Top 10 Tallest Mountains in the world

July 28, 2019

Mountains are majestic geological formations that rise above the surrounding landscapes, often creating stunning vistas that leave us in awe. They can be found all around the world, in various shapes and sizes. Depending on the amount of greenery or snow they hold, mountains can be classified as hills or mountains. This classification is based on a long-held belief that snow-capped peaks are mountains, while those with abundant vegetation are hills.

One of the most well-known mountain ranges in the world is the Himalayas. The Himalayas are a massive range of mountains that stretch for more than 2,400 kilometers across the Asian continent, running through countries such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. The highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, is located in Nepal, and it is part of the Himalayan range.

Nepal is the only country that boasts of eight out of the ten highest peaks in the world. The Himalayan mountain range has some of the most exotic and breathtaking natural scenery that one can witness. The mountains are considered to be a heavenly creation, and being able to witness them is a blessing in itself.

The highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, is located in Nepal, and it is the most sought-after destination for mountaineers from around the globe. The Himalayas are also home to other peaks that attract mountaineers and adventurers, such as Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.

Here is a list of the top 10 highest mountain peaks in the world:

1^st highest: Mt Everest (8848 m), Nepal

2^nd Highest: Mt. K2 (8611 m), Pakistan

3^rd Highest: Mt Kanchenjunga (8586 m), Nepal/India

4^th Highest : Mt Lhotse (8511 m), Nepal

5^th Highest : Mt Makalu (8462 m), Nepal

6^th Highest : Mt Cho Oyu (8201 m), Nepal

7^th Highest : Mt Dhaulagiri  (8167 m), Nepal

8^th Highest : Mt Manaslu (8163 m), Nepal

9^th Highest : Nanga Parbat (8125 m), Pakistan

10^th Highest : Mt Annapurna (8091 m), Nepal

1. Mt. Everest (8848/ 29028 ft.), Located in Nepal.

Mount Everest is the tallest peak in the world, towering at a height of 8,848 meters (29,028 feet). It is located on the border between Nepal and Tibet, with the southern side of the mountain falling under Nepal’s territory. This majestic peak is a dream destination for mountaineers and adventurers from all over the world, as it presents a formidable challenge due to its extreme height and harsh weather conditions.

Mount Everest is named after Sir George Everest, a British surveyor who worked in India during the 19th century. It was first identified as the world’s tallest peak in 1856, and since then, it has been a source of fascination for people from all around the world. Mount Everest has two main climbing routes, one from the southern side in Nepal and the other from the northern side in Tibet. The southern side of the mountain is more popular among climbers, as it is less challenging than the northern side.

The trek to the base camp of Mount Everest is a popular activity for visitors to Nepal, and it takes about 12 days to complete. The base camp is located at an altitude of 5,380 meters (17,600 feet) and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The trek is a challenging one, as it involves walking through rugged terrain and crossing high passes. However, the rewards are worth it, as visitors get to experience the beauty of the Himalayan range up close and personal.

The ascent to the summit of Mount Everest is a challenging task that requires extensive preparation and training. It is estimated that around 4,000 people have climbed to the summit of Mount Everest since Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay made the first successful ascent in 1953. However, climbing to the summit of Mount Everest is not without risks, as the extreme altitude and unpredictable weather conditions can be fatal.

Despite the risks, the allure of Mount Everest continues to draw adventurers and mountaineers from all around the world. It is considered to be the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance, and those who conquer the peak are hailed as heroes. The Nepalese government regulates the climbing of Mount Everest, and climbers are required to obtain permits and adhere to strict guidelines to ensure their safety and the preservation of the mountain’s natural environment.

In conclusion, Mount Everest is a majestic peak that has captivated people’s imaginations for centuries. It is a symbol of human endurance and determination, and climbing to its summit is a feat that only a select few can achieve. As one of Nepal’s most popular attractions, Mount Everest continues to inspire and awe visitors from all around the world.

