List of Highest Peak in India – Open to Climb

22nd July 2025 Shikhar Travels Expeditions

India, home to the majestic Himalayas, boasts some of the highest mountain peaks in the world. While many of these soaring giants are revered as sacred and are restricted for mountaineering, several of them are open for climbing expeditions—inviting seasoned adventurers and mountaineers from across the globe.

In this guide, we bring you the highest peaks in India that are legally open to climb, including essential information on altitude, region, difficulty, and access permissions. Whether you’re a beginner looking to scale your first 6,000er or an experienced climber preparing for a 7,000+ meter summit, this list will inspire your next great expedition.

Highest Peaks in India Open to Climb

Peak Name	Height (m)	State/Region	Mountain Range	Climbing Status
Kamet	7,756	Uttarakhand	Garhwal Himalayas	✅ Open
Nun	7,135	Ladakh	Nun Kun Massif	✅ Open
Kun	7,077	Ladakh	Nun Kun Massif	✅ Open
Satopanth	7,075	Uttarakhand	Garhwal Himalayas	✅ Open
Chaukhamba I	7,138	Uttarakhand	Garhwal Himalayas	✅ Open (with permit)
Trisul I	7,120	Uttarakhand	Kumaon Himalayas	✅ Open
Shivling	6,543	Uttarakhand	Gangotri Group	✅ Open
Bhagirathi II	6,512	Uttarakhand	Garhwal Himalayas	✅ Open

Detailed Peak Profiles

1. Kamet (7,756 m)

Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
Range: Garhwal Himalayas
Climbing Grade: High-Altitude Expedition (Difficult)
Best Season: May–June & September
Permit: Required (via IMF)

Mount Kamet, standing tall at 7,756 meters, holds the title of the second-highest mountain in India and the highest peak within Indian territory that is open to civilian climbers. Towering near the Tibet border, it lies in the remote Garhwal region and is often referred to as the crown jewel of Indian expeditions.

The first successful ascent was made in 1931 by a British team—making Kamet the first peak over 7,500 meters ever climbed in the world. This historic feat added to the mountain’s legacy as a significant milestone in Himalayan exploration.

Why Climb Mount Kamet?

Altitude Challenge: At nearly 7,800 meters, it prepares mountaineers for 8,000m climbs like Everest or Manaslu.
Glacial Terrain: Features crevasses, ice walls, and technical ridgelines—ideal for advanced training.
Expedition Prestige: Climbing Kamet is regarded as a major achievement in a climber’s resume.
Less Commercialized: Unlike popular international peaks, Kamet offers a more raw and authentic Himalayan expedition experience.

2. Mount Nun (7,135 m)

Location: Suru Valley, Ladakh
Range: Nun-Kun Massif, Western Himalayas
Climbing Grade: High-Altitude Expedition (Difficult)
Best Season: July–September
Permit: Required (via IMF & Inner Line Permit for Ladakh)

Mount Nun, rising proudly to 7,135 meters, is the tallest mountain in the Indian-administered part of the Himalayas. Located in the stark and rugged terrain of Suru Valley in Ladakh, it forms part of the twin-peaked Nun-Kun massif, with Mount Kun (7,077 m) as its neighboring summit.

Due to its relatively easy access from Kargil, Mount Nun is a preferred high-altitude training ground for climbers preparing for 8,000-meter expeditions. The combination of altitude, weather, and technical ice/snow terrain makes it both a challenge and an aspiration for serious mountaineers.

Why Climb Mount Nun?

High-Altitude Challenge: Ideal for climbers aiming to gain experience above 7,000 meters
Technical Terrain: Involves glacier travel, snow walls, crevasses, and fixed rope sections
Remote Beauty: Offers stunning views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges
Accessible Base Camp: Approach is easier compared to other 7,000ers, via road from Kargil

3. Mount Kun (7,077 m)

Location: Suru Valley, Kargil District, Ladakh
Range: Nun-Kun Massif, Western Himalayas
Climbing Grade: Moderate to Difficult (High-altitude glacier expedition)
Best Season: July to September
Permit: Required (via IMF)

Mount Kun, rising to an elevation of 7,077 meters, is the second-highest peak in the Union Territory of Ladakh after its twin—Mount Nun. Together, they form the Nun-Kun massif, which dominates the Suru Valley with its majestic snow-covered spires and broad glaciated slopes.

Although slightly lower than Mount Nun, Kun is known to be more approachable, often recommended for climbers who are acclimatizing or building up for Nun. The approach to Kun generally involves trekking from Shafat Glacier, followed by a glacier climb with high camps on the slopes leading to the summit ridge.

