This small, common terrestrial orchid was shot in Khalya alpine zone near Munsyari (Uttarakhand).

It is closer toHerminium macrophyllum but in the species lip is described as crenulate on the lateral margin. However, in these specimens the character is not visible.

The first picture also shows an interesting ecological aspect... facilitation. This plant has taken refugia in the dense cushion/ compact shrub of Cotoneaster, thus, remains more protected from grazing animals. This aspect of facilitation in alpine zones is visible in many species but there is a dearth of scientific studies in the Himalaya.