Page 282 - New Medley 4 Semester 1

The Greater Himalayas (Himadri)

The Himadri ranges are located in the extreme northern part of the

Himalayan mountain ranges. These mountain ranges remain covered with
snow almost throughout the year. There are many peaks in the Himadri

which are more than 8000 metres high. Mt Kanchenjunga, about 8,598
metres high, is the highest peak in the Greater Himalayas. Many glaciers

originate in these mountains. Many rivers, such as the Ganga and the
Yamuna, originate from here.

The Lesser Himalayas (Himachal)

The Lesser Himalayas or the Himachal

ranges are towards the south of the
Himadri ranges. The Himadri and

the Himachal are separated by deep
river valleys. These mountain ranges

receive regular snowfall during the
winter season. The mountain slopes Shimla is a hill station.

are covered with thick forests of pine
and deodar. The main hill stations in the Himachal ranges are Shimla,

Manali, Kullu, Mussoorie, Nainital, Darjiling, etc.

The Lower Himalayas (Shiwalik)

The Lower Himalayas or the Shiwalik ranges are the southernmost mountain
ranges. These mountain ranges are made up of loose rocks and sand.

Landslides are common in this region. These hills are covered with thick
forests. The foothills of the Shiwalik hills are called Terai. On the eastern

side, the Himalayan mountain ranges turn towards the south and form a
series of low hills. Some of them are Garo, Khasi, Jaintiya, Naga, Mizo

and Patkai hills. They have fast running streams and dense forests. These
hills are also called Purvachal.

The Importance of the Himalayas

The Himalayan mountain ranges are useful to us in many ways:

1. The high mountain ranges act as a natural barrier against the invaders.

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