The uniqueness of the Indian Himalayas. Where are the Himalayas located? About the most inaccessible mountains of the planet State in the eastern Himalayas

Since our school days, we all know that the highest mountain on the planet is Everest, and it is located in the Himalayas. But not everyone clearly understands where the Himalayas actually are? IN last years Mountain tourism has become very popular, and if you are into it, then this miracle of nature - the Himalayas - is definitely worth a visit!

And these mountains are located on the territory of five countries: India, China, Nepal, Bhutan and Pakistan. The total length of the largest mountain system on our planet is 2,400 kilometers, and its width is 350 kilometers. In terms of height, many peaks of the Himalayas are record holders. Here are the ten highest peaks on the planet, more than eight thousand meters high.

– Everest or Chomolungma, 8848 meters above sea level. highest mountain in the Himalayas it was conquered by man only in 1953. All the ascents that had taken place before were unsuccessful, because the slopes of the mountain are very steep and dangerous. Strong winds blow at the summit, which, combined with very low night temperatures, present a difficult challenge for those who dare to conquer this inaccessible peak. Everest itself is located on the border of two states - China and Nepal.

In India, the Himalayas, thanks to their gentler slopes, which are not so dangerous, have become a refuge for monks preaching Buddhism and Hinduism. Their monasteries are located in large numbers in the Himalayas in India and Nepal. Pilgrims, followers of these religions and just tourists flock here from all over the world. Due to this, the Himalayas in these regions are highly visited.

But ski tourism in the Himalayas is not popular, since there are no suitable flat slopes for skiing that could attract tourists en masse. All states where the Himalayas are located are popular mainly among climbers and pilgrims.

Traveling through the Himalayas is not such an easy adventure, it is only possible with endurance and a strong spirit. And if you have these powers in reserve, then you should definitely go to India or Nepal. Here you can visit the most beautiful churches and monasteries, located on picturesque slopes, and take part in evening prayer Buddhist monks, and at dawn indulge in relaxing meditation and hatha yoga classes taught by Indian gurus. Traveling through the mountains, you will see with your own eyes where such great rivers as the Ganges, Indus and Brahmaputra originate

Almost the entire northeast of India is occupied by the vast mountain system of the Himalayas and Hindu Kush. There are many Buddhist monasteries and communities, many of which settled here thousands of years ago. The Himalayas are India's most famous natural landmark, and Qomolungma Peak, or Everest, the highest peak, claims to be one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Not only climbers and other amateurs come here extreme recreation, but also pilgrims - followers of Buddhism, Hinduism, and esotericism.

The Himalayas are part of five countries. The mountain system is located on the territory of India, Pakistan, Nepal, China and Bhutan, and the Asian rivers Indus, Ganges and Brahmaputra, around which the world's most important cultures were created, are fed from the Himalayan glaciers.

Despite the abundance of mountain slopes, there are very few ski resorts in the Himalayas, and those that exist are not very developed. This is due not so much to the reluctance of Indians to invest in sports tourism, but to the lack good places for riding. Of the available ones, the most popular are Gulmarg in the Indian part of Kashmir, Auli in the state of Uttarakhand and Manali in Himachal Pradesh.

How to get to the Himalayas

The closest airport to the Indian Himalayas is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. First you need to fly here, and then domestic flights, by train or rented car you can already reach your destination.

There is no railway network in the mountains, but you can take a train to the foot. The only one Railway in the Himalayas is more about entertainment than convenient transportation The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is called the "toy train" here. It departs from Siligiri station and goes up to Ghum, located at an altitude of 2257 m, passing tea plantations, valleys and other picturesque landscapes.

The easiest way to get to the Gulmarg ski resort is by plane: the city of Srinagore, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has its own airport. Auli is close to several airports, the nearest being Dehradun.

The main means of transportation between cities and towns in the Himalayas are jeep minibuses (shared jeeps), they run between all settlements. Indians are accustomed to taking up minimal space on the road, so in order to travel comfortably, it makes sense to buy 1-2 additional seats.

Search for air tickets to Delhi (the nearest airport to the Himalayas)

Weather in the Himalayas

The weather in the Himalayas depends on the height of the mountain ranges - the higher, the colder. At an altitude of 2000-2300 m above sea level in winter the air temperature ranges from −4 to +8 °C, in summer - on average +18...+24 °C, sometimes it can be hot, up to +23...+30 °C .

The best time to travel is from May to July and September to October. At this time, the weather is dry, sunny, warm and comfortable enough for walking. In July and August it is also warm, but at this time there are rains and fogs, high clouds, so it is unlikely that you will be able to admire the mountain landscapes. In winter, the Himalayas are cold and windy, all roads are covered with snow, and travel becomes problematic.

Himalaya Hotels

There are hotels in different price categories in the Himalayas. There is a large selection of hotels from 2* to 5* in Darjeeling and at popular ski resorts. A small house without amenities, with a fan instead of an air conditioner, will cost from 1100 INR per day for two. “Treshka” will cost about 3500-4200 INR per day for a double room, and 5* hotels - from 7000 INR per day. Prices on the page are as of March 2019.

