1. The roof of the world
The Himalayas are the tallest mountain range on Earth. The highest mountain, Mount Everest, reaches about 8,849 metres or 29,032 feet. That is taller than 29 football goals stacked one above another.
2. Climbing Everest is not easy
Everest was first climbed in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Since then, more than 6,000 climbers have reached the top, but it is still very dangerous. Over 300 people have died trying. Climbers use special gear, train for years, and often rely on expert mountain guides known as Sherpas.
3. Home to rare animals
The Himalayas are bursting with wildlife. You might find:
- Snow leopards hiding among the rocks
- Red pandas with soft, fluffy fur
- Strong, woolly yaks carrying supplies
- Musk deer with long, fang-like teeth
- Colourful pheasants, including Nepal’s national bird
4. A place of peace and prayer
The Himalayas are important for religion and spirituality. High in the mountains you can find Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, and sacred lakes. Many visitors come to meditate and enjoy the quiet of nature.
5. Rivers born from ice and snow
The Himalayas act like a giant water tank for Asia. Famous rivers such as the Ganges, Indus, and Brahmaputra begin in these mountains and provide water for millions of people.
6. The mountains are still growing
The land under the Himalayas is slowly moving. This pushes the mountains up by roughly 5 millimetres a year. That means Everest gets a tiny bit taller over time.
7. Five countries, one range
The Himalayas stretch across India, Nepal, Bhutan, China (Tibet), and Pakistan. About 75% of Nepal is covered by mountains, which makes it one of the most mountainous countries on Earth.
8. A land of ice and glaciers
The Himalayas are sometimes called the Third Pole because they have the most ice and snow after Antarctica and the Arctic. There are around 15,000 glaciers that store fresh water for the rivers below.
9. Natural protection
For centuries these mountains acted like a giant wall. Their size and steep slopes made crossing difficult, which helped protect the people and cultures on either side.
10. A world wonder for adventurers
Every year, visitors come to trek, learn about mountain cultures, and enjoy amazing views. Lakes such as Gurudongmar in Sikkim shimmer in the sun, and rows of prayer flags brighten the wind.
FAQs about the Himalayas
Which country takes up the most of the Himalayas?
Nepal is predominantly Himalayas - meaning it’s one of the most mountainous countries out east. Better strap on your climbing boots and get ready to scale the rugged peaks if you’re Nepal bound!
How do people get around in the Himalayas?
The most common form of transport in the Himalayas is yaks! It’s largely unsafe to use some types of transport - but that certainly hasn’t dissuaded some people from trying to scale the peaks on foot!
How many people live in the Himalayas?
It is currently estimated that around 53 million people live in the Himalayas. The vast majority of people living in the mountains do so out of dedication to their worship.
Do you know any interesting facts about the Himalayan Mountains? Share them in the comments below!
