Blog Last Updated on 7 months by Siliveru Rakesh
Top 12 Highest Mountains In World
Mountains are the most captivating and majestic features of the natural landscape. They have been inspiring adventurers and poets for centuries, and it’s no wonder that some of the highest mountains in the world are among the most sought-after destinations for travelers. In this article, we’re taking a look at the top highest mountains in the world, ranked according to their elevation above sea level. From Mount Everest in Nepal to Denali in Alaska, each of these peaks is an incredible feat of nature that will leave you awestruck. So read on to learn more about these extraordinary peaks!
| Number | Content | Peak | Height | Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asia | Everest | 8,848 | Nepal |
| 2 | Asia | K2 | 8,611 | Pakistan |
| 3 | Asia | Kanchenjunga | 8,586 | Nepal/India |
| 4 | Asia | Lhotse | 8,516 | Nepal |
| 5 | Asia | Makalu | 8,485 | Nepal |
| 6 | South America | Aconcagua | 6,960 | Argentina |
| 7 | North America | McKinley | 6,194 | Alaska |
| 8 | Africa | Kilimanjaro | 5,895 | Tanzania |
| 9 | Europe | Elbrus | 5,663 | Russia |
| 10 | Antarctica | Vinson | 5,140 | Antarctica |
| 11 | Oceania | Cook | 3,764 | New Zealand |
| 12 | Australia | Kosciuszko | 2,230 | Australia |
1. Mount Everest, Nepal
Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world, reaching 8,848 meters (29,029 ft) in height. It is located in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas and straddles between Nepal and Tibet. It’s part of a series of peaks known as the ‘Seven Summits.’
Everest is one of the most popular destinations for mountaineers, but it’s also one of the most dangerous. The journey to its peak requires specialized gear, training and knowledge. Even with all these precautions taken, there are still risks involved such as altitude sickness and extreme weather conditions. Regardless of these dangers, many people endeavor to reach its summit each year.
It has long been seen as an iconic symbol of human achievement and a challenge that many strive to conquer. Its majestic beauty has captivated adventurers for centuries and will continue to inspire them in the future.
2. K2, Pakistan/China
K2, also known as Mount Godwin-Austen or Chhogori, is the second highest mountain in the world. Located on the China-Pakistan border, K2 stands at 8,611 metres above sea level and is a part of the Karakoram Range. It was first surveyed in 1856 by British Surveyors T.G. Montgomerie and H.H. Godwin-Austen and has been an attraction for climbers ever since its discovery.
Climbing K2 can be a dangerous endeavour due to its steep terrain and high altitude. Acclimatisation is essential to attempt any summit push of K2, as well as knowledge of rock climbing techniques and glacier travel skills. The weather can change quickly on K2, making the climb even more challenging for mountaineers who want to reach its peak. Despite these difficulties, many have succeeded in summiting this legendary peak whilst others have perished in their valiant attempts.
3. Kanchenjunga, India/Nepal
Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world. Located on the border of India and Nepal, it rises 8,586 meters (28,169 feet) above sea level. It’s a part of the Himalayan range and has five peaks, four of which are over 8,450 meters (27,700 feet). Kanchenjunga is a sacred mountain for both Hindus and Buddhists alike.
Given its height and location in the Himalayas — one of the most dangerous mountain ranges to climb — Kanchenjunga is deemed an extremely difficult climb. It’s been called a “killer mountain” due to its high fatalities rate among climbers from avalanches, crevasses, and other dangers posed by its terrain. Despite this risk, many mountaineers attempt to summit Kanchenjunga each year; some have even succeeded. As a result of its danger and difficulty, climbing Kanchenjunga is considered a major accomplishment for any serious mountaineer.
4. Lhotse, Nepal
At first glance, Lhotse stands proud with its 8,516 meters of elevation as the fourth highest mountain in the world. But to many mountaineers, it is much more than just a number; it is a challenge that beckons adventurers from all around the globe. It has seen its share of success stories, as well as heart-breaking tragedies – for every summiteer who has reached its peak, there are countless others who lost their lives trying to conquer this formidable peak. Despite this danger and difficulty, Lhotse continues to inspire climbers and trekkers alike with its majestic peaks and stunning views. Its towering presence remains an unforgettable symbol of strength and determination, one that will continue to loom over Nepal’s Khumbu region for years to come.
