What is Kangchenjunga's global ranking in terms of height, and what is its summit elevation?

Kangchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world. Its summit reaches an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet).

Where is Kangchenjunga located, and what geographical features define its boundaries?

Kangchenjunga is situated in the Kangchenjunga Himal section of the Himalayas, straddling the border between Nepal and India (Sikkim state). Its boundaries are defined by the Tamur River to the west, the Lhonak River and Jongsang La to the north, and the Teesta River to the east.

What was the historical understanding of Kangchenjunga's height relative to other mountains before 1852?

Prior to 1852, Kangchenjunga was believed to be the highest mountain in the world. This assumption was based on calculations and measurements available at the time.

How was it determined that Kangchenjunga is not the world's highest mountain, and what is its current ranking?

Precise calculations and measurements conducted by the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India in 1849 revealed that Mount Everest (then known as Peak XV) was higher than Kangchenjunga. Following further verification, it was officially announced in 1856 that Kangchenjunga is the third-highest mountain globally.

Who were the first individuals to successfully summit Kangchenjunga, and in what year did this occur?

The first successful ascent of Kangchenjunga was achieved on May 25, 1955, by Joe Brown and George Band. They were part of the 1955 British Kangchenjunga expedition.

Why did the first summiteers stop just short of the true summit of Kangchenjunga?

Joe Brown and George Band stopped just short of the true summit to honor a promise made to Tashi Namgyal, the Chogyal of Sikkim. This promise ensured that the mountain's peak would remain inviolate.

What is the significance of Kangchenjunga to the local populations in Nepal and Sikkim?

Kangchenjunga is considered a sacred mountain by the people of Nepal and Sikkim. This reverence influences how the mountain is treated, including the decision to leave its summit untouched.

What is the official spelling of the mountain's name, and who established it?

The official spelling adopted for the mountain is Kangchenjunga. This spelling was established by Douglas Freshfield, Alexander Mitchell Kellas, and the Royal Geographical Society, reflecting the Tibetan pronunciation.

What is the meaning of the name 'Kangchenjunga' according to Tibetan origins?

The name Kangchenjunga is derived from Tibetan words: 'gangs' (snow and ice), 'chen' (great), 'mdzod' (treasure), and 'lnga' (five). Thus, it translates to 'the five treasures of the high snow'.

What are the five treasures believed to be hidden on Kangchenjunga according to local beliefs?

The five treasures hidden on Kangchenjunga are believed to be salt, gold, turquoise and precious stones, sacred scriptures, invincible armor or ammunition, and grain and medicine. These treasures are said to reveal themselves to the devout during times of peril.

What is the geographical extent of the Kangchenjunga Himal section?

The Kangchenjunga Himal section encompasses 16 peaks exceeding 7,000 meters (23,000 feet). It is bordered by the Tamur River in the west, the Lhonak Chu, Goma Chu, and Jongsang La in the north, and the Teesta River in the east.

How does Kangchenjunga's location compare to Mount Everest in terms of distance?

Kangchenjunga is located approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) east-southeast of Mount Everest in a straight line. It rises about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of the general alignment of the Great Himalayan range.

What is the Singalila Ridge, and what role does it play geographically in relation to Kangchenjunga?

The Singalila Ridge is a ridge that runs south of Kangchenjunga's southern face, separating Sikkim from Nepal and northern West Bengal. It is a significant geographical feature in the region.

How does Kangchenjunga rank in terms of topographic prominence, and where is its key col located?

Kangchenjunga is ranked 29th globally by topographic prominence. Its key col, which is the lowest point along the watershed boundary between the Arun and Brahmaputra rivers, is located in Tibet at an elevation of 4,664 meters (15,302 feet).

What is the total glacialized area associated with the Kangchenjunga massif?

The glaciers of the Kangchenjunga massif cover a total area of approximately 314 square kilometers (121 square miles). This area includes 120 glaciers, with 17 of them being covered in debris.

What trend has been observed regarding the glaciers in the Kangchenjunga Himal region between 1958 and 1992?

