- 1. Gonbo Rangjon and Shinko La are significant features in the Zanskar region of Ladakh. These locations are renowned for their challenging trekking routes and breathtaking landscapes. Which of the following describes the primary characteristic of Gonbo Rangjon?
A) A prominent peak and monastery
B) A historic trade route
C) A bustling market town
D) A vast glacial lake
- 2. Shinko La is a high mountain pass connecting Zanskar with another region. What is the approximate altitude of Shinko La?
A) Exactly 4000 meters
B) Below 3000 meters
C) Around 2000 meters
D) Over 5000 meters
- 3. The region of Zanskar is known for its remote and rugged terrain. What is the main geographical characteristic of Zanskar Valley?
A) Coastal plains
B) Volcanic island chain
C) Tropical rainforest
D) High-altitude desert valley
- 4. Gonbo Rangjon is often visited by pilgrims and trekkers. What is the spiritual significance associated with Gonbo Rangjon?
A) Ancient burial ground
B) Site of a major battle
C) Location of a rare mineral deposit
D) Sacred mountain and monastic site
- 5. The trek to and through Zanskar often involves crossing challenging passes. Shinko La is one such pass. Which of the following is a common challenge encountered when crossing Shinko La?
A) Heavy traffic and road construction
B) Swampy terrain and mosquitoes
C) High altitude and potential snow
D) Dense jungle vegetation
- 6. The Zanskar River plays a crucial role in the landscape and life of the region. What is a notable characteristic of the Zanskar River, especially in winter?
A) It becomes a raging waterfall
B) It freezes over, forming the Chadar Trek route
C) It flows underground
D) It dries up completely
- 7. Gonbo Rangjon is visually striking due to its shape. What is Gonbo Rangjon often compared to in appearance?
A) A rounded hill
B) A jagged mountain range
C) A flat-topped mesa
D) A conical peak
- 8. Access to Zanskar and its remote areas is often limited. Which of the following is the most common mode of transport for reaching Zanskar?
A) Jeep or trekking
B) Commercial airliner
C) Ferry boat
D) High-speed train
- 9. Shinko La is a gateway to or from Zanskar. What is the geographical significance of Shinko La as a connection point?
A) Connects Zanskar with Kashmir Valley
B) Connects Zanskar with Lahaul and Spiti
C) Connects Zanskar with Tibet
D) Connects Zanskar with the Indian plains
- 10. The monasteries in Zanskar, often found near peaks like Gonbo Rangjon, are important cultural and religious centers. What is the primary religious tradition of these monasteries?
A) Sikhism
B) Islam
C) Tibetan Buddhism
D) Hinduism
- 11. The climate in Zanskar, especially around Gonbo Rangjon and Shinko La, is harsh. What are the typical weather conditions experienced for a significant part of the year?
A) Temperate with mild winters
B) Tropical with constant rainfall
C) Cold and arid with heavy snowfall
D) Hot and humid with monsoon rains
- 12. Treks involving Shinko La are often considered challenging expeditions. What is a key preparation required for such treks?
A) Navigation with a compass and sextant
B) Acclimatization to high altitude
C) Carrying a large supply of fresh water
D) Vaccinations for tropical diseases
- 13. Gonbo Rangjon is a natural landmark that also holds religious importance. The name 'Gonbo Rangjon' itself often refers to its visual characteristic. What does it translate to or imply?
A) A barren desert
B) A dangerous pass
C) A flowing river
D) A sacred or beautiful peak
- 14. The Zanskar region is known for its unique way of life, influenced by its isolation. What is a common agricultural practice in Zanskar due to the short growing season?
A) Cultivation of hardy crops like barley
B) Extensive cattle ranching
C) Orchard cultivation of fruits
D) Large-scale rice farming
- 15. Shinko La, being a high mountain pass, is subject to seasonal closure. When is Shinko La typically impassable due to snow?
A) During the winter months
B) During the monsoon season
C) Only during summer thunderstorms
D) It is always open
- 16. The landscape around Gonbo Rangjon is often described as stark and majestic. What type of vegetation is typically found in this high-altitude environment?
A) Dense coniferous forests
B) Lush meadows with wildflowers
C) Tropical rainforest flora
D) Sparse alpine vegetation and scrub
- 17. The Zanskar Valley is home to several ancient monasteries. Which of these is a famous monastery located in the Zanskar region, often associated with the area near Gonbo Rangjon?
A) Lamayuru Monastery
B) Phuktal Monastery
C) Thiksey Monastery
D) Hemis Monastery
- 18. The journey through Shinko La offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. What type of geological formations are dominant in this area?
A) High Himalayan ranges and arid mountains
B) Rolling hills and fertile valleys
C) Volcanic craters and lava fields
D) Coastal cliffs and beaches
- 19. Gonbo Rangjon is not just a geographical feature but also a focal point for local culture. What is a common activity for people visiting Gonbo Rangjon?
A) Shopping for souvenirs
B) Attending music festivals
C) Pilgrimage and circumambulation
D) Scuba diving
- 20. The Zanskar region is often referred to as a 'hidden kingdom'. What is the primary reason for this moniker?
A) Its remote location and inaccessibility
B) Its large population
C) Its extensive road network
D) Its proximity to major cities
- 21. Shinko La is a pass that requires significant trekking effort. What kind of terrain is typically encountered on the approaches to Shinko La?
A) Sandy deserts
B) Rocky trails and scree slopes
C) Paved roads and highways
D) Dense forests
- 22. Gonbo Rangjon's silhouette is iconic. What does its distinctive shape make it a prominent landmark for?
A) A historical marker
B) Navigation for trekkers and locals
C) An astronomical observatory
D) A weather forecasting station
- 23. The Zanskar River, which is central to the region, is a tributary of which larger river system?
A) Narmada River
B) Brahmaputra River
C) Ganges River
D) Indus River
- 24. The Chadar Trek, which utilizes the frozen Zanskar River, is a famous winter expedition. What is the main reason for its popularity?
A) Opportunity for water sports
B) Access to hot springs
C) Unique experience of walking on a frozen river
D) Abundant wildlife sightings
- 25. When trekking over Shinko La, what essential item should trekkers carry to cope with the thin air?
A) Sunscreen lotion
B) Insect repellent
C) Oxygen cylinders or supplement
D) Binoculars
|