What are the 8 Highest Mountains in Nepal? 

UPDATED ON 8 December, 2024
What are the 8 Highest Mountains in Nepal? 

8 Highest Mountains in Nepal, Nepal, a small landlocked nation sandwiched between China and India, is well known as the land of the Himalayas because it is home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. More than 100 peaks, including Mt. Everest (8,848.86m), the highest point on Earth above sea level, serve as the gateway to our nation. Of the fourteen summits over 8,000 meters worldwide, eight (8) are found in Nepal and are among the top ten tallest peaks in the world. Nepal’s equivalent: The Himalayas stand tall and proud beneath the azure sky, beckoning daring trekkers, mountaineers, and vacationers. 

Some well-known characteristics that draw travelers to Nepal are its sapphire landscape, glittering mountains, untouched nature, cultural richness, and undiscovered territories. These mountains serve as both a great source of revenue and the face of Nepal’s tourism industry.

The list of the top 8 Highest Mountains in Nepal

Mt. Everest (8,848.86m)

Mt. Everest View from Kalapathar
Mt. Everest View from Kalapathar

With an elevation of 8,848.86 meters above sea level, the world’s highest peak was created naturally some 55 million years ago when the Indian subcontinent collided with Eurasia. The location of Mount Everest is recognized by everyone.

Before Andrew Wague of the British Survey and Expedition Team formally declared in 1856 that Peak XV, or Mount Everest, was the highest peak in the world, the highest peak of today remained unidentified and concealed from public view.

Everest was declared the tallest peak, and eager mountain expedition teams attempted, but were unsuccessful, to reach the summit from Northside (China-Tibet) in 1921, 1922, and 1924. This was because the Everest route wasn’t made accessible to the outside world until 1949 when it was opened from South Ridge Route (Nepal). 

Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary successfully ascended the world’s highest summit for the first time on May 29, 1953. It is estimated that approximately 4,000 individuals have reached the summit of Everest thus far.

Junko Tabei, the first female mountaineer; Kami Rita Sherpa, the largest number of ascents; Jorden Romero, a 13-year-old youngster; Yuichiro Miura, an 80-year-old mountaineer, and many others are on the list.

The world’s tallest peak, also known as Sagarmatha in Nepal, Qomolangma in Tibet, or simply Mount Everest, has become a major tourist destination in recent times. In Nepal, mountaineering is becoming increasingly popular, but not everyone can afford the $11,000 required for an Everest permit. 

For those who are keen on trekking and would like to meet up at least at the base camp of the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, MMT has tailored a variety of trekking packages in the Everest Region, including the Classic EBC Trek, EBC Panorama Trek, Short EBC Trek, and Three-Passes EBC Trek.

Some Related Everest Region Peaks and Passes:

Kangchenjunga (8,586m)

From 1838 to 1849, Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain on Earth, was regarded as the highest peak in the world. Even though Kangchenjunga is located on the boundary of Sikkim, India, and Nepal, the Indian government has blocked access to the mountain from the northeast since 2,000. As a result, Nepal is the only nation with three different paths to the summit of Mount Kangchenjunga. 

Since 1905, numerous expedition teams have tried to reach the summit of Kangchenjunga; however, in 1955, George Band and Joe Brown of the British expedition team were the first mountaineers to accomplish this feat.

With five summits in the Kangchenjunga massif—Kangchenjunga main (8,586m), Kangchenjunga West (8,505m), Kangchenjunga South (8,494m), Kangchenjunga Central (8,484m), and Kangbachen (7,903m)—the name Kangchenjunga means “The Five Treasures of Snow.” Additionally, it is thought that the peak, which is home to the Yeti, the Kangchenjunga Demon, is extremely sacred in terms of religion.

Many mountaineers and trekkers have the Kangchenjunga massif, which is situated in Province No. 1’s Taplejung district, on their bucket list.