Unlike some more technical Himalayan peaks, Mount Kun offers a relatively straightforward route, making it a popular choice for mountaineering expeditions looking to scale a 7,000-meter summit in India. But don’t be misled—its crevassed glacier and unpredictable weather still require serious preparation and alpine experience.

Why Climb Mount Kun?

Considered a stepping-stone for 8000-meter climbs due to altitude and glacier challenges
Less technical than Mount Nun, but still physically demanding
Offers breathtaking views of Zanskar and Ladakh ranges
Ideal for those aiming to complete the Indian 7000-meter peaks

4. Mount Satopanth (7,075 m)

Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
Range: Gangotri Group, Garhwal Himalayas
Climbing Grade: Difficult (Technical sections and crevasse zones)
Best Season: May–June & September
Permit: Required (via IMF)

Mount Satopanth, soaring at 7,075 meters, is one of the most revered and technically challenging peaks in the Indian Himalayas. Located near the sacred Gangotri Glacier, the mountain is surrounded by myth, adventure, and awe-inspiring beauty. The name “Satopanth” comes from Sanskrit, where Sato means “truth” and Panth means “path”—translating to the ‘Path of Truth’.

This triangular peak, standing tall near the origin of the Ganges River, draws not just climbers but also spiritual seekers. The summit offers panoramic views of neighboring peaks like Chaukhamba, Shivling, and Bhagirathi Massif, creating a dramatic skyline steeped in Himalayan majesty.

The first ascent of Satopanth was made in 1947 by a Swiss team, and since then, it has been a sought-after peak for serious alpinists. The route generally involves glacier travel, crevasse negotiation, and steep snow/ice slopes—demanding a high level of fitness, mountaineering skills, and acclimatization.

Why Climb Mount Satopanth?

One of the most beautiful and iconic peaks in the Garhwal Himalayas
Offers a technical yet rewarding challenge for experienced climbers
Culturally significant due to its proximity to Gangotri and Badrinath
Less crowded than commercial trekking peaks, offering true wilderness expedition feel
Gateway to higher Himalayan climbs due to its elevation and exposure

5. Chaukhamba I (7,138 m)

Location: Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand
Range: Gangotri Group, Garhwal Himalayas
Climbing Grade: Very Difficult (Highly technical terrain)
Best Season: Late May–June & September
Permit: Required (via IMF)

Chaukhamba I, standing tall at 7,138 meters, is the highest peak in the Chaukhamba massif, a dominant four-summit ridge that rises dramatically above the Gangotri Glacier. Its name translates to “four pillars,” and Chaukhamba I is the tallest and most formidable of the quartet.

This magnificent snow-clad peak has long mesmerized mountaineers, saints, and storytellers. It’s one of the most visually striking massifs in the Garhwal Himalayas, easily visible from places like Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Rudraprayag. Its massive glacial walls and corniced ridgelines make it an iconic challenge for high-altitude climbers.

Despite being visible from many spiritual centers, Chaukhamba I remains less frequently climbed due to its steep and avalanche-prone flanks. The first successful ascent was achieved in 1952 by a French expedition, adding to the mountain’s legacy in the history of Himalayan exploration.

Why Climb Chaukhamba I?

One of the most challenging and majestic 7000-meter peaks in India
Fewer successful summits, offering true exploratory prestige
Offers unmatched views of Gangotri Glacier, Kedarnath Dome, and Satopanth
Ideal for experienced climbers looking to push technical and endurance limits
Strong spiritual aura—located close to holy shrines like Kedarnath and Tungnath

6. Trisul I (7,120 m)

Location: Bageshwar District, Uttarakhand
Range: Kumaon Himalayas (part of the Nanda Devi group)
Climbing Grade: High-Altitude Technical Expedition
Best Season: May–June & September
Permit: Required (via IMF)

Trisul I, rising to 7,120 meters, is the highest of the three peaks in the Trisul massif, named after Lord Shiva’s trident (“Trishul” in Hindi). It holds a special place in the annals of mountaineering history as the first 7,000-meter peak to be successfully climbed, back in 1907 by a British team led by Tom Longstaff.

Located near the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, Trisul I forms a majestic trio with Trisul II and III, offering one of the most recognizable skylines in the Kumaon Himalayas. Its elegant snow-covered ridges and knife-edge arêtes present a classic mountaineering challenge that demands both skill and stamina.

The route to Trisul I typically starts from Munsiyari or Lata, and climbers navigate through steep ice walls and crevassed glaciers. The South Ridge remains the standard and most feasible route for summit attempts.

Why Climb Trisul I?

