India’s mountains steal the show due to their crucial role in shaping its ecology. Visitors are lured to the Indian Mountains, sometimes known as the “abodes of the gods”, by the region’s mystical allure, pristine air, and religious significance of its many sacred temples and mountain passes. But are you familiar with India’s greatest peaks?
You may get away from the sweltering heat plagues much of India and relax in the cool air of the highlands here. India has various mountain ranges, including the mighty Himalayas and the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, Aravalli, Vindhya, Satpura, Nilgiri, and Shivalik. The world’s highest peaks may be found in these mountain chains.
List of the Top 10 Famous Highest Himalayan Mountain Peaks in India:
1. Kanchenjunga
Express your affection for Kanchenjunga, a portion of which is shown proudly in the Sikkim Himalayas. Sikkim is where you may go on a Kanchenjunga hike and see the stunning landscape and vibrant wildlife.
This stunning ridgeline of the mountain is sure to captivate your attention. In Sikkim, India, mountaineering takes on a new lighthearted tone. Choose a climb of Mount Everest, and you will get the chance of a lifetime. The summit of this peak represents the pinnacle of mountaineering achievements.
Location: Sikkim and Nepal Border
Height: 8,586 meters (3rd highest in the world)
Significance: Known as the “Five Treasures of Snow”, it holds sacred importance for locals.
Things to Do:
- Trek to Goecha La for stunning views of Kanchenjunga.
- Visit Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore traditional Sikkimese villages like Yuksom.
Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Bagdogra Airport (124 km from Yuksom, the base for Kanchenjunga treks).
- From the airport, hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Yuksom.
By Train:
- Nearest station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (148 km from Yuksom).
- From the station, take a taxi or shared transport to Yuksom.
By Road:
- Well-connected by buses and private vehicles from Gangtok, Darjeeling, or Siliguri.
- Local jeeps frequently operate to Yuksom.
Tips: Acclimatize properly for high-altitude treks.
2. Kamet Peak
There are just two higher peaks in India than Kamet Peak. Located in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, the Kamet is the tallest peak in the Zaskar mountain range in the Garhwal area.
Location: near Tibet, surrounded by three more tall peaks. Kamet’s location to the north of the main range also makes it difficult to get to and explore on foot.
Location: Uttarakhand (Garhwal Himalayas)
Height: 7,756 meters
Significance: The second-highest peak in the Garhwal region.
Things to Do:
- Trek to the base camp through the challenging Vasundhara Falls route.
- Explore nearby Mana Village, the last Indian village near Tibet.
Best Time to Visit: May to June or September to October.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (260 km from the base camp in Joshimath).
- From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath.
By Train:
- Nearest station: Rishikesh Railway Station (240 km from Joshimath).
- Buses and taxis are available from Rishikesh to Joshimath.
By Road:
- Accessible via NH7 from Rishikesh or Dehradun.
- Buses and shared taxis frequently operate to Joshimath.
Tips: Suitable for experienced trekkers and mountaineers.
Read Also: Top 10 Himalayan Mountain Peaks in Uttarakhand
3. Saltoro Kangri
Due to the political climate, a trip to the Saltoro Kangri Mountains in this range is challenging. The majestic Karakoram Range, of which this tall mountain is a part, is known for its inherent allure. The valleys and rivers that wind through the mountain provide a breathtaking panorama.
Mount Nun Expedition (7135M), situated in the Zanskar valley, is another fantastic trekking destination. The snow-covered top of the twin Nun-Kun mountain range is breathtaking from this angle. The peace and tranquility you’ll find here are indescribable and impossible to describe, but they are worth seeking.
Location: Jammu and Kashmir (Siachen Region)
Height: 7,742 meters
Significance: Located in the strategically important Saltoro Ridge near the Siachen Glacier.
Things to Do:
- Trekking opportunities are limited due to military restrictions.
- Adventure enthusiasts can explore nearby Nubra Valley.
Best Time to Visit: Restricted access; only permitted for defense purposes or special expeditions.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Leh Airport (for access to Nubra Valley and nearby regions).
- Special permits required for the Siachen region.
By Road:
- Accessible from Leh by special expeditions arranged with permissions.
- Restricted area; only defense personnel or special expeditions may visit.
Tips: Coordinate with local authorities for travel permissions.
4. Mamostong Kangri Peak
There are just five mountains higher in India than Mamostong Kangri, and it also happens to be the 48th-highest peak in the world when measured by its criteria.
The Great Karakoram range’s Rimo Mustagh subrange contains the mountain with the greatest elevation. At an impressive 7,516 meters (24,659 feet), it is located close to the Siachen Glacier.
Location: Jammu and Kashmir (Ladakh Region)
Height: 7,516 meters
Significance: Known for its dramatic icy ridges and remote location.
