What is a Massif? Definition and Meaning

For the past 16 years at Indiahikes, we have been noticing lots of mountain terms being tossed around in conversations: sometimes correctly, but more times incorrectly. 

This is why we are making The Trek Glossary series, where we break down one mountain term at a time. These are quick reads but with accurate information that will help you understand mountain terminology. 

Today, I will dedicate my piece to explaining massif. 

What is a massif?

A massif is a set of peaks that share a single base. They usually stand out from other peaks around them, often appearing as a single mass of a mountain. 

Etymology: The word massif comes from the French word for “massive.” A mountain massif is a group of mountains that form an entity in its own right. The term was typically used in the Alps and other mountain ranges of Europe but is now equally relevant in the Indian trekking context too. 

Massif vs peak: A common mistake trekkers make is using the words massif and mountain peaks interchangeably. For example: They often call the Chaukhamba Massif the Chaukhamba Peak. But they are very different from each other. A peak is usually a standalone mountain with just one high point. A massif has multiple high points. 

Here are some examples with images that will give you a clear picture of a massif.

Famous massifs in India:

The Chaukhamba massif, best seen from the Deoriatal lake, is one of the most famous massifs in the Himalayas! “Chaukhamba” translates to “four pillars” indicating the 4 peaks of the Chaukhamba massif. You see this peak from the Ali Bedni Bugyal, Kuari Pass and Madhmaheshwar trails as well. 

The Bhagirathi sisters is another famous massif in the Gangotri region. Famously called Bhagirathi sisters, it has four high peaks, classified as Bhagirathi I, II, III, and IV. Located within Gangotri National Park, this massif is the source of several rivers, including the River Ganga, which originates from the Gangotri glacier.

I'd also like to talk about the majestic Mount Trishul, which has three distinct peaks: Trishul I, II, III. It gets its name Trishul, translating to “trident” from its three prominent peaks. You see the best views of the Trishul massif from Bedni top from the Ali Bedni Bugyal trek and Brahmatal trek. 

Bandarpoonch is another distinct massif, which has three peaks, Bandarpoonch I & II and the third peak is called Kalanag or Black Peak, the highest peak among the three. It is visible from Dayara top.

Several other massifs are often mistaken for mountain peaks but are a group of peaks. The famous Nanda Devi is a perfect example. Often mistaken for a peak, it is a two-peak massif, with its second peak called Nanda Devi East. It is visible from Ranthan top on the Ranthan Kharak trek.

Do you have any questions about massifs? 

This was everything you need to know about a massif. Next time you’re trekking, I hope you’re able to identify a massif. 

If you like me to cover any specific terminologies, please drop that too in the comments box. This is the bank of trekking terminologies we are creating to spread awareness about the trekking world. I will be posting about a few terms in the coming weeks. Please read, remember, and share.