Gangkhar Puensum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gangkhar Puensum |
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Gangkhar Puensum in 2011
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 7,570 m (24,840 ft) Ranked 40th |
| Prominence | 2,995 m (9,826 ft) Ranked 92nd |
| Listing | Country high point Ultra |
| Naming | |
| Native name | Error {{native name}}: an IETF language tag as parameter {{{1}}} is required (help) |
| Geography | |
 Gangkhar Puensum
Location in Bhutan
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| Location | Bhutan–China border |
| Parent range | Himalaya |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | Unclimbed |
Gangkhar Puensum is a huge mountain in the Himalayas mountain range. It stands tall at about 7,570-metre (24,840-foot). This makes it one of the world's highest mountains. It is located on the border between Bhutan and Tibet (which is part of China).
The mountain is also known as Kangkar Pünzum. Its name means "White Peak of the Three Spiritual Brothers." What makes Gangkhar Puensum special is that no one has ever reached its top. It is the highest mountain in the world that has never been climbed.
About Gangkhar Puensum
For a long time, people were not sure about the exact details of Gangkhar Puensum. The mountain was first measured in 1922. However, different maps showed different heights for it. There was also confusion about where the mountain was located. Some maps placed it in different spots.
Because of this confusion, the first team that tried to climb it could not even find it. Today, the height and location we use come from China. Bhutan has not officially measured or surveyed (mapped out) the mountain itself.
Why No One Has Climbed It
A few groups have tried to climb Gangkhar Puensum in the past. But none of them were successful. The main reason it remains unclimbed is due to laws in Bhutan.
In 1994, Bhutan made a rule that no one could climb above 6,000 metres (20,000 feet) on any mountain. This was done to respect local spiritual beliefs. Then, in 2003, Bhutan completely banned (stopped) all mountain climbing.
As long as this ban is in place, it is very unlikely that anyone will reach the top from the Bhutan side. It might be possible to start a climb from Tibet. However, China has not allowed this. Tibet is an autonomous region of China. This means it has some self-governing powers, but it is still part of China.
The decision not to allow climbing from Tibet is a political decision. It is linked to disagreements about the border between China and Bhutan. There is a border dispute (a disagreement over where the exact border is) between the two countries.
Images for kids
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The mountain seen from Gophu La pass
See also
In Spanish: Gangkhar Puensum para niños