Views of Kanchenjunga Mountain
Views of Kanchenjunga Mountain

Many daring hikers hope to witness the region’s distinctive qualities, which include gorgeous valleys, flamboyant peaks, alluring scenery, and a variety of plant and animal species. Trekking in the Kangchenjunga Region is the ideal way to explore this unexplored paradise and follow less-traveled paths.

Visit For Trek Itinerary and cost: Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

Lhotse (8,816m)

Lhotse Mountain- 8 Highest Mountains in Nepal

The Lhotse is the third-highest peak in Nepal and the fourth-highest peak in the world, rising 8,816 meters above sea level and located in the Khumbu region. Lhotse, which is a component of the Mahalangur Himal, is sometimes wrongly identified as the Everest massif’s south summit.

However, Lhotse is an independent mountain made up of three peaks: Lhotse Main (8,816 meters), Lhotse Shar (8,383 meters), and Lhotse Middle (8,414 meters). After Ernest Reiss and Fritz Luchsinger successfully ascended the peak in 1956, Lhotse gained notoriety.

Because the Lhotse route essentially follows the Everest route up to the Yellow Band beyond EBC Camp 3, Lhotse has become increasingly popular. Because of its dangerous rocks, dry surface, and propensity for rock falls, the Lhotse Peak is among the hardest and least frequently tackled peaks above 8,000 meters. For those on a budget who wish to complete their climbing experience for half the cost of Everest, Lhotse may be the daring mountain trip of choice.

Makalu (8,485m)

At 8,485 meters, Makalu is the fifth-highest peak on Earth. It is situated in the Mahalangur Himalaya, straddling the border between Tibet (an autonomous part of China) and Nepal. Only after Mt. Everest’s successful ascent did mountaineers turn their focus to Mt. Makalu, a stunning peak located 14 miles east of the summit.

 Mt. Makalu

Because of its four sharp ridges and high slopes, the summit is regarded as one of the hardest and most challenging peaks. The first ascent of Makalu was accomplished in 1955 by Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy of the French expedition; an American team’s 1954 attempt was unsuccessful because of a strong storm.

The other choice for daring hikers and mountain enthusiasts is Makalu Base Camp Trekking, which has many benefits such as off-the-beaten-path trails, rhododendron woods, difficult routes, uncommon fauna, traditional culture, etc.

Cho Oyu (8,188m)

Cho Oyu (8,188m)

Situated in the Khumbu sub-section of the Mahalangur Himalaya, 20 km west of Mount Everest, stands Cho Oyu, the sixth-highest peak in the world. The summit is regarded as the simplest peak to climb above 8,000 meters and is the second most climbed eight thousander after Everest. Cho Oyu, dubbed the “Turquoise Goddess” in Tibetan, is a popular destination for intrepid climbers.

The British expedition attempted to summit this mountain in 1952 as a test run for Mount Everest, but it wasn’t until 1954 that Hebert Tichy, Pasang Dawa Lama, and Joseph Jochler made a successful attempt.

There are two primary ways to the top of Cho Oyu Peak, with Nang La Pass being the simplest. The summit is well-known among mountaineers and trekkers and is also referred to as the “Trekking peak” because of its easy accessibility.

Dhaulagiri (8,167m)

At 8,167 meters above sea level, Dhaulagiri is the seventh (7th) tallest summit in the world and is fully located in Nepal. When the mountain was found in 1808, it was thought to be the highest peak on Earth, and it held that title for 30 years.

The name Dhaulagiri means “Beautiful White Mountain” in Sanskrit. Although it is forbidden to fly over the Himalayas, the Swiss/Austrian expedition used an airplane to reach successful summit in 1960. Great views of Mount Dhaulagiri are available from the Annapurna Base Camp Trekking “Poon Hill”

With its many subsidiary peaks, such as Dhaulagiri II (7,751m), Dhaulagiri III (7,715m), Dhaulagiri IV (7,661m), and Dhaulagiri V (7,618m), Dhaulagiri is the primary summit in the massif. The most thrilling summit provides access to the world’s deepest gorge, the roaring Kali Gandaki Gorge, which runs between Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri.

