The first word that comes to everyone’s mind after listening to the word mountain climbing or summit is Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world. Standing tall at a staggering height of 8,848.86 meters, Mount Everest is one of the biggest challenges for mountaineers all over the world. Every mountaineer dreams of completing the challenging summit successfully while braving the chilly weather and low oxygen. But climbing Mount Everest is not an ordinary task. One needs to be really athletic and have great stamina to achieve the feat. Only an expert mountaineer can complete such a challenging summit. And for developing expertise, you need to climb different mountains on a regular basis.
Mountain Climbing has become very popular in the past few years and the activity is not limited to professional mountaineers. It has also gained popularity among adventure junkies and other athletes as well. But as I said, not everyone can climb the Everest. So what are the alternatives? Well, there are plenty. There are hundreds of peaks in different parts of the world that can present similar kinds of challenges. This blog consists of 7 of the most challenging summits across the world.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. The flat-topped mountain is located in Tanzania’s northern border with Kenya. Three extinct volcanoes namely Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira form the mountain. Uhuru, the highest peak of the mountain, stands tall at a height of 19, 340 feet. The route to the top of the mountain goes through challenging yet exhilarating trails. Watching the beautiful view from the top is an experience worth remembering.
Matterhorn, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps in Switzerland are the highlight of the country. It is the gigantic snow-clad mountains that attract tourists from all parts of the world. Matterhorn is one of the most challenging summit routes in entire Europe. The mountain’s shape is like a rock pyramid. It is regarded as the birthplace of what we today know as mountaineering. There’s a different charm in ‘doing it where it all started.” It is one of the most popular geographic landscapes in Switzerland.
Mount Elbrus, Russia
Mount Elbrus in Russia serves as a watchtower and is located in the Caucasus Mountains between Europe and Asia. It is the highest summit in entire Europe. It is less challenging in comparison to other summits. Mount Elbrus is nothing but a double-cone volcano. The length of the summit is 65 feet. It is a challenging yet thrilling and rewarding summit. Always carry a camera with you while climbing the peak as the view from the top is breathtaking. Both the destination as well as the journey are equally rewarding in case of this summit.
Mount Khuiten, Mongolia
Mongolia is anyways a place for adventure junkies who romance with challengers and thrills. Mount Khuiten is the highest summit in Mongolia. Standing tall at a height of 4374 metres. The mountain’s Friendship Peak whose name is Summit Nairandal is the point where Russia, China and Mongolia meet. You’ll be shocked to meet the Mongolian eagle hunters and get an insight of Kazakh herders’ camp during your summit. The nomads in the region are very welcoming.
Annapurna
Mount Everest is what makes Nepal a famous tourist destination but there are plenty more to keep you thrilled and engaged. Annapurna is another summit that will help you in getting a closer view of the Himalayas. The Thorung La peak at the height of 17, 599 feet is one of the most popular peaks of the summit. You’ll get to see scenic landscapes throughout the summit. Witnessing the sunrise from the east early morning from the top of a peak over Annapurna is a breathtaking experience.
Denali, Alaska
Mount Denali is a challenging mountain to climb. It is located in Denali National Park in Alaska. Standing tall at a staggering height of 20, 320 feet, it is the highest mountain in North America. The diversity of the views that you get to lay your eyes on while conquering the peak is second to none. The best time to start your summit is in the months of May and June. It is a go-to destination for expert mountaineers across the world.
Damavand, Iran
Iran is not the first country that comes to one’s mind while thinking of mountains and summits. However, everyday brings an opportunity to learn something new. Damavand peak in the Elburz Mountains near the Caspian sea stands tall with a variable height between 18, 400 feet to 19, 000 feet. It is one of the most diverse summits with one volcano, two glaciers and hot springs.
