Himalayas

The Himalayas are a range of mountains located in Asia that are well-known for their breathtaking views and challenging terrain. The name “Himalayas” comes from the Sanskrit word “hima,” which means snow, and “alaya,” which means house. So, in other words, the Himalayas are literally the “house of snow.”

Now, the Himalayas aren’t your typical family home. For starters, they’re pretty darn cold. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing, so make sure to bring your sweaters and your heated blankets. And don’t forget your snow boots because it snows…a lot.

Speaking of snow, did you know that the Himalayas are home to some of the world’s tallest mountains? That’s right, Mount Everest, which is located in the Himalayas, stands at a whopping 29,029 feet. That’s like stacking 16 giraffes on top of each other! It’s so tall that climbers need oxygen tanks and special gear to reach the summit. And yet, people still attempt to climb it. It’s like they want to prove something…we’re not quite sure what.

Despite its freezing temperatures and treacherous peaks, the Himalayas are also home to a wide variety of wildlife. Snow leopards, red pandas, and yaks all call the Himalayas home. Yes, you read that right - yaks. We’re not talking about the disrespectful teenager who hangs around your local 7-Eleven. We’re talking about the furry, long-haired animal that sometimes wanders onto the road and causes traffic jams. They’re not the most glamorous creatures, but they’re definitely deserving of a shoutout.

If you’re looking for a unique adventure, the Himalayas are definitely worth a visit. Just be warned - if you’re not used to the altitude, you might feel a bit light-headed. Or a lot light-headed. In fact, you might feel like you’re walking through a dream…or a nightmare. But hey, at least you’ll have an interesting story to tell when you get back home!