10 Highest Mountains in Himalayas

Mountains range is one of the most famous in the world. The Himalayas stretch across five countries are Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan. They are home to the tallest mountains on Earth, including Mount Everest, the highest of all. But the Himalayas are not just about big mountains. They are also spiritual places, full of wildlife, beautiful nature, and old cultures. Many people around the world visit them for adventure, peace, or religious reasons.

In this blog, we will look 10 highest mountains in Himalayas and learn about them.

1. Mount Everest (8848.86 m)

Mount Everest is the tallest mountain in the world. It stands at 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet) high. It lies in Nepal. Nepalese call it Sagarmatha and Tibetans call it Chomolungma. Many climbers from around the world dream of reaching the top. It was first climbed in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary from New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa from Nepal. Climbing Everest is difficult because of its high altitude, freezing temperatures, and thin air. Even though many people have climbed it, it can still be dangerous. Every year, climbers face strong winds, avalanches, and altitude sickness. Everest is also a sacred mountain in many cultures and attracts both adventurers and spiritual seekers. It remains the most famous mountain in the world.

Best season for Mount Everest:

Pre-Monsoon (Spring) – Late April to May

1. Best time for summiting Everest
2. Stable weather with clear skies before the monsoon hits
3. Snowpack has settled, reducing avalanche risk
4. Most popular time for summit attempts

Pros:

• Reliable weather windows
• Established routes and fixed ropes by expedition teams
• Less extreme cold compared to fall

Post- Monsoon (Autumn) – Late September to October

1. less common for summits, but still possible
2. Weather is drier and skies are often clearer than spring
3. Fewer climbers

Pros:

1.Stuning visibility and fewer crowds

Seasons to Avoid:

1. Monsoon ( June to early September) : Heavy rain, Landslides, Cloud cover
2. Winter (December to February): Extreme cold, snow- covered trails, High risk on the mountain

Highlights of Mount Everest :

1. It is highest mountain in the world
2. Amazing Natural Beauty
3. Famous routes in Nepal Everest Base Camp trek
4. Cultural Significance
5. See sighting Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, etc.
6. A landmark achievement in human exploration.

2. K2 (8,611 m)

K2 is the second-highest mountain in the Himalayas, standing at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet). It is part of the Karakoram Range, which is near the Himalayas. K2 lies on the border between Pakistan and China. It is often called the “Savage Mountain” because it is very dangerous to climb. The weather is harsh, the path is steep, and there is no easy route to the top. It was first climbed in 1954 by Lino Lacedelli and Achille Compagnoni from Italy. K2 has a higher death rate than Everest, and few people attempt it compared to other tall peaks. There are no support facilities like in Everest, which makes it even harder. Despite the danger, it is known for its beautiful pyramid shape and attracts experience mountaineers from all over the world.

Highlights of K2:

1. Most Dangerous
2. Second highest mountains on the worlds
3. Climbing Difficulty
4. Weather Challenges
5. Winter Ascents
6. Remote locations

Best Season to climb or visits:

Best Climbing Season: Late June to August

1. Weather is relatively stable during this time.
2. Snow and wind conditions are less severe, but still unpredictable.

3. Kangchenjunga (8,586 m)

Kangchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). It is located on the border of Nepal and India, in the eastern Himalayas. The name means “Five Treasures of Snow,” because the mountain has five main peaks. It was once thought to be the tallest mountain until more accurate measurements proved Everest is higher. The first successful climb was in 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band from the UK. Local people believe Kangchenjunga is a sacred mountain, and most climbers stop a few meters from the summit out of respect. The mountain is known for its stunning beauty and remote location. It has glaciers, deep valleys, and rich wildlife around it. Due to the tough terrain and fewer visitors, Kangchenjunga remains one of the more peaceful and mysterious peaks in the Himalayas.

Highlights of Kangchenjunga:

1. Third highest Kangchenjunga
2. Peaceful and Mysterious peaks in the Himalayas
3. Stunning beauty and Remote location

Best season to Visits and Climb:

Spring (Mid-March to May) to visit or trek

1. In this season the weather stable , clear skies, and moderate temperatures.
2. Visibility is excellent.
3. Wildflowers bloom across the trails, making it a colorful experience.

Best Season to climb Kangchenjunga

Spring (April to May)

1. Less risk of avalanches compared to autumn, and more stable snow conditions.
2. Better logistical support and weather predictability.

