The Himalayas are known for their tall peaks and glaciers, but did you know that numerous lakes are also found here?
One of the largest and highest among these is the freshwater lake Mansarovar near Mt Kailas, which is at a height of 4,590 m and covers an area of 410 sq km. This lake is considered sacred by many and the ‘Kailash-Mansa-rovar Yatra’ is a yearly pilgrimage undertaken to bathe in the waters of this lake.
Lake Pangong Tso at the border between China and India is at an elevation of 4,225 m and has a surface area of 604 sq km. During winter this lake freezes completely. It is an important breeding ground for a variety of migratory birds.
Lake Puma Yumco in Tibet is at an altitude of 5,030 m and has an area of 280 sq km. It is one of the highest lakes in the world. In Tibetan, its name means ‘blue jewel floating in the sky’.
Tilicho Lake in Nepal at an altitude of 4,949 m is also one of the highest lakes in the Himalayas. A study conducted by the Nepali Department of Hydrology and Meteorology concluded that this lake had no signs of any aquatic organisms.
The Tsho Rolpa glacier lake in the Rolwaling Valley in Nepal is considered to be the most dangerous lake due to glacial melt water expanding its banks and causing serious damage to people and crops.
Picture Credit : Google
