20 spectacular mountains around the world that you need to see in your lifetime

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• INSIDER rounded up some of the most beautiful mountains around the world that everyone should see. 
• These include Vinicunca in Peru, more commonly known as "Rainbow Mountain," which is striped with  lavender, maroon and teal colors. 
• In Antarctica, The Spectre is a spectacular rock spire that reaches 6630 feet high.

From mountains with their own weather systems and unique worlds of biodiversity to mountains that literally separate countries and define landscapes, these incredible geological formations are nothing short of awe-inspiring. While some are recognized for their sheer height, others stun visitors with their vibrancy or dynamic shape.

You don't need to be an expert rock climber or Bear Grylls to admire the tremendous beauty of the world's most magnificent mountains. Sure certain sceneries are best viewed from the summits of the highest peaks on the planet, however, there are plenty that can be easily accessed by cable car or even tour bus.

Found on every continent across the globe, we've rounded up the top 20 mountains you need to see in your lifetime.

Mount Huangshan in southern Anhui Province, China

With its looming granite peaks, range of lush, diverse vegetation and famed sunrises, Mount Huangshan is commonly referred to as the "loveliest mountain of China." With a title like that it's no surprise that it's inspired countless artists and writers with its unreal mountainous landscape. Featuring 72 peaks that rise 3280 feet above sea level, it's an especially dreamlike landscape when cloaked in clouds. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's an extremely popular tourist attraction.

The Matterhorn in Valais, Switzerland

Located in the Pennine Alps between Switzerland and Italy, the Matterhorn is famous for its distinct pyramid shape, which can be found on the triangular Toblerone chocolate bars and as a thrill ride in Disneyland. This highly-photographed mountain stands at 14,620 feet, making it the tenth highest mountain in Switzerland. To get killer views of the Matterhorn, visitors can get onboard the cable car in Zermatt to reach the adjacent peak, Klein-Matterhorn or "Little Matterhorn."

Vinicunca in Cusco Region, Peru

Most people think Machu Picchu when they hear Peru, however, Vinicunca is just as stunning and worth the particularly difficult trek to reach its peak. Situated in the Ausangate mountain region of the Peruvian Andes at an altitude of 20,944 feet, this surreal mountain is considered holy by the locals. Known as Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca boasts stripes of vibrant colors that include lavender, maroon and teal thanks to sediment mineral layers.

See Also:

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• 7 amazing ancient ruins you can still visit today — and what they looked like during their glory days
• 8 underrated U.S. cities perfect for a passport-free vacation

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