The mountain range along the Nepal-China border has its dangers, most recently seen this week in the flash floods spurred by a glacier collapse that have killed hundreds and brought a wide swath of destruction.
The mountains are also a draw — home to millions of people with generations of connection to their environment, as well as many visitors who come to trek up some of the world's highest peaks or visit religious sites.
That has become clear in the aftermath of the floods, with people from at least 30 countries joining the hundreds of the region's residents among the missing.
People in that region of Asia have been traversing the mountains for centuries, such as traders moving their goods along a part of the route system known as the Great Silk Road.
Certain ethnic groups like the Sherpas in Nepal developed an expertise in mountaineering. In the mid-20th century, when the modern-day nation started welcoming in foreigners and tourism, Nepalis were tapped for their knowledge and guidance by explorers from elsewhere looking to make the climbs.
#floods #great #silk
The mountains are also a draw — home to millions of people with generations of connection to their environment, as well as many visitors who come to trek up some of the world's highest peaks or visit religious sites.
That has become clear in the aftermath of the floods, with people from at least 30 countries joining the hundreds of the region's residents among the missing.
People in that region of Asia have been traversing the mountains for centuries, such as traders moving their goods along a part of the route system known as the Great Silk Road.
Certain ethnic groups like the Sherpas in Nepal developed an expertise in mountaineering. In the mid-20th century, when the modern-day nation started welcoming in foreigners and tourism, Nepalis were tapped for their knowledge and guidance by explorers from elsewhere looking to make the climbs.
#floods #great #silk
10 days ago
