Landscape and settlement diversity in the high himalayan regiona case study of Har Ki Dun

The high mountain settlements are often described by the diversity of their geographical spaces. This diversity is defined by differences in land use. In fact, the landscape shapes the land use and it gets shaped by the land use. The rural communities adopt a diversity of livelihood strategies and adapt the land use according to the diversity of the landscape. Therefore, every village has a diversity of landscapes with a diverse mosaic of land use. The multifunctionality of the landscape adds to the sustainability of mountain settlements. These landscapes are shaped to enhance economic possibilities or opportunities. The economic possibilities or opportunities of the mountain settlements are further enhanced by the spatial organization of settlements at different landscapes. Landscape diversity influences livelihood diversification and diversity of crop production and animal husbandry. It enhances the economic viability and sustainability of the mountain communities and also the settlements.This research presents the spatial and functional diversity of the high mountain settlements. This research also presents the relationship between landscape diversity, adaptability, in the form of land use diversity and consequent sustainability of mountain settlements. To present the relationship between spatial and functional diversity of mountain settlements it makes an intensive study of the mountain settlements of Harki Dun (Uttarakhand Himalayas).