Nepal's Himalayan Giants
The Himalayan range stretches across Nepal's northern border for over 1,500 km, forming the world's most dramatic mountain landscape. Nepal hosts 8 of the 14 peaks above 8,000 m, including the world's highest.
Mount Everest (8,849m)
The world's highest peak. Two standard routes: South Col (Nepal) and North Ridge (Tibet). The Nepal permit costs $11,000 per person. Full expedition (60–70 days) costs $35,000–$100,000 all-inclusive with a reputable operator. Approximately 800 people summit annually.
Annapurna I (8,091m)
The world's 10th highest peak and statistically the most dangerous eight-thousander with a high fatality rate. Accessible only to experienced high-altitude mountaineers with full expedition support.
Manaslu (8,163m)
The 8th highest peak. Increasingly popular as an Everest alternative — fewer crowds, lower permit cost ($2,250–$7,500), and a beautiful remote approach through Nubri Valley. Requires mountaineering experience.
Kangchenjunga (8,586m)
The world's 3rd highest peak, straddling the Nepal–Sikkim border. One of the most remote and unspoiled Himalayan regions. A very challenging and technically demanding expedition.
Trekking Peaks — For Non-Mountaineers
Nepal designates 33 "trekking peaks" that can be climbed with basic mountaineering skills and a relatively affordable permit ($250–$350). These offer the experience of high-altitude climbing without requiring the resources of a full 8,000m expedition.
Island Peak (Imja Tse) — 6,189m
The most popular trekking peak in Nepal — typically combined with the Everest Base Camp trek. A straightforward glacier climb with fixed ropes. Ideal first high-altitude summit for fit trekkers with basic crampon experience. Permit: $250.
Mera Peak — 6,476m
The highest trekking peak in Nepal and the most accessible high-altitude summit. A long glacier walk rather than technical climbing — suitable for fit, acclimatized trekkers. Spectacular views of five eight-thousanders. Permit: $250.
Lobuche East — 6,119m
More technical than Island Peak, requiring crampon experience and fixed-line skills. Stunning position near Everest Base Camp. Often combined with EBC trek for a climbing challenge. Permit: $250.
Pisang Peak — 6,091m
On the Annapurna Circuit route — a more accessible trekking peak suitable for beginners with no previous glacier experience. Stunning panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna. Permit: $250.