Season to avoid

Monsoon (June to early September)

1. Heavy rains, Landslides, Leeches and also poor visibility.
2. In winter, very cold, deep snow.

4. Lhotse (8,516 m)

Lhotse is the fourth- highest mountains in the Himalayas, standing at 8,516 meters (27,940 feet). It is located right next to Mount Everest on the Nepal and Tibet border and shares the same route as Everest up to Camp 3. Lhotse was first climbed in 1956 by Fritz Luchsinger and Ernst Reiss from Switzerland. While it is often overshadowed by Everest, Lhotse is a very impressive mountain in its own right. It has one of the steepest and most dramatic mountain faces in the world. The Lhotse South Face, which rises over 3,000 meters almost straight up. That wall is a big challenge even for skilled climbers. Lhotse is less crowded than Everest, making it a great choice for those who want a serious climb without the large numbers of tourists. It is beautiful, bold, and often forgotten.

Highlights of Lhotse

1. Lhotse is literally Everest’s neighbor, where we can see Mount Everest as well.
2. There are three distinct summits which are Lhotse Main, Lhotse Shar, Lhotse Middle.
3. Less traffic than Everest
4. South Face of Lhotse is a major challenge.
5. Less people are successful to climb Lhotse and Everest within 24 hrs.
6. Cultural and also Scenic value.

Best Season to climb and Trek

1.Pre- Monsoon (Spring) – April to May

• Most popular and safest time to climb.
• clear views and also better condition

2. Post- Monsoon (Autumn)- Late September to Early November

• Second best option
• Clear sky, view was amazing
• Colder temperature then spring

Season to Avoid:

1. Monsoon (June to early September): heavy rain, dangerous climbing conditions.
2. Winter (December to February): extremely cold, high winds.

5. Makalu (8,485 m)

Makalu is the fifth-Highest mountains in the Himalayas at 8,485 meters (27,838 feet). It also lies on the Nepal–Tibet border, not far from Mount Everest. The mountain was first climbed in 1955 by Jean Couzy and Lionel Terray of a French expedition. Makalu is known for its unique pyramid shape, with four sharp ridges and steep faces. It is one of the most difficult 8,000-meter peaks to climb because of its steep slopes and sharp ridgelines. Weather and strong winds also make it challenging. Unlike Everest, there are fewer climbers and no crowds. That means climbers must be highly skilled and independent. The area around Makalu is also very beautiful and less visited. It includes the Makalu-Barun National Park, which has rare plants, animals, and deep forests. For mountaineers looking for adventure and solitude, Makalu offers both.

Highlights of Makalu:

1. More technical to climb than Everest.
2. Less crowded then other mountains
3. Stunning views of Everest, lhotse, makalu
4. More difficult but successful ascents are highly respected.

Best Season to Climb Makalu

Spring Season ( Pre-Monsoon): Mid- April to Late May

• Best time to summit
• Excellent weather
• Snow conditions are better
• Fewer climbers than Everest ,even during peak season.

Autumn Season ( Post – Monsoon) : Late September to Early November

• Clear skies, less competition for routes.
• Colder temperatures, higher winds, and also more unpredictable snow conditions at higher elevations.
• Statistically lower compared to spring.

Season to Avoid:

• Winter ( Dec-Feb): Extremely cold, high winds, virtually no summit attempts.
• Monsoon (June- Early Sep) : Dangerous due to heavy snow, low visibilty.

6. Cho Oyu (8,188 m)

Cho Oyu is the sixth-highest mountain in the world, with a height of 8,188 meters (26,864 feet). It is located on the border between Nepal and Tibet, close to Mount Everest. The name Cho Oyu means “Turquoise Goddess” in Tibetan. It was first climbed in 1954 by Herbert Tichy, Joseph Jöchler, and Pasang Dawa Lama. Among all the 8,000-meter peaks, Cho Oyu is often consider the easiest to climb, which is why many mountaineers choose it as their first big mountain. It has fewer technical challenges and more gentle slopes compared to other tall peaks. Because of this, it is very popular with climbers who want to experience high-altitude climbing in a safer way. The views from the summit are breathtaking, showing Everest and other nearby mountains. Cho Oyu is also use as a training climb for those preparing for Everest.