Things to Do:
- Undertake a mountaineering expedition to its base camp.
- Visit nearby villages like Turtuk to experience local Balti culture.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Leh Airport.
- Hire a private taxi or arrange expeditions to Turtuk or nearby regions.
By Road:
- Accessible only by special permits and expeditions from Leh.
- Travelers require government permissions due to the peak’s proximity to the Indo-Pak border.
Tips: Advanced mountaineering skills and permits are required.
5. Trisul Peak
At number 10, we have Trishul, one of three peaks forming a distinct cluster of mountains together. It may be found in Uttarakhand, in the mountainous Kumaon area. The highest of them is Trisul, at an altitude of 7,120 meters.
They were given their name as a tribute to Lord Shiva’s Trishul sword. The organization’s location is convenient to the Nanda Devi sacred area.
Location: Uttarakhand
Height: 7,120 meters
Significance: Named after Lord Shiva’s trident, it’s a favorite among trekkers.
Things to Do:
- Trek to Roopkund Lake, also known as the “Skeleton Lake”.
- Visit Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal meadows.
Best Time to Visit: May to June or September to October.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (240 km from the trek base at Lohajung).
- Taxis are available from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Lohajung.
By Train:
- Nearest station: Kathgodam Railway Station (217 km from Lohajung).
- Buses and private taxis operate from Kathgodam to Lohajung.
By Road: Well-connected via NH109 to Lohajung from Rishikesh or Kathgodam.
Tips: Opt for guided treks to ensure safety and local expertise.
6. Abi Gamin
The Chamoli district of Uttarakhand is home to this mountain. Trekkers and mountaineers worldwide are attracted to the peak’s snowy beauty and the many opportunities it presents. This is one of the most well-known peaks in India for mountaineering.
The peaceful setting and romantic atmosphere are ideal for those searching for privacy. Various ridges, including the one on the northwest side of Mana Pass, the Southwest Ridge through Meade’s Col, etc., serve as jumping-off points for the climb. These mountain passes provide a wealth of opportunities for cyclists to indulge in their passion.
Location: Uttarakhand (Chamoli District)
Height: 7,355 meters
Significance: Lies on the Indo-China border, often paired with Kamet expeditions.
Things to Do:
- Trekking and high-altitude camping.
- Visit nearby tourist attractions like Badrinath and Valley of Flowers.
Best Time to Visit: May to June or September to October.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (280 km from the base at Joshimath).
- Taxis and buses connect Dehradun to Joshimath.
By Train:
- Nearest station: Rishikesh Railway Station (265 km from Joshimath).
- Public buses and private taxis frequently operate to Joshimath.
By Road: Accessible via NH7 from Rishikesh or Dehradun to Joshimath and further to Mana village.
Tips: Restricted access; permits required for foreign nationals.
7. Mount Nanda Devi
Nanda Devi is the second-highest peak in India and the world’s twenty-third-highest peak. The Chamoli region of Uttarakhand is home to this 7,816-meter mountain summit. As India and Nepal share Kanchenjunga, this mountain is the tallest peak located in India.
The Nanda Devi and Valley with Flowers National Park is a high-altitude park that includes the mountain of Nanda Devi and is included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More peaks in the park that are above 6,500 meters in height may be found there as well.
Location: Uttarakhand
Height: 7,816 meters (2nd highest in India)
Significance: Part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to Do:
- Trekking to Nanda Devi East Base Camp.
- Explore the nearby villages of Lata and Reni.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (295 km from Joshimath).
- From the airport, hire a taxi or bus to reach Joshimath.
By Train:
- Nearest station: Rishikesh Railway Station (280 km from Joshimath).
- Taxis or buses can take you to the base camp at Joshimath or Lata village.
By Road: Well-connected via NH7. Buses and private vehicles frequently operate to Joshimath and nearby regions.
Tips: Only designated areas are accessible due to ecological preservation.
8. Hardeol
The “Temple of God”, or Hardeol, is located in the far northeastern part of Nanda Devi Sanctuary. It lies in the northern part of the Milam valley, in the Indian state of Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh District.
With an elevation of 7,151 meters, it is undoubtedly India’s loftiest mountain range. In the Himalayan region of Kumaon, it is also among the oldest peaks. The area around Hardeol is sometimes called Trishuli South.
Location: Uttarakhand
Height: 7,151 meters
Significance: Known as the “Temple of God,” it is part of the Kumaon Himalayas.
Things to Do:
- Trekking to the Pindari Glacier for stunning views of Hardeol.
- Camping and photography in the alpine meadows.
Best Time to Visit: May to June or September to October.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Pantnagar Airport (250 km from Pindari Glacier trek base at Loharkhet).
