List of Top 5 Deepest Canyons in the World

Jan 14, 2026, 18:28 IST

Explore the planet's top natural creations, formed by centuries of erosion. Discover the most stunning, deep, and narrow valleys, their incredible depths, and how they were shaped by powerful rivers.

Deepest Canyons in the World
Deepest Canyons in the World

Canyons are among the world's most stunning natural creations, formed by centuries of continuous erosion and the effects of flowing water. 

They consist of narrow gorges carved out of rock and earth; thus, they are generally characterized as deep, narrow valleys with steep sides that slope dramatically down toward the river running through the canyon below it.

There are also different styles of canyons based on how they were originally carved out; for example, some are wide and open to the surrounding landscape.

By studying and exploring the world's major canyons, we gain valuable insights into how geological and geographical processes have shaped our world, and how those processes will continue to affect our environment in the future.

Check Out: How Well Do You Know the Grand Canyon? Check Quiz Questions and Answers with Facts

Top 5 Deepest Canyons in the World by (Depth in Meters)

Here are the top 5 deepest canyons in the world along with the country name and the maximum depth in meters : 

Rank

Name

Country

Maximum Depth (m)

1

Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon

China

5,500

2

Kali Gandaki Gorge

Nepal

5,500

3

Cotahuasi Canyon

Peru

3,500

4

Colca Canyon

Peru

3,270

5

Grand Canyon

United States

1,850

1. Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon

National Nature Reserve of Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon

The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon has an estimated maximum depth of approximately 5500 meters and lies in Tibet, China.

 The Yarlung Tsangpo River has carved out steep cliffs and intense ecosystems that create this stunning geographical feature known as “The Everest of Rivers”. 

2. Kali Gandaki 

Kali Gandaki River Rafting - 6 Days | kimkim

The Kali Gandaki gorge in Nepal has an approximate depth of 5500 meters and runs between Mount Dhaulagiri and Mount Annapurna.

 This example of topography represents the sacred valley of the Kali Gandaki River and has attracted many hikers and scientists due to its importance as a geographical structure in the Himalayas. 

3. Cotahuasi Canyon

Cotahuasi Canyon: Explore The World's 3rd Deepest Canyon

Cotahuasi Canyon is located in southern Peru and has a maximum depth of about 3500 meters which is much deeper than the Grand Canyon.

 This is surrounded by towering mountains, established villages, and numerous plant species, and has been formed by the Cotahuasi River over many years, making it a well-known location and tourist attraction for enthusiasts of geography.

4. Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon: Kingdom of the condor

The Colca Canyon in Peru has an incredibly impressive depth, measuring around to be 3,270 meters, over twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Formed by the Colca River, it is well known for its extremely steep cliffs, as well as being home to many Andean condors. 

The Colca Canyon has become a significant tourist attraction and is one of the country’s most notable natural features.

5. Grand Canyon

8 Facts About the Grand Canyon You Never… | National Park Foundation

The Grand Canyon is located in the state of Arizona and is one of the world’s most well-known canyons. 

The maximum depth of the canyon is approximately 1,850 meters. The canyon is formed by the Colorado River and is known for its enormous size, distinct multi-layered rock formations, and its geological significance.

 It is a significant location for both tourism and education, and researchers visit the Grand Canyon for its natural beauty and historical significance.

Conclusion 

Overall, these canyons, including the Yarlung Tsangpo Canyon and the Grand Canyon, demonstrate the power of nature through the rivers that create them and through erosion. 

All of these canyons are also extremely beautiful, filled with diverse ecosystems, and help to tell the story of our planet's geology.

Ayukta Zisha
Ayukta Zisha

Content Writer

    Ayukta Zisha is certified in Digital Marketing from IIT Delhi, known for creating engaging, reader-friendly explainers and International News. Ayukta also crafts interactive puzzles and personality tests that attract high reader engagement. With a sharp research approach and a creative style, she consistently delivers informative and entertaining content for Jagran Josh’s diverse audience. You can reach out to her at ayukta.zisha@jagrannewmedia.

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