2. Mt K2 (8611 m), Pakistan

Mount K2, also known as Mount Godwin-Austen or Chhogori, is the second-highest peak in the world, after Mount Everest. It is located on the border between Pakistan and China, in the Karakoram range of the Himalayas. K2 has an elevation of 8,611 meters (28,251 feet) and is considered to be one of the most challenging peaks to climb in the world.

K2 was first surveyed by a British survey team in 1856, but it was not until 1954 that it was successfully climbed by an Italian expedition led by Ardito Desio. Since then, K2 has been climbed by only a few hundred climbers, as it is considered to be much more difficult and dangerous than Mount Everest. In fact, K2 has a higher fatality rate than Everest, with around one climber dying for every four who reach the summit.

The ascent to the summit of K2 is a formidable challenge that requires extensive preparation and technical expertise. The mountain is known for its steep, icy slopes and unpredictable weather conditions, which can change rapidly and without warning. Climbers must also contend with avalanches, rockfall, and crevasses, which can make the ascent even more treacherous.

Despite the risks, K2 continues to attract mountaineers and adventurers from all around the world, drawn by the mountain’s beauty and the challenge of conquering it. The trek to the base camp of K2 is a popular activity for visitors to Pakistan, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The base camp is located at an altitude of 5,150 meters (16,896 feet) and requires a 7-10 day trek through rugged terrain.

In conclusion, Mount K2 is one of the most challenging peaks to climb in the world, and it is a symbol of human endurance and determination. Climbing to its summit is a feat that requires extensive preparation, technical expertise, and a willingness to take on significant risks. As one of Pakistan’s most popular attractions, K2 continues to inspire and awe visitors from all around the world who are drawn by its beauty and challenge.

3. Mt Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), Nepal & India

Mount Kanchenjunga is the third-highest peak in the world, with an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). It is located on the border between Nepal and India, in the eastern Himalayas. Kanchenjunga is a sacred mountain for the people of Sikkim, Nepal, and India, and it is considered to be one of the most beautiful peaks in the world.

The name Kanchenjunga means “Five Treasures of Snow,” which refers to the five peaks that make up the mountain. The first successful ascent of Kanchenjunga was made in 1955 by a British expedition led by Charles Evans. Since then, the mountain has been climbed by a few hundred climbers, but it is less popular than Mount Everest and K2.

The trek to the base camp of Kanchenjunga is a popular activity for visitors to Nepal and India, and it offers stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape. The base camp is located at an altitude of 5,143 meters (16,873 feet) and requires a 10-15 day trek through rugged terrain.

The ascent to the summit of Kanchenjunga is a challenging task that requires extensive preparation and technical expertise. The mountain is known for its steep, icy slopes and unpredictable weather conditions, which can change rapidly and without warning. Climbers must also contend with high altitude sickness, frostbite, and other hazards that can make the ascent even more treacherous.

Despite the challenges, Kanchenjunga continues to attract mountaineers and adventurers from all around the world, drawn by the mountain’s beauty and the challenge of conquering it. The climb to the summit is regulated by the Nepalese and Indian governments, and climbers are required to obtain permits and adhere to strict guidelines to ensure their safety and the preservation of the mountain’s natural environment.

In conclusion, Mount Kanchenjunga is one of the most beautiful and challenging peaks in the world, and it is a symbol of human endurance and determination. Climbing to its summit is a feat that requires extensive preparation, technical expertise, and a willingness to take on significant risks. As a popular attraction for visitors to Nepal and India, Kanchenjunga continues to inspire and awe people from all around the world.

4. Mt Lhotse (8511 m), Located in Nepal

Mt. Lhotse is the fourth highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,516 meters (27,940 feet). It is located on the border between Nepal and Tibet, and is connected to Mt. Everest via the South Col. The mountain is part of the Mahalangur mountain range in the Himalayas.

The first ascent of Mt. Lhotse was made in 1956 by a Swiss team, led by Fritz Luchsinger and Ernst Reiss. The climb was made via the West Face of the mountain, which is considered one of the most challenging routes to the summit. Since then, there have been many successful ascents of the mountain, with climbers attempting a variety of routes.

