Indian Geography Basics

Study Notes

The Himalayan mountain range runs along India's northern border
The Karakoram range is located in the north-eastern part of India
The Eastern Ghats and Western Ghats run along the eastern and western coasts of India, respectively

The Indo-Gangetic Plain lies between the Himalayas and the Deccan Plateau
The Indo-Gangetic Plain is divided into two parts:
1. The Ganges-Brahmaputra delta in the east
2. The Punjab-Haryana plain in the west
The Deccan Plateau covers most of central and southern India

The Himalayan range forms the northern boundary of India, featuring some of the highest peaks in the world.
The Karakoram range stretches in the north-eastern region of India, containing notable mountain heights.
Eastern Ghats and Western Ghats are mountain ranges that run parallel to the eastern and western coasts of India, respectively, influencing climate and biodiversity.

The Indo-Gangetic Plain is a vast alluvial region lying between the Himalayas and the Deccan Plateau, crucial for agriculture.
The Indo-Gangetic Plain is split into two sections: the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta in the east, known for its rich sediment and fertile land, and the Punjab-Haryana plain in the west, significant for its agricultural productivity.
The Deccan Plateau occupies a substantial part of central and southern India, characterized by its distinct volcanic rock formations.

The Deccan Plateau is recognized as a volcanic plateau, forming due to volcanic activity and erosion.
The Chota Nagpur Plateau, situated in eastern India, is rich in mineral resources and is known for its unique topography.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, comprise an archipelago famous for its diverse ecosystems.
The Lakshadweep Islands, situated in the Arabian Sea, are known for their coral atolls and vibrant marine life.

The Thar Desert, found in northwestern India, is characterized by its arid landscape and unique ecological features.

The Ganges River is one of the longest rivers in India, venerated in Indian culture and crucial for agriculture and religion.
The Brahmaputra River flows through northeastern India, renowned for its size and fertile plains along its banks.
The Indus River, flowing in northwestern India, is essential for irrigation and the historical development of civilizations.
The Godavari River, running through central India, is often referred to as the 'Ganges of the South' due to its significance.
The Krishna River flows in southern India, fostering agricultural regions along its course.

India boasts over 7,500 km of coastline, significant for trade, tourism, and fishing.
The Bay of Bengal lies to the east, playing a key role in maritime activities.
The Arabian Sea is positioned to the west, essential for shipping routes and trade connections.
The Indian Ocean is located to the south, providing vast marine resources and strategic advantages.