Explanation: The Karakoram range is a significant mountain range in Asia, extending across the borders of India, Pakistan, and China. It is part of the larger Himalayan system and is known for its high peaks, including K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. The Karakoram range is divided into several sub-ranges, each with its own unique characteristics and geographical features.
One of these sub-ranges is the Kailash range, which is the part of the Karakoram range that stretches from Kashmir in India to Tibet. The Kailash range is named after Mount Kailash, a sacred mountain in the region that is considered holy in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Mount Kailash is located in the western part of Tibet and is a significant pilgrimage site for followers of these religions.
It is important to distinguish the Kailash range from other mountain ranges in the region. For example, the Zaskar range is a separate mountain range located in the western Himalayas, primarily in the Indian states of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. The Zaskar range is not part of the Karakoram range, and it is a common misconception to confuse these ranges.
Another common misconception is the belief that K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, is a range. K2 is actually a specific mountain peak located in the Karakoram range, not a range itself. Similarly, Annapurna, a mountain range in Nepal, is part of the Himalayas and not the Karakoram range.
Understanding the geographical layout of the Karakoram range and its sub-ranges, such as the Kailash range, is crucial for students of Indian geography and those preparing for competitive examinations that cover this topic. The Kailash range is significant not only for its geographical features but also for its cultural and religious importance in the region.