The famous Rongpuk Glacier is the most beautiful glacier in China. It is just 300 meters away from the Rongpuk Monastery and lies in a vast area between 5,300-6,300 meters above sea level at the foot of Mount Everest. Formed with the western, central, and far-eastern Rongpuk Glaciers, this giant glacial dragon stretches for 26 km, covering 1,500 square km, with the glacial tongue measuring 1.4-kilometer in average breadth. As the largest glacier inside the Mt. Everest State Natural Reserve, the Rongpuk Glacier is the world’s most fully developed and best-preserved glacial wonder.

The region is full of corrie glaciers and hanging glaciers. At the glacial front are the serac forest, glaciated lake, cirque, horn, arete, and other dazzling spectacles. In the diversified serac forest, standing alongside sharp-egged swords are ancient towers with ice tables, bridges, columns, caves, and awls. One after another groups of ice-carved animals beyond imagination roam in the deep glacial caves and winding ice rivers.

Anyone entering this crystal and icy world will marvel at Nature’s artistic creativity. Standing on the glacier over 5,800 meters above sea level, one will be dazzled at the silver world. The natural wonders will surely make everyone regret not having more eyes or other senses to fully appreciate the grandeur.

The effects of 3 natural elements on the northern side of Mt. Everest, namely low latitude, arid climate, and high elevation, have helped create the world wonder of the high altitude continental Rongbuk Glacier and its serac ice forest. According to glaciologists, the Serac ice forests of the Everest and Gasherbrum areas are the most magnificent in the world.

The layers of the glacial rocks are like ancient castles, while giant stone columns, swords, and towers line up like a dinosaur troop for thousands of meters. With this grand view, the glacier has gained the title of “alpine park” among international mountain climbers. As the 3 dragons of glaciers converge into 1, they hold the grand Mt. Everest towards the sky.

Tips of Rongbuk Glacier

Nowadays, ice climbing, a novel extreme sport, has become very popular. Climbing the Rongpuk Glacier, you need some very professional gear. Also, if you are not prepared mentally-patience and perseverance, it could be a little bit troublesome.