Ashrams are popular in the Himalayas, especially in its religious districts. These are shelters for pilgrims, similar to very ascetic hostels. The conditions there are quite spartan, often in a room for several people there are only beds and one shower for everyone (if you're lucky, there will be a fan). Accommodation is very cheap, and sometimes you can live in the ashram for free for help with housework or a voluntary donation.

Skiing

There are several ski resorts in the Himalayas. In terms of the level of service, they cannot be compared with European ones, but the most important thing - the necessary minimum of services and gorgeous mountain scenery - is there. Equipment rental points are available almost everywhere; a full set will cost approximately 1400-1750 INR per day.

The most popular ski resort in the Himalayas - Gulmarg. It corresponds more than any other to European standards, and looks like a Swiss village from the middle of the last century. There are equipment rental points, several ski lifts, about 15 km of pistes and excellent forest freeride.

Auli is another popular Himalayan ski resort. Local trails are considered the best in the region (about 10 km in total). There are snow cannons, ski schools for beginners and gentle slopes for them. The resort as a whole is more focused on beginner athletes; experienced ones will find it quite boring here.

Solang- a ski resort 22 km from the city of Manali. There are trails for both beginners and extreme sports enthusiasts (one “black trail”), tourists note the high professionalism of the instructors.

Narkanda- Very picturesque resort surrounded by coniferous forest, located near Shimla, the only drawback is very little space.

Kufri- the oldest ski resort in India. In winter, it is a center for skiing, and in summer for trekking and hiking, as two national parks are located not far from Kufri: the Himalayan Nature Park and the Indira Tourist Park.

Cuisine and restaurants of the Himalayas

Tibetan cuisine is widespread in the Himalayas. It is much less spicy than in southern India, and there is more meat in it, although vegetarian dishes are also present. The most popular dishes that can be found in almost every cafe and restaurant are chouman (pasta with vegetables and meat), momo (steamed dumplings with various meat and vegetable fillings) and tuhpa (lamb broth soup with pasta, vegetables and meat). Here, a lot of cooking is done in a tandoor - an earthen oven without a lid. Basically, this is simple peasant food: meat or poultry is roasted on a spit, and then finished in a tandoor in special bread cakes, which are used to cover the inside of the tandoor.

The season is important. In the Himalayas, this seasonality is special and is associated with religion and other ancient traditions. During the rainy season, you won’t find dishes with nuts here; after a hearty lunch you need to eat mango, and in the summer they don’t eat meat or fish here. However, the latter is easily explained: not every home still has refrigerators, and meat spoils very quickly in the heat.

Cult in the Himalayas healthy food. For example, it is believed that mango soup not only improves blood circulation, but also increases sexual desire, halva is almost a blessing from the gods, and a drink made from rhodo flowers (Himalayan rhododendrons) brings harmony to the body and soul.

Guides in the Himalayas

The best photos of the Himalayas

Entertainment and attractions

The Himalayas are primarily interested in ancient temples and natural attractions. The most famous are Ladakh, the city of ashrams Rishikesh and Haridwar, one of the seven sacred cities. The high-mountain temples of Shiva and Vishnu in Kedarnath and Badrinath, the Kashmir Valley and, of course, Shambhala with Tibetan monasteries are worth visiting.

Also popular are excursions to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, surrounded by a “reservoir of immortality,” and trips to the state of Sikkim to the foot of the sacred Annapurna and other Buddhist shrines.

Acquaintance with the Himalayas often begins from the capital of Himchal Pradesh - the town of Shimla. It is called “the most fashionable village in the Himalayas”: here it is worth visiting the palace of the Viceroy of Britain (today there is a museum), the central square with the Cathedral of Christ and the main shopping street where you can buy scarves and shawls made of fine wool, saris and other national clothes and glitter to decorate the forehead.

One of the most mysterious places in the Himalayas - Srinagar. All its secrets are connected with the Rozbal tomb - according to historical studies (mostly dubious), the body of Jesus lies there, and many locals sincerely believe this. In addition, the city is famous for docks - boats on Lake Dal, the proximity ski resort Gulmarg and very high quality woolen products in local shops and markets.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the most interesting attractions in the Himalayas. It is better known here as the Toy Train. The road was built in 1881, and since then a small train has been running along a narrow 60-centimeter track to an altitude of 2000 m above sea level. The final station is Ghum (altitude 2257 m), the path runs past tea plantations and other local beauties. From the railway ring of the terminal station there is a magnificent view of the surrounding area.

Road to the Himalayas

Natural attractions

The Himalayas are very interesting National parks- Nanda Devi and the Valley of Flowers in the Western Himalayas, which are protected by UNESCO. These two parks are located nearby and are considered one of the most picturesque in the Himalayas. The landscapes here are truly impressive: glaciers on mountain peaks, alpine meadows, the source of the Ganges River, which flows through the entire Nanda Devi Nature Reserve, and a variety of plant and animal world. Rare animals live here, such as the snow leopard and blue sheep.

The most famous attraction of the national park is Lake Rooklund, also known as Skeleton Lake. It received its ominous name after many human skeletons were discovered at the bottom of the lake. It is believed that these people were killed by hail while climbing to the top.

