Highest Peak in India

India is home to some of the world's most breathtaking mountain ranges, including the mighty Himalayas. If you’ve ever wondered "which is the highest mountain peak in India?", the answer is Kanchenjunga, standing at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). It is the highest mountain peak in India and the third highest in the world. Located in Sikkim, on the border between India and Nepal, this majestic mountain is known for its stunning beauty, spiritual significance, and challenging climbing routes.

Many people often ask, "highest peak in India K2 or Kanchenjunga?" The confusion arises because K2 (8,611 meters) is actually higher than Kanchenjunga. However, K2 is located in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, making Kanchenjunga the highest peak of the Himalaya in India. Meanwhile, K2 is considered India’s highest peak based on territorial claims, but it is not in the present Indian territory.

Do Check: What is the highest peak in the Eastern Ghats?

While the highest peak in India is Kanchenjunga, the second highest peak in India is Nanda Devi (7,816 meters), located in Uttarakhand. It is a sacred mountain and part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, known for its biodiversity and restricted access.

Apart from the Himalayas, the highest peak in South India is Anamudi (2,695 meters), located in Kerala. It is the tallest mountain in the Western Ghats and a popular trekking destination. Unlike the icy Himalayan peaks, Anamudi is covered with lush green forests and is home to rare wildlife species.

For adventure seekers and mountaineers, climbing the highest peak in India is a dream. However, Kanchenjunga is considered extremely difficult to climb, with unpredictable weather and dangerous routes. Only highly trained mountaineers attempt this challenging peak.

The highest mountain peak in India is not just a geographical landmark but also a symbol of nature’s beauty and power. Whether you are a trekker, climber, or nature lover, India’s mountains offer something for everyone. So, next time someone asks, "which is the highest peak in India?", you can confidently say Kanchenjunga and explore more about India’s fascinating mountains!

Which is the Highest Mountain Peak in India?

The highest mountain peak in India is Kanchenjunga, which stands at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). However, the tallest peak near India is K2 (8,611 meters or 28,251 feet), which is higher than Kanchenjunga but located in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

This means that:

• Kanchenjunga is the highest peak completely inside India (in Sikkim).
• K2 is the tallest peak near India but is in PoK and not fully inside Indian territory.

Highest Peak in India: K2 or Kanchenjunga?

People often get confused between K2 and Kanchenjunga when talking about India's highest peak. Let’s compare them:

1. Kanchenjunga – The Highest Peak in India

• Height: 8,586 meters (28,169 feet)
• Location: Sikkim, India – Nepal border
• Rank in the World: 3rd highest mountain in the world
• Famous For: Sacred significance, tough climbing routes, and beautiful snow-covered peaks

Kanchenjunga is considered India's highest mountain because it is entirely within Indian borders. Many people in Sikkim believe the peak is sacred, so climbers do not step on its highest point out of respect.

2. K2 – The Second-Highest Mountain in the World

• Height: 8,611 meters (28,251 feet)
• Location: Karakoram Range, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)
• Rank in the World: 2nd highest mountain in the world
• Famous For: One of the toughest mountains to climb, extreme weather conditions

K2 is actually higher than Kanchenjunga, but since it is not fully in India, it is not considered India’s highest peak.

About Kanchenjunga: The Highest Peak of Himalaya in India

Kanchenjunga is the highest mountain in India and the third highest in the world. It is part of the Himalayas and stands at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). The mountain is located on the border of Sikkim (India) and Nepal.

Why is Kanchenjunga Special?

1. Sacred Mountain – Many people in Sikkim and Nepal consider it a holy mountain and believe it protects them.
2. Beautiful Snow Peaks – It is covered in snow all year and looks stunning from far away.
3. Difficult to Climb – Mountaineers find it challenging because of tough weather and steep slopes.
4. Home to Wildlife – The area around Kanchenjunga has rare animals like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan tahr.

Interesting Facts about Kanchenjunga

• The name Kanchenjunga means "The Five Treasures of Snow", referring to its five peaks.
• The first people to climb it were Joe Brown and George Band in 1955.
• Unlike Mount Everest, climbers do not step on the very top of Kanchenjunga because of religious beliefs.

Kanchenjunga is not just a mountain; it is a symbol of nature's beauty, adventure, and spiritual importance in India.

Do Check: Which is the highest peak of the Himalayas lying in India?

Highest Peak in India  - Kanchenjunga

• Height: 8,586 meters (28,169 feet)
• Location: Sikkim, India, and Nepal
• Mountain Range: Himalayas
• First Ascent: 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band
• Difficulty Level: One of the toughest mountains to climb
• Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November

Which is the Second Highest Peak in India?

