Asia- Political | Oxford Student ATLAS: Maps & Tests - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


Asia- Political 
 
 
 
Asia: Political Map 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, captivates with its vastness and diversity. 
Covering approximately 44,444,100 square kilometers, it constitutes about 30% of 
the world's total land area and 8.7% of its surface. Boasting a population of 4.4 
billion, which accounts for 60% of the global population, Asia is a continent of 
stark contrasts in terms of geography, climate, vegetation, and cultures. In this 
article, we will delve into the regional and physical divisions of Asia, exploring its 
lowlands, mountains, plateaus, peninsulas, deserts, islands, and rich water 
resources. 
 
Page 2


Asia- Political 
 
 
 
Asia: Political Map 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, captivates with its vastness and diversity. 
Covering approximately 44,444,100 square kilometers, it constitutes about 30% of 
the world's total land area and 8.7% of its surface. Boasting a population of 4.4 
billion, which accounts for 60% of the global population, Asia is a continent of 
stark contrasts in terms of geography, climate, vegetation, and cultures. In this 
article, we will delve into the regional and physical divisions of Asia, exploring its 
lowlands, mountains, plateaus, peninsulas, deserts, islands, and rich water 
resources. 
 
Asia- Political 
 
 
I. Regional Divisions of Asia 
Asia can be categorized into six distinct physiographic divisions, each 
characterized by its unique geographical and cultural features. Let's explore these 
divisions and the countries they encompass. 
1. Central Asia 
Countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan 
Highlights: Rich cultural heritage, historical Silk Road, expansive steppe 
landscapes 
2. Eastern Asia 
Countries: China, Hong Kong, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Macau, 
Mongolia, Taiwan 
Highlights: Ancient civilizations, technological advancements, vibrant 
megacities 
3. Northern Asia 
Country: Russia 
Highlights: Pristine wilderness, vast tundra, Siberian landscapes 
4. Southeastern Asia 
Countries: Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, 
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam 
Highlights: Tropical rainforests, stunning beaches, diverse ethnicities 
5. Southern Asia 
Countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, 
Sri Lanka 
Highlights: Himalayan mountain range, sacred rivers, spiritual heritage 
6. Western Asia 
Countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, 
Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, State of Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, 
Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen 
Highlights: Ancient civilizations, deserts, cultural crossroads 
 
 
Page 3


Asia- Political 
 
 
 
Asia: Political Map 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, captivates with its vastness and diversity. 
Covering approximately 44,444,100 square kilometers, it constitutes about 30% of 
the world's total land area and 8.7% of its surface. Boasting a population of 4.4 
billion, which accounts for 60% of the global population, Asia is a continent of 
stark contrasts in terms of geography, climate, vegetation, and cultures. In this 
article, we will delve into the regional and physical divisions of Asia, exploring its 
lowlands, mountains, plateaus, peninsulas, deserts, islands, and rich water 
resources. 
 
Asia- Political 
 
 
I. Regional Divisions of Asia 
Asia can be categorized into six distinct physiographic divisions, each 
characterized by its unique geographical and cultural features. Let's explore these 
divisions and the countries they encompass. 
1. Central Asia 
Countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan 
Highlights: Rich cultural heritage, historical Silk Road, expansive steppe 
landscapes 
2. Eastern Asia 
Countries: China, Hong Kong, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Macau, 
Mongolia, Taiwan 
Highlights: Ancient civilizations, technological advancements, vibrant 
megacities 
3. Northern Asia 
Country: Russia 
Highlights: Pristine wilderness, vast tundra, Siberian landscapes 
4. Southeastern Asia 
Countries: Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, 
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam 
Highlights: Tropical rainforests, stunning beaches, diverse ethnicities 
5. Southern Asia 
Countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, 
Sri Lanka 
Highlights: Himalayan mountain range, sacred rivers, spiritual heritage 
6. Western Asia 
Countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, 
Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, State of Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, 
Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen 
Highlights: Ancient civilizations, deserts, cultural crossroads 
 