- From Pantnagar, hire a taxi or use public transport to Bageshwar and further to Loharkhet.
By Train:
- Nearest station: Kathgodam Railway Station (250 km from Loharkhet).
- Buses and private taxis operate from Kathgodam to Bageshwar and Loharkhet.
By Road: Well-connected by roads to Bageshwar, with further access to the trek base at Loharkhet.
9. Anamudi Peak
The greatest remaining population of Asian elephants, as well as Gaurs and Nilgiri Tahrs, call Anamudi, which literally means “Elephants Foreheads”, home. A mountain with a prominence of 2,479 meters, Anamudi is also known as Anai Mudi.
Munnar’s Anamudi Peak is a popular destination for hikers. In terms of vertical distance, the summit is 2,695 meters above sea level. Eravikulam National Park is home to Anamudi, the highest mountain in the Western Ghats and all of South India.
Location: Kerala (Western Ghats)
Height: 2,695 meters (Highest peak in South India)
Significance: Located in Eravikulam National Park, it’s a biodiversity hotspot.
Things to Do:
- Trekking through lush forests and tea plantations.
- Spot wildlife like Nilgiri Tahr and other endemic species.
Best Time to Visit: November to May.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (120 km from Eravikulam National Park).
- From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Munnar.
By Train:
- Nearest station: Aluva Railway Station (100 km from Munnar).
- Taxis and buses frequently operate between Aluva and Munnar.
By Road: NH85 connects Munnar to major cities like Kochi and Madurai.
Tips: Entry to Anamudi may require special permissions.
10. Doddabetta Peak
In addition to its rich cultural and historical legacy, South India is beautiful due to its hills, vegetation, and animals.
Nearby Ooty is undoubtedly a well-known vacation spot around the globe. The summit is accessible by road, and the view is otherworldly from the top.
Location: Tamil Nadu (Nilgiri Hills)
Height: 2,637 meters
Significance: The highest peak in the Nilgiris, offering panoramic views.
Things to Do:
- Visit the telescope house for spectacular views of the valleys.
- Enjoy nature walks and visit nearby tea estates.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport (85 km from Ooty).
- Taxis or buses connect Coimbatore to Ooty.
By Train:
- Nearest station: Mettupalayam Railway Station (50 km from Ooty).
- From Mettupalayam, take a toy train or taxi to Ooty.
By Road:
- NH181 connects Ooty to cities like Coimbatore, Mysore, and Bangalore.
- Regular buses and taxis operate between Ooty and nearby towns.
Conclusion
As a result, we have visited the highest peaks in India across all of its states. The country’s mountains’ ecological, social, and economic benefits cannot be overstated. Many national parks and sanctuaries for flora and fauna may be found tucked away in the valleys and above the highest mountains.
Further Reading:
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- Top 25 Famous Restaurants in India
- About Waiting List and Booking Quota In Indian Railways
- Top 10 Tourist Destinations to See Snowfall in India
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- 10 Places in India Where Indians Are Not Allowed
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- Hill Stations to See in India in December
- Snowfall Places in India to Visit in January
- Places to Visit in January in India
- North India Places to See in January
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the highest mountain peak in India?
The highest peak in India is Kanchenjunga, located in the Himalayan range, with an altitude of 8,586 meters.
2. Where is Kanchenjunga located?
Kanchenjunga lies in the Sikkim-Nepal border region and is part of the Great Himalayan Range.
3. What are some other high mountain peaks in India?
Kamet, Saltoro Kangri, Saser Kangri, Nanda Devi, and Trisul are some notable peaks.
4. Which is the second-highest peak in India?
Nanda Devi, with an altitude of 7,816 meters, is the second-highest peak in India.
5. Which mountain range has the highest peaks in India?
The Himalayas, especially the Great Himalayan range, house most of India’s highest peaks.
6. What is the height of Mount Kamet?
Mount Kamet, located in Uttarakhand, has an altitude of 7,756 meters and is part of the Garhwal Himalayas.
7. Are there any famous peaks in South India?
Yes, Anamudi in Kerala is the highest peak in South India, with an altitude of 2,695 meters.
8. Which Indian peak is famous for trekking?
Stok Kangri in Ladakh and Trisul in Uttarakhand are popular trekking destinations.
9. Which mountain peak is the highest in the Western Ghats?
Anamudi is the highest peak in the Western Ghats.
10. What is the best time to visit these peaks?
The best time is usually from May to October for most Himalayan peaks and post-monsoon for South Indian peaks.
11. Are all high peaks in India accessible to tourists?
Not all peaks are accessible. Some, like Kanchenjunga, are restricted due to their religious significance and challenging terrain.
12. What precautions should one take while visiting mountain peaks?
Be prepared for cold weather, carry appropriate gear, stay hydrated, and acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.