Highlights of Cho Oyu:

• Non- Technical routes
• High success rate to summit
• Ideal for training
• Stunning View
• Less crowded

Best Season to Climb and visit

Spring season ( Pre-Monsoon): Late April to Late May

• Best time to summit
• Stable weather
• Snow and Ice conditions is better then others.

Autumn Season ( Post – Monsoon) : Late September to Mid-October

• Clear Skiees and low precipitation
• Colder temperatures
• the chances to summit is high then others seasons.

Season to avoid:

• Winter (Dec- Feb): Harsh cold and wind make it dangerous.
• Monsoon (Jun – Sep) : Risk of heavy snowfall, poor visibility.

7. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m)

Dhaulagiri I is the seventh-Highest mountains in the Himalayas at 8,167 meters (26,795 feet). It is located in western Nepal and is the highest mountain that lies completely within one country. The name Dhaulagiri comes from Sanskrit, meaning “White Mountain.” It was first climbed in 1960 by a Swiss-Austrian-Nepali team. Dhaulagiri is known for its steep, icy slopes, and for being one of the most beautiful mountains in Nepal. It rises sharply from the surrounding land, also creating dramatic scenery. Near Dhaulagiri is the Kali Gandaki Gorge, one of the world’s deepest. Although fewer people climb Dhaulagiri compared to Everest or Manaslu, it is still a popular peak among experienced mountaineers. Weather and avalanches can be dangerous, so it requires careful planning. Trekking in the Dhaulagiri region is also a special experience, offering peaceful trails and close views of high peaks.

Highlights of Dhaulagiri:

1. Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek- One of Nepal’s most challenging treks, crossing two high passes.
2. See sighting Dhaulagiri I, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri and Annapurna range.
3. Trek includes walking through glaciers,hidden valleys.
4. Providing a more authentic Himalayan climb
5. Cultural Experience

Best Season to climb and visits

1. Spring (March to May) – Best time

• Stable weather, clear skies and also great visibility.
• Perfect snow condition
• Rhododendron forests in full bloom
• Best time for both trekking and climbing.

2. Autumn ( Late September to Early November) – Excellent time

• Post- monsoon clarity: crisp air and stunning mountain views.
• Cool temperatures
• fewer crowds

Season to avoid:

1. Monsoon (June to Mid September)

• Heavy rainfall, landslides ,leeches and also cloud cover ruin views.
• River crossings can be dangerous.

2. Winter (Late November to February)

• Extreme cold, heavy snowfall, closed passes.
• High risk of avalanche and snow accumulation.
• Not good for trekking as well as.

8. Manaslu (8,163 m)

Manaslu is the 8th highest mountain in the world and part of the Himalayan mountain range. It stands at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet) high and is located in Nepal. The name “Manaslu” means “Mountain of the Spirit” in Sanskrit. It was first climbed in 1956 by a Japanese team. Compared to Mount Everest, Manaslu is less crowded, but it is still very dangerous due to avalanches and rough weather. The mountain is popular among experienced climbers who want to challenge themselves. It is surround by beautiful scenery, including glaciers, deep valleys, and remote villages. Manaslu is also part of a protected area in Nepal, home to rare animals and plants. Many trekkers enjoy the Manaslu Circuit trek nearby.

Highlights of Manaslu:

• A dramatic high-mountain pass with panoramic Himalayan views.
• Fewer trekkers compared to Everest or Annapurna
• Rich Tibetan Buddhist Cultures
• Explore ancient villages like Sama Gaon, Lho, and Sho.
• Protected biodiversity and pristine environment
• Fewer expeditions than Everest or Cho Oyu
• Technical but Manageable
• 8th highest mountains in the world

Best Season to Climb and Trek

For Trekking:

Spring (march to May)

• Clear skies, Rhododendron blooms and also comfortable temperatures.

Autumn (late September to early December)

• Best weather: Stable, dry, excellent visibility

For climbing

Spring (late April to early June)

• Most popular climbing season, stable snow, good summit windows.