Himalayas and Roerich

The Himalayas have inspired and continue to inspire artists, directors, musicians and simply creative people. The great Russian artist and mystic Nikolai Konstantinovich Roerich on his expedition in the 30s of the 20th century. not only visited the Indian Himalayas and depicted what he saw in paintings, but even founded the Institute of Himalayan Studies in America. Moreover, the last years of the artist's life were spent in the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh. Now there, in Nagar (a suburb of the city of Manali) there is a house-museum of the painter. The environment in which the Roerich family lived for 20 years has been preserved. Personal car Nikolai Konstantinovich and some of his paintings.

The Kullu Valley is famous not only for the Roerich estate. This region is called the Switzerland of India: coniferous forests grow here, and the Center is located in Manali Tibetan medicine, where you can get diagnosed by the best local doctors and improve your health.

One of the most famous miraculous wonders of the world are the Himalayan mountains. The point is not only in the scale of this creation of nature, but also in the huge amount of the unknown that these gigantic peaks conceal within themselves.

Where are the Himalayas located?

Himalayan mountain range passes through the territory of five states - this is India, China, Pakistan, Nepal and the Kingdom of Bhutan. The eastern foothills of the range touch the northern borders of the Republic of Bangladesh.

Mountain ranges rise in the north, completing the Tibetan Plateau, and separate from it vast areas of the Hindustan Peninsula - the Indo-Gangetic Plain.

Even the average height of the entire mountain system reaches 6 thousand meters. It is in the Himalayas that the bulk of the “eight-thousanders” are located - mountain peaks whose height exceeds the 8-kilometer mark. Of the 14 similar peaks on the surface of the planet, 10 are located in the Himalayas.

Himalaya mountains on the map

Himalayas on the world map

The highest and most inaccessible mountains on the planet are the Himalayas. The name comes from ancient Indian Sanskrit, and literally means "Snow Abode". They are located in a giant loop on the continent, serving as a kind of border between Central and South Asia. The length of the mountain ranges from west to east is just under 3 thousand km, and the total area of ​​the entire mountain system is about 650 thousand square meters. km.

The entire Himalayan mountain range consists of three distinctive steps:

• First - Pre-Himalayas(local name - Shivalik ridge) - the lowest of all, Mountain peaks which does not rise more than 2000 meters.
• The second stage - the Dhaoladhar, Pir Panjal and several other smaller ridges is called Lesser Himalayas. The name is quite arbitrary, since the peaks already rise to respectable heights - up to 4 kilometers.
• Behind them are several fertile valleys (Kashmir, Kathmandu and others), serving as a transition to the most high points planets - Greater Himalayas. The two great South Asian rivers - the Brahmaputra from the east and the Indus from the west - seem to embrace this majestic mountain range, originating on its slopes. In addition, the Himalayas give life to the sacred Indian river - the Ganges.

Mount Chomolungma, aka Everest

The highest point in the world, located on the border of Nepal and China - Mount Chomolungma. However, it has several names and some variation in the estimate of its height. The names of this mountain peak in local dialects have always been associated with the divinity of its origin: Chomolungma in Tibetan, literally “Divine”, in Nepal it is called “Mother of the Gods” - Sagarmatha. There is another beautiful Tibetan name - “Mother - Queen of Snow-White Snows” - Chomo-Kankar. For Europeans, these names were too complicated, and in 1856 they gave the mountain an anglicized name Everest, in honor of the head of the British colonial survey, Sir George Everest.

Official today Everest height - 8848 meters including ice cap, and 8844 meters is the top of solid rock. But these indicators changed several times in one direction or another. Thus, the first measurement, carried out in the middle of the 19th century, showed 29,000 feet (8839 meters). However, scientific surveyors did not like the too round number, and they freely added another 2 feet, which gave a value of 8840 m. Measurements continued a century later, when the height was determined at 8848 m. However, several geographers made their own calculations, using the most modern means of radio direction finding and navigation. This is how two more values ​​appeared - 8850 and even 8872 meters. However, these values ​​were not officially recognized.

Records of the Himalayas

The Himalayas are a place of pilgrimage for the strongest climbers in the world, for whom conquering their peaks is a cherished goal in life. Chomolungma did not conquer immediately - since the beginning of the last century, many attempts have been made to climb to the “roof of the world.” The first person to achieve this goal was in 1953 New Zealand mountaineer Edmund Hillary accompanied local guide- Sherpa Norgay Tenzing. The first successful Soviet expedition took place in 1982. In total, Everest has been conquered about 3,700 times.

Unfortunately, the Himalayas also set sad records - 572 climbers died trying to conquer their eight-kilometer heights. But the number of brave athletes does not decrease, because “taking” all 14 “eight-thousanders” and receiving the “Crown of the Earth” is the cherished dream of each of them. The total number of “crowned” winners to date is 30 people, including 3 women.

Ski resorts in India

The northern mountainous regions of India are a completely unique world, with its own philosophy and spirituality, ancient shrines and historical monuments, colorful population and diversity of natural landscapes. Any traveler will always find a lot of interesting things here.

Gulmarg (Valley of Flowers)

This resort is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The height of the slopes is 1400-4138 m. Gulmarg was built in 1927 by the British, when they were “staying” in India, so it practically meets European standards. The season here starts from the end of December and ends at the end of March. The appropriate equipment is provided here, so beginners should be quite comfortable, unless, of course, they are afraid of steep descents.

