Top 10 Highest Peaks of Himalaya: Ultimate Guide & Fascinating Facts

Last Updated: February 19, 2025

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Imagine standing at the world's edge, looking up at towering giants covered in snow, their peaks piercing the sky. That’s the Himalayas—home to the tallest mountains on Earth. Among these giants, the highest peak of Himalaya, Mount Everest, stands as the ultimate challenge. But did you know that nine other towering giants command just as much respect?

Where Are the Himalayan Mountains?

The Himalayan Mountains stretch across five South Asian countries: India, Nepal, Bhutan, China (Tibet), and Pakistan. This massive mountain range runs about 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles) and forms a natural border between the Indian subcontinent and the Tibetan Plateau.

Countries Covered by the Himalayas:

1. India - Home to several Himalayan peaks, including Kangchenjunga, Nanda Devi, and Kamet
2. Nepal - This country Is home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the Himalayas, as well as Lhotse, Makalu, and Annapurna
3. Bhutan - Features sacred peaks like Gangkhar Puensum, the highest unclimbed mountain in the world
4. China (Tibet) - Contains part of Everest and several high-altitude plateaus
5. Pakistan - Home to K2, the world’s second-highest and one of the most dangerous mountains to climb

Which Are the Top 10 Highest Peaks in the Himalayas?

The top 10 highest mountains in the Himalayas are Mount Everest (8,848.86m), K2 (8,611m), Kangchenjunga (8,586m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), Cho Oyu (8,188m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m), Nanga Parbat (8,126m), and Annapurna I (8,091m).

Here’s a look at the highest peak of Himalaya, ranked by height.

1. Mount Everest (8,848.86m) – The Highest Peak of Himalaya

Mount Everest is the highest peak in the Himalayas at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet). It is a dream destination for climbers, but its extreme conditions make it one of the toughest challenges on Earth.

Where Is Mount Everest Located in the Himalayas?

Mount Everest is located on the Nepal-Tibet border and is part of the Mahalangur Himal subrange in the Himalayas. Its southern face is in Nepal’s Sagarmatha National Park, while its northern face is in Tibet (China).

Where Is Mount Everest Located in the Himalayas?

Since Sir Edmund Hillary and Tibetan mountaineer Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest in 1953, over 6,000 climbers have reached the summit. However, more than 300 people have died attempting to conquer it.

What Is the Best Time to Climb Everest?

The best time to climb Everest is during the spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) seasons, when weather conditions are more stable and the risk of avalanches and storms is lower.

2. K2 (8,611m) – The Savage Mountain

K2 is the second-highest peak in the Himalayas and the world, standing at a staggering 8,611 meters (28,251 feet). Unlike Everest, it is notorious for its brutal conditions and high fatality rate, earning the name “The Savage Mountain.” Only the most professional and determined climbers dare to ascend this deadly peak.

Where Is K2 Located in the Himalayas?

K2 lies in the Karakoram Range, which is part of the Greater Himalayas, on the Pakistan-China border. It is located in the Gilgit-Baltistan area of Pakistan and the Xinjiang region of China. Unlike Everest, K2 is entirely isolated from commercial climbing routes, making it one of the most remote and challenging mountains to access.

Why Is K2 Called the Savage Mountain?

K2 earned the nickname "The Savage Mountain" due to its extreme weather, steep slopes, and high fatality rate. The first person to call it this was climber George Bell, who nearly lost his life on K2 in 1953 and famously said, "It's a savage mountain that tries to kill you."

Is K2 Harder to Climb than Everest?

Yes, K2 is much harder to climb than Everest. While Everest has fixed ropes, guided routes, and Sherpa support, K2 demands technical climbing skills and survival instincts. Everest's success rate is about 65%, while K2’s is only around 25%.

Has K2 Ever Been Climbed in Winter?

K2 was the last 8000m peak unclimbed in winter for many years. Due to its freezing temperatures, hurricane-force winds, and extreme avalanches, no one had managed a winter ascent—until January 16, 2021.

A team of 10 Nepali climbers led by Nirmal Purja and Mingma G made history by reaching the summit of K2 in winter for the first time. This achievement is considered one of the greatest milestones in mountaineering history.

