Short Answer

The Himalayas are divided into three main ranges: the Himadri (Greater Himalaya), Himachal (Lesser Himalaya), and Shiwalik (Outer Himalaya). These ranges run parallel to each other from west to east.

Each range has different features. The Himadri is the highest and always covered with snow, the Himachal has valleys and hill stations, and the Shiwalik is the lowest range with forests and foothills.

Detailed Explanation:

Three Main Himalayan Ranges

Himadri Range

The Himadri, also known as the Greater Himalaya, is the northernmost and highest range of the Himalayas. It includes some of the highest peaks in the world, such as Mount Everest and Kangchenjunga. The average height of this range is about 6,000 meters.

This range remains covered with snow throughout the year. It has many glaciers, which are the source of important rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna. The Himadri is very important because it stores a large amount of fresh water in the form of ice. The climate here is extremely cold, and human settlement is very limited due to harsh conditions.

Himachal Range

The Himachal range, also known as the Lesser Himalaya, lies south of the Himadri. It has an average height of about 3,500 to 4,500 meters. This region is known for its beautiful valleys, forests, and hill stations.

Famous hill stations like Shimla, Manali, and Mussoorie are located in this range. The climate here is moderate, making it suitable for human settlement and tourism. The Himachal range also has many rivers and fertile valleys where agriculture is practiced.

This range is rich in forests and wildlife. It plays an important role in supporting biodiversity and providing resources like timber and medicinal plants.

Shiwalik Range

The Shiwalik range, also called the Outer Himalaya, is the southernmost and lowest range of the Himalayas. Its height ranges from about 900 to 1,200 meters. These hills are made of loose soil and rocks, which makes them more prone to erosion.

The Shiwalik region has many forests and is rich in wildlife. It forms the foothills of the Himalayas and is located close to the northern plains. Rivers flowing from the upper ranges pass through this region and deposit sediments.

The valleys between the Shiwalik and Himachal ranges are called “Duns,” such as Dehradun. These valleys are fertile and support agriculture and settlements.

Importance of Division

The division of the Himalayas into three ranges helps in understanding their physical features and importance. Each range has its own climate, vegetation, and role in the ecosystem.

The Himadri acts as a water source, the Himachal supports tourism and settlements, and the Shiwalik connects the mountains with the plains. Together, they form a strong and important geographical system.

Conclusion

The Himalayas are divided into three main ranges: Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwalik. Each range has unique features and importance. These ranges together form the great Himalayan system, which plays a vital role in India’s geography, climate, and natural resources.