HIGHEST PEAKS IN INDIA

HIGHEST PEAKS IN INDIA – STRUCTURED REVISION NOTES

Introduction

India’s physiographic diversity is reflected in its mountain systems, ranging from the Himalayas (young fold mountains) to the Western and Eastern Ghats. The highest peaks of India are mainly concentrated in the Karakoram, Garhwal Himalaya, and Eastern Himalaya, forming some of the world’s tallest mountain systems.

Highest Peak in India

• Kangchenjunga (8,586 m)
  • Location: Sikkim (India–Nepal border)
  • Range: Eastern Himalaya
  • Global Rank: 3rd highest peak in the world
  • Known as “Five Treasures of Snow”

Second Highest Peak in India

• Nanda Devi (7,816 m)
  • Location: Uttarakhand (Chamoli district)
  • Range: Garhwal Himalaya
  • Significance:
    • Highest peak entirely within India
    • Considered sacred
    • Located within Nanda Devi National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Top 10 Highest Peaks in India (Table)

Key Observations

• Jammu & Kashmir + Uttarakhand dominance in top peaks
• Major ranges involved: Karakoram, Garhwal, Kumaon, Eastern Himalaya
• Many peaks located near Siachen Glacier region

State-wise Highest Peaks (Categorical Table)

Regional Highest Peaks

Western Ghats

6

• Peak: Anamudi
• Height: 2695 m
• Location: Kerala (Idukki district)
• Significance:
  • Highest peak in Western Ghats
  • Located in Eravikulam National Park
  • Habitat of Nilgiri Tahr
  • Called “Everest of South India”

Eastern Ghats

8

• Peak: Arma Konda (Jindhagada Peak)
• Height: 1680 m
• Location: Andhra Pradesh (Araku Valley region)
• Features:
  • Dense forests and tribal region
  • Rich biodiversity and scenic landscape

Conclusion (Final Revision Lines)

• Kangchenjunga → Highest peak of India (8,586 m)
• Nanda Devi → Highest peak entirely within India
• Karakoram & Himalayas → Core regions of highest peaks
• Anamudi → Highest in Western Ghats
• Arma Konda → Highest in Eastern Ghats
• State-wise peaks → Important for Prelims factual questions