Top 10 Highest Mountains in the World – Detailed Overview & Climbing Guide

Sushil Tiwari 2nd May, 2025

Top 10 Highest Mountains in the World – Detailed Overview & Climbing Guide

Discover the world’s tallest peaks, from the majestic Mount Everest to the deadly Annapurna I. Explore their locations, heights, first ascents, and how to plan an expedition to these awe-inspiring summits.

🌍 The World’s Top 10 Highest Mountains

1. 1. Mount Everest (8,848.86m / 29,031.7ft) – Nepal/China

   Known as the "Roof of the World," Mount Everest lies in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas, straddling the border of Nepal and Tibet. It was first summited in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Everest attracts thousands of climbers each year, with the South Col route from Nepal being the most popular.

2. 2. K2 (8,611m / 28,251ft) – Pakistan/China

   K2, or Mount Godwin-Austen, is the second-highest and arguably the most difficult mountain in the world. Located in the Karakoram range, K2 has steep slopes, unpredictable weather, and a much higher fatality rate than Everest. It was first summited in 1954 by Lino Lacedelli and Achille Compagnoni.

3. 3. Kangchenjunga (8,586m / 28,169ft) – Nepal/India

   The third-highest mountain stands on the border between eastern Nepal and Sikkim, India. It is sacred to the people of Sikkim. Known for its beauty and difficulty, Kangchenjunga was first climbed in 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band. Climbers often stop a few meters short of the summit out of respect for local beliefs.

4. 4. Lhotse (8,516m / 27,940ft) – Nepal/China

   Lhotse lies just south of Mount Everest and shares the same Base Camp. Known for its dramatic south face, Lhotse was first climbed in 1956 by a Swiss team. It is often climbed in conjunction with Everest but is a serious challenge in its own right.

5. 5. Makalu (8,485m / 27,838ft) – Nepal/China

   Makalu is an isolated peak just 19 km southeast of Everest. It is known for its pyramid-shaped summit and knife-edge ridges. First climbed in 1955 by Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy, it is technically challenging due to steep ascents and exposure.

6. 6. Cho Oyu (8,188m / 26,864ft) – Nepal/China

   Cho Oyu is considered one of the easiest 8000m peaks to climb, making it a popular choice for first-time high-altitude climbers. It was first climbed in 1954 by Herbert Tichy, Joseph Jöchler, and Sherpa Pasang Dawa Lama. Its proximity to Everest and gentle slopes attract many expeditions.

7. 7. Dhaulagiri I (8,167m / 26,795ft) – Nepal

   Located in north-central Nepal, Dhaulagiri means "White Mountain." It was first climbed in 1960 by a Swiss-Austrian-Nepali team. The mountain presents formidable challenges, including crevasses, avalanche risk, and weather extremes.

8. 8. Manaslu (8,163m / 26,781ft) – Nepal

   Manaslu, meaning “Mountain of the Spirit,” lies in the Gorkha District of Nepal. It was first ascended in 1956 by a Japanese expedition. Today, it’s a popular alternative to Everest and is known for its remote beauty and cultural immersion in the surrounding villages.

9. 9. Nanga Parbat (8,126m / 26,660ft) – Pakistan

   Known as the "Killer Mountain," Nanga Parbat is famous for its steep Rupal Face and deadly reputation. Located in the western Himalayas, it was first climbed in 1953 by Hermann Buhl. Winter ascents are particularly dangerous.

10. 10. Annapurna I (8,091m / 26,545ft) – Nepal

    Despite being the lowest of the 8000ers, Annapurna I is the deadliest due to frequent avalanches and unstable weather. It was the first 8000m peak to be climbed (1950) by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal. It remains a challenging mountain for elite climbers.

🧭 Sample Expedition Itinerary (For 8000m Peaks)

While each mountain requires a specific itinerary, here's a general plan followed by most expeditions:

• Day 1–4: Arrival in Kathmandu/Islamabad, permits, gear check, briefing
• Day 5–10: Travel to base camp via flights, trekking, or jeep rides
• Day 11–35: Acclimatization rotations (Camp I → II → III), rest days
• Day 36–42: Summit window & summit push
• Day 43–45: Return to base camp and descend
• Day 46–50: Return to city and departure

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the easiest 8000m peak to climb?

Cho Oyu is considered the most straightforward due to its gentle slopes and minimal technical sections.

2. Which is the most dangerous 8000m peak?

Annapurna I has the highest fatality rate, followed by K2 and Nanga Parbat.

3. How long does it take to climb an 8000m peak?

Most expeditions take 6 to 8 weeks, including acclimatization and weather delays.

4. Do I need oxygen to climb these mountains?

Supplemental oxygen is commonly used above 7,000m, though some elite climbers attempt ascents without it.

5. Can beginners climb any of the top 10 highest mountains?

No. All these peaks require high-altitude experience. Beginners are advised to start with 6000m peaks first.

📌 Additional Information

• Best Season: Pre-monsoon (April–May) and post-monsoon (Sept–Oct)
• Permits: Required for all peaks; fees vary by country and mountain
• Fitness: High-level endurance, previous mountaineering, and technical climbing experience required
• Support: Most climbs involve Sherpa or porter assistance, especially in Nepal
• Expedition Cost: Ranges from $10,000 (Cho Oyu) to $70,000+ (Everest, K2, Annapurna I)

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