 
Asia- Political 
 
 
II. Major Physical Divisions of Asia: 
1. The Northern Lowlands 
The vast plains of Asia offer a contrast of landscapes and fertile lands that support 
agricultural activities. Some significant lowlands include: 
? Great Siberian Plain: Stretching from the Ural Mountains to the Lena River, 
it is the world's largest lowland, covering approximately 1,200,000 square 
miles. 
? Manchurian Plain: Situated in northern China, it spans an area of about 
135,000 square miles. 
? Great Plains of China: Formed by the Huang He and Yangtze rivers, it 
covers around 158,000 square miles. 
? Tigris-Euphrates plains, Ganga plains, Irrawaddy plains, and more. 
2. The Central Mountains 
Central Asia boasts prominent mountain ranges that shape its topography and 
influence its climate. The key mountain ranges include: 
? Pamir and Tian Shan Ranges: These ranges extend across several countries, 
including Afghanistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and 
Uzbekistan. They are renowned biodiversity hotspots, encompassing 
various ecosystems and habitats. 
3. The Central and Southern Plateaus 
Plateaus, characterized by elevated and flat terrains, play a vital role in Asia's 
geography. They include: 
? Tibetan Plateau: Often referred to as the "Roof of the World," it is the 
highest and largest plateau globally, situated in Central Asia. It spans an 
area of approximately 2.5 million square kilometers. 
4. Peninsulas 
Asia is home to several notable peninsulas that jut out into the surrounding seas. 
These peninsulas include: 
Page 4


Asia- Political 
 
 
 
Asia: Political Map 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, captivates with its vastness and diversity. 
Covering approximately 44,444,100 square kilometers, it constitutes about 30% of 
the world's total land area and 8.7% of its surface. Boasting a population of 4.4 
billion, which accounts for 60% of the global population, Asia is a continent of 
stark contrasts in terms of geography, climate, vegetation, and cultures. In this 
article, we will delve into the regional and physical divisions of Asia, exploring its 
lowlands, mountains, plateaus, peninsulas, deserts, islands, and rich water 
resources. 
 
Asia- Political 
 
 
I. Regional Divisions of Asia 
Asia can be categorized into six distinct physiographic divisions, each 
characterized by its unique geographical and cultural features. Let's explore these 
divisions and the countries they encompass. 
1. Central Asia 
Countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan 
Highlights: Rich cultural heritage, historical Silk Road, expansive steppe 
landscapes 
2. Eastern Asia 
Countries: China, Hong Kong, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Macau, 
Mongolia, Taiwan 
Highlights: Ancient civilizations, technological advancements, vibrant 
megacities 
3. Northern Asia 
Country: Russia 
Highlights: Pristine wilderness, vast tundra, Siberian landscapes 
4. Southeastern Asia 
Countries: Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, 
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam 
Highlights: Tropical rainforests, stunning beaches, diverse ethnicities 
5. Southern Asia 
Countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, 
Sri Lanka 
Highlights: Himalayan mountain range, sacred rivers, spiritual heritage 
6. Western Asia 
Countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, 
Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, State of Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, 
Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen 
Highlights: Ancient civilizations, deserts, cultural crossroads 
 
 
Asia- Political 
 
 
II. Major Physical Divisions of Asia: 
1. The Northern Lowlands 
The vast plains of Asia offer a contrast of landscapes and fertile lands that support 
agricultural activities. Some significant lowlands include: 
? Great Siberian Plain: Stretching from the Ural Mountains to the Lena River, 
it is the world's largest lowland, covering approximately 1,200,000 square 
miles. 
? Manchurian Plain: Situated in northern China, it spans an area of about 
135,000 square miles. 
? Great Plains of China: Formed by the Huang He and Yangtze rivers, it 
covers around 158,000 square miles. 
? Tigris-Euphrates plains, Ganga plains, Irrawaddy plains, and more. 
2. The Central Mountains 
Central Asia boasts prominent mountain ranges that shape its topography and 
influence its climate. The key mountain ranges include: 
? Pamir and Tian Shan Ranges: These ranges extend across several countries, 
including Afghanistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and 
Uzbekistan. They are renowned biodiversity hotspots, encompassing 
various ecosystems and habitats. 
3. The Central and Southern Plateaus 
Plateaus, characterized by elevated and flat terrains, play a vital role in Asia's 
geography. They include: 
? Tibetan Plateau: Often referred to as the "Roof of the World," it is the 
highest and largest plateau globally, situated in Central Asia. It spans an 
area of approximately 2.5 million square kilometers. 
4. Peninsulas 
Asia is home to several notable peninsulas that jut out into the surrounding seas. 
These peninsulas include: 
Asia- Political 
 
