Rainbow Valley - the death zone of Everest climbers

Located at an altitude of more than 8,000 m, Rainbow Valley contains about 200 bodies that cannot be brought down due to the harsh terrain and environment.

Green Boots' body rests about 340 meters from the top of Everest. Photo: Twitter/Whoacity — The body of "Green Boots" rests about 340 meters from the top of Everest. Photo: *Twitter/Whoacity*

Climbing Mount Everest is an extremely dangerous journey. Over the years, many people have died trying to conquer the world's highest peak. This year alone, the death toll may have reached 17, IFL Science reported on June 6.

The journey to conquer Mount Everest usually includes a trip to base camp (about 8 days at an average pace) at an altitude of about 5,300 m. From here, climbers must spend another 40 days traveling and acclimatizing to the high altitude and low oxygen levels, to reach the summit.

As you climb higher, atmospheric pressure drops, oxygen molecules disperse, and the air becomes thinner. This is why the biggest challenge comes when you reach the “death zone” – the area above 8,000 metres on Mount Everest. At this altitude, the air is so thin that all but the most resilient climbers need supplemental oxygen to continue.

Climbers are at serious risk of altitude sickness (or acute mountain sickness). This condition occurs when the brain is not getting enough oxygen at high altitudes, leading to disorientation and energy depletion. Along with dangers such as avalanches, falls, and frostbite, Everest claims the lives of many professional climbers each year.

So if the worst happens to climbers on Everest, what happens to their bodies? The air there is too thin for helicopters to pick up the bodies, so the only way is for other climbers to risk their lives to bring the deceased back.

Instead, many bodies are left on the mountain, serving as reminders of the dangers of the 8,000-meter peak, and even as landmarks. Climbers know they are on the right path when they pass certain distinctive bodies, such as “Blue Boots” or “Sleeping Beauty” (which has since been removed from the climbing path). However, the majority of those who perish will rest in “Rainbow Valley.”

Rainbow Valley is an area in Everest’s death zone, covered in the colorful costumes of those who died and were pushed off the mountain. The area is dotted with oxygen tanks and colorful tents. It is estimated to contain around 200 bodies, although the exact number is unknown.

Serving as a sort of graveyard for those who died and were left behind in the death zone, Rainbow Valley lies above 8,000m below the north ridge of Everest. The bodies remain there because retrieval and removal is too costly, dangerous and difficult to achieve. The valley has become almost legendary among climbers and is highly respected for its many resting places.

Thu Thao (According to IFL Science )

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