The 7000 Metres Club: 10 Majestic Peaks In The Himalaya & Karakoram

The Grand Himalayas, known as the ‘abode of snow,’ have long captivated explorers and mountaineers with their awe-inspiring peaks, including the legendary Mount Everest. Home to the world’s highest summits like K2, the Karakoram range is a playground for adventurers and a challenge for mountaineers, where diverse ethnic groups have coexisted amidst towering peaks and icy slopes.

For those seeking the ultimate adventure, the challenge lies not just in reaching the summit but in joining the prestigious 7000 Metres Club, reserved for those who have climbed a peak over 7,000 meters.

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Uttarakhand is a haven for trekkers of all levels. The Garhwal and Kumaon regions offer diverse trekking destinations, from gentle trails to adrenaline-inducing expeditions. However, scaling mountains above a certain height requires special permission from the Mountaineering Association of Himalayas to ensure climber safety and protect the delicate ecosystem. Kamet (7756 m), Dunagiri (7066 m), and Hardeol (7151 m) are beautiful peaks in the 7000 Metres Club for adventure seekers.

In the north, Ladakh’s remote Siachen region is home to numerous high-altitude peaks that attract experienced mountaineers annually. Scaling these colossal structures demands a spirit of adventure and meticulous planning, with permits required from multiple entities like the Ministries of Home Affairs and Defense, the Indian Mountaineering Foundation, and state government bodies. Despite the challenges, Ladakh’s enigmatic peaks like Saltoro Kangri (7705 m), Rimo Kangri (7385 m), Saser Kangri I (7672 m), Mount Kun (7077 m), and Mount Nun (7135 m) continue to draw intrepid climbers seeking unique and demanding adventures.

Sikkim’s majestic mountain ranges, hugging the borders of Nepal and China, create a unique geographical situation, restricting access to many peaks exceeding 7,000 meters, like Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) and Kabru (7,412 m), which are only accessible for climbing expeditions from Nepal. However, experienced climbers in Sikkim can still explore peaks like Zemu Peak (7038 m), Pyramid Peak (7123 m), and Jongsong (7474 m) with the necessary permits.

Fuel your wanderlust and read our latest blog posts for inspiring tales from the Himalayas.