Oct 30, Kathmandu - Nepal has proposed that six additional mountains be recognized as separate peaks above 8,000 metres, potentially raising the global total from 14 to 20.

Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Khadga Raj Poudel “Ganesh” presented the proposal at the 2026 General Assembly of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), through the Nepal Mountaineering Association.

The proposed peaks are Yalung Khang (8,505 metres), Kanchenjunga South (8,476 metres), Kanchenjunga Central (8,473 metres), Lhotse Middle (8,410 metres), Lhotse Shar (8,400 metres) and Yalung Khang West (8,077 metres).

If accepted, the proposal would increase the number of Nepal’s 8,000-metre peaks from eight to 14, establishing Nepal as home to 14 of the world’s 20 highest mountains.

The UIAA assembly, hosted by the Nepal Mountaineering Association, began in Kathmandu on Friday and is scheduled to conclude Saturday. Representatives of mountaineering federations, experts and other stakeholders from around the world are attending. Nepal previously hosted the assembly in 1982 and 2011.

Minister Poudel said recognition of the peaks could strengthen Nepal’s mountaineering identity and create opportunities in adventure tourism, mountain research and tourism promotion. He said the initiative could also help establish Nepal as a leading destination for the world’s highest mountains.

The assembly is also being viewed as a platform to discuss growing climate-related risks in the Himalayas, conservation of natural resources and the livelihoods of mountain communities.