(i) The Himalayas form a climatic barrier separating the Indian subcontinent from the rest of Asia. They prevent the cold Siberian winds from entering the Indian region and from India becoming a cold desert.
(ii) During the South West Monsoon season, the Himalayas play an important role in determining the amount of rainfall received by several places in the country. They act as a barrier to the South West Monsoon winds coming from the Indian Ocean. These winds when strike the mountains bring rainfall to the northern plains.