Question

16. Mention the important features of the three main Himalayan ranges.​

Answer 1

The Himalayas :-

• Run towards the west - east direction.

• Form an arch of about 2,400 kms.

• Width differs from 500 kms to 200 kms.

• Altitudinal variations across regions.

• The 3 Himalayan ranges are seperated with deep valleys and extensive plateaus.

The 3 main Himalayan ranges are :-

• Greater Himalayas or the Himadri

• Middle Himalayas

• Lower Himalayas or Shiwaliks

Greater Himalayas :-

• Northern most ranges.

• Ranges are continuous consisting of high peaks.

• Average elevation of 6,100 mts.

• Composed of Snow and Ice cover.

• Glaciers are found.

• Source of perennial rivers.

Middle Himalayas :-

• Run parallel to Shiwaliks in the south and Great Himalayas in North i.e in between them.

• Average width of 60 - 80 km.

• Average elevation of 3,500 - 4,500 mts.

• Covered with snow through the year.

• Pir Panjal, Dhaola Dhar, Mussoorie Range, Nag Tiba and Mahabharata Lekh are some important ranges.

• Majority of Himalayan resorts like Shimla, Mussoorie, Ranikhet, Nainital, Almora, Darjeeling, etc. are located here.

Shiwaliks :-

• Outer most Himalayan ranges.

• Average elevation of 600 - 1,500 km.

• Runs parallel to middle Himalayas.

• Average width of 15 - 50 km.

• Big lakes and valleys are formed here.

• Duns are formed here.

Advantages of Himalayas :-

• Protects from cold winds.

• Source of rainfall.

• Perennial rivers.

• Beautiful valleys - Tourism.

• Cultivation of fruits.

• Alpine vegetation - Forest economy.

• Passes (gaps between mountains) - natural routes.

• Exchange of culture and commerce.

• Form the Eastern Boundary.