 
? Arabian Peninsula: Located in Western Asia, it is the largest peninsula on 
Earth, covering about 3.2 million square kilometers. It is known for its vast 
deserts, including the Rub' al Khali, and its rich historical and cultural 
significance. 
? Indochinese Peninsula: Situated in Southeastern Asia, it comprises 
countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This 
peninsula is renowned for its tropical rainforests, diverse wildlife, and 
iconic landmarks like Angkor Wat. 
? Korean Peninsula: Located in Eastern Asia, it is shared by North Korea and 
South Korea. This peninsula is known for its political division, rich history, 
and unique cultural heritage. 
5. Deserts 
Asia is home to some of the world's most expansive deserts, characterized by arid 
landscapes and extreme temperatures. Notable deserts include: 
? Gobi Desert: Located in Northern and Northeastern China, as well as 
Southern Mongolia, it is Asia's largest desert and ranks among the world's 
largest. It features vast stretches of barren terrain, sand dunes, and unique 
desert wildlife. 
? Arabian Desert: Situated on the Arabian Peninsula, it covers a vast area, 
extending across several countries including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, 
and the United Arab Emirates. This desert is known for its iconic sand 
dunes, camel caravans, and ancient trade routes. 
6. Islands 
Asia is home to numerous islands, scattered across its surrounding seas and 
oceans. Some prominent islands include: 
? Indonesian Archipelago: Comprising more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia is 
the world's largest archipelago. It is known for its stunning beaches, diverse 
marine life, and iconic destinations like Bali and Komodo Island. 
? Japanese Archipelago: Made up of thousands of islands, Japan is famous 
for its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations. From the 
Page 5


Asia- Political 
 
 
 
Asia: Political Map 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, captivates with its vastness and diversity. 
Covering approximately 44,444,100 square kilometers, it constitutes about 30% of 
the world's total land area and 8.7% of its surface. Boasting a population of 4.4 
billion, which accounts for 60% of the global population, Asia is a continent of 
stark contrasts in terms of geography, climate, vegetation, and cultures. In this 
article, we will delve into the regional and physical divisions of Asia, exploring its 
lowlands, mountains, plateaus, peninsulas, deserts, islands, and rich water 
resources. 
 
Asia- Political 
 
 
I. Regional Divisions of Asia 
Asia can be categorized into six distinct physiographic divisions, each 
characterized by its unique geographical and cultural features. Let's explore these 
divisions and the countries they encompass. 
1. Central Asia 
Countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan 
Highlights: Rich cultural heritage, historical Silk Road, expansive steppe 
landscapes 
2. Eastern Asia 
Countries: China, Hong Kong, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Macau, 
Mongolia, Taiwan 
Highlights: Ancient civilizations, technological advancements, vibrant 
megacities 
3. Northern Asia 
Country: Russia 
Highlights: Pristine wilderness, vast tundra, Siberian landscapes 
4. Southeastern Asia 
Countries: Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, 
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam 
Highlights: Tropical rainforests, stunning beaches, diverse ethnicities 
5. Southern Asia 
Countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, 
Sri Lanka 
Highlights: Himalayan mountain range, sacred rivers, spiritual heritage 
6. Western Asia 
Countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, 
Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, State of Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, 
Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen 
Highlights: Ancient civilizations, deserts, cultural crossroads 
 
