Highest Mountains in The World
The highest mountains in the world are those that rise tallest above sea level which is led by Mount Everest at 8,848.86 m. The peaks are mainly located in the Himalayas and Karakoram mountain ranges that stretch across Asia (in countries like Nepal, China, Pakistan and India).
Mount Everest is the planet’s highest point. Following Everest are other giants like K2, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu, all over 8,000 meters. In total, there are 14 eight-thousand-meter peaks and the top 50 highest peaks all exceed 7,400 meters.
Not only are these peaks tall, but they also influence the formation of the Earth. They impact climate, store large reservoirs of freshwater in glaciers, and give rise to great rivers like the Ganges and Indus. Most of these mountains are considered sacred culturally and attract mountaineers, scholars, and pilgrims. Asia has a great geographic variety, contributed by the fact that there is a high concentration of so many of the world’s highest peaks in one location.
Being the highest is not merely to have a great number; it is to be above much of the Earth’s atmosphere, where oxygen is sparse and existence is precarious. These mountains stretch the definition of human endurance. All the high peaks are remarkable natural wonders that form the landscape and personality of the regions they rise out of. As one, they are the crown of the Earth, both physically and symbolically.
How Are Mountain Heights Measured?
To find out how tall a mountain is, its height is typically measured from sea level to its summit. Sea level is the average height of the ocean’s surface across the globe. The most common method used today is satellite GPS technology, which provides exact heights via connection to various orbiting satellites over Earth. Radar, laser (LiDAR/Light Detection and Ranging) and aerial surveys are also utilized by scientists to cross-check the height.
Mountain elevations were previously calculated by trigonometric surveyors. They used to take readings from the summit from different distances at known angles and calculate its elevation based on them. However, this was restricted due to difficult terrain and line of sight. Presently, better equipment like GNSS receivers (a more accurate version of GPS) and gravity sensors assist in improvement. That’s how Mount Everest, for example, was lately announced to be 8,848.86 meters high after Nepal and China conducted their 2020 measurements.
The Himalayas: Roof of the World
The Himalayas are also called the “Roof of the World” since they contain the planet’s tallest mountain peaks. The Himalayan mountain, Everest, majestically stands at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) above sea level. The Himalayan mountain range extends through five countries in South Asia: Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan. They display an enormous natural wall dividing the Indian subcontinent and the Tibetan Plateau.
Not only is this mountain system the tallest but also, in geological terms, one of the youngest. It was formed about 50 million years ago when the Indian plate collided with the Eurasian plate. It still pushes the mountains upwards every year with the massive movement. The Himalayas also have innumerable glaciers, rivers and extensive valleys.
They play a major role in shaping the weather, providing fresh water and developing diverse cultures and religions. As a result of their spectacular height and holy nature, the Himalayas far more earned the nickname Roof of the World.
14 Highest Peaks Over 8,000 Meters
Mount Everest (8,848.86 m)
Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world rising at 8,848.86 meters. It is located in the Himalayas on the Nepal-Tibet border. People from all over the world have been fascinated by Everest for a long time. It has been drawing many adventurers from around the world who aspire to its summit.
The peak is named ‘Sagarmatha’ in Nepali and ‘Chomolungma’ in Tibetan. Everest was first climbed in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Nepali Sherpa. It has ever since been a mark of human power and determination, inspiring millions to challenge themselves to the highest points on the Earth.
People from all corners of the world have fantasized about standing on the summit of Everest. The mountain is both a wondrous sight of nature and the greatest challenge to human strength and willpower. Serious weather, snowslides, thin air with low oxygen and the deadly “death zone” above 8,000 meters all pose a threat to the climber.
Thousands attempt it every year but only a few succeed. Nevertheless, Everest continues to be a fascination both as a geological phenomenon and as a representation of human determination.
K2 (8,611 m)
K2 which stands at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet), is the 2nd highest mountain in the world. It is located in the Karakoram Range which separates Pakistan from China. K2 is commonly referred to as the ‘Savage Mountain’. The mountain is famous for being extremely demanding and hazardous to climb. The route to the summit of K2 is not that straightforward. Its exposed ridges, inconsistent weather and frequent avalanches make the mountain one of the toughest and dangerous peaks to climb.
