The Tallest Mountains in the World

In addition to stunning landscapes, mountains provide a home for plants, animals, and people all over the world. Mountainous environments cover 27% of the earth's surface and provide 60-80% of our planet's freshwater. Celebrate International Mountain Day (12/11) with beautiful photos of the tallest mountains in the world.

December 09, 2021

By: Tatum Lenberg

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1. Mount Everest

Mount Everest is the tallest mountain in the world above sea level, with an elevation of 29,032 ft. Located on the China-Nepal border, the first known summit occurred in 1953. The area is home to bar-headed geese, yak, snow leopard, and Himalayan black bears.

2. K2

K2 is 28,251 feet above sea level. Sitting in both Pakistan and China, K2 is located in the Karakoram Range. The snow-covered mountain is prone to frequent storms and extreme weather.

3. Kangchenjunga

In this image, Kangchenjunga's peak is seen among a sea of clouds at sunrise. Located in India, Kangchenjunga is the country's tallest peak at 28,169 feet. The region is home to a vast number of flora and fauna, including 2,000 species of flowering plants, more than 250 bird species, snow leopards, and red pandas.

4. Lhotse

Lhotse is just 2 miles away from Everest. Its peak is 27,940 feet above sea level. In recent years, the mountain has grown in popularity with climbers for being less expensive and less crowded than Mount Everest.

5. Makalu

Southeast of Mount Everest stands Makalu. Considered one of the most difficult mountains to climb, Makalu's pyramid-shaped peak is 27,838 feet above sea level. Data collected from the mountain has been used by scientists to better understand natural hazards like rockfall and landslides.