Why do people risk their lives climbing mt everest?

1. The allure of the summit: Mt. Everest is the highest peak in the world and one of the most iconic natural wonders. Climbing it is an arduous and dangerous undertaking but reaching its summit is seen as the pinnacle of mountaineering achievement. The feeling of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the view makes the risk worth taking for some people.

2. Personal Challenge: For many people, mountaineering is a way of setting and achieving personal goals and testing physical limits. Climbing Mt. Everest is a chance to push oneself beyond what most regard humanly possible and discover inner strengths and reserves.

3. Adventure and thrill-seeking: The ascent to the peak is a dangerous feat involving unpredictable weather, high altitudes, icefalls, crevasses and risks of developing high-altitude illnesses such as altitude sickness, cerebral edema (high altitude brain swelling) and high-altitude pulmonary edema(fluid buildup in lungs). Some people are simply drawn to such thrills and embrace the risk as a part of adventure.

4. Prestige and Recognition: There's a certain status and prestige associated with having conquered the world's highest mountain. Many mountaineers seek to be recognized and respected within the climbing community and beyond, and the challenge of climbing Everest presents an opportunity to gain accolades and recognition.

5. Historical significance: Mt. Everest has a rich historical significance, having attracted explorers and mountaineers from around the world for over a century. Becoming a part of that historical tradition and following in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers holds great appeal for some people.

6. Environmental Awareness: For others, climbing Everest provides a platform to raise awareness about environmental conservation and issues affecting the Himalayas. They see it as a chance to highlight and advocate for protecting these fragile ecosystems.