Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, stands at an impressive height of 5.5 miles (8.85 km) above sea level and is continually growing. This growth results from geological processes that have been occurring for approximately 50 million years, beginning with the collision of the Indian subcontinent and the Eurasian plate. Recent studies have revealed that the mountain’s elevation has increased by roughly 49-164 feet (15-50 meters) due to significant changes in the regional river systems, particularly the merger of the Kosi and Arun rivers around 89,000 years ago. This process has resulted in an uplift rate of 0.01 to 0.02 inches (0.2 to 0.5 millimeters) each year.

The phenomenon known as isostatic rebound plays a crucial role in this uplift. As erosion removes weight from the Earth’s crust, the land rises in response, akin to a boat floating higher in water as cargo is unloaded. Researchers estimate that isostatic rebound accounts for about 10% of the annual uplift of Everest. Additionally, neighboring peaks such as Lhotse and Makalu also experience similar geological changes. GPS measurements confirm that the Himalayas continue to rise, which exceeds the effects of surface erosion caused by natural elements like wind and rain. This ongoing research underscores the dynamic nature of the planet, reminding humanity of the ever-changing geological processes that shape familiar landscapes. As geoscientist Jin-Gen Dai articulated, the continual transformation of Mount Everest reflects Earth’s inherent dynamism and the profound implications it has for understanding the natural world.