Between 1958 and 1992, more than half of the 57 examined glaciers in the Kangchenjunga Himal had retreated. This retreat is possibly linked to the effects of global warming.

Which major river basins does Kangchenjunga influence?

Kangchenjunga is the highest elevation point for the Brahmaputra River basin, which is part of the southeast Asian monsoon regime. It also forms part of the Ganges Basin and is located within the basin of the Kosi River, a major tributary of the Ganges.

What are the main climbing routes to Kangchenjunga's summit?

There are four primary climbing routes to Kangchenjunga's summit: three from Nepal (southwest, northwest, and northeast) and one from northeastern Sikkim in India. The route from Sikkim has been used infrequently and has been closed since 2000.

What was the outcome of the 1905 British Kangchenjunga expedition led by Aleister Crowley?

The 1905 expedition, led by Aleister Crowley, reached an estimated elevation of 6,500 meters (21,300 feet) on the southwest side before being forced to retreat due to an avalanche. The expedition suffered fatalities, including climber Alexis Pache and three porters, leading Crowley to abandon the attempt.

What significant event occurred during the 1955 British Kangchenjunga expedition that relates to the mountain's sacred status?

During the 1955 expedition, Joe Brown and George Band, the first summiteers, deliberately stopped short of the true summit to honor a promise made to the Chogyal of Sikkim, ensuring the mountain's peak remained inviolate.

What is the fatality rate for climbers attempting Kangchenjunga's main peak, and when did this trend become notable?

The fatality rate for climbers attempting Kangchenjunga's main peak is high, with over 20% of climbers dying since the 1990s. This indicates the significant dangers involved in summiting the mountain.

What is the legend associated with a hidden valley on Kangchenjunga's slopes?

Legends recount a hidden valley of immortality on Kangchenjunga's slopes, known in Tibetan as Beyul Demoshong. In 1962, a Tibetan Lama named Tulshuk Lingpa led followers in an attempt to find this valley.

What mythical creature is said to inhabit the area around Kangchenjunga?

The area around Kangchenjunga is said to be inhabited by a mountain deity known as the 'Kangchenjunga Demon' or 'Dzö-nga', which is described as a type of yeti or rakshasa. A British expedition in 1925 reported spotting a bipedal creature that locals identified as this demon.

In which literary works or media has Kangchenjunga been mentioned or featured?

Kangchenjunga has been mentioned in works such as Sir Francis Younghusband's 'The Epic of Mount Everest', Raymond Benson's James Bond novel 'High Time to Kill', Kiran Desai's 'The Inheritance of Loss', Yoshiki Tanaka's 'Legend of the Galactic Heroes', Michelle Paver's novel 'Thin Air', and Kate Bush's song 'Wild Man'.

What is the significance of the Khangchendzonga National Park in relation to Kangchenjunga?

The Khangchendzonga National Park, located adjacent to Kangchenjunga, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. This designation highlights the ecological and cultural importance of the region.

What are the main ecoregions found in the Kangchenjunga landscape?

The Kangchenjunga landscape encompasses three distinct ecoregions: the eastern Himalayan broad-leaved and coniferous forests, the Eastern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows, and the Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands.

What notable flora and fauna are found in the protected areas around Kangchenjunga?

The protected areas around Kangchenjunga are habitats for significant plant species like rhododendrons and orchids, as well as endangered animals such as the snow leopard, Asian black bear, red panda, white-bellied musk deer, blood pheasant, and chestnut-breasted partridge.

Who were the first Norwegians to attempt climbing Kangchenjunga, and what was their achievement?

In 1907, two Norwegians attempted to climb Kangchenjunga via the Kabru glacier. They reached a point approximately 15 to 18 meters (50 to 60 feet) below the summit before being turned back by strong winds.

What was the achievement of the Indian Army team in 1977 regarding Kangchenjunga?

In 1977, an Indian Army team, led by Colonel Narendra Kumar, completed the second ascent of Kangchenjunga. They successfully climbed the northeast spur, a challenging route that had previously defeated German expeditions.

