1 Bhutan – 98.8%
Tucked away in South Asia, the Kingdom of Bhutan remains one of the world’s most enchanting and geographically dramatic countries. Entirely landlocked and nestled within the towering ranges of the Himalayas, Bhutan boasts an average elevation of 10,760 feet (3,280 meters), making it the most mountainous nation on Earth by both percentage of coverage and elevation. Its highest point, the majestic Gangkhar Puensum, rises to 24,836 feet (7,570 meters) and holds the distinction of being the tallest unclimbed mountain in the world—a testament to the country’s reverence for nature and spiritual traditions.
Roughly 70% of Bhutan’s land is blanketed in dense forests, contributing to its remarkable status as the first carbon-negative country on the planet. This pristine natural environment is carefully protected through sustainable policies and tourism regulations. In fact, visitors are required to pay a $200 USD daily Sustainable Development Fee, ensuring that tourism aligns with the nation’s deep ecological values and spiritual heritage.
2 Tajikistan – 91.9%
The Republic of Tajikistan, a landlocked country in Central Asia, is dominated by rugged mountain terrain. Most of its landscape is shaped by the vast Tien Shan range and its extensions, including the Trans-Alay (Zaalay), Zeravshan, Gissar, and Turkestan ranges, along with the formidable Pamir Mountains. With an average elevation of 10,455 feet (3,187 meters), Tajikistan ranks as the third highest country in the world by mean altitude. Its most commanding summit is Imeni Ismail Samani—formerly known as Communism Peak—soaring to an impressive 24,590 feet (7,495 meters), placing it among the tallest mountains in the region.
3 Kyrgyzstan – 90.7%
Located just north of Tajikistan in Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan is also dominated by the vast Tien Shan mountain range. Its tallest peak, Jengish Chokusu—also known as Victory Peak or Pobedy Peak—is the highest point in the Tien Shan and stands majestically at 24,406 feet (7,439 meters) in the country’s northeastern region. Along Kyrgyzstan’s southern border, the Kok Shaal-Tau, Alay, Trans-Alay (Zaalay), and Atbashi ranges create a dramatic mountainous landscape. The nation’s average elevation is a lofty 9,805 feet (2,989 meters), making it one of the most elevated countries in the world.
4 Lesotho – 90.5%
The Kingdom of Lesotho, historically known as Basutoland, is a small landlocked country entirely surrounded by South Africa. Its mountainous terrain has played a crucial role in preserving its political sovereignty by acting as natural barriers. Lesotho’s highest point, Mount Ntlenyana, rises to 11,424 feet (3,482 meters) and is part of the Drakensberg range that forms the country’s eastern border. The Maloti Mountains stretch north to south across the nation, meeting a prominent high plateau that ranges between 9,000 and 10,500 feet (2,743 to 3,200 meters). This elevated plateau is vital for Lesotho’s agriculture. Overall, the country has an average elevation of about 7,090 feet (2,161 meters), making it one of the highest nations in Africa by altitude.
5 Montenegro – 89.3%
When people think of Montenegro, the stunning Adriatic coastline often comes to mind first. However, the country’s name—meaning “Black Mountain”—reflects its strikingly rugged and glacially sculpted interior. The Dinaric Alps, a southeastern extension of the Eastern Alps, traverse the northeastern region, while the Durmitor Mountains dominate the central area, home to the picturesque Durmitor National Park. The name “Black Mountain” is believed to refer to Mount Lovćen, which rises to 5,738 feet (1,749 meters). Montenegro’s highest peak, however, is Bobotov Peak, soaring to 8,274 feet (2,522 meters).
6 Armenia – 85.9%
The Republic of Armenia is one of three nations—alongside Georgia and Azerbaijan—that make up the Transcaucasia region. This area is where the towering Caucasus Mountains, home to Europe’s highest peak Mount Elbrus, give way to the gentler slopes of the Lesser Caucasus, which stretch across northern and eastern Armenia. The country’s highest point is Mount Aragats (also known as Alaghez), rising to 13,418 feet (4,090 meters) in the Armenian Highlands in the northwest. With an average elevation of 5,879 feet (1,792 meters), this landlocked nation is among the more elevated countries in the region.
7 North Macedonia – 85.5%
The Republic of North Macedonia is a compact country in the South-Central Balkans that carries a touch of Mediterranean charm. The rugged Šar Mountains define its western border and extend into southern Kosovo, while the Pirin Mountains—named after the Slavic thunder god Perun—dominate the eastern region. The country’s highest peak, Mount Korab, rises to 9,030 feet (2,752 meters) along the border with Albania. Many other mountains in the area reach elevations near the tree line, around 6,600 feet (2,000 meters), creating a landscape marked by dramatic relief and natural beauty.
8 Switzerland – 83.6%
For centuries, the iconic Swiss Alps have both challenged elite climbers and captivated all who behold their majestic peaks. The sharp, pyramid-shaped Matterhorn towers over the village of Zermatt, inviting skilled adventurers to test their abilities and fortunes. Nearby, the notorious North Face of the Eiger carries a dramatic legacy that resonates deeply with the people of Grindelwald. Meanwhile, the gentler Jungfrau welcomes those seeking scenic beauty without the risks of climbing, offering a leisurely train journey to its summit with breathtaking views of the Bernese Alps. Across this compact European country, stunning mountains shape the landscape and inspire awe at every turn.
9 Lebanon – 81.1%
The Republic of Lebanon, a Middle Eastern country, is uniquely framed by contrasting natural features: the vast Mediterranean Sea lies to the west, while the snow-capped Lebanon Mountains run almost the entire length of the nation. Along much of Lebanon’s eastern border with Syria, the rugged Anti-Lebanon Mountains stretch in a parallel range. The tallest peak in the area is Qurnat al-Sawdāʾ, part of the Lebanon Mountains, which rises just above the significant 10,000-foot mark at 10,131 feet (3,088 meters).
10 Nepal – 80.7%
Nepal, a South Asian country, is world-renowned for its dramatic Himalayan mountain ranges, especially the iconic southern slopes. The Great Himalaya Range is home to several of the planet’s highest peaks—known as the “8,000ers”—including Kānchenjunga I, Lhotse I, Makālu I, Cho Oyu, Dhaulāgiri I, Manāslu I, Annapūrna I, and, of course, the tallest of them all, Mount Everest. Everest, standing at 29,035 feet (8,850 meters), was first successfully climbed via the now-famous southern route from Nepal, a path still favored by climbers worldwide. While Nepal ranks tenth globally for the proportion of its land covered by mountains, its average elevation of 10,715 feet (3,266 meters) places it second only to Bhutan in overall height.