Despite all the dangers K2 attracts the world’s best mountaineers to conquer its rocky summits. It was first climbed by Italian mountaineers Achille Compagnoni and Lino Lacedelli in 1954. K2 is climbed less than Everest and the fatality rate is many times higher. But its stunning beauty and sheer trial of ability and stamina still make K2 one of the most thrilling and revered summits in the hearts of mountaineers.
Kanchenjunga (8,586 m)
Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world at 8,586 meters sits at the Nepal-India (Sikkim) border in the eastern Himalayas. Well known as the ‘Five Treasures of Snow’, the mountain has five distinct peaks. Kanchenjunga portrays its peerless beauty, remoteness and cultural significance. Relatively less visited than more accessible giants such as Everest, it is an off the beaten path destination for serious trekkers and climbers.
Kanchenjunga was first climbed in 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band, two British mountaineers, who famously refused to step on the top out of respect for local religious custom. The peak is of religious importance to the Sikkimese and the populace of eastern Nepal. Mountaineers typically respect the custom of not stepping on the topmost tip of Mt Kanchenjunga.
The region surrounding Kanchenjunga is biologically rich as well with endangered species like the red panda and snow leopard calling it home. This makes it a wonder of nature and a mountaineering achievement as well.
Lhotse (8,516 m)
Lhotse stands at 8,516 meters and is the fourth highest mountain in the world. It is located in the Himalayas on the Nepal-Tibet border. The peak has a direct connection to Mount Everest via the South Col which is a high pass that climbers have to ascend while attempting both mountains.
However, it possesses its own distinctive and breathtaking qualities. Most notable is the mountain’s enormous and vertical south face. It is one of the highest and most overwhelming mountain walls on Earth.
Lhotse was ascended for the first time in 1956 by a Swiss team. Its standard route is not much different from Everest’s until it reaches the last climb up to the summit, which is steeper and more technically challenging. Lhotse is ascended less often than Everest and is therefore a more serene but quite demanding objective for climbers.
Over the past few years, it has gained more interest from the world’s best climbers. This is due to its beauty, technical difficulty and prestige of standing atop one of the world’s highest and most demanding mountains.
Makalu (8,485 m)
Makalu is the 5th highest mountain in the world at 8,485 meters. It is located in the Mahalangur Himalayas along the Nepal-Tibet border. The peak is about 19 kilometers southeast of Everest.
Makalu is easily recognizable by its pyramid shaped summit with craggy ridges and steep faces. It is one of the most striking of the 8,000-meter titans. The mountain has the image of being way off the usual route and hard to ascend. This is mainly due to its exposed knife-edge ridges and highly technical rock and ice climbing routes.
The first successful climb of the mountain was accomplished by a French team led by Jean Franco in 1955. In comparison to Everest, Makalu requires advanced mountaineering skills and is ascended mainly by professionals. It is less frequented, both due to its challenge and inaccessibility, yet at the same time, this makes it so unspoiled and raw.
There is ample biodiversity around Makalu and it comes under the premise of the Makalu Barun National Park. Thus the peak is also a peaceful escape for those drawn to the wild and the wonders of nature.
Cho Oyu (8,188 m)
Cho Oyu is the world’s sixth highest peak standing 8,188 meters tall. It is situated on the border of Tibet and Nepal and west of Everest. Its name in Tibetan translates to ‘Turquoise Goddess’. This is an indication of the summit’s beauty, especially when the sun shines on its white slopes.
Cho Oyu is one of the simplest and least technically demanding of the 8,000 meter peaks. It is also among the most popular for climbers who want to gain mountaineering experience at extreme heights.
Cho Oyu was successfully ascended for the first time in 1954 by an Austrian expedition. It has been the host of thousands of successful ascents since. While easier than the remainder of the 8,000 meters peaks, Cho Oyu also possesses risks such as crevasses, avalanches and the thin air of the death zone. Overall, it is an adventurous and worthwhile climb with spectacular visions of Everest and the surrounding Himalayas.
Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m)
Dhaulagiri I, the seventh-highest mountain in the world at 8,167 meters, rises in north-central Nepal. This high mountain in the Himalayas lies completely within Nepal. Its name Dhaulagiri comes from the Sanskrit, ‘White Mountain’. This characterizes its massive snow-capped slopes and gleaming appearance.
Dhaulagiri I looms over the Kali Gandaki River valley. This marks one of the most dramatic height differences between the river and the mountain summit. Dhaulagiri’s standalone and towering nature makes it one of the most visibly spectacular mountains in the Himalayas.
The mountain was first successfully ascended in 1960 by a Swiss-Austrian-Nepali expedition. Dhaulagiri is known for its terrible weather, avalanches and technical difficulty, especially on its standard northeast ridge route. It has a relatively high fatality rate among the other 8,000 meter peaks. So, it is a serious endeavor even for experienced climbers.
The remoteness and rugged terrain surrounding Dhaulagiri also make it an adventurous trekking destination. Trekkers who want to view the raw, untamed face of the Himalayas are highly rewarded.
Manaslu (8,163 m)
Manaslu at 8,163 meters, is the world’s eighth tallest mountain. It is located in west-central Nepal. Manaslu is named after the Sanskrit word ‘Manasa’, meaning spirit or soul, due to the mountain’s spiritual significance to residents. Manaslu is renowned for its steep snow capped ridges, remoteness and the Manaslu Conservation Area with its lush flora, fauna and traditional Tibetan style settlements. The summit is part of one of Nepal’s most stunning trekking routes, the Manaslu Circuit.
Manaslu was first ascended in 1956 by a Japanese expedition and it has gained popularity as an Everest alternative since it is a bit lower and its routes are less crowded. It is not an easy feat, however. The mountain is prone to avalanches and crevasses and steep snow slopes add to the difficulty. Despite that, it is often tried by climbers wishing to attempt more technical 8,000 meter Himalayan mountains. Manaslu’s popularity has increased in recent years with its wild and remote quality that attracts intrepid travelers.
Nanga Parbat (8,125 m)
The ninth-highest mountain in the world and at the westernmost peak of the Himalayas, Nanga Parbat stands 8,125 meters tall. Its name in Urdu, Nanga Parbat, means ‘Naked Mountain’. The local name, Diamer, comes from Tibetan and means “huge mountain.” It is located in the Gilgit Baltistan region of Pakistan.
Nanga Parbat is famous for its awe inspiring and daunting Rupal Face. It rises over 4,600 meters from its base to its summit, the world’s highest mountain face. This incredible vertical wall has imparted a formidable reputation to the mountain.
Due to its risky landscape and previous history of fatalities, Nanga Parbat is usually called the ‘Killer Mountain’. Early attempts in the 1930s to ascend it ended in failure and it wasn’t until 1953 that Austrian climber Hermann Buhl solo ascended it successfully. This was one of the most legendary feats in mountaineering history. It has continued to attract world class climbers seeking one of the most challenging high altitude adventures in the world.
Annapurna I (8,091 m)
Annapurna I, at a height of 8,091 meters, is the tenth highest mountain in the world. It stands as the highest point of the Annapurna Massif, a group that comprises a number of other major peaks. The term Annapurna comes from Sanskrit, referring to either the ‘Goddess of the Harvests’ or ‘Full of Food’, in honor of its religious importance within Hindu culture.
The region around the mountain comes under the territory of the Annapurna Conservation Area. It is Nepal’s first and largest conservation area, which is renowned for its vast biodiversity and plethora of adventurous Himalayan trekking trails.
Annapurna I is known as one of the most thrilling 8,000 meter mountains. It has a very high death rate, especially in the previous decades with frequent avalanches, steep slopes and unstable weather patterns. Technical skill, courage and careful planning are required to climb this mountain.
The Annapurna was climbed by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal of a French team in 1950. It was the first successful climb of any 8,000 meter peak.
Gasherbrum I (8,080 m)
Gasherbrum I, or Hidden Peak, is the eleventh-highest peak in the world at an altitude of 8,080 meters. It lies on the border of Pakistan and China within the Karakoram range. Gasherbrum means ‘Shining Wall’ in the Balti language. This name describes the mountain’s tall, bright and shiny face. Gasherbrum I is famous for its steep angle slopes and challenging routes making it a favorite high-altitude mountain for serious mountaineers.
