About International Mountain Day
International Mountain Day is observed on 11 December. The UN General Assembly established it following the International Year of Mountains in 2002, to highlight the importance of mountains for life on Earth and the people who live there.
The United Nations declared 2002 the International Year of Mountains. Following that year, the UN General Assembly named 11 December International Mountain Day, and it has been observed since 2003. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN coordinates the day.
Mountains supply fresh water to a large part of the world, hold rich biodiversity and are home to communities with their own languages, farming practices and traditions. They are also fragile. Climate change, deforestation and unplanned development put mountain ecosystems and people at risk.
How it is marked
Mountain communities, universities and environmental groups hold talks, film screenings, photo exhibitions and clean-up treks. Schools teach about glaciers, rivers and mountain life. Trekkers and travellers are encouraged to travel responsibly and leave no trace.
In India, the day has special meaning for the Himalayan states and hill regions such as the Western Ghats and the Northeast. Local groups often use it to talk about responsible tourism, waste on trekking routes and protecting mountain water sources.
What to write
Celebrate the hills and the people who call them home, with a nudge to travel gently.
- Happy International Mountain Day. Next trek, every wrapper we carry up comes back down with us. Deal?
- To my favourite trekking partner, I still owe you for that Maggi at the top. Next one is on me.
- Thinking of you up in the hills today. Send pictures of the snow, and give Nani my love.
How to wish someone on International Mountain Day
love for the hills and those who live among them, and care for fragile mountain environments
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why was International Mountain Day created?
It was created after the UN's International Year of Mountains in 2002 to raise awareness of the importance of mountains and the challenges faced by mountain communities.
Which organisation leads International Mountain Day?
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) coordinates International Mountain Day.
How can travellers mark International Mountain Day?
Travellers can carry their waste back down, stay on marked trails, support local homestays and businesses, and respect local customs and sacred sites.
When is International Mountain Day in 2026?
International Mountain Day 2026 falls on Friday, 11 December 2026.
What is International Mountain Day?
International Mountain Day is observed on 11 December. The UN General Assembly established it following the International Year of Mountains in 2002, to highlight the importance of mountains for life on Earth and the people who live there.
Is International Mountain Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Mountain Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Mountain Day?
Focus on love for the hills and those who live among them, and care for fragile mountain environments. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Mountain Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .