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Published 14:51 IST, December 16th 2023

Navigating Earth's Pinnacles: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top 5 Highest Peaks Worldwide

Mountains are the epitome of beauty, but do you know which are the Top 5 highest peaks in the world? check it out.

Reported by: Garvit Parashar
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5 Tallest Mountain peaks in the world
5 Tallest Mountain peaks in the world | Image: Unsplash

Embarking on an expedition to scale the planet's loftiest summits is a pursuit that captivates many adventure enthusiasts. The allure of conquering towering peaks, inhaling crisp mountain air, and reveling in awe-inspiring panoramas is an unparalleled experience. For intrepid travelers seeking the ultimate hiking challenge, this guide unveils the top 5 tallest mountains in the world, each presenting a distinctive adventure.

1. Mount Everest (8,848 meters / 29,029 feet):

Mount Everest, the highest peak of the world stands as the epitome of mountaineering prowess, was labeled as the highest peak in 1852. Attaining its summit demands rigorous training and preparation, with the journey offering an immersion into the diverse culture and breathtaking landscapes of Nepal. 

The trek to Everest Base Camp emerges as a sought-after route, facilitating acclimatization while providing an opportunity to soak in the beauty of the Khumbu region. The first ascension to Mount Everest was done in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Noragay. 

2. K2 (8,611 meters / 28,251 feet):

Revered as the "Savage Mountain," K2, the second-highest peak globally, beckons experienced hikers and mountaineers to test their limits. Situated on the China-Pakistan border, this colossal peak challenges adventurers to navigate the mesmerizing Karakoram Range. 

The locals also refer to the mountain as “Daspand” and you can also hear the name “Chogori” by the natives. It is a  Savage and treacherous mountain which has storms that makes it almost unclimbable. The mountaineers have completed the summit but it has a wild loss ratio. Four out of one person who climbed it didn’t come back. 

3. Kangchenjunga (8,586 meters / 28,169 feet):

Nestled on the Nepal-India border, Kangchenjunga, the third-highest peak, offers a less crowded yet equally rewarding trekking experience. The real name of this mountain is Khangchendzonga, and it means “The five treasures of high snow”. The local Lhopro people say that these treasures will reveal themselves when the world needs them. Moreover, it is also called the mythical home of Yeti  or “Kangchenjunga Devil”. 

The journey meanders through pristine forests, quaint villages, and alpine meadows. 

4. Lhotse (8,516 meters / 27,940 feet):

Adjacent to Mount Everest, Lhotse, the fourth-highest peak globally, provides an alternative perspective of the Everest region. The meaning of Lhotse is “South Peak” in Tibetan and it is the part of the South Col which connects to Mount Everest. It is located in China on the border of Nepal and Tibet, and falls in the same range in which Everest is. 

Climbing Lhotse is easy and costs much less than Everest and is a big reason for gaining popularity. 

5. Makalu (8,485 meters / 27,838 feet):

Makalu is the 5th tallest mountain and located in the heart of the great Himalayas. The mountain is famous because of its steep ridges which makes it one of the most challenging mountains to climb. It is isolated and famous for its pyramids like faces on four sides. In the feet of these mountains lies the Makalu-Barun valley, a Himalayan glacier valley which is inside the Makalu National Park.

Embarking on an expedition to conquer the world's highest peaks entails more than summiting; it involves immersing oneself in culture, landscapes, and the challenges each peak presents. Whether trekking through the Khumbu Valley to Everest Base Camp or navigating remote trails leading to Kangchenjunga, each adventure promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you prepare for the ascent, remember that the journey is as crucial as the destination, and these peaks offer a thrilling combination of both.

Updated 14:51 IST, December 16th 2023