It was successfully climbed for the first time in 1958 by an American expedition led by Pete Schoening and Andy Kauffman. Although less famous than the nearby peaks like K2, Gasherbrum I offers a thrilling ascent with possible avalanches and extreme weather. Its remote location in the Karakoram range offers an additional component of adventure. The peak is sought after by mountain climbers who want to reach some of the world’s most isolated and least climbed high peaks.
Broad Peak (8,051 m)
Broad Peak rises at 8,051 meters and is the twelfth-highest mountain in the world in the Karakoram range. It is close to the famous K2. Broad Peak earned its name because of its extremely broad summit ridge over 1.5 kilometers in length. So, it has a flat, wide summit as opposed to other mountains. Broad Peak is renowned for having demanding terrain, including inclined snow slopes and exposed ridges.
The first successful ascent of the peak was in 1957 by an Austrian team led by Marcus Schmuck and Fritz Wintersteller. Less accessible than adjacent K2, Broad Peak offers serious alpine climbing with unpredictable weather and avalanche risk. Visited less frequently because of its remoteness, climbers may enjoy the more remote and pristine wilderness of the Karakoram.
Gasherbrum II (8,034 m)
Gasherbrum II is the thirteenth highest mountain in the world at 8,034 meters. It lies in the Karakoram range. The peak stands close to Gasherbrum I and Broad Peak forming a spectacular group of high mountains. Considered one of the less difficult 8,000-meter peaks, Gasherbrum II offers climbers a relatively less technical ascent than some of the other giants of the region.
The summit was reached for the first time in 1956 by an Austrian expedition led by Fritz Moravec, Josef Larch and Hans Willenpart. Despite the fact that it is regarded as an easier 8,000 meter class peak, mountaineers nonetheless must deal with harsh weather, crevasses and high altitude.
Gasherbrum II is popular among mountaineers who wish to experience the thrill of ascending an 8,000-meter range peak without facing the hardships of peaks like K2 or Nanga Parbat.
Shishapangma (8,027 m)
Shishapangma, at 8,027 meters, is the fourteenth highest mountain in the world. It is the shortest of the 8,000-meter peaks. The peak is located entirely in Tibet, which distinguishes it from the highest peaks, most of which are on international borders.
The name Shishapangma means crest above the grassy plains in the Tibetan language. The mountain is known for its gentle slopes and less technical ascents. It is an attraction for mountaineers looking for a comparatively easier ascent among the 8,000 meter giants.
It was climbed for the first time in 1964 by a Chinese expedition team. While not as technical as some of the other eight thousand meters mountains, Shishapangma features extreme elevation, unpredictable weather and avalanche possibilities. It is a favorite among mountaineers attempting to climb all 14 eight-thousanders, a pinnacle of high-altitude mountaineering.
