2003 Everest 50

Half a century after the first ascent, National Geographic produced this stunning map of Mount Everest and the surrounding region, including Sagarmatha National Park, Qomolangma National Wildlife Refuge, and Makalu-Barun National Park. Published in May 2003 as one half of a two-piece set with a poster map of Mount Everest, this map highlights the challenges facing the governments of Tibet and Nepal in their efforts to protect their environments. The influx of visitors in recent decades has raised concerns about the fate of the region's landscapes and people. Both countries have proven resilient enough, so far, to withstand the crush of their popularity.