Narkanda

A small ski tourist center located near Shimla city at an altitude of about 2400 meters surrounded by relict pine forest. Its snowy slopes are quite suitable for both beginner skiers and experienced skiers.

Solang

A fairly well-known place for extreme recreation in skiing circles. It is famous for its well-developed infrastructure, both sports and tourism. Everyone who has visited these places always leaves excellent reviews about the level of training of the resort's coaching and service personnel.

Kufri

One of the most famous Indian ski resorts tourist centers. It is located just two dozen kilometers from Shimla city, which for many years was the residence of the English Viceroy of India. Kufri is also remarkable because in its immediate vicinity there is a huge natural National Park Himalayan nature, where the wide variety of wild flora and fauna of these places is carefully preserved. Climbing up the slopes of the mountains, tourists manage to visit several climatic zones- from the wildly blooming tropics to the harsh conditions of the northern latitudes.

Historical and cultural attractions of the Himalayas

For those who prefer to devote their time to getting to know historical places And cultural values, India's Himalayan region will provide these opportunities.

First of all, in these places, as already mentioned, there was a summer residence of the English governor in India - the Viceroy. That's why the little village Shimla turned into a city - capital of Himchal Pradesh. Famous museum, located in Royal Palace, is replete with exhibits showing the cultural diversity of the region. Shimla is famous for its bazaar with traditional woolen products, national Indian clothing, handmade jewelry, ancient technology. As a rule, a horseback excursion through the surrounding picturesque mountains leaves no one indifferent.

Dharamsala for Buddhists it is probably the same as Mecca for Muslims. Travelers here experience a hospitality unseen anywhere else in the world. local population. This small town is the residence of the Dalai Lama himself, who brought his Tibetan people here after many years of exile.

Visit the Indian Himalayas and not visit Nicholas Roerich's estate- unforgivable for a Russian! It is located in the town of Naggar, near the city of Manali. In addition to the environment in which the painter’s family lived, visitors will see a large collection of original works by this great author.

Capital of Jammu and Kashmir state, Shinagan city- another center of tourist pilgrimage. According to some theories, it was here that Jesus Christ found his final refuge. Travelers will definitely be shown the tomb of Yuz Asuf - a man identified with the Son of God. In the same city you can see unique floating houses - houseboats. No one probably left here without purchasing products made from the famous Kashmir wool as a souvenir.

Spiritual and health tourism

Spiritual principles and the cult of a healthy body are so closely intertwined in various directions of Indian philosophical schools that it is impossible to draw any visible division between them. Every year thousands of tourists come to the Indian Himalayas just to get acquainted with Vedic sciences, ancient postulates Yoga teachings, healing your body by Ayurvedic canons Panchakarma.

The pilgrim program must include visiting caves for deep meditation, waterfalls, ancient temples, bathing in the Ganges- a sacred river for Hindus. Those suffering can have conversations with spiritual mentors, receive from them parting words and recommendations for spiritual and physical cleansing. However, this topic is so broad and versatile that it requires a separate detailed presentation.

The natural grandeur and highly spiritual atmosphere of the Himalayas captivate the human imagination. Anyone who has at least once come into contact with the splendor of these places will always be obsessed with the dream of returning here at least once more.

Enchanting time-lapse video of the unshakable Himalayas

This video was shot frame by frame on a Nikon D800 camera over 50 days over 5000 km. Places in India: Spiti Valley, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Leh, Zanskar, Kashmir.

The Himalayas are considered to be the highest and most mysterious mountains on planet Earth. The name of this massif can be translated from Sanskrit as “land of snow.” The Himalayas serve as a conditional divider between South and Central Asia. Hindus consider their location to be sacred land. Numerous legends claim that the peaks of the Himalayan mountains were the habitat of the god Shiva, his wife Devi and their daughter Himavata. According to ancient beliefs, the dwelling of the gods gave rise to three great Asian rivers - the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra.

Origin of the Himalayas

The origin and development of the Himalayan mountains took several stages, taking a total of about 50,000,000 years. Many researchers believe that the origin of the Himalayas was given by two colliding tectonic plates.

It is interesting that even today the mountain system continues its development and formation of folding. The Indian plate is moving towards the northeast at a speed of 5 cm per year, while compressing by 4 mm. Scientists argue that such progress will lead to further rapprochement between India and Tibet.

The speed of this process is comparable to the growth of human nails. In addition, intense geological activity in the form of earthquakes is periodically observed in the mountains.

An impressive fact - the Himalayas occupy a considerable part of the entire surface of the Earth (0.4%). This territory is incomparably large in comparison with other mountain objects.

On what continent are the Himalayas located: geographical information

Tourists preparing for a trip should find out where the Himalayas are. Their location is the continent of Eurasia (its Asian part). In the north, the massif's neighbor is the Tibetan Plateau. IN south direction this role went to the Indo-Gangetic plain.

The Himalayan mountain system stretches over 2,500 km and is at least 350 km wide. total area massif – 650,000 m².

Many Himalayan ridges boast heights of up to 6 km. The highest point is represented, also called Chomolungma. Its absolute height is 8848 m, which is a record among other mountain peaks on the planet. Geographical coordinates– 27°59′17″ north latitude, 86°55′31″ east longitude.