5. Makalu, Nepal/China
Makalu rises 8,485 meters in the Mahalangur Himalayas on the border of Nepal and China, making it the fifth highest mountain in the world. It is an isolated peak with four sharp ridges radiating from its summit. Two of these ridges extend south and east, forming a sharp edge that rises to the 8,463 meter West Peak. The other two ridges extend north and west, forming a pyramid-shaped peak that culminates at Makalu II.
The mountain’s steep slopes and exposed terrain make it difficult to climb—it has one of the highest fatality rates among expeditions to any of the eight thousanders. Despite this, it is popular with experienced mountaineers due to its dramatic shape and views from its summit. The first successful ascent was made in 1955 by Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy. Since then over 400 climbers have reached Makalu’s summit.
Climbing Makalu requires extensive mountaineering experience and technical climbing skills for even experienced alpinists; some sections require fixed ropes or ice climbing as well as advanced navigation skills due to its remoteness from populated areas. But for those who are up for the challenge, it offers spectacular views of Everest and other surrounding peaks in the Mahalangur Himalaya range.
6. Aconcagua mountains – Argentina
Aconcagua Mountains are the highest mountain range in the Andes and the Americas. Located in the central-western part of Argentina, the Aconcagua Mountains span for about 600 kilometers along the Chile-Argentina border. It is the highest peak in the Americas at 6,962 meters and the second highest peak in the world outside of Asia. It is a popular destination for mountaineers and climbers from all over the world. The Aconcagua Mountains offer a variety of terrain for hikers and climbers to explore.
The range is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the endangered Andean condor. The landscape is also home to glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and picturesque lakes. The area is also rich in culture and history, with countless archaeological sites and pre-Incan ruins. The Aconcagua Mountains are an awe-inspiring sight and an unforgettable experience.
7. McKinley – Alaska
The McKinley Mountains are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the United States. Located in Alaska, the mountains are part of the Alaska Range and reach a maximum elevation of 20,310 feet at the top of Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America. The range is characterized by its rugged, snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows.
The nearby Denali National Park and Preserve is home to a variety of wildlife including grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. Hiking and backpacking are popular activities in the area, and the range offers stunning views of the Alaska landscape. The McKinley Mountains are a great place for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers alike.
8. Kilimanjaro – Tanzania
Kilimanjaro mountains are the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Located in Tanzania, the mountain is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park and is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers. The mountain is made up of three distinct volcanic cones, Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. It is also home to glaciers, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The forests near the peak are home to a variety of species, including elephants, buffalos, and primates.
The snows on the summit of Kilimanjaro are a popular tourist attraction, as they are rarely seen in other parts of Africa. Climbing the mountain is a dangerous and difficult endeavor, but the experience of reaching the summit is worth the effort. Kilimanjaro is a stunning sight to behold and is a reminder of the power and beauty of the natural world.
9. Elbrus – Russia
The mighty Elbrus Mountains are a breathtaking sight to behold. Situated in the Caucasus Mountains, Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe, with an elevation of 5,642 meters. Its snow-capped summit is visible from miles away, making it a popular destination for mountain climbers and adventurers. Elbrus is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the rare Bezoar ibex, a species of wild goat, and the chukar partridge, a species of bird.
Its slopes are also home to a variety of alpine vegetation, including wildflowers, shrubs, and grasses. The Elbrus Mountains offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, which include nearby lakes, rivers, and forests. Its rugged terrain and wild environment provide a challenge for the most experienced climbers, making it a great spot for those who love the outdoors.
10. Vinson Massif – Antarctica
The Vinson Massif is a mountain range located in the Ellsworth Mountains of Antarctica, making it the highest mountain range on the continent. The highest peak of the range is Mount Vinson, reaching 4,897 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in Antarctica. The range was first discovered and climbed in December 1966 by an American expedition led by Nicholas Clinch, making it the last major mountain range on Earth to be explored by humans.