3. Kangchenjunga (8,586M) – The Highest Peak of Himalaya in India

Kangchenjunga, rising to 8,586 meters (28,169 feet), is the third-highest mountain in the world and the highest peak of Himalaya in India. It sits on the India-Nepal border, towering over the state of Sikkim and the Taplejung district of Nepal. Unlike Everest, Kangchenjunga remains far less crowded, offering a raw and remote climbing experience.

Why Is Kangchenjunga Considered Sacred?

For the people of Sikkim and Nepal, Kangchenjunga is more than just a mountain—it’s a spiritual guardian. The name means "The Five Treasures of the Great Snow," referring to its five peaks, which symbolize gold, silver, gems, grain, and holy scriptures—gifts from the gods.

Local legends say that deities reside on these icy slopes, protecting the land and its people. In fact, early climbers stopped short of the summit out of respect for its sacred status. Even today, climbers approaching from the Indian side are not permitted to reach the true summit, preserving its untouched nature.

How Many Routes Lead To Kangchenjunga’s Summit?

Kangchenjunga is one of the most challenging 8000m peaks, with four main routes leading to the summit—two from Nepal and two from India.

1. Southwest Face Route (Nepal) - The most popular and commonly used route, first climbed in 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band
2. North Face Route (Nepal) - A more technical and difficult route, rarely attempted due to harsh conditions
3. Northeast Ridge Route (India) - Located in Sikkim, but climbing is restricted due to religious beliefs
4. Southeast Ridge Route (India) - Another Indian route that remains off-limits to climbers

4. Lhotse (8,516m) – Everest’s Twin Peak

Lhotse, standing at 8,516 meters (27,940 feet), is the fourth-highest mountain in the world and is often outweighed by its famous neighbor, Mount Everest. However, Lhotse is a beast of its own, known for its steep faces and extreme climbing challenges. It shares part of its route with Everest, making it a popular yet deadly climb for seasoned mountaineers.

How Is Lhotse Connected to Mount Everest?

Lhotse and Everest are closely linked, sitting side by side in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas. They share the same climbing route up to Camp 3 on the South Col, where Everest climbers veer left, and Lhotse climbers take a more direct and steeper ascent.

Why Is Lhotse’s South Face One of the Toughest Climbs?

Lhotse’s South Face is a legendary challenge in mountaineering. This 3,200-meter (10,500 feet) vertical wall is one of the world's steepest and most technical climbs. Unlike Everest, which has gradual slopes, Lhotse’s south face is a nearly vertical wall of ice and rock. Additionally, snow and ice collapse frequently, making climbing conditions highly unstable.

5. Makalu (8,485m) – The Pyramid Peak

Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain in the world, rises to 8,485 meters (27,838 feet) on the Nepal-Tibet border. Unlike other Himalayan peaks, it stands alone, far from busy climbing routes, making it one of the most remote and untouched 8000-meter mountains. Its steep ridges, harsh weather, and technical challenges make it a tough climb, even for the most experienced mountaineers.

Why Is Makalu Called the Pyramid Peak?

Makalu gets its nickname, "The Pyramid Peak," because of its distinctive four-sided pyramid shape. Unlike other Himalayan peaks with broad, rounded summits, Makalu has steep slopes and sharp ridges, forming a near-perfect pyramid. This unique shape makes it one of the world's most recognizable and visually stunning mountains.

What Makes Makalu a Difficult Mountain to Climb?

Makalu is known as one of the most technically demanding 8000m peaks, even harder than Everest in many ways. Here’s why:

1. Sharp ridges and steep terrain - Unlike Everest’s gradual ascent, Makalu’s knife-edge ridges and exposed slopes require expert mountaineering skills
2. Unpredictable weather - The mountain is frequently hit by strong winds, extreme cold, and sudden storms, making the climb highly unpredictable
3. Limited oxygen and isolation - Since it is more remote than Everest, climbers must carry extra supplies and be fully self-sufficient
4. Technical rock and ice climbing - The final ascent requires technical rock climbing on steep icy slopes, making it much harder than Everest’s summit push

6. Cho Oyu (8,188m) – The Easiest 8000m Peak

Cho Oyu, standing at 8,188 meters (26,864 feet), is the sixth-highest mountain in the world and is often called the easiest 8000m peak to climb. Located on the Nepal-Tibet border, just west of Everest, Cho Oyu attracts climbers who want to experience high-altitude mountaineering without the extreme dangers of Everest or K2.

