March 29, 2024
Located on the border of Bhutan and China, Gangkhar Puensum is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world at 7,570 meters (24,840 ft). Climbing is prohibited in Bhutan due to religious reasons.
Considered sacred in four religions – Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon – Mount Kailash is a pilgrimage site but off-limits for climbing. It has a peak elevation of 6,638 meters (21,778 ft) and is located in the Kailash Range of the Transhimalaya.
The tallest unclimbed peak that isn't off-limits due to religious beliefs is Muchu Chhish in Pakistan. It stands at 7,452 meters (24,446 ft) and is known for its extreme weather conditions and technical climbing challenges.
The second-highest mountain in the world after Mount Everest, K2 is also known as the "Savage Mountain" due to its dangerous climbing conditions. It has a peak elevation of 8,611 meters (28,251 ft) and a fatality rate that's higher than Everest's.
While technically climbed, Annapurna I has one of the highest fatality rates of any mountain in the world, with a summit success rate of only about 36%. It stands at 8,091 meters (26,545 ft) and is known for its unpredictable weather and avalanches.