Mount Everest Reconnaissance from the North, 1978. Fifteen Iranian and twenty Chinese climbers made a reconnaissance of the North Col route on Mount Everest in 1978. They brought 185 tons of materials and were supported by several hundred. Base Camp was set up on May 7, 1978. Camps were at 18,000, 19,700 and 21,325 feet on the East Rongbuk Glacier and on the North Col at 22,925 feet. Nine Chinese and two Iranians reached 24,600 feet on May 21, but the early monsoon prevented their going higher. (The main expedition, planned for 1979, was called because of internal problems in Iran.)