The Himalaya Hotspot is home to the world's highest mountains, including
Mt. Everest. The mountains rise abruptly, resulting in a diversity of
ecosystems that range from alluvial grasslands and subtropical broadleaf
forests to alpine meadows above the tree line. Vascular plants have
even been recorded at more than 6,000 meters. The hotspot is home to
important populations of numerous large birds and mammals, including
vultures, tigers, elephants, rhinos and wild water buffalo.
Source: Conservation International