Exploring the Glaciers of Himachal Pradesh: A Detailed Guide for Government Job Aspirants
Himachal Pradesh, with its majestic mountains and pristine landscapes, is home to numerous glaciers. These glaciers are vital sources of freshwater and contribute significantly to the rivers in the region. This guide provides essential information on the major glaciers in Himachal Pradesh, which is invaluable for government job aspirants preparing for competitive exams.
Introduction to Glaciers
- Definition: A glacier is a large body of ice that forms on land by the recrystallization of snow under specific conditions.
- Zones:
- Accumulation Zone: Area where more snow or ice accumulates than melts.
- Ablation Zone: Area where more snow or ice melts than accumulates.
- Equilibrium Line: The line separating the accumulation and ablation zones.
Major Glaciers in Himachal Pradesh
1. Bara Shigri Glacier
- Location: Chandra Valley, Lahaul
- Dimensions: 3 km wide and 25 km long
- Significance: Largest glacier in Himachal Pradesh, feeding the Chenab River.
- Historical Note: Caused significant flooding in the Chandra Valley in 1936, forming Chandratal Lake.
2. Chandra Glacier
- Location: Slopes of the main Himalayas in Lahaul-Spiti
- Significance: Originally separated from Bara Shigri; feeds the Chandra River.
3. Bhaga Glacier
- Location: Approachable via Koksar and Tandi
- Significance: Origin of the Bhaga River.
4. Lady of Keylong
- Location: Visible from Keylong
- Significance: Named by Lady Elashaingday during the British Raj. Known for its distinct dark patches that resemble a woman carrying a load.
5. Mayar Glacier
- Location: Lahaul-Spiti
- Significance: Longest glacier in the region.
- Other Glaciers in Mayar Valley: Manthora, Karpat, Uthampu, and Tharong.
6. Gyephang Glacier
- Location: Lahaul Valley
- Significance: Named after the supreme Gyephang deity of Lahaul Valley, with a temple in Sarahan. Gyephang Peak resembles Matterhorn in Switzerland.
7. Kulti Glacier
- Location: Near Koksar, Lahaul-Spiti
8. Milang Glacier
- Location: North of Kulti Glacier, between Darcha and Khekrar in Lahaul-Spiti
9. Taragiri Glacier
- Location: Near Milang Glacier
10. Sonapani Glacier
- Location: Near Kulti Nala, visible from Rohtang Pass
Glacial Concentrations in Himachal Pradesh
- Bara Banghal Region: Located amidst Kullu, Kangra, Chamba, and Lahaul-Spiti, feeding the Ravi River.
- Trijunction of Kullu, Spiti, and Kinnaur: Feeds tributaries of Beas and Satluj Rivers.
- Lahaul-Spiti Zone
- Kullu Valley: Feeds tributaries of the Beas River.
Additional Information
- Himalayas Glaciers: Nearly 15,000 glaciers.
- Local Name for Glaciers: “Shigri”
- Water Content: Glaciers contain more than 75% of the world’s freshwater.
Notable Hot Water Springs in Himachal Pradesh
- Tatta Pani: Natural sulphur spring in Mandi, known for its curative properties.
- Manikaran: Radioactive hot spring near River Parbati, famous for its religious significance.
- Khirganga: Hot water spring near Kullu.
- Vashisht: Hot water spring near Manali with historical temples and Turkish baths.
- Jeori: Hot water spring in Kinnaur.
Conclusion
Understanding the glaciers of Himachal Pradesh is crucial for government job aspirants, especially those preparing for competitive exams. These glaciers not only shape the geography and hydrology of the region but also hold cultural and historical significance. This comprehensive guide covers the essential details, making it a valuable resource for your exam preparations.
Good luck with your studies! Familiarize yourself with these glaciers and hot springs to enhance your knowledge and excel in your exams.