Which country has the highest average elevation?
Quick answer
Bhutan is usually ranked as the country with the highest average elevation, about 3,280 m (10,760 ft) above sea level. Nepal is close behind at around 3,265 m, followed by Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Estimates differ slightly depending on the data used, but all the leaders are in the Himalayas or the mountains of Central Asia.
The highest countries on average
| Rank | Country | Average elevation (approx.) | Mountain region |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bhutan | 3,280 m | Himalayas |
| 2 | Nepal | 3,265 m | Himalayas |
| 3 | Tajikistan | 3,186 m | Pamirs |
| 4 | Kyrgyzstan | 2,988 m | Tian Shan |
| 5 | Antarctica (not a country) | ~2,500 m | Ice sheet |
| 6 | Lesotho | ~2,160 m | Drakensberg |
Lesotho has the highest lowest point of any country, about 1,400 m. Every part of it sits above 1,000 m; see the country surrounded by South Africa.
Bhutan: a mountain kingdom
- Its peaks rise to Gangkhar Puensum, about 7,570 m, often called the world’s highest unclimbed mountain. Bhutan banned climbing peaks over 6,000 m out of respect for local beliefs.
- It measures national success using Gross National Happiness.
- It’s one of the few carbon-negative countries, thanks to its forests.
Nepal holds the highest point
Nepal is home to Mount Everest, 8,849 m, the highest point on Earth, on its border with China. Its flag is famous too; see which country has a non-rectangular flag.
The lowest countries
| Country | Average elevation |
|---|---|
| Maldives | About 1.5 m; highest natural point only about 2.4 m |
| Netherlands | About 30 m, with a quarter of the land below sea level |
| Qatar, Gambia, Bahrain | Very low and flat |
The Maldives is one of the countries most threatened by rising sea levels.
Living at altitude
People in high places like Tibet, the Andes and Ethiopia have adapted over generations to thinner air. Some carry genetic variants that help their bodies use oxygen more efficiently.
For the world’s longest mountains, see the longest mountain range. For a US city known for its altitude, see the Mile High City.
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