"Unforgettable Memories of the Himalayas"(Part 2): Understanding the Mountains

The Himalayas is a mountain range located in Asia and spans across six countries: Bhutan, Nepal, India, Tibet, China, and Pakistan. It is the highest mountain range in the world and is home to the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, which stands at 8,848 meters above sea level. The Himalayas are known for their stunning natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, from the lush forests at their base to the icy peaks at their summit. The region is also culturally rich, with a diverse range of religions, languages, and customs. The Himalayas are an important source of water for millions of people, as several major rivers originate from the mountain

The Resemblance :

In Sanskrit, the Himalayas are referred to as "Himālaya", which translates to "abode of snow" or "the snowy land." "Him" means snow or ice, and "ālaya" means dwelling or abode. This name aptly describes the snowy peaks that dominate the mountain range and the frigid conditions that prevail at high altitudes. The Himalayas have been an integral part of Indian and Tibetan culture for centuries, and the Sanskrit name reflects the reverence and awe that people have for this majestic mountain range.

The Divisions

The Himalayas is a vast mountain range that spans several countries and covers a distance of over 2,400 kilometers. The range is divided into several sub-ranges, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Each sub-range of the Himalayas is unique and offers visitors a different experience. Whether you're a mountaineer looking to summit the world's highest peak or a nature lover seeking to explore the region's diverse flora and fauna, the Himalayas has something for everyone.

Here are some of the major sub-ranges of the Himalayas:

1. The Great Himalayas: Also known as the Inner Himalayas or the Himadri, this sub-range is the highest and most prominent of all the Himalayan ranges. It includes several of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest,(which stands at an elevation of 8,848 meters) and stretches for over 1,500 kilometers. The Great Himalayas are primarily made up of granite and other hard rocks and remains under snow cover throughout the year with large glaciers, giving birth to numerous rivers.
2. The Lesser Himalayas: Also known as the Middle Himalayas or the Himachal, this sub-range is located south of the Great Himalayas and stretches for over 2,400 kilometers. The Lesser Himalayas are made up of softer rocks such as sandstone and limestone and are characterized by steep ridges and valleys. This sub-range is home to several popular hill stations such as Shimla, Mussoorie, and Darjeeling. The Lesser Himalayas have an average elevation of around 3,000 to 4,000 meters, with the highest peak being Nanda Devi, which stands at an elevation of 7,816 meters.
3. The Outer Himalayas: Also known as the Siwaliks or the Shivalik Hills, this sub-range is the outermost of the Himalayan ranges and extends for over 2,600 kilometers. The Outer Himalayas are composed of soft sedimentary rocks and are characterized by low hills and valleys. This sub-range is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Jim Corbett National Park and the Chitwan National Park. The Outer Himalayas have an average elevation of around 900 to 1,200 meters, with the highest peak being the Churia Hills, which stand at an elevation of 2,607 meters.

Apart from the above mentioned sub-divisions, which are considered as three main sub-ranges, Himalayas are sub-divided into regional mountains as below

1. The Trans-Himalayas: Also known as the Tibetan Plateau, this sub-range is located north of the Great Himalayas and is a high-altitude desert with an average elevation of over 4,500 meters. The Trans-Himalayas are characterized by vast open spaces, barren landscapes, and several large lakes and rivers.
2. The Pir Panjal Range: This sub-range is located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and extends for over 110 kilometers. The Pir Panjal Range is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers.
3. The Zanskar Range: This sub-range is located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir and extends for over 300 kilometers. The Zanskar Range is known for its rugged terrain and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.
4. The Dhauladhar Range: This sub-range is located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and extends for over 160 kilometers. The Dhauladhar Range is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.
5. The Garhwal Himalayas: This sub-range is located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand and extends for over 120 kilometers. The Garhwal Himalayas are known for their scenic beauty and are home to several popular trekking routes, including the famous Valley of Flowers trek
6. The Purvanchal Range: It is also known as the Purvanchal Mountains or the Eastern Mountain Range, is a sub-range of the Himalayas located in northeastern India. It stretches for over 1,800 kilometers from the Brahmaputra River in the east to the Yamuna River in the west. The Purvanchal Range is made up of several smaller ranges and hill systems, including the Patkai Range, Naga Hills, Manipur Hills, Barail Range, and Mizo Hills.

"The Himalayas are an inspiration, a sanctuary, and a challenge. There is nothing comparable to standing in the shadow of the world's highest peak and knowing that you have pushed yourself to the limit to get there." - Bear Grylls

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