Autumn( late Sept to early Nov)

• Less crowd, stable weather

Season to Avoid:

Monsoon (June to early Sept)

• High chance of landslides, leeches are alots.
• Poor visibility

Winter (late Dec to feb):

• Dangerous due to heavy snow
• high rate of avalanches
• Very cold

9. Nanga Parbat (8,126 m)

Nanga Parbat is the ninth-highest mountain in the world, rising to 8,126 meters (26,660 feet). It is located in Pakistan, and its name means “Naked Mountain” in Urdu. It is also known as the “Killer Mountain” because many climbers died while trying to reach its summit in the early days of exploration. The first successful ascent was in 1953 by Hermann Buhl from Austria, who made the climb solo, without oxygen—a rare and brave achievement. Nanga Parbat is known for its massive, dramatic face called the Rupal Face, which is one of the tallest mountain walls in the world. The mountain is extremely dangerous due to its steep sides, avalanches, and unpredictable weather. Because of this, it is mostly attempted by expert climbers. Despite its dangers, Nanga Parbat remains one of the most beautiful and mysterious peaks in the Himalayas.

Highlights of Nanga Parbat:

1. One of the most difficult 8000ers, requiring strong experience and endurance.
2. One of the most scenic alpine meadows in the world, with breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat.
3. The world’s highest mountain face, rising over 4,600 m from base to summit.
4. Reflections of Nanga Parbat in alpine lakes and panoramic sunrise/sunset views.
5. Encounters with local ethnic groups.
6. Sudden storms and high winds are common.
7. Extremely remote and challenging.

Best Season to Climb and Trek

For Trekking:

Late Spring to Early Autumn

• May to early October
• Best weather, accessible trails, green meadows (especially June–August)
• July and August offer the best views from Fairy Meadows

For climbing:

Summer (June to August) and Winter (Dec to Feb)

• Most successful summit attempts are during this window.
• Better weather windows, though still unpredictable.
• Only for elite mountaineers
• High fatality risk due to storms, extreme cold, and also avalanche risk.
• Successfully climbed in winter for the first time in 2016.

Season to Avoid:

June to Early September (Monsoon Season)

• Heavy rain, landslides, swollen rivers
• Poor visibility and trail damage
• Leeches and muddy paths in lower elevation
• Dangerous glacier crossings

Late November to March (Winter):

• Harsh temperatures and limited summit opportunities
• Snow accumulation and also storms make ascent very risky.
• Many teahouses closed, limited support

10. Annapurna I (8,091 m)

Annapurna I is the tenth-Highest mountains in the Himalayas at 8,091 meters (26,545 feet). It is lies in central Nepal and was the first 8,000-meter mountain ever climbed, in 1950, by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal of France. The name “Annapurna” comes from the Sanskrit words meaning “Goddess of Food” or “Full of Nourishment.” Annapurna I is part of the larger Annapurna Massif, which includes many high peaks. Although it’s not the tallest, Annapurna I has one of the highest death rates among all 8,000-meter peaks. This is because of its dangerous avalanches and tough weather conditions. Even experienced climbers must be very careful. However, the Annapurna region is also home to some of Nepal’s most famous treks, like the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which attract thousands of trekkers each year. The area is rich in natural beauty and culture.

Highlights of Annapurna I:

1. One of the most dangerous 8000ers, especially due to avalanches.
2. Popular but exposed; require advanced alpine and avalanche safety skills.
3. Respected due to its danger and difficulty
4. Requires experience, proper acclimatization, and well-organized logistics.
5. The world’s most iconic long-distance treks.
6. Terraced fields, alpine forests, high mountain deserts, deep gorges.
7. Well-developed infrastructure, comfortable accommodation and food.
8. Kali Gandaki Gorge (world’s deepest), also hot springs at Jhinu Danda.

Best Season to Climb and Trek

For trekking

Spring (March to May)

– Warm weather, blooming rhododendrons
Autumn (Late Sept to early Dec)

– Stable weather, clear skies

For climbing

Spring (Late April to Early June)

– Best summit windows, more stable snow
Autumn (Late Sept to Early Nov)

– Quieter, but colder

Season to Avoid:

June to Early Sept (Monsoon)

• Heavy rain, landslides, also poor trail condition
• Leech-infested lower trails
• Thorong La & ABC trails snowbound in winter
• Risk of frostbite and also trail closures

Late Nov to March (Winter)

• Extremely dangerous avalanche zones
• Poor visibility, unstable snowpack
• Winter storms, extreme cold, also frostbite risk
• High winds & also deadly exposure on summit ridges

Some pictures of Mountains