 
Asia- Political 
 
 
II. Major Physical Divisions of Asia: 
1. The Northern Lowlands 
The vast plains of Asia offer a contrast of landscapes and fertile lands that support 
agricultural activities. Some significant lowlands include: 
? Great Siberian Plain: Stretching from the Ural Mountains to the Lena River, 
it is the world's largest lowland, covering approximately 1,200,000 square 
miles. 
? Manchurian Plain: Situated in northern China, it spans an area of about 
135,000 square miles. 
? Great Plains of China: Formed by the Huang He and Yangtze rivers, it 
covers around 158,000 square miles. 
? Tigris-Euphrates plains, Ganga plains, Irrawaddy plains, and more. 
2. The Central Mountains 
Central Asia boasts prominent mountain ranges that shape its topography and 
influence its climate. The key mountain ranges include: 
? Pamir and Tian Shan Ranges: These ranges extend across several countries, 
including Afghanistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and 
Uzbekistan. They are renowned biodiversity hotspots, encompassing 
various ecosystems and habitats. 
3. The Central and Southern Plateaus 
Plateaus, characterized by elevated and flat terrains, play a vital role in Asia's 
geography. They include: 
? Tibetan Plateau: Often referred to as the "Roof of the World," it is the 
highest and largest plateau globally, situated in Central Asia. It spans an 
area of approximately 2.5 million square kilometers. 
4. Peninsulas 
Asia is home to several notable peninsulas that jut out into the surrounding seas. 
These peninsulas include: 
Asia- Political 
 
 
? Arabian Peninsula: Located in Western Asia, it is the largest peninsula on 
Earth, covering about 3.2 million square kilometers. It is known for its vast 
deserts, including the Rub' al Khali, and its rich historical and cultural 
significance. 
? Indochinese Peninsula: Situated in Southeastern Asia, it comprises 
countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This 
peninsula is renowned for its tropical rainforests, diverse wildlife, and 
iconic landmarks like Angkor Wat. 
? Korean Peninsula: Located in Eastern Asia, it is shared by North Korea and 
South Korea. This peninsula is known for its political division, rich history, 
and unique cultural heritage. 
5. Deserts 
Asia is home to some of the world's most expansive deserts, characterized by arid 
landscapes and extreme temperatures. Notable deserts include: 
? Gobi Desert: Located in Northern and Northeastern China, as well as 
Southern Mongolia, it is Asia's largest desert and ranks among the world's 
largest. It features vast stretches of barren terrain, sand dunes, and unique 
desert wildlife. 
? Arabian Desert: Situated on the Arabian Peninsula, it covers a vast area, 
extending across several countries including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, 
and the United Arab Emirates. This desert is known for its iconic sand 
dunes, camel caravans, and ancient trade routes. 
6. Islands 
Asia is home to numerous islands, scattered across its surrounding seas and 
oceans. Some prominent islands include: 
? Indonesian Archipelago: Comprising more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia is 
the world's largest archipelago. It is known for its stunning beaches, diverse 
marine life, and iconic destinations like Bali and Komodo Island. 
? Japanese Archipelago: Made up of thousands of islands, Japan is famous 
for its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations. From the 
Asia- Political 
 
 
bustling city of Tokyo to the scenic landscapes of Hokkaido and Okinawa, 
Japan offers a diverse range of experiences. 
III. Water Resources 
Asia is blessed with abundant water resources, including rivers, lakes, and seas. 
Notable water bodies in Asia include: 
? Yangtze River: The longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world, it 
flows through China, offering breathtaking scenery and serving as a vital 
transportation and irrigation route. 
? Ganges River: Considered sacred by Hindus, the Ganges is one of the 
world's most significant rivers. It flows through India and Bangladesh, 
providing water for irrigation, as well as cultural and religious importance. 
? Caspian Sea: Located between Europe and Asia, the Caspian Sea is the 
world's largest inland body of water. It borders several countries, including 
Kazakhstan, Russia, Iran, and Azerbaijan, and is renowned for its unique 
ecosystem. 
Conclusion 
Asia, with its vastness and diversity, presents a world of wonders waiting to be 
explored. From the towering mountains of Central Asia to the pristine beaches of 
Southeast Asia, the continent offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and 
histories. Whether you seek adventure, spiritual enlightenment, or a glimpse into 
ancient civilizations, Asia has something to offer every traveler. Embark on a 
journey through this magnificent continent and uncover the treasures that await 
in its regional divisions, physical features, and abundant water resources.