Every climber’s greatest dream is to conquer the 14 highest mountains on our planet, each rising more than 8000 meters above sea level. Only 49 people have achieved this feat, yet thousands of daring adventurers attempt to break their record every year. The eight-thousanders offer truly extreme conditions at their summits: thin air, fierce winds, and freezing temperatures. All this turns the ascent into the toughest test of endurance, but the number of those eager to climb shows no sign of diminishing. We explain where the highest mountains are located, and all that’s left for you is buying airline tickets.
Mountain Ranges
The list of the world’s highest peaks includes 14 eight-thousanders, all of which are located close together in two major mountain ranges of Asia—the Himalayas and the Karakoram. If you’re interested in mountains that are closer to home, consider Georgia. The Himalayas stretch across India, Nepal, China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, Pakistan, Bhutan, and Myanmar, while the Karakoram spans Pakistan, India, and China. All these summits were first conquered between 1950 and 1964. To not only match their achievements but also enjoy a comfortable rest afterward, you need to book a hotel nearby the peaks.

The World’s Highest Mountains
Everest (Chomolungma)
Climbing Chomolungma is the ultimate goal for all mountaineers. The most famous summit is located in the Himalayas and belongs to both China and Nepal. Everest stands at 8848 m. Despite its impressive size, a relatively accessible route has been established on Everest, yet the extreme temperature fluctuations make the expedition a challenging endeavor. If you simply want to admire it from a safe distance, then book group tours.
K2 (Chhogori)
Let’s answer the question: where is the second-highest summit, K2, located? Nestled within the Karakoram range, it reaches 8614 m. The route to the peak is one of the most challenging, with steep slopes and frequent avalanches.
Kanchenjunga
Kanchenjunga stands at 8586 m in the Himalayas. Its climb is characterized by long treks between stages and a high risk of sudden weather changes.
Lhotse
Lhotse reaches an altitude of 8516 m. The routes to the summit are even more complex than those on nearby Everest, especially on the higher sections.

Makalu
The next giant rises to 8485 m. Climbing this section of the Himalayas is dangerous due to very steep slopes and frequent avalanches.
Cho Oyu
This eight-thousander (8188 m) is recognized as the safest among all 14 and the easiest to climb – it is often used for training before attempting the more challenging Himalayan peaks. Don’t forget to book a transfer for groups in advance if you decide to start your preparation here.
Dhaulagiri
This peak stands at 8167 m above sea level in the Himalayas, but reaching it is no easy task—the unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, and avalanche risks all play their part.
Manaslu
The route to this Himalayan eight-thousander (8163 m) is highly challenging—with very narrow passages and the potential for avalanches.
Nanga Parbat
Climbing this Karakoram peak, which stands at 8125 m, is extremely challenging. Its location on the edge of the mountain chain, near a warm plain, brings highly changeable weather and frequent precipitation that can trigger avalanches.

Annapurna
Climbing Annapurna (8091 m) is a challenge even for the brave and experienced climbers. One of the most picturesque peaks of the Himalayas, situated in a fertile valley, it poses a great danger for those who dare to conquer it: the route is difficult, with a high probability of avalanches and snowstorms. Or you can simply book a group trip to Annapurna and enjoy the views from afar.
Gasherbrum I (K5)
Another of the outstanding peaks in the Karakoram, Gasherbrum I reaches 8080 m. The route to the summit is fairly challenging.
Broad Peak (K3)
Compared to its Karakoram neighbors, this 8051 m peak is less dangerous, yet it still requires solid preparation.
Gasherbrum II (K4)
Climbing this 8035 m peak is not as difficult as the other eight-thousanders—the mountaineering fatality rate on this section of the Karakoram is very low.
Shishapangma
The last of the eight-thousanders stands at 8027 m. The ascent route is considered one of the easiest among all 14 mountains.

The Most Challenging
Among the summits listed, the most challenging to conquer are recognized as K2 (unpredictable weather, steep slopes, and avalanches), Annapurna I (difficult terrain), Nanga Parbat (tough topography and avalanches), Dhaulagiri (unpredictable weather), and Makalu (steep slopes and avalanches).
All 14 eight-thousanders are symbols of determination, perseverance, and the incredible physical strength of humankind. But every painstaking meter climbed is repaid with an overwhelming sense of exhilaration at reaching the highest points on Earth. If you, too, want to experience these emotions or simply see the peaks in person, book group tours on TravelHub.
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