Who made the first ascent of Kangchenjunga South and Central peaks, and in what year?

Wojciech Wróż and Eugeniusz Chrobak made the first successful ascent of Kangchenjunga South on May 19, 1978. Wojciech Brański, Zygmunt Andrzej Heinrich, and Kazimierz Olech achieved the first ascent of Kangchenjunga Central on May 22, 1978.

What notable achievement did Doug Scott, Peter Boardman, and Joe Tasker accomplish on Kangchenjunga in 1979?

In 1979, Doug Scott, Peter Boardman, and Joe Tasker made the third ascent of Kangchenjunga and the first ascent without supplemental oxygen. They established a new route on the North Ridge.

Who made the first winter ascent of Kangchenjunga, and on what date?

The first winter ascent of Kangchenjunga was achieved by Jerzy Kukuczka and Krzysztof Wielicki on January 11, 1986. They followed the route pioneered during the initial first ascent.

Who was the first woman to climb Kangchenjunga's North Face, and in what year?

Ginette Harrison was the first woman to climb Kangchenjunga's North Face in 1998.

What significant mountaineering achievement did Edurne Pasaban accomplish on Kangchenjunga in 2009?

In 2009, Edurne Pasaban reached the summit of Kangchenjunga, marking her twelfth eight-thousander ascent and making her the first woman to achieve this milestone.

What tragic events occurred during the May 2013 expedition to Kangchenjunga?

In May 2013, five climbers, including Zsolt Erőss and Péter Kiss, reached the summit of Kangchenjunga but tragically disappeared during their descent.

What happened to Chhanda Gayen during her descent from Kangchenjunga in May 2014?

Chhanda Gayen, the first Indian woman to summit Kangchenjunga in May 2014, was killed by an avalanche during her descent.

What is the significance of the name 'Kangchenjunga' in relation to the mountain's peaks?

The name 'Kangchenjunga' translates to 'the five treasures of the high snow,' referring to the five highest peaks of the Kangchenjunga massif, which are all over 8,000 meters.

What is the elevation of Kangchenjunga's Central peak?

Kangchenjunga Central has an elevation of 8,482 meters (27,828 feet).

What is the elevation of Yalung Kang, also known as Kangchenjunga West?

Yalung Kang, also known as Kangchenjunga West, has an elevation of 8,505 meters (27,904 feet).

Which protected areas are part of the Kangchenjunga transboundary landscape?

The Kangchenjunga transboundary landscape includes the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area in Nepal, Khangchendzonga National Park and several other sanctuaries in Sikkim and Darjeeling, India, and the Torsa Strict Nature Reserve in Bhutan.

What is the approximate number of glaciers in the Kanchenjunga Himal region?

There are approximately 120 glaciers located within the Kanchenjunga Himal.

What was the primary focus of Joseph Dalton Hooker's exploration in the Kangchenjunga region between 1848 and 1849?

Joseph Dalton Hooker explored parts of northern Sikkim and eastern Nepal primarily to collect plants and study the distribution of Himalayan flora. He reached elevations up to 4,760 meters (15,620 feet) in the foothills of Kangchenjunga.

What was the objective of John Kempe's 1954 reconnaissance expedition related to Kangchenjunga?

John Kempe led a party in 1954 to explore the upper Yalung glacier with the goal of discovering a practical route to the large ice-shelf on Kangchenjunga's southwest face. This reconnaissance informed the route used by the successful 1955 expedition.

What is the significance of the 'Great Shelf' on Kangchenjunga's Yalung Face?

The 'Great Shelf' is a prominent feature on Kangchenjunga's Yalung Face, described as a large sloping plateau at around 7,500 meters (24,600 feet) that is covered by a hanging glacier. It was a key element in the route of the first ascent.

What is the approximate fatality rate for climbers on Kangchenjunga's main peak since the 1990s?

Since the 1990s, the fatality rate for climbers attempting Kangchenjunga's main peak has been over 20%.

What is the Tibetan name for the legendary hidden valley on Kangchenjunga, and who led an expedition to find it?

