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The Himalayan expanse is traditionally divided by prominent river gorges, creating distinct regional segments, each with unique topographical and ecological characteristics.
This regional categorization allows for a systematic study of the vast mountain system, beginning from the far west with the Indus and extending towards the Brahmaputra, revealing a continuous, yet diverse, mountain story.
- (i) The divisions are primarily based on the segments lying between major rivers, a method that captures the varying geological and climactic expressions across the mountain arc.
- (ii) These segments reveal how altitude, rainfall, and tectonic forces have shaped different natural habitats and human settlements across the entire Himalayan belt.
- (iii) Understanding these longitudinal zones is key to mastering the complex geography of the Himalayas for UPSC and other entrance exams.
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The Kashmir/Punjab/Himachal Himalayas: The Scenic Western Segment
Stretching between the deep gorges of the Indus and the Satluj rivers, this westernmost division is famous for its stunning valleys, high-altitude passes, and unique geological deposits. It spans approximately 560 km in length and 320 km in width.
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Geography, Extent, and Defining Ranges of the Kashmir Himalayas
The **Kashmir/Punjab/Himachal Himalayas** forms the cradle of the Western Himalayas. This segment is dramatically framed by two critical ranges, defining its geographical boundaries and unique features.
- (i) **Location and Extent:** Situated precisely between the Indus Gorge and the Satluj Gorge, this area holds strategic significance.
- (ii) **Boundary Ranges:** The formidable Zaskar Range forms the northern boundary, while the low-lying Shiwaliks mark the southern edge.
- (iii) **Topographical Heart:** The region is characterized by a complex ridge and valley structure, notably featuring the iconic Kashmir Valley—a famous syncline basin, often hailed as the "Heaven on Earth."
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Ecological and Economic Significance: Lakes, Karewas, and Passes
This segment's unique climate and geology support vital ecological features, particularly the valuable Karewa deposits and key connective mountain passes.
- (a) **Notable Water Bodies:** It is home to significant lakes like the vast Wular Lake and the picturesque Dal Lake, central to the regional ecosystem and economy.
- (b) **Karewa Deposits:** A unique feature is the presence of Karewas, which are fertile lacustrine deposits critical for the cultivation of saffron (Kesar).
- (c) **Climate and Flora:** The area receives about 100 cm of rainfall/snowfall during winters. Higher altitudes feature vast alpine grasslands locally known as Bugyals or Marg, famously seen in tourist spots like Sonmarg and Gulmarg.
- (d) **Major Lifelines (Passes):** Essential passes ensure connectivity; the Banihal Pass houses the strategic Jawahar Tunnel, while the Burzil Pass and Zozila Pass serve as crucial links connecting the Kashmir Valley to Ladakh.
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The Kumaun Himalayas: The Region of Divine Peaks and River Sources
Located between the Satluj and Kali Gorges, the **Kumaun Himalayas**, spanning roughly 320 km, is the spiritual heartland of India, famous for its towering peaks and as the source of major rivers.
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Geographical Essence and Major Ranges (The Uttarakhand Story)
This segment, largely corresponding to the state of Uttarakhand, represents a shift in Himalayan geology, featuring prominent ranges and some of the most sacred peaks.
- (i) **Defining Ranges:** The landscape is defined by the high ranges of Nagtiba, Dhaula Dhar, and the famous Mussourie Range, alongside crucial parts of the Greater Himalayas.
- (ii) **Towering and Sacred Peaks:** It is home to some of the most sacred and highest peaks, including the highest solely within India, Nanda Devi, along with Kamet, Badrinath, and Kedarnath.
- (iii) **Glaciers and Hydrology:** This region is a major water tower, giving birth to the sources of major rivers like Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Pindari.
- (iv) **Climate and Vegetation:** Receiving a higher average rainfall of around 200 cm, the region is blanketed in dense coniferous forests, including large stands of valuable Deodar trees.
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Tectonic Valleys, Seismicity, and Charming Hill Stations
The Kumaun region showcases beautiful valleys formed by geological activity but is prone to natural hazards due to its fragile rock structure.
- (a) **Notable Basins and Valleys:** Key topographical features include the Bhagirathi Plain and the formation of significant tectonic valleys, such as the widely visited tourist havens of Kulu, Manali, and Kangra.
- (b) **Geological Vulnerability:** The underlying structure of fractured and fragile rocks means this segment is prone to seismicity (earthquakes) and frequent, destructive landslides.
- (c) **Ecological Significance:** The pleasant climates have resulted in numerous renowned hill stations, making the Kumaun region a prime destination for tourism and recreation.