The mountain range has some of the harshest weather conditions in the world, with temperatures dropping below -50°C in the winter months. The terrain is also extremely rugged, with crevasses, ice fields, and glaciers covering the range. The area is a popular destination for mountaineers and adventurers, and the Vinson Massif is seen as a symbol of exploration and achievement.
11. Cook – New Zealand
The Cook Mountains are a mountain range located in the northwestern United States. They are part of the Cascade Range and are located in Washington and Oregon. The highest peak in the range is Mount Adams, at 12,276 feet in elevation. The range is named after British navigator James Cook, who was the first European to sight the mountains in 1778.
The range is a popular destination for mountain climbers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. It is characterized by its steep and rugged peaks, heavily forested slopes, and alpine meadows. It is home to numerous wildlife, including bald eagles, bears, and cougars. The range is also home to a variety of plant life, including wildflowers and evergreen trees. The mountain range is a great place to experience nature in all its glory.
12. Kosciuszko – Australia
The Kosciuszko Mountains are a mountain range located in the eastern Australian Alps, extending from the Victorian border in the south to the Snowy Mountains in the north. The range is named after the Polish national hero, Tadeusz Kościuszko, who fought in the American Revolutionary War. The range is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with picturesque alpine meadows, snow-covered peaks, glacial lakes, and rugged gorges.
The highest peak in the range is Mount Kosciuszko, which stands at 2,228 metres. The range is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered mountain pygmy possum and the critically endangered corroboree frog. The area is popular for a wide range of activities, from bushwalking and skiing to camping and fishing. The Kosciuszko National Park provides a spectacular backdrop to explore all that the mountains have to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What Is The Most Dangerous Mountain To Climb?
Ans: Mountaineering can be an exhilarating sport, but it also comes with enormous risks. With extreme weather conditions and treacherous terrain, some of the most dangerous mountains to climb are Annapurna in the Himalayas, K2 in Pakistan, Kangchenjunga on the border of India and Nepal, and Nanga Parbat in Pakistan. All four of these peaks have earned a reputation for being particularly challenging and dangerous due to unpredictable weather patterns and difficult routes for climbers.
Q2. What Are The Average Temperatures On These Mountains?
Ans: When it comes to mountain temperatures, the average varies greatly depending on the elevation. Generally speaking, the higher up you go, the colder it will get. For example, at sea level, temperatures may be between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius while at higher elevations they can dip as low as -20 degrees Celsius. Additionally, most of these mountains are located in areas where there is often heavy snowfall during winter months which can cause temperatures to drop even further.
Q3. Are There Any Special Permits Required To Climb These Mountains?
Ans: Climbing some of the highest mountains in the world can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but it’s important to know that certain mountains require special permits before attempting to climb. Depending on the mountain, rules and regulations may vary and could include requirements such as paying fees, proving qualifications or having permission from local authorities. It’s always best to do your research beforehand so you have all the information needed to ensure a safe climb.
Q4. What Type Of Terrain Can Be Expected When Climbing These Mountains?
Ans: Climbing mountains can be a challenging experience, and the terrain you’ll encounter can vary greatly. Depending on the mountain, you might find yourself scaling steep rock faces, traversing glaciers, or crossing snow-covered ridges. Your route may also include hikes through dense forests or over vast meadows. It’s important to be prepared for whatever terrain you might come across when tackling these peaks.
Q5. How Long Does It Typically Take To Climb These Mountains?
Ans: Climbing a mountain can be a long and arduous task, with the amount of time it takes to complete varying depending on numerous factors. Generally speaking, climbing the highest mountains in the world can take anywhere from days to weeks, with some even taking months. The terrain of each individual peak also plays an important role in determining how long it takes to climb; for instance, if a mountain has very steep terrain or requires technical climbing skills, it will often take longer than one that is more accessible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, climbing the world’s highest mountains is an incredibly challenging task that requires tremendous physical and mental strength. It’s important to understand the conditions of these mountains before attempting to climb them, including temperature, terrain, and permits required. Climbing any of these mountains is a lengthy process that can take up to several weeks or even months for some. Ultimately, it’s an experience that I think many adventure seekers should seek out at least once in their lives!
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