The Himalayas - info

the Ngozumpa Glacier, Gokyo, Everest Region

The Himalayas

The Himalayas are the world's most formidable mountain range. Stretching over some 2400 kilometres (1500 miles) from Assam in Eastern India to Pakistan in the west they hold the highest peaks on earth and the longest glaciers outside the poles. 'Himalaya' means 'abode of snows' in Sanskrit the ancient language of the region.

The Himalayas are relatively young in a geological sense. The present Tibetan Plateau was once a coastal region bordering a huge expanse of sea to the south. Then some 60 million years ago the Indo-Australian plate collided with the Eurasian continent thus creating the Himalayas. As the plate was pushed under the continent the earth's crust was folded and lifted and the process of mountain-building began. New river systems were created as the mountains kept gradually rising. Together with the erosion caused by monsoon rains and wind the present landscape was shaped. This process still continues today, the mountains are still rising, causing earthquakes and landslides. Natural erosion results in silt-laden rivers like the Brahmaputra, the Ganges and the Indus, which bring thousands of tons of material out to sea.

Ama Dablam from Pangboche on the Everest Trek

The land created is of a stunning beauty, at times bare and forbidding, from harsh windswept plains and highland desert to lovely fertile valleys. The people living throughout the region are just as impressive as the landscape itself. Travelling among them is an incomparable experience. Their diverse cultures are good examples of the ability of these people to adapt to the local environment. Being the cradle of Buddhism and Hinduism the Himalayas abound with holy places. The unique combination of natural beauty and cultural interest makes this region one of the most enticing travel destinations.

Annapurna 1 and 2 from Lete on the Jomsom Trek

For centuries travelling the Himalayan countries involved tremendous hardships and dangers only suitable for intrepid adventurers. Over the last four decades this has changed dramatically. A flight brings you to the foothills of the mountains within 24 hours from nearly anywhere in the world these days. An ever increasing number of travellers find their way to the mountains each year.

much more can be found at the World2C Himalayas CD ROM

click the image to find out more

all images on this site are available from: www.travel-pictures-gallery.com

support a free Tibet

click here for more Himalaya links

text and photo's by Willem Proos - the Netherlands ©