Manaslu (8,163m)

Mt. Manaslu from Samagaon- 8 Highest Mountains in Nepal
Mt. Manaslu from Samagaon

The highest mountain in the Gorkha massif is Manaslu, the ninth-highest peak in the world. It is one of the eight-thousanders, all of which are found in Nepal. The name Manaslu comes from the Sanskrit phrase “Mountain of Spirits.”

Before Toshio Imanishi and Gyalzen Norbu’s successful ascent in 1956, the summit and its route were investigated by H.W. Tilman and his colleagues during their abortive effort to climb Annapurna IV in 1950. Because of the high amount of fatalities on this summit, some locals refer to it as Killer Mountain, making it one of the most deadly peaks.

Since this area is restricted land and requires a special permit pass, solo trekkers are not permitted to enter there. As a result, mountaineers do not prioritize this peak. The Manaslu region is a hidden gem inside the Himalayas that deserves to be explored, which is why MMT provides guided tours and treks including the Manaslu Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, and Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek.

Annapurna (8,091m)

Annapurna I -8 Highest Mountains in Nepal

Annapurna, the world’s tenth (10th) highest mountain, is the first eight-thousander summit to be successfully climbed. The Sanskrit words “Anna,” which means food, and “Purna,” which means full, are the origin of the mountain’s name, Annapurna, which is named after the Hindu goddess of food and grains. Despite having the greatest fatality rate among mountains above 8000 meters, Annapurna I is the deadliest of them all. 

Nevertheless, this is the first eight-thousander to be climbed. Three years before the ascent of Mount Everest, in 1950, pioneer mountaineers Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal successfully scaled the pinnacle of Mt. Annapurna.

With multiple peaks covered by the Annapurna Conservation Area, the 55-kilometer-long Annapurna massif is protected. The Myarsyangdri River on the east, the Pokhara Valley on the south, and the Kali Gandaki Gorge on the west all encircle the massif, which is wholly contained inside Nepal. 

Only after renowned mountaineer Colonel Jimmy Roberts published information about the Annapurna Region in his journal “Mountain Travel” in 1965 did the area become well-known. Because trekking at the Annapurna I base camp is such an amazing and intriguing experience, MMT has created several packages, including the ABC Trek, ABC Circuit Trek, and Poon Hill ABC Trek.

Visit For Trek Itinerary and cost: Annapurna base Camp Trek

Is Peak Climbing in Nepal as Dangerous 

In Nepal, climbing peaks higher than 6,000 meters is an extremely difficult task. Climbers will encounter numerous challenges ranging from moderate to potentially fatal during their quest. If one has the right gear, training, and guidance from professionals, peak climbing in Nepal isn’t nearly as risky as it first appears. Numerous climbers across various age groups have accomplished the most difficult peaks in Nepal.

The secret to effective and safe peak climbing is paying attention to your guide and conducting thorough research. However, peak climbing in Nepal can be safe and successful for beginners provided they hire an experienced guide, stick to a well-established route, and adjust as needed.

Accommodation / Tea houses

In Nepal, there are a variety of lodging options for peak climbing, including tea houses, hotels, and campgrounds. After a strenuous day of trekking, comfortable places to relax can be found at tea houses and lodges, which are typically located in communities along the route. Twin beds and shared bathrooms are standard in rooms.

Accommodation / Tea houses

Climbers are likely to set up camp at different locations after base camp. Typically, camping involves pitching a tent, and sleeping on mats and sleeping bags. For climbs taking many days, climbers may erect high camps near the peak. The only housing options in these rudimentary villages are tents and temporary shelters.

Food and Drinks Services

Climbers can sample several local specialties up to base camp at every summit. Food services and the quantity of things have expanded as of right now. Several teahouses provide a large menu book with a variety of foods and beverages priced accordingly.