The Himalayas are spread over several countries. Be proud to be a neighbor majestic mountains not only the Chinese and Indians, but also the peoples of Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan can. Parts of this mountain range are also present in the territories of some post-Soviet countries: Tajikistan includes the northern mountain range (Pamir).

Characteristics of natural conditions

The natural conditions of the Himalayan mountains cannot be called soft and stable. The weather in this area is prone to frequent changes. Many areas have dangerous terrain and cold temperatures at high altitudes. Even in summer, frost remains here down to -25 °C, and in winter it intensifies to -40 °C. In the mountains, hurricane winds are not uncommon, gusts reaching 150 km/h. Summer and spring average temperature air increases to +30 °C.

In the Himalayas, it is customary to distinguish between 4 climate options. From April to June, the mountains are covered with wild herbs and flowers, and the air is cool and fresh. From July to August, the mountains are dominated by rain and the highest amount of precipitation falls. During these summer months, the slopes of the mountain ranges are covered with lush vegetation and fog often appears. Warm and comfortable stays until November arrives. weather, after which a sunny, frosty winter sets in with heavy snowfalls.

Description of the flora

The Himalayan vegetation surprises with its diversity. On the southern slope, which is subject to frequent rainfall, altitude zones are clearly visible, and real jungles (terai) grow at the foot of the mountains. Large thickets of trees and shrubs are found in abundance in these places. In some places, dense vines, bamboo, numerous bananas, and low-growing palm trees are found. Sometimes you can get to areas intended for growing certain plant crops. These places are usually cleared and drained by humans.

Climbing a little higher on the slopes, you can alternately take refuge in tropical, coniferous, mixed forests, behind which, in turn, lie picturesque alpine meadows. In the north mountain range and in drier areas the territory is represented by steppe and semi-deserts.

In the Himalayas there are trees that provide people with expensive wood and resin. Here you can get to the places where dhaka and sal trees grow. At an altitude of 4 km, tundra vegetation in the form of rhododendrons and mosses is found in abundance.

Local fauna

The Himalayan mountains have become a safe haven for many endangered animals. Here you can meet rare representatives of the local fauna - snow leopard, black bear, Tibetan fox. IN southern region mountain range There are all the necessary conditions for living leopards, tigers and rhinoceroses. Representatives of the northern Himalayas include yaks, antelopes, mountain goats, and wild horses.

In addition to the richest flora and fauna, the Himalayas abound in a variety of minerals. In these places, placer gold, copper and chrome ore, oil, rock salt, and brown coal are actively mined.

Parks and valleys

In the Himalayas you can visit parks and valleys, many of which are included in the fund World Heritage UNESCO:

1. Sagarmatha.
2. Flower Valley.

Sagarmatha National Park belongs to Nepal. Its special asset is the world's highest peak, Everest, and other high mountains.

Nanda Devi Park is a natural treasure of India, located in the heart of the Himalayan mountains. This picturesque place lies at the foot of the hill with the same name, and has an area of ​​more than 60,000 hectares. The height of the park above sea level is at least 3500 m.

The most picturesque places of Nanda Devi are represented by grandiose glaciers, the Rishi Ganga river, mystical lake Skeletons, around which, according to legend, numerous human and animal remains were discovered. It is generally accepted that the mass deaths were caused by the sudden fall of unusually large hail.

Not far from Nanda Devi Park is the Flower Valley. Here, on an area of ​​about 9,000 hectares, several hundred colorful plants grow. More than 30 species of flora that adorn the Indian valley are considered endangered, and about 50 species are used for medicinal purposes. These places are also home to a variety of birds. Most of them can be seen in the Red Book.

Buddhist temples

The Himalayas are famous for their Buddhist monasteries, many of which are located in inaccessible places, and are buildings carved out of rock. Most temples have a long history of existence, up to 1000 years old, and lead a rather “closed” lifestyle. Some of the monasteries are open to everyone who wants to get acquainted with the way of life of monks and the interior decoration of holy places. You can do them beautiful photos. Entry into the territory of other shrines is strictly prohibited for visitors.

The largest and most revered monasteries include:

• Drepung, located in China.
  
  
  
  
• Temple complexes of Nepal – Boudhanath, Budanilkantha, Swayambhunath.
  
  
  
• Jokhang, which is the pride of Tibet.
  
  
  

Buddhist stupas are a carefully protected religious shrine found throughout the Himalayas. These religious monuments were built by monks of the past in honor of some important event in Buddhism, as well as for the sake of prosperity and harmony throughout the world.

Tourists visiting the Himalayas

The most suitable time to travel to the Himalayas is considered to be from May to July and September to October. During these months, vacationers can count on sunny and warm weather, the absence of heavy rainfall and strong winds. For lovers of adrenaline sports, there are few but modern ski resorts.

IN Himalayan mountains You can find hotels in a wide range of price categories. In religious quarters there are special houses for pilgrims and admirers of the local religion - ashrams with ascetic living conditions. Accommodation in such premises is quite cheap, and sometimes can be completely free. Instead of a fixed amount, the guest can offer a voluntary donation or help with housework.

general information

The Himalaya mountain system at the junction of Central and South Asia is over 2,900 km long and about 350 km wide. The area is about 650 thousand km². The average height of the ridges is about 6 km, the maximum 8848 m is Mount Chomolungma (Everest). There are 10 eight-thousanders here - peaks over 8000 m above sea level. In the northwest of the western chain of the Himalayas there is another highest mountain system - the Karakoram.