The hidden valley is known in Tibetan as Beyul Demoshong. In 1962, a Tibetan Lama named Tulshuk Lingpa led over 300 followers in an attempt to find this valley on Kangchenjunga's slopes.

What is the meaning of the 'five treasures' associated with Kangchenjunga's name?

The 'five treasures' refer to valuable items believed to be hidden on the mountain, including precious stones, gold, scriptures, armor, and grains, which are said to reveal themselves to the devout.

What is the elevation of the Kangchenjunga massif's southern peak?

Kangchenjunga South has an elevation of 8,494 meters (27,867 feet).

What is the elevation of Kangbachen, a peak within the Kangchenjunga massif?

Kangbachen has an elevation of 7,903 meters (25,928 feet).

What is the significance of the 'Seven Third Summits' list in relation to Kangchenjunga?

Kangchenjunga is listed as the third highest peak in Asia on the 'Seven Third Summits' list, which identifies the third highest peak on each continent.

What is the highest point in Sikkim, India, and what is its elevation?

The highest point in Sikkim, India, is Kangchenjunga, with an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet).

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Etymology

Meaning of the Name

The name "Kangchenjunga" is derived from Tibetan, meaning "The Five Treasures of the High Snow." This name reflects the mountain's five prominent peaks, often associated with the five treasures of the Himalayas: salt, gold, turquoise, precious stones, sacred scriptures, invincible armor, grain, and medicine. The official spelling was adopted by Douglas Freshfield and the Royal Geographical Society, representing the most accurate English rendition of the Tibetan pronunciation.

The Tibetan words contributing to the name are:

"gangs" (snow and ice)
"chen" (great)
"mdzod" (treasure)
"lnga" (five)

Local Lhopo people believe these treasures are hidden, revealing themselves to the devout during times of peril.

Historical Naming

Until 1852, Kangchenjunga was widely believed to be the highest mountain on Earth. Precise measurements by the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India in 1849 revealed that Mount Everest (then known as Peak XV) was higher. This led to Kangchenjunga being officially recognized as the third-highest mountain globally in 1856.

Geography

Location and Boundaries

Kangchenjunga lies on the border between Nepal and India (Sikkim). Its massif is bounded by the Tamur River to the west, the Lhonak River and Jongsang La to the north, and the Teesta River to the east. The mountain forms a significant part of the Himalayas, specifically the Kangchenjunga Himal section.

The Massif Structure

Kangchenjunga is not a single peak but a massive mountain massif comprising five high peaks. These peaks are situated along a ridge that runs from north-northeast to south-southwest, creating a watershed for several rivers. The massif's structure is often described as a giant cross formed by intersecting ridges.

Glaciers and Hydrology

Four main glaciers radiate from Kangchenjunga, feeding rivers that flow into the Teesta, Kosi, and Arun river systems. The area above 5,000 meters is heavily glaciated, covering approximately 314 km². Studies suggest that many of these glaciers have been retreating, potentially due to climate change.

Peaks of the Kangchenjunga Massif

The Kangchenjunga massif includes several significant peaks, many of which are among the world's highest. The table below details some of these prominent summits:

Name of peak	Height		Coordinates	Prominence		Nearest Higher Neighbour	Location
Name of peak	meters	feet	Coordinates	meters	feet	Nearest Higher Neighbour	Location
Kangchenjunga Main^[2]	8,586	28,169	27°42′10.8″N 88°08′53.52″E	3,922	12,867	Mount Everest – South Summit	Mangan district, Sikkim, India / Taplejung, Koshi Province, Nepal
Yalung Kang (Kangchenjunga West)^[27]	8,505	27,904	27°42′18″N 88°08′12″E	135	443	Kangchenjunga	Taplejung, Koshi Province, Nepal
Kangchenjunga Central^[28]	8,482	27,828	27°41′46″N 88°09′04″E	32	105	Kangchenjunga South	Mangan district, Sikkim, India / Taplejung, Koshi Province, Nepal
Kangchenjunga South^[29]	8,494	27,867	27°41′30″N 88°09′15″E	119	390	Kangchenjunga	Mangan district, Sikkim, India / Taplejung, Koshi Province, Nepal
Kangbachen^[30]	7,903	25,928	27°42′42″N 88°06′30″E	103	337	Kangchenjunga West	Taplejung, Koshi Province, Nepal

