The highest mountains in the world are some of Earth’s most striking wonders. They rise above the clouds, carving skylines that have amazed humans for centuries. These giants inspire climbers, attract travelers, and hold deep spiritual meaning for local cultures. Found mostly in the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges, they dominate landscapes with their beauty and power.
For some, they are challenges to conquer; for others, they are sacred places never to be disturbed. More than just tall peaks, they stand as symbols of strength, endurance, and the untamed spirit of nature. So, let’s look at some of the greatest mountains on Earth.
Quick Overview: Highest Mountains in the World
| Rank | Mountain | Height (Meters) | Best Known For | Location |
| 1 | Mount Everest | 8,849 | Tallest peak on Earth | Nepal/China |
| 2 | K2 | 8,611 | Savage Mountain, extreme climbs | Pakistan/China |
| 3 | Kangchenjunga | 8,586 | Five Treasures of Snow | Nepal/India |
| 4 | Lhotse | 8,516 | Neighbor of Everest | Nepal/China |
| 5 | Makalu | 8,485 | Black Pyramid, tough technicals | Nepal/China |
| 6 | Cho Oyu | 8,188 | Turquoise Goddess, easier climb | Nepal/China |
| 7 | Dhaulagiri I | 8,167 | White Mountain, deep gorge views | Nepal |
| 8 | Manaslu | 8,163 | Mountain of Spirit, risky routes | Nepal |
| 9 | Nanga Parbat | 8,126 | Naked Mountain, killer slopes | Pakistan |
| 10 | Annapurna I | 8,091 | Deadliest high peak for climbers | Nepal |
Mount Everest: Roof of the World
Mount Everest is the tallest of all highest mountains in the world. At 8,849 meters, it sits on the border of Nepal and China. Known as Sagarmatha in Nepal and Chomolungma in Tibet, Everest is a dream destination for climbers. It continues to grow slightly each year because of tectonic activity.
- Height: 8,849 meters
- Location: Nepal/China border
- First ascent: Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, 1953
- Local names: Sagarmatha and Chomolungma
- Fun fact: Still rising by about 2 inches yearly
K2: The Savage Mountain
K2 is the second-highest peak and is known as the “Savage Mountain.” At 8,611 meters, it is feared for its steep slopes and deadly weather. Climbers call it one of the hardest mountains to conquer, and many have lost their lives trying. Despite its dangers, it remains a dream for expert mountaineers.
- Height: 8,611 meters
- Location: Pakistan/China border
- Nickname: Savage Mountain or King of Karakoram
- First ascent: 1954 by Italian team
- Fatality rate: Around 23%
Kangchenjunga: Five Treasures of Snow
Kangchenjunga, standing at 8,586 meters, is the third-highest peak in the world. Found on the Nepal-India border, its name means “Five Treasures of Snow,” referring to its five distinct peaks. For locals, it is a sacred mountain linked to religious beliefs and legends. Climbers often respect the tradition of not stepping on the summit, stopping just below the top. Its beauty and cultural depth make it a truly unique peak among the world’s tallest.
- Height: 8,586 meters
- Location: Nepal/India border
- First ascent: 1955 by British climbers
- Cultural value: Sacred in Hindu and Buddhist traditions
- Protected areas: Kangchenjunga Conservation Area and National Park
Lhotse: Neighbor of Everest
Lhotse, at 8,516 meters, is the fourth-highest mountain in the world. It is directly connected to Everest through the South Col ridge. Known as the “South Peak” in Tibetan, it offers a quieter but equally demanding climb compared to Everest. Lhotse has multiple summits, with Lhotse Main being the tallest. It is popular among experienced climbers who wish to tackle Everest’s neighbor while avoiding the larger crowds.
- Height: 8,516 meters
- Location: Nepal/China border
- Name meaning: South Peak (Tibetan)
- First ascent: 1956 by Swiss team
- Connected to Everest via the South Col
Makalu: The Black Pyramid
Makalu, the fifth-highest mountain, rises to 8,485 meters. Known for its sharp pyramid-like shape, it is one of the most striking peaks in the Himalayas. Located near Everest, it stands apart from other mountains due to its steep ridges and exposed faces. Climbers find it technically challenging, requiring high skills and endurance. Its name comes from a Sanskrit word linked to the Hindu god Shiva, giving it spiritual importance as well.