The name “Lhotse” is derived from the Tibetan word “Lho-tse”, which means “South Peak”. The mountain is notable for its impressive south face, which is one of the largest mountain faces in the world. The face rises almost 3,700 meters (12,000 feet) from the base of the mountain to the summit.

Mt. Lhotse is a popular destination for experienced climbers who are looking for a challenging climb in a remote and beautiful location. However, climbing the mountain is a difficult and dangerous undertaking, and should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers who are well-prepared and well-equipped for the challenge.

4. Mt Makalu (8462 m), Located in Nepal

Mt. Makalu is the fifth highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,485 meters (27,838 feet). It is located in the Mahalangur mountain range in Nepal, near the border with Tibet. The mountain is considered one of the most challenging peaks in the world to climb, due to its steep faces and difficult terrain.

The first ascent of Mt. Makalu was made in 1955 by a French team, led by Jean Franco and Lionel Terray. The climb was made via the north face of the mountain, which is considered one of the most difficult and dangerous routes to the summit. Since then, there have been many successful ascents of the mountain, with climbers attempting a variety of routes.

Mt. Makalu is notable for its impressive pyramid shape, which is formed by its four sharp ridges that converge at the summit. The mountain is also known for its challenging climbing conditions, which include steep faces, technical ice and rock sections, and frequent avalanches.

Mt. Makalu is a popular destination for experienced climbers who are looking for a challenging climb in a remote and beautiful location. However, climbing the mountain is a difficult and dangerous undertaking, and should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers who are well-prepared and well-equipped for the challenge.

6. Mt Cho- Oyu (8201 m), Located in Nepal

Mt. Cho Oyu is the sixth highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,188 meters (26,864 feet). It is located on the border between Nepal and Tibet, in the Mahalangur Himalayan range. The name Cho Oyu means “Turquoise Goddess” in Tibetan.

The first ascent of Mt. Cho Oyu was made in 1954 by an Austrian team, led by Joseph Jöchler. Since then, there have been many successful ascents of the mountain, with climbers attempting a variety of routes.

Mt. Cho Oyu is known for its relatively straightforward climbing routes compared to other 8,000-meter peaks, which has made it a popular destination for commercial expeditions. The standard route to the summit follows the northwest ridge, which begins on the Tibetan side of the mountain and is less technically challenging than other routes.

Mt. Cho Oyu is also notable for its impressive views of neighboring peaks, including Mt. Everest, which is visible from the summit on a clear day.

While Mt. Cho Oyu is considered one of the easier 8,000-meter peaks to climb, it is still a challenging and dangerous undertaking that requires a high level of fitness and experience in high-altitude mountaineering. Climbers attempting to summit Mt. Cho Oyu should be well-prepared and well-equipped for the challenge.

7. Mt Dhaulagiri(8167 m), Located in Nepal

Mt. Dhaulagiri is the seventh highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,167 meters (26,795 feet). It is located in the Dhaulagiri mountain range in Nepal, near the border with Tibet. The name Dhaulagiri means “White Mountain” in Sanskrit.

The first ascent of Mt. Dhaulagiri was made in 1960 by a Swiss/Austrian team, led by Max Eiselin, Albin Schelbert, Ernst Forrer, and Kurt Diemberger. Since then, there have been many successful ascents of the mountain, with climbers attempting a variety of routes.

Mt. Dhaulagiri is notable for its impressive height and its steep faces, which present a significant challenge to climbers attempting to summit the peak. The mountain is also known for its challenging weather conditions, which can include strong winds and heavy snowfall.

Climbing Mt. Dhaulagiri is a difficult and dangerous undertaking, and should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers who are well-prepared and well-equipped for the challenge. The mountain is considered one of the most difficult and dangerous peaks in the world to climb, due to its steep faces, technical climbing sections, and frequent avalanches.