The population is mainly engaged in agriculture, although the climate allows for the cultivation of only a few types of cereals, potatoes and some other vegetables. The fields are located on sloping terraces.

Name

The name of the mountains comes from ancient Indian Sanskrit. "Himalaya" means "Abode of Snow" or "Kingdom of Snows".

Geography

The entire Himalayan mountain range consists of three distinctive steps:

• The first - the Pre-Himalayas (locally called the Shivalik Range) - is the lowest of all, the mountain peaks of which do not rise more than 2000 meters.
• The second stage - the Dhaoladhar, Pir Panjal and several other smaller ranges - is called the Lesser Himalayas. The name is quite arbitrary, since the peaks already rise to respectable heights - up to 4 kilometers.
• Behind them are several fertile valleys (Kashmir, Kathmandu and others), serving as a transition to the highest points of the planet - the Great Himalayas. The two great South Asian rivers - the Brahmaputra from the east and the Indus from the west - seem to embrace this majestic mountain range, originating on its slopes. In addition, the Himalayas give life to the sacred Indian river - the Ganges.

Records of the Himalayas

The Himalayas are a place of pilgrimage for the strongest climbers in the world, for whom conquering their peaks is a cherished goal in life. Chomolungma did not conquer immediately - since the beginning of the last century, many attempts have been made to climb to the “roof of the world.” The first to achieve this goal was the New Zealand climber Edmund Hillary in 1953, accompanied by a local guide, Sherpa Norgay Tenzing. The first successful Soviet expedition took place in 1982. In total, Everest has been conquered about 3,700 times.

Unfortunately, the Himalayas also set sad records - 572 climbers died trying to conquer their eight-kilometer heights. But the number of brave athletes does not decrease, because “taking” all 14 “eight-thousanders” and receiving the “Crown of the Earth” is the cherished dream of each of them. The total number of “crowned” winners to date is 30 people, including 3 women.

Minerals

The Himalayas are rich in mineral resources. In the axial crystalline zone there are deposits of copper ore, placer gold, arsenic and chromium ores. The foothills and intermountain basins contain oil, flammable gases, brown coal, potassium and rock salts.

Climatic conditions

The Himalayas are the largest climate division in Asia. To the north of them, continental air of temperate latitudes predominates, to the south - tropical air masses. The summer equatorial monsoon penetrates all the way to the southern slope of the Himalayas. The winds reach such strength there that they make it difficult to climb the most high peaks, therefore, you can climb Chomolungma only in the spring, during a short period of calm before the onset of the summer monsoon. On the northern slope, winds from the northern or western directions blow throughout the year, coming from the continent, which is supercooled in winter or very warm in summer, but is always dry. From northwest to southeast, the Himalayas extend approximately between 35 and 28° N, and the summer monsoon almost does not penetrate into the northwestern sector of the mountain system. All this creates large climatic differences within the Himalayas.

The most precipitation falls in the eastern part of the southern slope (from 2000 to 3000 mm). In the west, their annual amounts do not exceed 1000 mm. Less than 1000 mm falls in the zone of internal tectonic basins and in internal river valleys. On the northern slope, especially in the valleys, the amount of precipitation decreases sharply. In some places the annual amounts are less than 100 mm. Above 1800 m, winter precipitation falls in the form of snow, and above 4500 m snow occurs throughout the year.

On the southern slopes up to an altitude of 2000 m, the average temperature in January is 6...7 °C, in July 18...19 °C; up to an altitude of 3000 m average temperature winter months does not fall below 0 °C, and only above 4500 m does the July average become negative. The snow line in the eastern part of the Himalayas passes at an altitude of 4500 m, in the western, less humidified part - 5100-5300 m. On the northern slopes, the height of the nival belt is 700-1000 m higher than on the southern ones.

Natural waters

High altitude and heavy precipitation contribute to the formation powerful glaciers and a dense river network. Glaciers and snow cover all the high peaks of the Himalayas, but the ends of the glacial tongues have significant absolute altitude. Most of the Himalayan glaciers belong to the valley type and reach no more than 5 km in length. But the further east and more precipitation, the longer and lower the glaciers go down the slopes. The most powerful glaciation is on Chomolungma and Kanchenjunga, and the largest glaciers of the Himalayas are formed. These are dendritic type glaciers with several feeding areas and one main trunk. The Zemu glacier on Kanchenjunga reaches 25 km in length and ends at an altitude of about 4000 m. The Rongbuk glacier, 19 km long, slides down from Qomolungma and ends at an altitude of 5000 m. The Gangotri glacier in the Kumaon Himalayas reaches 26 km; one of the sources of the Ganges originates from it.

Especially many rivers flow from the southern slope of the mountains. They begin in the glaciers of the Greater Himalayas and, crossing the Lesser Himalayas and the foothills, reach the plain. Some large rivers They originate from the northern slope and, heading towards the Indo-Gangetic plain, cut through the Himalayas with deep through valleys. These are the Indus, its tributary the Sutlej and the Brahmaputra (Tsangpo).

