Part of: Sikkim Gk set 2

..... peak, one of the highest in Himalayas, lies in Sikkim.

Category: Sikkim Gk

Hint: Consider the highest peaks in the eastern Himalayas.

Correct Answer: C) Kanchenjunga

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The question asks about the highest peak in Sikkim, which is one of the highest peaks in the Himalayas. To understand this, it is important to know the geographical layout of the Himalayas and the specific peaks located within the boundaries of Sikkim.

The Himalayas are a vast mountain range that stretches across several countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan. Within this range, there are numerous high peaks, each with its own unique characteristics and location. Sikkim, a state in northeastern India, is home to several high peaks, with Kanchenjunga being the most prominent.

Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world, standing at an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). It is located on the border of Nepal and India, with its summit in Sikkim. The name "Kanchenjunga" translates to "Five Treasures of the Snow" in Tibetan, referring to the five peaks that make up the mountain. These peaks are considered sacred in both Tibetan and Nepalese cultures.

Other high peaks in the Himalayas, such as Nanga Parbat and K2, are located in different regions of the mountain range. Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world, is located in the western Himalayas in Pakistan, while K2, the second highest mountain in the world, is situated on the border of Pakistan and China. Nanda Devi, the second highest mountain in India, is located in Uttarakhand, not in Sikkim.

Understanding the geographical distribution of these peaks is crucial for correctly identifying the highest peak in Sikkim. Kanchenjunga's location and elevation make it the highest peak in Sikkim and a significant landmark in the eastern Himalayas.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Nanga Parbat is located in the western Himalayas, in Pakistan, not in Sikkim. It is the ninth highest mountain in the world and is not the highest peak in Sikkim.
  • Option B: K2, also known as Mount Godwin-Austen, is located on the border of Pakistan and China, not in Sikkim. It is the second highest mountain in the world but is not the highest peak in Sikkim.
  • Option C: Kanchenjunga is the correct answer. It is the third highest mountain in the world and the highest peak in Sikkim, located on the border of Nepal and India. It is a significant geographical feature of the eastern Himalayas.
  • Option D: Nanda Devi is located in Uttarakhand, India, not in Sikkim. It is the second highest mountain in India but is not the highest peak in Sikkim.

Mnemonic: Kanchenjunga: "Five Treasures of the Snow"

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