Why Is Cho Oyu Considered the Easiest 8000M Peak?

Unlike other 8000m giants, Cho Oyu has a relatively gentle ascent, making it the best introduction to extreme altitude climbing. Here’s why:

1. Gradual ascent - The climbing and descent route is less steep than other 8000m mountains, with fewer technical rock or ice sections
2. Lower objective hazards - Unlike Everest or K2, Cho Oyu has fewer avalanches, icefalls, and crevasses, reducing the risks
3. Stable weather- The mountain’s location means it experiences fewer storms and less extreme winds than other peaks

7. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) – The White Mountain

Dhaulagiri, towering at 8,167 meters (26,795 feet), is the seventh-highest mountain in the world and one of the most striking peaks in the Himalayas. Located entirely in Nepal, it rises dramatically from the surrounding valleys, creating a stunning contrast against the deep green landscapes below. Unlike Everest or K2, Dhaulagiri remains remote and less crowded, attracting only the most experienced climbers seeking a true challenge.

Why Is Dhaulagiri Called the White Mountain?

Dhaulagiri gets its name from the Sanskrit words "Dhwala" (white) and "Giri" (mountain), meaning "The White Mountain." The name perfectly describes its appearance—Dhaulagiri’s slopes are covered in dense layers of ice and snow, making it one of the most beautiful yet intimidating peaks in the Himalayas.

8. Manaslu (8,163m) – The Spirit Mountain

Manaslu, rising to 8,163 meters (26,781 feet), is the eighth-highest mountain in the world and one of Nepal’s most revered peaks. Unlike Everest or K2, which attract large commercial expeditions, Manaslu remains remote and deeply spiritual, earning its name as the "Mountain of the Spirit." The towering peak dominates the skyline of the Manang region, surrounded by ancient Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags that flutter in the high-altitude winds.

What Is the Significance of Manaslu in Buddhism?

Manaslu is highly spiritually significant in Buddhism, particularly for the Tibetan and Nepalese communities living in the region. The name comes from the Sanskrit word "Manasa," meaning "Mountain of the Spirit."

1. Sacred Mountain - Locals believe that deities protect Manaslu, and many monasteries and Buddhist prayer flags surround the area.
2. Ancient Pilgrimage Route - The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route and a spiritual journey, passing through centuries-old Buddhist villages, chortens (a Tibetan Buddhist shrine or monument), and monasteries.
3. Legends of Protection - Some stories say that Manaslu watches over the land and its people, bringing peace and prosperity.

9. Nanga Parbat (8,126m) – The Killer Mountain

Nanga Parbat, towering at 8,126 meters (26,660 feet), is the ninth-highest mountain in the world and one of the most feared peaks in mountaineering history. Located in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, this massive, isolated mountain has earned the chilling nickname “The Killer Mountain” due to its high death rate and extreme climbing conditions.

Why Is Nanga Parbat Known as the Killer Mountain?

Nanga Parbat got its deadly reputation from the large number of climbers who lost their lives attempting to reach its summit. Before the first successful ascent in 1953, it had claimed the lives of over 31 climbers, making it one of the deadliest mountains in the world.

What Makes the Rupal Face of Nanga Parbat So Dangerous?

Nanga Parbat’s Rupal Face is the world's tallest and steepest mountain face, rising a staggering 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) from base to summit. This nearly vertical wall of rock, ice, and snow makes it one of the most technical and exhausting mountaineering climbs.

10. Annapurna I (8,091m) – The Most Dangerous 8000m Peak

Annapurna I, standing at 8,091 meters (26,545 feet), is the tenth-highest mountain in the world but holds a far deadlier reputation. Located in Nepal, it is considered the most dangerous of all 8000m peaks, with a fatality rate that surpasses even K2.

