UPSC Exam > UPSC Notes > Geography for UPSC CSE > Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas
Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas | Geography for UPSC CSE PDF Download
Introduction
The Himalayas, derived from the Sanskrit words "Him" (snow) and "Alaya" (abode), mean the "Abode of Snow". They are the youngest and highest fold mountain ranges in the world and stretch across five countries — India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan. Formed due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, the Himalayas continue to rise and remain seismically active. These mighty mountains are not just a geographic marvel but also a cultural, ecological, and strategic lifeline for South Asia.
Extent & Dimensions
- Length: ~2,400 km (W to E)
- Width: 250–400 km
- Between Rivers: Indus (west) to Brahmaputra (east)
- Passes through: India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet (China), Pakistan
Formation of the Himalayas
Longitudinal Division of Himalayas
The Trans-Himalayas
The Himalayan Ranges
The Eastern Hills or Purvanchal
Regional Division of Himalayas
Syntaxial Bends of Himalayas
Major Peaks
Important Passes
Key Characteristics
- Youngest Fold Mountains
- Tectonically Active – frequent earthquakes
- Rich in biodiversity
- Source of perennial rivers
- Acts as a climatic barrier
Importance of the Himalayas
- Climate Regulation: Blocks cold winds, traps monsoon moisture
- River Source: Origin of major river systems
- Agriculture: Fertile valleys and terrace farming
- Biodiversity: Forests, endemic species, national parks
- Cultural: Pilgrimage sites like Amarnath, Badrinath, Kedarnath
- Strategic: Natural boundary with China and Pakistan
The document Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas | Geography for UPSC CSE is a part of the UPSC Course Geography for UPSC CSE.
All you need of UPSC at this link: UPSC
|
175 videos|624 docs|192 tests
|
FAQs on Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas - Geography for UPSC CSE
| 1. What are the major geographical features of the Himalayas? |  |
Ans. The Himalayas are characterized by their towering peaks, including some of the highest mountains in the world such as Mount Everest and K2. This mountain range spans five countries: India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan. The Himalayas consist of various geographical features, including deep valleys, plateaus, glaciers, and diverse ecosystems. The range is also home to numerous rivers, such as the Ganges, Indus, and Brahmaputra, which originate from the glaciers of the Himalayas.
| 2. What is the significance of the Himalayas in terms of biodiversity? | |
Ans. The Himalayas are renowned for their rich biodiversity, housing a wide variety of flora and fauna. The range is home to over 10,000 species of plants, many of which are endemic to the region. It also supports diverse wildlife, including iconic species such as the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan tahr. The varying altitudes and climates create distinct ecosystems, ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. This biodiversity is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and provides valuable resources for local communities.
| 3. How do the Himalayas affect the climate of the surrounding regions? | |
Ans. The Himalayas play a critical role in influencing the climate of the surrounding regions. They act as a barrier to cold winds from Central Asia, resulting in a warmer climate in the Indian subcontinent. The range also traps monsoon winds, leading to heavy rainfall on the southern slopes, while the northern slopes experience arid conditions. This orographic effect contributes significantly to the agricultural patterns and water availability in the regions adjacent to the Himalayas.
| 4. What are some cultural aspects associated with the Himalayas? | |
Ans. The Himalayas hold immense cultural significance for various communities living in their vicinity. They are considered sacred in several religions, including Hinduism and Buddhism. Many important pilgrimage sites, such as Haridwar and Badrinath, are located in the Himalayas. The region is also rich in traditional practices, art, and crafts that reflect the lifestyle of the indigenous people. Festivals and rituals associated with the mountains are integral to the cultural identity of these communities.
| 5. What are the main challenges facing the Himalayas today? | |
Ans. The Himalayas face several challenges, primarily due to climate change, deforestation, and urbanization. Glacial melting is accelerated by rising temperatures, leading to increased flooding and changes in water availability. The biodiversity of the region is threatened by habitat loss and invasive species. Additionally, the pressure from tourism and infrastructure development poses risks to the fragile ecosystems. Sustainable development practices are essential to address these challenges and preserve the unique environment of the Himalayas.
