Nilgiri Parbat

Nilgiri Parbat rises to 6,474 meters (21,240 feet) within Valley of Flowers National Park and dominates the eastern region of Garhwal Himalayas. Four major glaciers surround the mountain on its western, northern, eastern, and southern flanks, forming a complex ice system.

Frank Smythe made the first documented ascent in 1937, marking the start of climbing activity on this peak. Since this achievement, the summit has attracted experienced mountaineers seeking technical routes in the Himalayas.

The mountain's name comes from Sanskrit, with Nilgiri meaning blue mountain and Parbat referring to a peak in Indian languages. For local communities, this summit holds deep symbolic meaning as part of the sacred Himalayan landscape.

Climbing this peak requires advanced technical skills and specialized mountaineering gear such as ice axes and ropes. Expeditions typically set up base camps around 4,785 meters (15,702 feet), from which higher camps are established for altitude acclimatization.

Four named glaciers surround the mountain: Khulia Garvia, Bank Kund, Ratabon, and Tipra Bamak, each feeding different river systems in the region. These ice masses are significant for local water systems and reveal the complex glacial geography of this Himalayan area.

Location: Joshimath Tehsil

Elevation above the sea: 6,474 m

GPS coordinates: 30.78351,79.64413

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:48