Gangkhar Puensum, Unclimbed summit in Gasa District, Bhutan

Gangkhar Puensum rises to 7,570 metres (24,836 ft), the highest mountain in Bhutan and the highest unclimbed peak in the world. Its upper slopes are snow and ice, while the lower flanks are grey and brown rock with patches of snow. The broad summit is shaped by a long ridge that peaks slightly left of centre and slopes down to the right, and the base is partly hidden behind dark green trees.

The height was first measured in 1922, but early maps placed the mountain in different locations and at different heights; the first summit team could not even find it. Four expeditions failed in 1985 and 1986. Bhutan banned climbing above 6,000 metres in 1994 and all mountaineering in 2003.

In Dzongkha the name means "White Peak of the Three Spiritual Brothers". Bhutan banned climbing above 6,000 metres in 1994 because local people regard the summits as the dwelling places of spirits and gods, and since 2003 all mountaineering has been forbidden.

The area lies deep in Gasa District and cannot be reached by visitors. Travelers see the summit only from a distance through certain valleys and passes.

The nearest higher summit lies more than 228 kilometers (142 miles) away, making this peak stand out far above the surrounding land. The distance to the next point of equal height is roughly 25 kilometers (16 miles) to the northeast.