Historically significant – first 7,000+ meter peak ever summited
Offers commanding views of Nanda Devi, Nanda Ghunti, and Ronti Saddle
Perfect for experienced mountaineers aiming to climb a technical 7000er
Fewer crowds and a remote expedition feel
Rich blend of natural beauty, spiritual symbolism, and mountaineering legacy

7. Mt Shivling (6,543 m)

Location: Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand
Range: Gangotri Group, Garhwal Himalayas
Climbing Grade: Technical Climb (Difficult)
Best Season: May–June & September
Permit: Required (via IMF)

Mount Shivling, soaring at 6,543 meters, is one of the most iconic and sacred peaks in the Indian Himalayas. Nicknamed the “Indian Matterhorn” due to its pyramid-like shape, Shivling stands tall over the Gangotri Glacier and offers an awe-inspiring backdrop to the sacred Gaumukh–Tapovan trail.

Though relatively lower in height compared to the 7000ers, Shivling is far from easy. It’s a highly technical peak, attracting elite climbers from across the world. Its sheer rock faces, icy ridges, and exposed climbing sections make it one of the most challenging ascents in the Garhwal region.

The mountain is considered a symbol of Lord Shiva, and its name—Shivling—literally translates to “symbol of Shiva.” The spiritual energy of the region, combined with the striking geometry of the peak, makes climbing Shivling a deeply profound experience for many mountaineers.

Why Climb Mount Shivling?

A true alpine challenge with technical rock and ice climbing
Highly photogenic and often compared to the Matterhorn in the Alps
Deep spiritual and cultural significance in Hindu mythology
Surrounded by dramatic scenery of the Gangotri Glacier, Tapovan, and Bhagirathi peaks
A prestigious addition to any mountaineer’s climbing résumé

8. Bhagirathi II (6,512 m)

Location: Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand
Range: Gangotri Group, Garhwal Himalayas
Climbing Grade: Semi-Technical to Technical
Best Season: May–June & September
Permit: Required (via IMF)

Bhagirathi II, standing tall at 6,512 meters, is one of the trio of Bhagirathi peaks that dominate the Gangotri Glacier region. Flanked by Bhagirathi I and III, this middle peak is known for its dramatic icefalls, steep rock faces, and technical yet accessible routes, making it a prized climb for both Indian and international mountaineers.

Though slightly lower than its sibling Bhagirathi I, Bhagirathi II is no less majestic. It offers a diverse climbing experience—with snow gullies, mixed ridges, and breathtaking views of Shivling, Meru, and the glacier below. The region is steeped in mythology and spirituality, adding a deeper meaning to every step of the ascent.

Why Climb Bhagirathi II?

A challenging but less crowded alternative to other Gangotri peaks
Routes offer a mix of ice, snow, and alpine rock
Stunning views of nearby peaks like Shivling and Meru
Immense spiritual significance, named after the holy Bhagirathi River
Ideal for experienced mountaineers preparing for higher Himalayan peaks

Best Time to Climb High Peaks in India

Uttarakhand: May–June and September
Ladakh: July–September
Avoid monsoon season (late June to early August) for Uttarakhand & Himachal climbs

Top Expedition Companies Operating These Climbs

Shikhar Travels stands as a true pioneer. With over four decades of experience organizing high-altitude climbs, Shikhar Travels is one of the few Indian companies recognized by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) for conducting guided expeditions to India’s highest climbable peaks.

Based in Delhi, the company has successfully led expeditions to iconic peaks like Mount Kamet (7,756 m), Mount Nun (7,135 m), Satopanth (7,075 m), Chaukhamba I (7,138 m), and Shivling (6,543 m)—all while maintaining a strong safety record and expert logistical support.

Why Choose Shikhar Travels?

Founded in 1979 with 45+ years of Himalayan expedition expertise
IMF-authorized operator for climbing permits and liaison
High summit success rates and veteran Indian guides
Extensive knowledge of Indian peaks, weather, and local logistics
End-to-end support: permits, equipment, basecamp setup, safety backup

Whether you’re an Indian climber aiming for your first 6,000er or an international alpinist seeking a new 7,000-meter challenge, Shikhar Travels offers unmatched guidance and Himalayan hospitality.

🔗 Visit: www.shikhar.com to explore upcoming expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I climb Kanchenjunga from India?
A: No, Kanchenjunga is not open for climbing from the Indian side due to religious beliefs.

Q2: What is the highest peak in India open to climb?
A: Kamet (7,756 m) in Uttarakhand is the highest climbable peak in India.

Q3: Do I need prior experience to climb Mount Nun or Kamet?
A: Yes, both are technically challenging and require experience with ice, altitude, and rope techniques.

Q4: Are these climbs suitable for beginners?
A: Peaks like Friendship Peak (5,289 m) or Stok Kangri (if reopened) are better for beginners. Nun, Kamet, and Shivling are for advanced climbers.

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