Kamet Peak, Location, Height, Geography, Flora & Fauna

Kamet Peak

Kamet Peak, rising majestically to an elevation of 7,756 meters (25,446 feet), is the second-highest peak in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. Known for its pyramid-shaped peak and challenging climbing routes, Kamet is part of the Zaskar Range, a subset of the mighty Kumaon Himalayas.

Located near the Tibet border, this peak is a symbol of adventure for mountaineers and a breathtaking sight for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

Kamet Peak Geography

  • Location: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand, India, near the India-Tibet border.
    Mountain Range: Zaskar Range, part of the Kumaon Himalayas.
  • Elevation: 7,756 meters (25,446 feet) – second-highest peak in the Garhwal region.
  • Nearby Peaks: Abi Gamin (7,355 m) and Mana Peak (7,272 m).
  • Glaciers: East Kamet Glacier and West Kamet Glacier feed tributaries of the Ganges.
  • Terrain: Pyramid-shaped peak with rugged cliffs, snowfields, and steep glacier slopes.
  • Significance: Natural border between India and Tibet; attracts climbers and trekkers from around the world.

Also Read: Fold Mountains

Kamet Peak Flora and Fauna

  • Flora:
    • Alpine shrubs and hardy grasses adapted to high altitudes.
    • Rare high-altitude flowers like Rheum nobile and Meconopsis species.
    • Medicinal herbs used by local communities for traditional remedies.
  • Fauna:
    • Himalayan ibex and tahr grazing on alpine meadows.
    • Snow leopards and Himalayan wolves in remote areas.
    • Migratory birds like the Himalayan snowcock and choughs.
    • Small mammals and insects uniquely adapted to extreme cold.
  • Ecological Importance:
    • Glacial runoff supports rivers like Dhauliganga and Alaknanda.
    • Alpine flora prevents soil erosion and sustains mountain biodiversity.
    • Wildlife thrives in this remote, undisturbed ecosystem.

Also Read: Ural Mountains

Kamet Peak FAQs

Q1: Where is Kamet Peak located?

Ans: Kamet Peak is located in Chamoli District, Uttarakhand, India, near the India-Tibet border in the Zaskar Range of the Himalayas.

Q2: What is the elevation of Kamet Peak?

Ans: Kamet Peak stands at 7,756 meters (25,446 feet), making it the second-highest peak in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.

Q3: Who first climbed Kamet Peak?

Ans: The first successful ascent was in 1931 by a British expedition led by Frank Smythe.

Q4: What are the major glaciers around Kamet?

Ans: East Kamet Glacier and West Kamet Glacier are the primary glaciers, feeding rivers like Dhauliganga and Alaknanda.

Q5: What flora and fauna can be seen near Kamet Peak?

Ans: Flora: Alpine shrubs, medicinal herbs, and rare flowers like Rheum nobile. Fauna: Himalayan ibex, snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and migratory birds.

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