Mauna Kea is taller than Everest when measured from its underwater base.
Only about 4,207 metres of the volcano stands above sea level, but its base lies on the Pacific Ocean floor. Measured from that base, Mauna Kea rises roughly 10,200 metres, exceeding Everest’s height above sea level. This comparison uses different reference points, so Everest remains the world’s highest mountain above sea level.
Mauna Kea is a dormant shield volcano on Hawaiʻi Island. Its summit hosts major astronomical observatories because of the high altitude, dry climate, stable air, and limited light pollution. Snow can fall on the summit despite Hawaii’s tropical location.
The mountain’s scientific facilities and cultural significance have led to longstanding debates about summit development. Mauna Kea is not the same as Mauna Loa, the nearby volcano that is larger by volume and remains active.