5 of the Most Photogenic but Lesser-known Mountains
Credit: Arto Marttinen
As a mountain enthusiast and an alpine climber, it’s hard to decide whether it’s a pity or a blessing that some of the most beautiful mountains in the world remain unknown to the masses. But, in the end, I think any landscape is best when experienced with others.
Although equally photogenic, these five mountains are much less touristy than the famous Matterhorn or Mount Everest. With the right experience and equipment, they are well worth the journey to witness their incredible beauty.
Machapuchare, Nepal
Credit: Wikimedia.
This majestic giant displays some of the most grandiose shapes and lines of any mountain worldwide. Reaching almost 7000 metres of altitude, Machapuchare rises above the centre of Nepal, surrounded by other mountains like a king amongst his retinue. If its unquestionable beauty is not reason enough for a visit, it may interest you to know that this mountain is considered sacred by the Nepalese, so climbing it is entirely forbidden. No human has, as far as we know, ever set foot on its summit. This aspect contributes to Machapuchare’s fascinating appeal.
Monte Fitz Roy, Patagonia
Credit: Oregon Hikers.
There are many reasons to travel to Patagonia. One is to visit the spectacular mountain range of which Monte Fitz Roy is the most important peak. The mountain sweeps upward with elegance and its slope converges into a pointed arch, much like a gothic cathedral created by nature itself. This characteristic, plus the harshness of the climate and the remoteness of the region, makes Monte Fitz Roy a sought-after trophy for mountaineers and an unforgettable subject for your camera.
Aiguille du Dru, France
Credit: Richard Allaway, Flickr.
Shadowed by the higher-reaching Mont Blanc and positioned adjacent to the Mer de Glace glacier, the Aiguille du Dru is not easily reached on foot, thus remaining unknown to most hikers. But those willing to traverse a few hours past Montenvers, in the area of Chamonix, are rewarded with an unforgettable sight: a 3700 metre high pyramid of granite, perfect its lines and symmetry. Since crossing a glacier is no trivial affair, and the Mer de Glace is no exception, one should hire a mountain guide if unfamiliar with this environment. All the same, a trip to the Chamonix area, at the foot of the Mont Blanc, is a surprisingly beautiful detour from the typical Parisian-centred trip to France.
Muztagh Tower, Pakistan
Credit: ferdyn.pl
The Muztagh Tower is not an easy place to reach. It’s situated in the northeastern corner of Pakistan within the Karakoram mountain range. This is one of the most remote corners of Asia, with no roads or villages to be found. Travelling to these latitudes requires a great deal of courage, determination, and adaptability. But beyond the harshness lies some of the world’s most beautiful natural treasures: the Baltoro glacier (60 kilometres long), the K2 (the second highest mountain in the world), and, of course, the Muztagh Tower. Italian photographer Vittorio Sella (a prominent pioneer in alpine photography) first captured the Muztagh with his camera in 1909. When he first saw the mountain, he couldn’t believe his eyes. The 7276 metre colossus appeared unconquerable, even more so than the Himalaya’s most prestigious “eight thousanders”. Another 50 years would pass before the first humans would set foot on the Muztagh’s summit.
Siniolchu, India
Credit: draskd, flickr.
Siniolchu is, in my opinion, the world’s most beautiful mountain. The infinite complexity of its morphology and the perfect intricacy of its lines seem to be dominated by a secret geometry. Together with the sense of austerity that permeates it, its shape bestows this peak with an aura of sacredness, almost as if it was a God of rock silently overlooking the plains of India.
Do you have a favourite mountain or area in the mountains? Let us know in the comments below.
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