The Himalayan rivers are fed by rain, glaciers and snow, so the main maximum flow occurs in the summer. In the eastern part, the role of monsoon rains in nutrition is great, in the west - snow and ice of the high mountain zone. The narrow gorges or canyon-like valleys of the Himalayas are replete with waterfalls and rapids. From May, when the most rapid melting of snow begins, until October, when the summer monsoon ends, rivers rush down from the mountains in rapid streams, carrying away masses of debris that they deposit when leaving the Himalayan foothills. Monsoon rains often cause severe floods on mountain rivers, during which bridges are washed away, roads are destroyed and landslides occur.

There are many lakes in the Himalayas, but among them there are none that can be compared in size and beauty with the Alpine ones. Some lakes, for example in the Kashmir Basin, occupy only part of those tectonic depressions that were previously filled entirely. The Pir Panjal range is known for numerous glacial lakes formed in ancient cirques or in river valleys as a result of their damming by moraine.

Vegetation

On the abundantly moistened southern slope of the Himalayas, altitudinal zones from tropical forests to high-mountain tundras are exceptionally pronounced. At the same time, the southern slope is characterized by significant differences in the vegetation cover of the humid and hot eastern part and the drier and colder western part. Along the foot of the mountains from their eastern extremity to the course of the Jamna River stretches a peculiar swampy strip with black silty soils, called the Terai. The Terai are characterized by jungles - dense thickets of trees and shrubs, almost impenetrable in places due to vines and consisting of soap trees, mimosa, bananas, low-growing palm trees, and bamboos. Among the terai there are cleared and drained areas that are used for the cultivation of various tropical crops.

Above the terai, on the damp slopes of the mountains and along river valleys up to an altitude of 1000-1200 m, evergreen tropical forests grow of tall palms, laurels, tree ferns and gigantic bamboos, with many vines (including the rattan palm) and epiphytes. Drier areas are dominated by thinner forests of salwood, which loses its leaves during the dry season, with rich undergrowth and grass cover.

At altitudes above 1000 m to heat-loving forms tropical forest subtropical species of evergreen and deciduous trees begin to mix in: pines, evergreen oaks, magnolias, maples, chestnuts. At an altitude of 2000 m, subtropical forests give way to temperate forests of deciduous and coniferous trees, among which only occasionally are representatives of subtropical flora, for example, magnificently flowering magnolias found. The upper border of the forest is dominated by conifers, including silver fir, larch, and juniper. The undergrowth is formed by dense thickets of tree-like rhododendrons. There are many mosses and lichens covering the soil and tree trunks. The subalpine belt replacing forests consists of tall grass meadows and thickets of shrubs, the vegetation of which gradually becomes lower and sparse as it moves to the alpine belt.

The high-mountain meadow vegetation of the Himalayas is unusually rich in species, including primroses, anemones, poppies and other brightly flowering perennial herbs. The upper limit of the alpine belt in the east reaches an altitude of about 5000 m, but individual plants are found much higher. When climbing Chomolungma, plants were discovered at an altitude of 6218 m.

In the western part of the southern slope of the Himalayas, due to lower humidity, there is no such richness and diversity of vegetation; the flora is much poorer than in the east. There is a complete absence of the Terai strip, the lower parts of the mountain slopes are covered with sparse xerophytic forests and thickets of shrubs, higher up there are some subtropical Mediterranean species like evergreen holm oak and golden-leaved olive, and even higher up coniferous forests of pine trees and magnificent Himalayan cedar (Cedrus deodara) predominate. The shrub undergrowth in these forests is poorer than in the east, but the meadow alpine vegetation is more diverse.

The landscapes of the northern ranges of the Himalayas, facing Tibet, are approaching the desert mountain landscapes of Central Asia. The change in vegetation with height is less pronounced than on the southern slopes. From the bottoms of large river valleys up to the snow-covered peaks, sparse thickets of dry grasses and xerophytic shrubs spread. Woody vegetation is found only in some river valleys in the form of thickets of low-growing poplars.

Animal world

The landscape differences of the Himalayas are also reflected in the composition of the wild fauna. The diverse and rich fauna of the southern slopes has a distinct tropical character. Many large mammals, reptiles, and insects are common in the forests of the lower slopes and in the terai. Elephants, rhinoceroses, buffalos, wild boars, and antelopes are still found there. The jungle is literally teeming with various monkeys. Particularly characteristic are macaques and thin-bodied animals. Of the predators, the most dangerous for the population are tigers and leopards - spotted and black (black panthers). Among the birds, peacocks, pheasants, parrots, and wild chickens stand out for their beauty and brightness of plumage.

In the upper mountain belt and on the northern slopes, the fauna is close in composition to that of Tibet. The black Himalayan bear, wild goats and sheep, and yaks live there. Especially a lot of rodents.

Population and environmental issues

Most of the population is concentrated in the middle zone of the southern slope and in intramountain tectonic basins. There is a lot of cultivated land there. Rice is sown on the irrigated flat bottoms of the basins; tea bushes, citrus fruits, and grapevines are grown on the terraced slopes. Alpine pastures are used for grazing sheep, yaks and other livestock.

