Highest City In The World: Every city in the world is constructed on a different type of terrain, but one city is located at the highest point in the world. You know how some cities are in valleys and others are on hills? Well, some are built way, way up high in the mountains! Keep reading to know which is the highest city of the world.
Which city is the highest in the world?
La Rinconada, located in the Peruvian Andes, is the highest city in the world. It is extremely remote, situated at a breathtaking 5,100 meters (16,732 feet) above sea level. This tiny mining town has extreme weather and low levels of oxygen that profoundly affect daily living.
Why is La Rinconada the highest city in the world?
The extraordinary location of La Rinconada is settled so high up in the mountains largely due to gold mining. Thousands of people, despite the climate and lack of basic structure, such as a sewage system or sanitation, migrate for a chance to find gold. The economy is based on the traditional mining method of "cachorreo". Miners work without pay for 30 days and on the 31st day the miners can keep everything they find.
Top 5 Highest Cities in the World (2023–24)
| Rank | City | Country | Elevation (meters) |
| 1 | La Rinconada | Peru | 5,100 |
| 2 | El Alto | Bolivia | 4,150 |
| 3 | Potosí | Bolivia | 4,090 |
| 4 | Shigatse | China (Tibet) | 3,836 |
| 5 | Lhasa | China (Tibet) | 3,658 |
La Rinconada
La Rinconada is one of those places that remind us of the determination of humanity. With over 50,000 inhabitants, it is also probably the largest informal gold mine in the world. Harsh conditions, little infrastructure, no sewage systems, limited running water, and extremely cold year-round. But the lure of gold is strong, and it continues to bring people to high altitudes.
El Alto
El Alto Bolivia, is at an altitude of 4,150 meters and boasts a vibrant culture and a growing economy. Now closely connected to the capital of Bolivia, La Paz, El Alto is a bustling trade and manufacturing city and is growing, even at this altitude.
Potosí
Potosí, Bolivia, is situated at an altitude of 4,090 meters. Once one of the richest cities during the Spanish Empire because of its silver mine, Potosí continues to have a vital mining industry today.
Lhasa
Lhasa, the "Roof of the World" and a major cultural and spiritual centre in Tibet, located at 3,656 meters, attracts both professional and novice pilgrims as they make their way to the ancient monasteries and vast mountain landscapes.
Shigatse
Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet, is at 3,836m. Known for its fertile plains and tourism potential, it plays a central role in regional agriculture and trade, especially with its religious significance.
The Importance of the World's Highest City
La Rinconada, the world's highest city, is economically, culturally, and environmentally important. Its gold-mining sector forms the basis of the local economy and has provided livelihoods for thousands of people, under some of the harshest living environment possible. The elevation of the city is also an indication of human persistence; in this case, the ability to adapt to an extreme living environment where oxygen levels per cubic meter of air are nearly half the amount per cubic meter at sea level.
Geographical Benefits of the World's Highest City
La Rinconada, the world's highest city, benefits from specific geographical characteristics that help to support its existence. The city is geographically located in its forever area in the Peruvian Andes which seems to provide access to unique gold deposits which is the driving economic force of the region. The high mountain living is challenging, but it is arguable that the coldness of temperature help to conserve food longer, and the mountain ranges provide significant verticality which protects the people from over-exploitation of resource extraction.
Interesting Facts About the Highest City in the World:
- Oxygen Levels: At 5,100 metres, La Rinconada has 40% less oxygen than at sea level.
- Harsh Living Conditions: Extreme temperatures often drop below freezing even during the day.
- Global Record: La Rinconada is the highest permanent settlement in the world.
- Community Spirit: Despite harsh conditions, residents often form tight-knit communities to survive.
- Adventure Tourism: The city draws adventurous travellers fascinated by life at the highest elevation possible.
Also read: Which is the Largest City in the World?
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