Rock glaciers are distinct geomorphological structures consisting of debris, unconsolidated rock and ice. They are downward creeping masses with distinctive lobe-like structures. Rock Glaciers are known as a proxy for permafrost, the ground that remains frozen (below 0°C) for at least two consecutive years.

In India, very little study has been undertaken to identify these rock glaciers in relation to mapping the area under permafrost. In the Himachal Pradesh state of India, 90% of the area has a mountainous terrain, with 10% covered by Glaciers and snow. The high elevation and climatic conditions allow the presence of rock glaciers in this region. A rock glacier inventory was prepared earlier in 2019 by identifying 516 rock glaciers in Himachal Pradesh. In this study, we have updated the rock glacier inventory by identifying 1,034 rock glaciers using high‑resolution satellite data available on Google Earth. The rock glaciers are classified into active and relict categories as well as based on their origin as talus or glacier derived. These rock glaciers are typically found between 3800 m < elevation < 5000 m msl.

We have employed several parameters such as slope, aspect, and elevation produced from TanDEM digital elevation model and MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) land surface temperature data to further analyze rock glaciers and prepare a probable permafrost distribution map of Himachal Pradesh. We have used logistic regression model to calculate the probable permafrost distribution. This inventory can further analyze and monitor the spatial distribution and evolution of permafrost in Himachal Pradesh.