Mountains around the world are among nature’s largest and most impressive structures. With their geographical significance, historical memories and landscapes, some of them are of immense importance to humanity. Here are some of the most important mountains in the world, ranked by height:
Everest (Himalayas, Nepal/China Border): The highest peak in the world, Everest stands at 8,848 meters (29,029 feet). Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s successful ascent in 1953 cemented the mountain’s legendary status.
K2 (Karakorum Range, Pakistan/China Border): Also known as “Cerro Torre”, K2 is the second highest peak in the world at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet). It is extremely difficult to climb and therefore presents a great challenge for climbers.
Kangchenjunga (Himalayas, Nepal/India Border): Kangchenjunga is the third highest peak in the world at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). This mountain is considered sacred to local peoples and revered among climbers.
Lhotse (Himalayas, Nepal/China Border): Located south of Everest, Lhotse stands out with its 8,516-meter (27,940-foot) summit. Although it is quite close to Everest, Lhotse is less popular than Everest.
Makalu (Himalayas, Nepal/China Border): Makalu is the fifth highest peak in the world at 8,485 meters (27,838 feet). The mountain is popular with experienced climbers due to its technical challenges and high altitude.
Cho Oyu (Himalayas, Nepal/China Border): Cho Oyu is the sixth highest peak in the world at 8,188 meters (26,864 feet). It is located west of Everest and is considered less challenging to climb.
Dhaulagiri (Himalayas, Nepal): Dhaulagiri is the seventh highest peak in the world with a summit of 8,167 meters (26,795 feet). This mountain is known for its challenging climbing and harsh weather conditions.
Manaslu (Himalayas, Nepal): Manaslu is the eighth highest peak in the world with a height of 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). Popular with climbers, Manaslu is known for its challenging routes.
Nanga Parbat (Himalayas, Pakistan): Nanga Parbat, also known as “Killer Mountain”, is the ninth highest peak in the world with a summit of 8,126 meters (26,660 feet). The mountain is famous for its challenging climb.
Annapurna (Himalayas, Nepal): Annapurna is the tenth highest peak in the world at 8,091 meters (26,545 feet). The mountain is known for its harsh weather conditions and dangerous roads.
These mountains are important not only for their height, but also for their natural beauty and symbolic meaning for humanity.