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The Central/Nepal Himalayas: Home to the World's Highest Peaks
This segment, the longest and highest of all divisions, stretches majestically for approximately 800 km between the Kali River in the west and the Tista River in the east, encompassing the majority of Nepal.
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The Orthoclinal Plan and Global Icons (The Roof of the World)
The Central Himalayas is defined by its colossal peaks, a distinct orthoclinal plan, and the fertile, flat bottom of the Kathmandu Valley, which was historically a drained lake.
- (i) **Highest Peaks:** It proudly hosts the world's most recognizable summits, including Mt. Everest (Sagarmatha), Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Annapurna, Gosainthan, and Dhaulagiri.
- (ii) **Topographical Features:** The topography features an orthoclinal (steeply dipping layers) structure and includes the critical Kathmandu Valley.
- (iii) **Rivers and Valleys:** The region is cut across by major river systems like Ghaghara, Gandak, and Kosi, and is home to former lake beds now serving as vital valleys like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- (iv) **Shiwalik Proximity:** Towards the east, the Shiwalik Range approaches the Lesser Himalaya and is nearly absent beyond the Narayani River (Gandak), a key geological observation.
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The Assam/Eastern Himalayas: High Rainfall and Fluvial Erosion
Positioned between the Tista River and the great bend of the Brahmaputra River (Dihang Gorges), this segment extends for about 750 km, primarily covering Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan, marked by intense fluvial erosion.
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The Purvanchal and Trans-Himalayan Ranges: Two Distinct Mountain Systems
Beyond the main Himalayan arc lie two structurally and geographically distinct regions: the southward-bending Purvanchal hills and the northern Trans-Himalayas (Tibet Himalayas).
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The Purvanchal Hills: Northeast Geology and Ecology
The **Purvanchal**, or Eastern Hills, represents the southward extension of the Himalayan fold, lying structurally south of the Brahmaputra Valley, and is characterized by distinct geological formations.
- (a) **Geological Context:** It features structural differences from the main Himalayan arc, formed of relatively younger folds.
- (b) **Major Hill Ranges:** The system includes prominent parallel ranges such as the Naga Hills, Manipur Hills, and Mizo Hills.
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- (c) **Geological Composition:** It is composed of loose, fragmented sedimentary rocks like shale, mudstone, sandstone, and quartzite.
- (d) **Climate and Ecology:** Receiving heavy rainfall (150-200 cm), it is densely forested but faces environmental challenges due to shifting cultivation. It is also highly prone to earthquakes and landslides.
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The Trans-Himalayan Ranges: Karakoram, Ladakh, and the Cold Desert
Located to the **north of the Great Himalayas**, this system comprises the oldest ranges, emerging between the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods from the Pamir Knot.
- (i) **Core Ranges:** It includes the crucial ranges of Karakoram, Ladakh, Zaskar, and the Kailash Range.
- (ii) **Major Peaks and Glaciers:** It hosts the world's second-highest peak, K2 (Godwin-Austen), the massive Siachen Glacier, and the challenging Rakaposhi peak.
- (iii) **Hydrological Significance:** The Kailash Range is the source of the great Indus and Brahmaputra rivers.
- (iv) **Zaskar-Ladakh Divide:** The Zaskar Range, which includes Nanga Parbat, is separated from the Ladakh range by the strategically important Ladakh and Zaskar Basin.
- (v) **Climate:** This entire region is generally a barren, cold desert, receiving sparse winter rainfall, with the Deosai Mountains marking its southern end.
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Summary: Importance of Himalayan Divisions for Geographical Knowledge
This detailed exploration of the longitudinal divisions of the Himalayas—from the scenic Kashmir/Punjab/Himachal valleys to the soaring peaks of Nepal and the rain-fed Eastern Himalayas—underscores the incredible diversity and geological complexity of this mountain system. Key peaks like K2 and Kanchenjunga, along with unique features like the Karewas, are essential elements of Indian geography. Understanding the boundaries, climate, and topography of these segments is not only vital for appreciating the natural heritage but also a mandatory component for students aiming for success in **competitive examinations**.
| Mountain Peak |
Height (meters) |
| K2 (Godwin-Austen) |
8611 |
| Kangchenjunga |
8586 |
| Nanda Devi |
7816 |
| Kamet |
7756 |
| Santoro Kangri |
7742 |
| Saser Kangri |
7672 |
| Mamostrong Kangri |
7516 |
| Rimo |
7385 |
| Hardeol |
7151 |
| Chaukamba |
7138 |
| Trisul |
7120 |
