibet, China: Where is it and How to Get There?

The northern side of Mount Everest lies in Tibet, China, where it’s called “Chomolungma,” a Tibetan name meaning “Goddess Mother of the World.” The Tibetan base camp sits at an altitude of about 5,200 meters, slightly lower than the southern base camp, but it offers an unobstructed view of Everest’s peak.

How to Reach Everest Base Camp from in Tibetan Side

The classic way to reach Everest Base Camp from the Tibetan side is by taking the overland route from Lhasa. Typically organized as an 8-day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp tour, this journey covers 600 kilometers along a modern, well-paved highway for a smooth and safe drive.

You’ll start with two days in Lhasa to acclimate and visit landmarks like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. From there, the route heads westward across the Tibetan Plateau's dramatic landscapes, passing breathtaking natural sites like Yamdrok Lake and Karola Pass. Then the tour stops in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, before reaching EBC on the third day.

The first glimpse of Everest comes from Gyatsola Pass (5,280 m), where the mountain’s impressive peak rises in the distance. From Gawula Pass (5,198 m), you'll see a breathtaking lineup of the five highest Himalayan peaks.

As you follow the winding road toward EBC, the mountain gradually comes into view, growing more awe-inspiring with each turn. Upon reaching EBC, Everest stands before you as a colossal white pyramid. Here, there is a tented camp area where you can stay overnight, giving you the chance to witness the unforgettable sunrise or sunset over Everest—a memory that will last a lifetime.

Tips for Visiting Everest in Tibet

If you're planning to visit Mount Everest from Tibet, you'll need to join an organized tour, according to the local regulation. As a leading Tibet tour operator with years of experience, we can help you enjoy a worry-free Mount Everest tour with high-quality service. We handle all logistics, including permits, accommodations, and transportation, and provide a knowledgeable local Tibetan guide and seasoned driver to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience. Free feel to contact us for inquiries!

Mount Everest in Nepal: Where is it and How to Get There?

On the southern side of Mount Everest, in Nepal, the mountain is a beloved landmark known locally as “Sagarmatha.” Here, you can trek to the famous South Base Camp, located in Nepal’s Khumbu region. This side of Everest is a popular choice for trekkers and climbers alike, with scenic trails, welcoming Sherpa villages, and an immersive cultural experience.

The South Base Camp Trek Route in Nepal

The journey to the South Base Camp is a classic trek that draws travelers from around the world. Starting from Lukla, the journey typically takes 12 to 14 days round-trip. The trail meanders through lush valleys, pine forests, and alpine meadows, with stops at iconic villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, offering ample opportunities to rest and soak in the breathtaking views.

To begin your trek, you’ll fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, known for its thrilling airport, perched amidst the mountains with a short runway. From Lukla, the trail ascends gradually, allowing trekkers to adapt to the altitude. Along the way, you’ll find cozy teahouses where you can stay, savor local food, and interact with fellow trekkers and locals, adding a rich cultural dimension to your adventure.

Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal is a challenging adventure, requiring physical endurance and proper acclimatization. But the rewards are incredible, with majestic mountain views and the chance to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Sherpa people.

While independent travel is possible in Nepal, joining a tour group is highly recommended. Not only will this help with carrying luggage and supplies, but it also allows you to share the costs of local guides and porters with other like-minded travelers.

Where is Mount Everest Located in the Himalayas?

Mount Everest lies on the border between Nepal and Tibet, in the Mahalangur section of the Himalayas. This vast mountain range stretches across several countries including India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan, and is home to the highest peaks in the world, with Everest standing tall at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet).

Surrounded by other famous mountains like Lhotse, Nuptse, and Changtse, Mount Everest is at the heart of a region known for its natural beauty and mysterious appeal. As part of the Mahalangur Range, it also marks the geographical boundary between Nepal and Tibet, each offering a unique perspective and way to experience the mountain.

How to Get to Mount Everest from other Himalayan Regions?

Direct access to Mount Everest is only available through Tibet or Nepal. Therefore, if you're traveling from other Himalayan regions such as India or Bhutan, you'll need to transfer through one of these two places. Nepal is the most convenient gateway to Mount Everest, while Tibet offers the most popular tours to Everest Base Camp for regular tourists.

If you're traveling from Bhutan, the easiest option is to fly from Paro to Kathmandu and then take the trek to South Everest Base Camp.

For those wishing to visit the northern side of Mount Everest in Tibet, you can fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa and then travel overland to Everest Base Camp. Alternatively, you can travel overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa, with a stop along the way for Everest sightseeing.

Similarly, for travelers from India’s Himalayan regions, such as Sikkim or Ladakh, or from Pakistan’s Karakoram Range, Kathmandu is the most accessible transfer point. Regular flights from cities like Islamabad and others in India to Nepal make it a convenient route.

Conclusion

Mount Everest offers unique experiences depending on the side you choose to approach. The Tibetan route provides an organized overland journey with expansive views of Everest's north face, giving you a deep sense of the remote high-altitude landscapes of Tibet. In Nepal, the trek to South Base Camp offers a classic, adventurous experience through stunning landscapes and rich Himalayan biodiversity. Both routes come with their own challenges and unforgettable rewards. If you have any questions about traveling to Mount Everest, feel free to contact us or book your tour with us today.