Annapurna (Nepali: अन्नपूर्ण) is a mountain located in the Annapurna mountain range of Gandaki Province in north-central Nepal. Rising to 8,091 metres (26,545 ft) above sea level, it is the tenth highest mountain in the world and is widely noted for the difficulty and danger involved in its ascent.
Annapurna I holds a significant place in mountaineering history. A French expedition led by Maurice Herzog reached its summit via the north face in 1950, making it the first eight-thousander to be successfully climbed. The massif and its surrounding region lie within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers 7,629 square kilometres and is regarded as the first and largest conservation area in Nepal. The region is home to several well-known treks, including the Annapurna Sanctuary and the Annapurna Circuit.
For many decades, Annapurna I had the highest fatality-to-summit ratio among the principal eight-thousanders. According to Guinness World Records, the current fatality rate stands at approximately 13.42%, with 75 deaths recorded against 559 successful ascents as of February 2025. While recent years have seen notable climbing successes, the mountain continues to pose serious challenges, including avalanche risk, unpredictable weather, and exceptionally steep and committing routes. Its 3,000-metre south face is regarded as one of the most difficult climbs in the world.
The wider Annapurna region also presents hazards for trekkers. A snowstorm in 2014 near Annapurna and Dhaulagiri resulted in the deaths of at least 43 people, underscoring the volatile mountain conditions in the area.
Adapted from the English Wikipedia article on Annapurna.