Khumbu Glacier, Mountain glacier in Solukhumbu District, Nepal
The Khumbu Glacier begins on the slopes of Mount Everest at around 7600 meters (about 24900 feet) and reaches down to 4900 meters (about 16100 feet) in Solukhumbu District. The ice streams move slowly downhill through steep side walls and form a widespread network of crevasses, glacial lakes, and moraine fields.
This glacier formed during the last major ice age around 500000 years ago and has since secured the water supply for the region. In the 20th century, mountaineers and researchers began documenting the glacier as expeditions to Everest increased.
Sherpa communities along the route to the glacier use the meltwater for daily needs and honor the icy areas as sacred ground in Buddhist rituals. Prayer flags mark important points along the trail and show places where travelers traditionally pause to pay respect to the peaks.
Visitors must obtain permits from Sagarmatha National Park and follow strict acclimatization protocols when exploring the glacier region. The route requires several days of ascent, and travelers should prepare for changing weather conditions and terrain.
Ice serac formations emerge from the slow movement of the glacier and create natural towers and deep crevasses that change constantly. These icy structures can grow several meters tall and occasionally break apart, sending an audible crack through the valley.
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