The second highest peak in India is Nanda Devi, standing at 7,816 meters (25,643 feet). Unlike K2, which is disputed in terms of its location, Nanda Devi is entirely within India and is the highest peak located entirely in the country. It is situated in the Uttarakhand Himalayas and is surrounded by the Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Second Highest Peak in India - Nanda Devi

• Height: 7,816 meters (25,643 feet)
• Location: Uttarakhand, India
• Mountain Range: Garhwal Himalayas
• First Ascent: 1936 by Bill Tilman and Noel Odell
• Best Time to Visit: May to October

Other Major Mountain Peaks in India

Apart from Kanchenjunga and Nanda Devi, India is home to several other high mountain peaks. Some of the notable ones include:

1. Kamet Peak

• Height: 7,756 meters (25,446 feet)
• Location: Uttarakhand
• Mountain Range: Garhwal Himalayas

2. Saltoro Kangri

• Height: 7,742 meters (25,400 feet)
• Location: Jammu and Kashmir (disputed region)
• Mountain Range: Karakoram

3. Saser Kangri

• Height: 7,672 meters (25,171 feet)
• Location: Ladakh
• Mountain Range: Karakoram

4. Kangto

• Height: 7,042 meters (23,103 feet)
• Location: Arunachal Pradesh
• Mountain Range: Eastern Himalayas

Highest Peak in South India

The highest peak in South India is Anamudi, located in Kerala. It stands at 2,695 meters (8,842 feet) above sea level and is part of the Western Ghats. Anamudi means "Elephant's Forehead", as the peak looks like an elephant’s head. It is surrounded by beautiful forests and is home to many plants and animals. The Eravikulam National Park, where Anamudi is located, protects rare species like the Nilgiri Tahr. Trekking is allowed with permission, and visitors enjoy the cool weather and green hills. It is the tallest mountain in India outside the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges.

Highest Peak in South India - Anamudi

• Height: 2,695 meters (8,842 feet)
• Location: Kerala, India
• Mountain Range: Western Ghats
• Significance: The highest peak in South India

Do Check: Which is the highest peak in the world ?

Climbing and Trekking on India’s Highest Peaks

India has some of the tallest and most beautiful mountains in the world, especially in the Himalayas. Climbing and trekking in these mountains is a thrilling adventure for nature lovers and mountaineers.

Climbing India’s Highest Peaks

Mountaineering in India is challenging because of the extreme weather, steep slopes, and high altitude. Some of the tallest and most famous peaks for climbing include:

1. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) – The highest peak in India and the third highest in the world. It is difficult to climb and only experienced climbers attempt it.
2. Nanda Devi (7,816 m) – The second-highest peak in India, located in Uttarakhand. It is protected under the Nanda Devi National Park.
3. Kamet (7,756 m) – The highest peak in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, very challenging for climbers.
4. Saltoro Kangri (7,742 m) – Located in the Siachen Glacier area, making it a restricted region for mountaineering.
5. Saser Kangri (7,672 m) – A tough peak in Ladakh, climbed by only a few mountaineers.

To climb these peaks, mountaineers need special permits, strong physical fitness, and proper training in high-altitude climbing. The best time for climbing is usually May to October, when the weather is better.

Popular Trekking Routes in India

Trekking in India is a great way to explore the Himalayas, forests, and valleys. Some treks are easy, while others are very tough. Here are some of the most famous trekking routes in India:

1. Easy and Moderate Treks

These treks are suitable for beginners and take 3-7 days.

• Valley of Flowers Trek (Uttarakhand) – A beautiful trek with colorful flowers, great for nature lovers.
• Hampta Pass Trek (Himachal Pradesh) – A moderate trek crossing lush green valleys and snowy landscapes.
• Kedarkantha Trek (Uttarakhand) – A winter trek with stunning views of snow-covered peaks.
• Triund Trek (Himachal Pradesh) – A short trek near McLeod Ganj, perfect for beginners.

2. Difficult and High-Altitude Treks

These treks are for experienced trekkers and take 7-20 days.

• Roopkund Trek (Uttarakhand) – Known as the ‘Skeleton Lake’ trek because of the human skeletons found near the lake.
• Goechala Trek (Sikkim) – Offers breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga.
• Chadar Trek (Ladakh) – A unique winter trek on the frozen Zanskar River.
• Stok Kangri Trek (Ladakh) – A challenging trek that reaches the summit of Stok Kangri (6,153 m).
• Pin Parvati Pass Trek (Himachal Pradesh) – One of the hardest treks, with glaciers, rivers, and deep forests.

Trekking in India is best during the summer (May-June) and post-monsoon (September-November). Proper gear, warm clothes, and good fitness are necessary for a safe trekking experience.