Geological Features of Northwestern Himalaya, Ladakh, India: Geosites and Their Significance in the Ladakh Himalaya

Geoheritage and geotourism are the two essential aspects of human appreciation of the Earth's geological resources. Ladakh Himalaya has fascinating and exquisite landforms and landscapes. The area of interest in the present study is located along the Indus Tsangpo Suture Zone (ITSZ), caused by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. In the context of diverse geology, structure, topography, tectonic history, and climatic variability, there is an immense diversity of landforms (geodiversity) in the Ladakh region. The region has always attracted tourists/geoscientists from all over the world because of its unique culture, language, religion, geology, and others. Researchers have identified various geoheritage sites, including structural features, lacustrine lake deposits, geothermal hot springs, semi-precious minerals, etc. The protection and preservation of these geoheritage sites in Ladakh Himalaya are essential to promote geotourism and sustainable growth. The proposed sites need to be conserved as needs of the people living in the region. The present study identifies various geosites related to sedimentary (lacustrine deposits), high-grade metamorphic rocks, intrusives rocks and minerals of igneous origin etc. from the northwestern to southeastern Ladakh Himalaya based on their unique geological features and significance. Besides geological aspects, these geosites in Ladakh are habited with diverse flora and fauna which makes it more significant for preservation. A detailed evaluation of these geosites is established based on the extensive field investigation and literature review. The present study involves the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to these geoheritage sites and emphasizes the importance of its recognition and geoconservation. The proposed geosites are facing serious challenges of its destruction due to anthropogenic activities, unsustainable growth of tourism, lack of public awareness, and non-involvement of any governmental agencies for its protection and conservation has put continuous pressure on the sensitive and fragile ecology of geosites in Ladakh and causing environmental and socio-cultural impact.