Because of high altitude Passes in the Himalayas significantly complicate communication between the countries of the northern and southern slopes. Some passes are crossed by dirt roads or caravan trails; there are very few highways in the Himalayas. The passes are accessible only in summer. In winter they are covered with snow and completely impassable.

The inaccessibility of the territory has played a favorable role in preserving the unique mountain landscapes of the Himalayas. Despite the significant agricultural development of low mountains and basins, intensive grazing of livestock on mountain slopes and the ever-increasing influx of climbers from different countries world, the Himalayas remain a refuge for valuable plant and animal species. The real “treasures” are the national parks of India and Nepal - Nandadevi, Sagarmatha and Chitwan - included in the World Cultural and Natural Heritage List.

Attractions

• Kathmandu: temple complexes Budanilkantha, Boudhanath and Swayambhunath, National Museum Nepal;
• Lhasa: Potala Palace, Barkor Square, Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery;
• Thimphu: Bhutan Textile Museum, Thimphu Chorten, Tashicho Dzong;
• Temple complexes of the Himalayas (including Sri Kedarnath Mandir, Yamunotri);
• Buddhist stupas (memorial or reliquary structures);
• Sagarmatha National Park (Everest);
• National parks Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers.

Spiritual and health tourism

Spiritual principles and the cult of a healthy body are so closely intertwined in various directions of Indian philosophical schools that it is impossible to draw any visible division between them. Every year, thousands of tourists come to the Indian Himalayas precisely to get acquainted with the Vedic sciences, the ancient postulates of the teachings of Yoga, and to improve the health of their body according to the Ayurvedic canons of Panchakarma.

The pilgrims' program necessarily includes visiting caves for deep meditation, waterfalls, ancient temples, and bathing in the Ganges, a river sacred to Hindus. Those suffering can have conversations with spiritual mentors, receive from them parting words and recommendations for spiritual and physical cleansing. However, this topic is so broad and versatile that it requires a separate detailed presentation.

The natural grandeur and highly spiritual atmosphere of the Himalayas captivate the human imagination. Anyone who has at least once come into contact with the splendor of these places will always be obsessed with the dream of returning here at least once more.

• About five or six centuries ago, a people called the Sherpas moved to the Himalayas. They know how to provide themselves with everything necessary for life in the highlands, but, in addition, they are practically a monopoly in the profession of guides. Because they are truly the best; the most knowledgeable and the most resilient.
• Among the conquerors of Everest there are also “originals”. On May 25, 2008, the oldest climber in the history of climbing, a native of Nepal, Min Bahadur Shirchan, who was 76 years old at that time, overcame the path to the summit. There have been cases when very young travelers took part in expeditions. The latest record was broken by Jordan Romero from California, who climbed in May 2010 at the age of thirteen (before him, fifteen-year-old Tembu Tsheri Sherpa was considered the youngest guest of Chomolungma).
• The development of tourism does not benefit the nature of the Himalayas: even here there is no escape from the garbage left by people. Moreover, in the future there may be severe pollution of the rivers that originate here. The main problem is that these rivers provide millions of people with drinking water.
• Shambhala is a mythical country in Tibet, about which many ancient texts tell. Buddha's followers believe in its existence unconditionally. It captivates the minds of not only lovers of all kinds of secret knowledge, but also serious scientists and philosophers. In particular, the most prominent Russian ethnologist L.N. had no doubt about the reality of Shambhala. Gumilev. However, there is still no irrefutable evidence of its existence. Or they are irretrievably lost. For the sake of objectivity, it should be said: many believe that Shambhala is not located in the Himalayas at all. But in the very interest of people in the legends about her lies proof that we all really need the belief that somewhere there is a key to the evolution of humanity, which is owned by bright and wise forces. Even if this key is not a guide on how to become happy, but just an idea. Not yet open...

The Himalayas in art, literature and cinema

• Kim is a novel written by Joseph Kipling. It tells the story of a boy who admires British imperialism while surviving the Great Game.
• Shangri-La is a fictional country located in the Himalayas, described in the novel Lost Horizon by James Hilton.
• Tintin in Tibet is one of the albums of the Belgian writer and illustrator Hergé. Journalist Tintin investigates a plane crash in the Himalayas.
• The film "Vertical Limit" describes the events taking place on Mount Chogori.
• Several levels in Tomb Raider II and one level in Tomb Raider: Legend are located in the Himalayas.
• The film "Black Narcissus" tells the story of an order of nuns who founded a monastery in the Himalayas.
• The Kingdom of the Golden Dragons is a novel by Isabel Allenda. Most of the events take place in the Forbidden Kingdom, a fictional state in the Himalayas.
• Drachenreiter is a book by German writer Cornelia Funke about Brownie and a dragon traveling to the "Edge of Heaven" - a place in the Himalayas where dragons live.
• Expedition Everest is a themed roller coaster in " World Center Walt Disney Holidays.
• Seven Years in Tibet is a film based on the autobiographical book of the same name by Heinrich Harrer, which describes the story of the adventures of an Austrian mountaineer in Tibet during the Second World War.
• G.I. Joe: The Movie is an animated film that tells the story of the Cobra-La civilization, which survived the Ice Age in the Himalayas.
• Far Cry 4 is a first-person shooter story that tells about the fictional region of the Himalayas, dominated by a self-proclaimed king.