It is part of a group of peaks that form the northeast wall of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary.

It does not have a high topographic prominence, being slightly lower than its near neighbour Kalanka to the east, and lower than many other peaks in the immediate vicinity, but its steep rocky profile has made it a more attractive destination than its elevation would indicate.

Changabang loosely translated means "shining mountain" in Hindi.

[4] Changabang was first climbed on 4 June 1974 by an expedition led by Lt. Col Balwant Sandhu and Chris Bonington, via the Southeast Face, leading to the East Ridge.

[3] Other notable ascents include some of the hardest climbs ever done in the Himalayas.