Two large quaternary rock slope failures and their geomorphic significance, Annapurna, Himalayas (Nepal)

Abstract

This paper is a contribution to the knowledge of large-scale landslides in the Nepal Himalaya. We present two examples of giant rock slope failures that occurred north of the Annapurna Range, namely the Manang rock avalanche and Thini debris-flows. We show that they correspond most probably to seismically triggered features that have developed in connection with the North Himalayan Fault system activity during inter-stadial and post-glacial periods. Collectively with many other examples, they illustrate the fact that giant landsliding is a major process shaping and maintaining the steepness of the still rising Higher Himalaya Range.