About this Document
4.91/5
Rating
Sep 20, 2025
Last updated
Related Exams
Document Description: Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas for UPSC 2025 is part of Geography for UPSC CSE preparation.
The notes and questions for Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas have been prepared according to the UPSC exam syllabus. Information about Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas covers topics
like Introduction and Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas Example, for UPSC 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas.
Introduction of Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas in English is available as part of our Geography for UPSC CSE
for UPSC & Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas in Hindi for Geography for UPSC CSE course.
Download more important topics related with notes, lectures and mock test series for UPSC
Exam by signing up for free. UPSC: Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas | Geography for UPSC CSE
Description
Full syllabus notes, lecture & questions for Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas | Geography for UPSC CSE - UPSC | Plus excerises question with solution to help you revise complete syllabus for Geography for UPSC CSE | Best notes, free PDF download
Information about Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas
In this doc you can find the meaning of Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas defined & explained in the simplest way possible. Besides explaining types of
Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas theory, EduRev gives you an ample number of questions to practice Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas tests, examples and also practice UPSC
tests
Related Searches
Important questions
,MCQs
,video lectures
,practice quizzes
,study material
,Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas | Geography for UPSC CSE
,ppt
,Summary
,Extra Questions
,Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas | Geography for UPSC CSE
,Previous Year Questions with Solutions
,Viva Questions
,Semester Notes
,Free
,mock tests for examination
,shortcuts and tricks
,Exam
,Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas | Geography for UPSC CSE
,Sample Paper
,past year papers
,Objective type Questions
;
Additional Information about Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas for UPSC Preparation
Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas Free PDF Download
The Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas is an invaluable resource that delves deep into the core of the UPSC exam.
These study notes are curated by experts and cover all the essential topics and concepts, making your preparation more efficient and effective.
With the help of these notes, you can grasp complex subjects quickly, revise important points easily,
and reinforce your understanding of key concepts. The study notes are presented in a concise and easy-to-understand manner,
allowing you to optimize your learning process. Whether you're looking for best-recommended books, sample papers, study material,
or toppers' notes, this PDF has got you covered. Download the Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas now and kickstart your journey towards success in the UPSC exam.
Importance of Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas
The importance of Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas cannot be overstated, especially for UPSC aspirants.
This document holds the key to success in the UPSC exam.
It offers a detailed understanding of the concept, providing invaluable insights into the topic.
By knowing the concepts well in advance, students can plan their preparation effectively.
Utilize this indispensable guide for a well-rounded preparation and achieve your desired results.
Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas Notes
Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas Notes offer in-depth insights into the specific topic to help you master it with ease.
This comprehensive document covers all aspects related to Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas.
It includes detailed information about the exam syllabus, recommended books, and study materials for a well-rounded preparation.
Practice papers and question papers enable you to assess your progress effectively.
Additionally, the paper analysis provides valuable tips for tackling the exam strategically.
Access to Toppers' notes gives you an edge in understanding complex concepts.
Whether you're a beginner or aiming for advanced proficiency, Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas Notes on EduRev are your ultimate resource for success.
Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas UPSC Questions
The "Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas UPSC Questions" guide is a valuable resource for all aspiring students preparing for the
UPSC exam. It focuses on providing a wide range of practice questions to help students gauge
their understanding of the exam topics. These questions cover the entire syllabus, ensuring comprehensive preparation.
The guide includes previous years' question papers for students to familiarize themselves with the exam's format and difficulty level.
Additionally, it offers subject-specific question banks, allowing students to focus on weak areas and improve their performance.
Study Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas on the App
Students of UPSC can study Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas alongwith tests & analysis from the EduRev app,
which will help them while preparing for their exam. Apart from the Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas,
students can also utilize the EduRev App for other study materials such as previous year question papers, syllabus, important questions, etc.
The EduRev App will make your learning easier as you can access it from anywhere you want.
The content of Cheat Sheet: The Himalayas is prepared as per the latest UPSC syllabus.
|
© EduRev
|
Education Revolution
|
|
Signup on EduRev and stay on top of your study goals
10M+ students crushing their study goals daily