Protected Landscapes

Ecoregions and Biodiversity

The Kangchenjunga landscape spans diverse ecoregions, including broad-leaved forests, coniferous forests, and alpine meadows. This rich biodiversity supports numerous plant species, such as rhododendrons and orchids, and endangered animals like the snow leopard, Asian black bear, and red panda.

Conservation Areas

A complex network of 14 protected areas, covering over 6,000 km², spans the Kangchenjunga transboundary landscape across Nepal, India, Bhutan, and China. These areas are crucial for conserving the region's unique ecological and cultural heritage.

Nepal: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
Sikkim, India: Khangchendzonga National Park, Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary
Darjeeling, India: Jore Pokhri Wildlife Sanctuary, Singalila National Park, Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Neora Valley National Park
Bhutan: Torsa Strict Nature Reserve

Climbing Routes

Ascending the Giant

There are four primary climbing routes to Kangchenjunga's summit, originating from Nepal (southwest, northwest, and northeast) and India (northeast). The route from Sikkim, India, has seen limited success and is currently off-limits to expeditions due to government regulations.

Sacred Summit

In a gesture of respect for the mountain's sacred status, the first climbers, Joe Brown and George Band in 1955, stopped just short of the true summit. This tradition reflects the deep cultural significance Kangchenjunga holds for the local populations.

Climbing History

First Ascent

Kangchenjunga was first successfully climbed on May 25, 1955, by British mountaineers Joe Brown and George Band during the 1955 British Kangchenjunga expedition. Their ascent marked a significant achievement in mountaineering history.

Winter Ascent

The first winter ascent was achieved on January 11, 1986, by Polish climbers Jerzy Kukuczka and Krzysztof Wielicki, demonstrating remarkable endurance and skill in extreme conditions.

Early Perceptions

Before precise surveys in the mid-19th century, Kangchenjunga was believed to be the world's highest peak. The Great Trigonometrical Survey of India's meticulous measurements eventually established Mount Everest as taller, reclassifying Kangchenjunga as the third-highest mountain.

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References

Peakbagger.com (1987â2012). Yalung Kang

Peakbagger.com (1987â2012). Kanchenjunga Central

Peakbagger.com (1987â2012). Kanchenjunga South

Peakbagger.com (1987â2012). Kangbachen

A full list of references for this article are available at the Kangchenjunga Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not a guide for mountaineering. Climbing expeditions to high-altitude mountains like Kangchenjunga are extremely dangerous and require specialized training, equipment, and experience. The information provided here is not a substitute for professional guidance, risk assessment, or adherence to safety protocols. Always consult with experienced professionals and relevant authorities before undertaking any high-altitude mountaineering activities.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Kangchenjunga: Majesty of the Himalayas

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Etymology 🗣️

📜 Meaning of the Name

🌍 Historical Naming

Geography 🗺️

📍 Location and Boundaries

🏔️ The Massif Structure

❄️ Glaciers and Hydrology

📊 Peaks of the Kangchenjunga Massif

Protected Landscapes 🌳

🏞️ Ecoregions and Biodiversity

🏛️ Conservation Areas

Climbing Routes 🧗

⬆️ Ascending the Giant

🚫 Sacred Summit

Climbing History ⏳

🏁 First Ascent

❄️ Winter Ascent

📜 Early Perceptions

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Etymology

Meaning of the Name

Historical Naming

Geography

Location and Boundaries

The Massif Structure

Glaciers and Hydrology

Peaks of the Kangchenjunga Massif

Protected Landscapes

Ecoregions and Biodiversity

Conservation Areas

Climbing Routes

Ascending the Giant

Sacred Summit

Climbing History

First Ascent

Winter Ascent

Early Perceptions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice