The Himalayas are considered an extreme environment due to a combination of factors that create harsh living conditions. First and foremost, the altitude is a significant factor. The mountain range contains some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest, which rises to 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above sea level. At such elevations, the air pressure is much lower, leading to decreased levels of oxygen. This can result in altitude sickness for those who ascend without proper acclimatization.
The climate in the Himalayas is also extreme. The region experiences harsh weather, including heavy snowfall and below-freezing temperatures, particularly in winter. Summer can bring monsoon rains, which can cause landslides and other natural hazards. Such weather variations create challenges for both human habitation and wildlife survival.
Moreover, the terrain itself is rugged and difficult to navigate. Steep slopes, deep ravines, and rocky landscapes make it hard for people to build infrastructure or for plants and animals to thrive. The combination of high altitude, severe weather, and challenging geography contributes to the Himalayan ecosystem being one of the most extreme and inhospitable environments on the planet.