- Height: 8,485 meters
- Location: Nepal/China border
- First ascent: 1955 by French climbers
- Known for: Pyramid-like shape
- Park area: Makalu-Barun National Park
Cho Oyu: The Turquoise Goddess
Cho Oyu is the sixth-highest mountain, standing at 8,188 meters. Its Tibetan name means “Turquoise Goddess,” reflecting the bright blue skies often seen above it. Cho Oyu is considered the easiest of the 8,000-meter peaks, making it a popular choice for beginners. Despite being easier than others, it still demands strong preparation and courage. Many climbers use it as training before attempting Mount Everest.
- Height: 8,188 meters
- Location: Nepal/China border
- First ascent: 1954 by Austrian team
- Climbing level: Beginner-friendly 8,000er
- Nickname: Turquoise Goddess
Dhaulagiri I: The White Mountain
Dhaulagiri I, at 8,167 meters, is the seventh-highest mountain. Located entirely in Nepal, its name means “White Mountain” due to its snowy brilliance. It is separated from Annapurna by the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. Dhaulagiri is technically difficult and has seen fewer successful ascents compared to other high peaks. Its isolated and dazzling presence makes it one of Nepal’s most impressive natural landmarks.
- Height: 8,167 meters
- Location: Nepal
- First ascent: 1960 by Swiss-Austrian team
- Known for: Bright snow-covered pyramid
- Special feature: Forms deepest gorge with Annapurna
Manaslu: The Mountain of Spirit
Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain, stands at 8,163 meters in Nepal. Its name translates to “Mountain of Spirit,” reflecting its cultural and spiritual meaning. The mountain is famous for its twin summits and dramatic beauty. However, it is also known for avalanches and other climbing risks. Despite dangers, its trekking routes attract many adventurers, making it a top choice for those seeking Himalayan exploration.
- Height: 8,163 meters
- Location: Central Nepal
- First ascent: 1956 by Japanese climbers
- Meaning: Mountain of Spirit (Sanskrit)
- Risk factor: High avalanche danger
Nanga Parbat: The Naked Mountain
Nanga Parbat, at 8,126 meters, is the ninth-highest peak. Found in Pakistan, it is nicknamed the “Naked Mountain” due to its exposed rock faces. It is also called the “Killer Mountain” because of its dangerous conditions and climbing deaths. The mountain has one of the largest faces in the world, the south face, rising 4,000 meters above base camp. Its sheer size and risk make it both feared and respected worldwide.
- Height: 8,126 meters
- Location: Pakistan
- Nickname: Naked Mountain or Killer Mountain
- First ascent: 1953 by Hermann Buhl
- South face: One of the largest in the world
Annapurna I: The Deadliest Peak
Annapurna I, the tenth-highest peak, rises to 8,091 meters in Nepal. Despite being the lowest among the top ten, it is the deadliest. The mountain has the highest fatality rate among 8,000ers, mainly due to avalanches and unpredictable weather. Its beauty and spiritual presence draw people in, but its dangers make it one of the most feared climbs. Annapurna remains a symbol of both triumph and tragedy in mountaineering history.
- Height: 8,091 meters
- Location: Nepal
- First ascent: 1950 by French climbers
- Fatality rate: Around 32%
- Known for: Unpredictable avalanches
FAQs on Highest Mountains in the World
Q1. What is the highest mountain in the world?
Mount Everest at 8,849 meters is the highest.
Q2. Which mountain is deadliest to climb?
Annapurna I has the highest fatality rate.
Q3. Why is K2 called the Savage Mountain?
Because of its steep slopes and deadly climbing record.
Q4. What does Kangchenjunga mean?
It means “Five Treasures of Snow.”
Q5. Is Lhotse connected to Everest?
Yes, both are linked by the South Col ridge.
Q6. Which is the easiest 8,000-meter peak?
Cho Oyu is considered the least technical climb.
Q7. Which mountains are only in Nepal?
Manaslu and Dhaulagiri I lie entirely in Nepal.
Q8. How tall is Nanga Parbat?
It stands at 8,126 meters in Pakistan.
Q9. Do these mountains still grow?
Yes, tectonic activity raises peaks like Everest slowly.
Q10. Which mountain is called the White Mountain?
Dhaulagiri I, due to its dazzling snowy look.