Fossils of seashells discovered in the Himalayas can be a fascinating topic. To understand how this is possible, we first need to look at the geological history of the region.
The Himalayas, as we know them today, were formed through the tectonic collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate, which began around 50 million years ago. Prior to this monumental event, the area that is now the Himalayas was once a part of the ancient ocean known as the Tethys Sea. During that time, marine life thrived, and numerous organisms, including various species of seashells, inhabited the waters.
Over millions of years, as the tectonic plates shifted, sediments containing these shells were slowly buried and compacted. Eventually, the rising of the Himalayas lifted these ancient seabeds high above sea level, exposing the fossilized remains. This explains why we can find fossils of seashells in the mountainous regions of the Himalayas today. This incredible process showcases the dynamic nature of Earth’s geology and the fascinating history of our planet.