Despite the risks involved, Mt. Dhaulagiri remains a popular destination for experienced climbers who are looking for a challenging and rewarding climb in a remote and beautiful location.

8. Mt Manaslu (8,163 m), Located in Nepal

Mt. Manaslu is the eighth highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). It is located in the Mansiri Himal mountain range in Nepal, near the border with Tibet. The name Manaslu means “Mountain of the Spirit” in Sanskrit.

The first ascent of Mt. Manaslu was made in 1956 by a Japanese team, led by Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu. Since then, there have been many successful ascents of the mountain, with climbers attempting a variety of routes.

Mt. Manaslu is notable for its impressive height and its challenging climbing conditions, which include steep faces, technical ice and rock sections, and frequent avalanches. The mountain is also known for its remote location and stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Climbing Mt. Manaslu is a difficult and dangerous undertaking, and should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers who are well-prepared and well-equipped for the challenge. The mountain is considered one of the most challenging and dangerous peaks in the world to climb, due to its technical climbing sections and unpredictable weather conditions.

Despite the risks involved, Mt. Manaslu remains a popular destination for experienced climbers who are looking for a challenging and rewarding climb in a remote and beautiful location. In recent years, the mountain has also become a popular destination for trekking, with several trekking routes in the area that offer stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding Himalayan landscape.

9. Nanga Parbat (8125 m), Located in Pakistan

Nanga Parbat is the ninth highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,125 meters (26,660 feet). It is located in the western Himalayas in Pakistan, near the border with India. The name Nanga Parbat means “Naked Mountain” in Urdu.

The first successful ascent of Nanga Parbat was made in 1953 by a joint Austrian-German expedition, led by Hermann Buhl. The climb was notable for its difficulty and for Buhl’s solo summit bid, which he made without supplemental oxygen.

Nanga Parbat is known for its steep, snow-covered faces and its challenging climbing conditions, which include technical ice and rock sections, high altitude, and unpredictable weather. The mountain is also notorious for its history of accidents and fatalities, with many climbers losing their lives attempting to summit the peak.

Despite the risks involved, Nanga Parbat remains a popular destination for experienced mountaineers who are looking for a challenging and rewarding climb. There are several routes to the summit, including the Diamir Face, which is known for its steep ice and rock sections, and the Rupal Face, which is one of the highest and steepest mountain faces in the world.

In addition to its reputation as a challenging climb, Nanga Parbat is also known for its stunning natural beauty and for the unique cultural experiences available to climbers and trekkers in the surrounding region. The mountain is located in a remote and sparsely populated area of Pakistan, and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape.

10. Mt Annapurna (8091 m), Located in Nepal

Mt. Annapurna is the tenth highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,091 meters (26,545 feet). It is located in the Annapurna mountain range in Nepal, near the city of Pokhara. The name Annapurna is derived from Sanskrit, and means “Goddess of the Harvests”.

The first ascent of Mt. Annapurna was made in 1950 by a French expedition, led by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal. The climb was notable for being the first successful ascent of a peak above 8,000 meters, and for the difficulty of the climb, which included technical ice and rock sections, high altitude, and extreme weather conditions.

Mt. Annapurna is known for its steep, snow-covered faces and its challenging climbing conditions, which make it one of the most difficult peaks in the world to climb. The mountain is also known for its high avalanche risk, which is caused by its steep slopes and the frequent snowfall in the area.

Climbing Mt. Annapurna is a difficult and dangerous undertaking, and should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers who are well-prepared and well-equipped for the challenge. The mountain is considered one of the most challenging and dangerous peaks in the world to climb, due to its technical climbing sections and unpredictable weather conditions.

Despite the risks involved, Mt. Annapurna remains a popular destination for experienced climbers who are looking for a challenging and rewarding climb in a remote and beautiful location. In addition to its reputation as a challenging climb, the surrounding Annapurna region is also known for its stunning natural beauty and for the unique cultural experiences available to trekkers in the area.