For breakfast, climbers can have oatmeal, butter jam, french toast, eggs, coffee, bread, etc. Famous Nepali food dal bhat is served for lunch and dinner, along with roti with curries, momos (dumplings), noodles, soups, and Thukpa. 

 Food services in Trekking

Tea, coffee, cold drinks, and beers are among the beverages available, depending on the location and event. Regardless of the availability of other beverages, it is advisable to remain with warm water. Alcoholic beverages should be strictly avoided by climbers as they may result in altitude sickness and other health issues. 

Even if there are a lot of these teahouses and lodges, climbers still need to bring some light food for a trouble-free and easy trip. bringing high-energy foods such as granola bars, protein bars, dry fruits, nuts, and chocolates.

It is advised that climbers consume well-balanced meals and plenty of warm water while traveling to maintain the energy and stamina needed to tackle the challenges of peak climbing in Nepal. Athletes should also be conscious of their dietary needs, inclinations, and any possible food sensitivities or allergies.

Guides and Porters

In Nepal, peak climbing always requires the help of a guide and porter, regardless of climbing expertise level. Experienced guides and porters are necessary because to the challenging terrain, high altitude, and technical nature of numerous peaks.

Before hiring guides and porters, a climber needs to think about several factors. Hiring a guide with a license from the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) or the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) is recommended.

The hired guide should have a great deal of peak climbing expertise and speak English fluently. It is usually preferable to follow the advice of trekking organizations and take your time.

It is advisable to talk about weight distribution when recruiting porters. Ensure that no porter is overworked, as this could result in a tragic mishap. In addition to having good communication skills with the climber and guide, the porter needs to be proficient with tools and equipment. Above all, make sure that guides and porters are covered by insurance.

Conclusion 

To sum up, peak climbing in Nepal is an incredible accomplishment. It provides an exhilarating journey amidst the majestic Himalayas. There are plenty of tales of failure along with success stories. It is just as crucial to draw motivation from success stories as it is to learn from mistakes. 

Peak climbing in Nepal is accessible to all individuals with appropriate planning and preparedness. For those who are well-prepared and have an adventurous spirit, peak climbing in Nepal promises to be the adventure of a lifetime. You’ll depart with incomparable memories and a deep respect for the majestic magnificence of the tallest mountains on Earth.

FAQs

1. Where are the 8 tallest mountains?

 The eight highest mountains in the world are located in the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges in Asia. These peaks include Mount Everest, K2, Kangchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.

2. How many top 10 mountains are there in Nepal?

 Nepal is home to eight of the world’s top ten highest mountains. These include Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna I.

3. What are the 8 thousand-meter peaks?

 The eight-thousanders are the 14 mountains recognized by the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA) as being more than 8,000 meters (26,247 ft) in height above sea level. In Nepal, these include Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna I.

4. What country has 8 of the 10 highest mountains?

 Nepal has eight of the world’s top ten highest mountains, making it a mountaineer’s paradise.

5. How many 8000m peaks are there in Nepal?

 Nepal boasts a total of 14 eight-thousanders, including well-known peaks like Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse. Additionally, six more peaks above 8,000 meters await international recognition.

6. What is the 9 tallest mountain?

 The ninth tallest mountain is Nanga Parbat, which is located in Pakistan’s Himalayan range.

7. Which Nepali climbed 14 mountains?

The first person to summit all 14 eight-thousanders was the Italian climber Reinhold Messner in 1986. However, several other climbers, including Nepalis, have achieved this remarkable feat since then. Nirmal Purja is a Nepali who climbed 14 mountains and set a new record by ascending the world’s 14 highest peaks without supplemental oxygen.

8. Which is the killer mountain of Nepal?

 Annapurna I is often considered the deadliest eight-thousander due to its high fatality rate for climbers. It has one death for every three summiters3.

9. What is the easiest 8000m peak in Nepal?

Cho Oyu, standing at 8,188 meters, is often considered one of the easier eight-thousanders to climb. It lies on the Nepal-Tibet border.