The
colossal Himalayan Mountains form a border between
the Indian subcontinent and the rest of Asia.
The Himalayas are the world's tallest mountains,
towering more than five miles above sea level.
Himalaya means “home of snow” because
the tallest peaks of the Himalayas are always
capped with snow.
The Himalayas include Mount Everest,
the tallest mountain in the world. Everest rises
29,028 feet above sea level on the border between
India and Nepal. No plant life grows near the
mountain's peak due to powerful winds, extremely
cold temperatures, and a lack of oxygen. Many
adventurous people attempt to climb Everest every
year. Often their venture ends in sickness or
death. Most people are unable to breathe 20,000
feet above sea level because there is not enough
oxygen in the atmosphere. A person will suffer
brain damage when they are unable to breathe.
Strong winds and frigid temperatures make the
climate even more rigorous. Clearly the peak of
Mount Everest is a place for only the heartiest
of people.
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