The 50 Highest Mountains in the World
#1 Mount Everest – 8,848.86 m
#2 K2 – 8,611 m
#3 Kangchenjunga – 8,586 m
#4 Lhotse – 8,516 m
#5 Makalu – 8,485 m
#6 Cho Oyu – 8,188 m
#7 Dhaulagiri I – 8,167 m
#8 Manaslu – 8,163 m
#9 Nanga Parbat – 8,126 m
#10 Annapurna I – 8,091 m
#11 Gasherbrum I (Hidden Peak) – 8,080 m
#12 Broad Peak – 8,051 m
#13 Gasherbrum II – 8,035 m
#14 Shishapangma – 8,027 m
#15 Gyachung Kang – 7,952 m
#S Gasherbrum III (Secondary Peak) – 7,946 m
#16 Annapurna II – 7,937 m
#17 Gasherbrum IV – 7,932 m
#18 Himalchuli – 7,893 m
#19 Distaghil Sar – 7,885 m
#20 Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29) – 7,871 m
#S Nuptse (Secondary Peak) – 7,864 m
#21 Khunyang Chhish – 7,852 m
#22 Masherbrum (K1) – 7,821 m
#23 Nanda Devi – 7,816 m
#24 Chomo Lonzo – 7,804 m
#25 Batura Sar – 7,795 m
#26 Rakaposhi – 7,788 m
#27 Namcha Barwa – 7,782 m
#28 Kanjut Sar – 7,760 m
#29 Kamet – 7,756 m
#30 Dhaulagiri II – 7,751 m
#31 Saltoro Kangri – 7,742 m
#32 Jannu (Kumbhakarna) – 7,710 m
#33 Tirich Mir – 7,708 m
#S Molamenqing (Secondary Peak) – 7,703 m
#34 Gurla Mandhata – 7,694 m
#35 Saser Kangri I – 7,672 m
#36 Chogolisa – 7,665 m
#S Dhaulagiri IV (Secondary Peak) – 7,661 m
#37 Kongur Tagh – 7,649 m
#S Dhaulagiri V (Secondary Peak) – 7,618 m
#38 Shispare – 7,611 m
#39 Trivor – 7,577 m
#40 Gangkhar Puensum – 7,570 m
#41 Gongga Shan (Minya Konka) – 7,556 m
#42 Annapurna III – 7,555 m
#43 Skyang Kangri – 7,545 m
#44 Changtse – 7,543 m
#45 Kula Kangri – 7,538 m
#46 Kongur Tiube – 7,530 m
#S Annapurna IV (Secondary Peak) – 7,525 m
#47 Mamostong Kangri – 7,516 m
#48 Saser Kangri II East – 7,513 m
#49 Muztagh Ata – 7,546 m
#50 Ismoil Somoni Peak – 7,495 m
Interesting Facts About the World’s Highest Peaks
- Everest rises by 4–5 mm every year as a result of tectonic movement.
- K2, the second highest mountain, is more fatal than Everest and has also gained the reputation of ‘Savage Mountain’.
- There are altogether 14 mountains over 8,000 meters and all are located in Asia.
- Wind at the top of Everest is over 160 km/h (100 mph) powerful.
- Even though it is not the tallest, Annapurna I is considered the deadliest eight thousander meter peak to ascend.
- If measured from base to peak (not sea level), Mauna Kea in Hawaii is taller than Everest, most of which is underwater.
- At 8,027 meters, Shishapangma is the smallest of the 14 eight-thousanders and it’s located entirely within Tibet (China).
- The name Himalaya Means ‘Abode of Snow’. It comes from Sanskrit: hima (snow) + alaya (home).
- Everest has multiple names. It’s called Sagarmatha in Nepali and Chomolungma in Tibetan. Mount Everest got its name from British surveyor Sir George Everest.
- Some climbers, like Reinhold Messner, have climbed Everest without supplementary oxygen. It is a rare and risky feat.
- The Himalayas are the youngest mountain chain. They’re only about 50 million years old.
- Global warming is rapidly shrinking the Himalayan and Karakoram glaciers, putting the water supplies of millions at risk.
- At altitudes above 8,000 meters, there is insufficient oxygen to support life for very long which is referred to as the “death zone.”
- The solar system’s tallest mountain isn’t on Earth. There’s a mountain on Mars called Olympus Mons that’s nearly 3 times Everest’s height.
- Peaks like Kailash, Kanchenjunga and Machapuchare are sacred and normally avoided by mountaineers out of respect.
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Prakash Devkota
Meet with Prakash Chandra Devkota, Managing Director and Team Leader
Mr. Devkota hails from the beautiful hilly region of Gorkha District. He started his career as a guide in 1997 and quickly became a reputed figure in the Tourism Industry because of his extensive experience. He has gathered impressive experience in all Trekking and Climbing Routes, such as Mera, Island, Lobuche, Ama Dablam etc.
His success also lies in his brilliant mind and hospitable nature. He is fully dedicated to providing excellent services and introducing innovative concepts. With more than 15 years of experience in trekking and expedition operations in Nepal, Tibet, India, and Bhutan, he has earned a reputation as a renowned leader in the field. He understands the importance of personalized service for creating memorable experiences for his clients and constantly seeks innovative company operation methods.
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