lHimalaya

lHimalaya refers to the Lower Himalaya, a major geological and geographical belt within the greater Himalaya system. It is also known as the Lesser Himalaya in many scientific and regional contexts. The term distinguishes this mid-elevation zone from the higher ranges of the Great Himalaya and the outer foothills of the Sub-Himalaya (Shivalik).

The belt extends across parts of Pakistan, India, Nepal, and Bhutan, with extensions into adjacent regions, and comprises a sequence of parallel ranges and broad valleys.

Geology and topography: The Lower Himalaya consists of folded sedimentary and metamorphic rocks formed by the ongoing India–Eurasia collision. Elevations typically range from about 1,000 to 4,000 meters, and the belt features ridges, broad valleys, and mid-elevation plateaus.

Climate and ecosystems: The zone experiences a monsoonal climate with subtropical conditions at lower elevations and temperate climates higher up. Forests range from pine and oak to rhododendron, and protected areas preserve biodiversity and watershed resources that feed major rivers.

Human presence and notable features: The belt is home to diverse communities and supports agriculture, forestry, and growing tourism. Roads and rail links connect towns, and trekking routes are popular in states such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, as well as in Nepal and Bhutan. Notable ranges include the Dhauladhar in India and various Kumaon and eastern Nepal ranges; numerous rivers originate here and shape settlements.

See also: Himalayas; Lesser Himalaya; Sub-Himalaya.