The mention of Everest brings to mind distant snow-capped peaks. The ups and downs of mountain summits. Mount Everest stands 8,848 meters above sea level. It ranks among the world's highest mountains. Mountaineers dream of conquering Everest's summit by overcoming harsh adverse conditions.
But there's a small twist in between. Did you know this massive high snow-capped peak of the Himalayas has two other names? One is 'Sagarmatha' and the other is 'Chomolungma'. Where and why are these names used, what's the real reason? Let's find out everything...
Why was it named Mount Everest?
Mount Everest was named in 1865 during British rule. The Geographical Society gave it this name. The mountain was named Mount Everest after Sir George Everest.
What is this mountain called in Nepal?
This mountain peak is known as 'Sagarmatha' in Nepal. This word comes from Sanskrit. This peak is so high that many also know it as the Forehead of the Sky. The word 'Sagar' means ocean and 'Matha' here refers to forehead.
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This name was officially adopted in Nepal in the twentieth century. Actually, this name was given to recognize Nepal's culture.
What is it called in Tibet?
In Tibet, this mountain is called Chomolungma. It has another name, which is Komolangma.
In Tibetan language, this name means 'Goddess of the Earth or World'. Actually, Mount Everest is considered a symbol of sanctity in Tibet.
To locals, it's not just a high mountain. Chomolungma is equivalent to a deity for them. Even the name Chomolungma is connected to Tibet's religious beliefs and mythological stories.
One mountain, three names
Although the names Mount Everest, Sagarmatha and Chomolungma refer to the same peak, they reflect different historical and cultural perspectives.
Mount Everest lies on the border between Nepal and Tibet (China) in the Himalayan range. While the name Mount Everest is widely recognised internationally, Sagarmatha and Chomolungma remain deeply rooted in the traditions of Nepal and Tibet.
While the name Mount Everest is known worldwide, the other two names (Sagarmatha and Chomolungma) haven't become as popular.
