Highest Peak in India: Kanchenjunga, Nanda Devi & Top Mountains List

Highest Peak in India: India is home to some of the world’s most magnificent mountain peaks, forming an integral part of its physical geography. From the towering Himalayas in the north to the ancient Western and Eastern Ghats in the south and east, mountain peaks play a crucial role in shaping India’s climate, rivers, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Understanding the highest peak in India, the highest mountain in India, and related concepts like K2 or Kanchenjunga is extremely important for students preparing for UPSC and other competitive exams.

This topic covers key geographical facts including the highest peak on India, second highest peak in India in map, state-wise highest peaks, and the tallest mountains in different ranges like the Himalayas, Western Ghats, and Eastern Ghats. Special attention is also given to commonly asked exam concepts such as the distinction between Kanchenjunga, K2, and Nanda Devi, along with regional and political considerations. These notes provide a comprehensive and easy-to-understand overview of India’s highest mountain peaks, their locations, heights, and significance.

Highest Peak in India

India's topography boasts many impressive mountain peaks. These form critical geographical features. The Himalayan range, Karakoram, and other regional mountains define much of the country's landscape.

Kanchenjunga is the 1st highest peak in India. It rises to 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). This peak sits on the border between India and Nepal. It is also the third-highest mountain globally. Kanchenjunga is a significant feature of the Himalayan range in Sikkim.

List of Highest Peaks in India

Below is a comprehensive list covering major highest mountain peaks in India, including Himalayan and non-Himalayan regions.

Second Highest Mountain Peak in India

Nanda Devi is the second highest mountain peak in India. Its elevation is 7,816 meters (25,643 feet). This peak is located in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district. It forms part of the Garhwal Himalayas. The Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounds it.

Highest Peak of India K2 or Kanchenjunga

Kanchenjunga has a height of 8,586 meters and lies on the India–Nepal border (Sikkim). It is officially recognized as the highest peak of India. While K2 is taller (8,611 meters), but it is located in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK). Therefore, it is not considered India’s highest peak in official geography.

Top 10 Highest Peaks in India

Here are the top 10 highest peaks in India:

Kangchenjunga – Sikkim

India’s tallest mountain (8,586 m). It is the world's third-highest. Located on the India-Nepal border.

Nanda Devi – Uttarakhand

Nanda Devi is the 2nd highest peak in India, standing at 7,816 meters. It symbolizes Uttarakhand's natural beauty.

Kamet – Uttarakhand

Highest peak in the Zaskar range (7,756 m). It is remote and challenging for mountaineers.

Saltoro Kangri – Jammu & Kashmir

Dominates the Saltoro range in Karakoram (7,742 m). It is near the Siachen Glacier.

Saser Kangri – Jammu & Kashmir

Located in Saser Muztagh range (7,672 m). It has five towering summits.

Mamostong Kangri – Jammu & Kashmir

Rises in the Rimo range (7,516 m). India's sixth-highest peak, near Siachen.

Rimo – Jammu & Kashmir

Tallest of the Rimo peaks (7,385 m). It is near the Karakoram Pass.

Hardeol – Uttarakhand

Known as “Temple of God” (7,151 m). It is in the Kumaon Himalayas.

Chaukhamba – Uttarakhand

Highest peak in the Gangotri group (7,138 m). It has a distinct four-pointed structure.

Trisul – Uttarakhand

Named after Lord Shiva’s trident (7,120 m). Located near Nanda Devi in the Kumaon region.

Highest Mountain Peak in the Western Ghats

Anamudi is the highest mountain peak in the Western Ghats. It is in Kerala’s Idukki district. It stands at 2,695 meters (8,842 feet). This peak is also called the “Everest of South India.” It lies within Eravikulam National Park.

Highest Mountain Peak in the Eastern Ghats

Arma Konda, also known as Jindhagada Peak, is the highest mountain peak in the Eastern Ghats. It is in Andhra Pradesh’s Alluri Sitharama Raju district. Its elevation is about 1,680 meters (5,512 feet). This peak is part of the Araku Valley region.

Classification of Peaks in India

Understanding the classification of peaks is important.

Peak Classification Rules

• National Claim: A peak's status as "highest in India" depends on political boundaries. K2, while taller than Kanchenjunga, is in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

• Highest Within Borders: Nanda Devi is the highest mountain peak located entirely within India's internationally recognized borders.

• Regional Dominance: Peaks like Anamudi and Arma Konda hold significant "highest peak" titles within specific mountain ranges, such as the Western and Eastern Ghats.