While other mountains, like Everest and Cho Oyu, attract commercial expeditions, Annapurna remains a true mountaineer’s challenge. Its unpredictable weather, avalanche-prone slopes, and technical climbing routes make it challenging.

Why Is Annapurna I the Deadliest 8000M Peak?

Annapurna I is the deadliest 8,000-meter peak because, unlike Everest, which has multiple rescue options, its isolation makes emergency evacuations nearly impossible. Additionally, its steep and heavily glaciated slopes make it one of the most avalanche-prone mountains in the world. Many climbers have lost their lives due to sudden snow collapses.

What Is the Success Rate of Climbers on Annapurna I?

Due to its extreme dangers, Annapurna has one of the lowest success rates among 8000-meter peaks. Its success rate is only around 32%, meaning that for every three climbers who reach the top, one does not return.

Comparison of Top 10 Highest Himalayan Peaks

Mountain	Height (m)	Location	First Ascent	Fatality Rate (%)	Main Challenge
Mount Everest	8848.86	Nepal-Tibet Border	1953	6	Extreme altitude, unpredictable weather
K2	8611	Pakistan-China Border	1954	25	Steep slopes, harsh weather
Kangchenjunga	8586	India-Nepal Border	1955	20	Remote, sacred peak
Lhotse	8516	Nepal-Tibet Border	1956	10	Steep rock & ice walls
Makalu	8485	Nepal-Tibet Border	1955	12	Technical climbing, isolation
Cho Oyu	8188	Nepal-Tibet Border	1954	5	Easiest 8000m peak
Dhaulagiri	8167	Nepal	1960	16	Avalanche-prone, steep slopes
Manaslu	8163	Nepal	1956	9	Unpredictable weather, remote
Nanga Parbat	8126	Pakistan	1953	22	Unstable terrain, steep faces
Annapurna I	8091	Nepal	1950	32	High avalanche risk, extreme weather

Which Are the Most Dangerous Mountains to Climb?

The most dangerous mountains in the Himalayas, ranked by fatality rate, are:

1. Annapurna I (8,091m) – 32% fatality rate
2. K2 (8,611m) – 25% fatality rate
3. Nanga Parbat (8,126m) – 22% fatality rate
4. Kangchenjunga (8,586m) – 20% fatality rate
5. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) – 16% fatality rate

Conclusion

The highest peaks of the Himalayas are not just towering summits but symbols of adventure and endurance. From Mount Everest, the highest peak of Himalaya, to the deadly slopes of K2 and Annapurna, each mountain presents its own challenge. While some, like Cho Oyu, are more accessible, others, like Kangchenjunga and Nanga Parbat, test even the most experienced climbers.

Whether you dream of climbing the towering peaks of the Himalayas or simply admire these giants, the Himalayas remain an endless source of fascination and inspiration.

FAQs

Which Is the Highest Peak of Himalaya in India?

The highest peak of the Himalayas in India is Kangchenjunga (8,586m / 28,169 ft).

1. It is the third-highest mountain in the world
2. Located on the India-Nepal border
3. The highest point of Kangchenjunga lies in Nepal

Which Is the Highest Peak of the Himalayas?

Mount Everest is the tallest peak of the Himalayas (8,848.86m / 29,031.7 ft).

1. It is the highest mountain in the world
2. Located on the Nepal-Tibet border
3. It was first climbed in 1953 by New Zealand’s mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary and Tibetan mountaineering legend Tenzing Norgay

What Does Himalayan Mountains Feel Like​?

The Himalayan Mountains feel both extreme and breathtaking with:

1. Majestic views - Snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and towering glaciers
2. Thin air - Lower oxygen levels make breathing difficult
3. Extreme cold - Temperatures drop below -30°C (-22°F) at high altitudes
4. Harsh winds - Strong, icy winds make climbing exhausting

What Caused the Himalayan Mountains to Form​?

The Himalayan Mountains were created when the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates collided around 50 million years ago.

Here’s the formation process of the Himalayas:

1. The Indian plate moved northward and crashed into the Eurasian plate
2. The collision pushed land upwards, forming massive mountains
3. This process continues today, making the Himalayas rise a few millimeters yearly