Physical Features of India - Chapter 2 Geography NCERT Class 9

India is a vast country with diverse physical features. It covers an area of 3.28 million square kilometers and is bounded by the Himalayas in the north, the Arabian Sea in the west, the Bay of Bengal in the east, and the Indian Ocean in the south. In this article, we will discuss the physical features of India in detail.

The Himalayan Mountains

The Himalayan Mountains are the highest mountain range in the world. They stretch from the Indus River in the west to the Brahmaputra River in the east, covering a distance of about 2,400 km. The Himalayas are home to many of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest, K2, and Kangchenjunga.

The Northern Plains

The Northern Plains are a vast alluvial plain that stretches from the foothills of the Himalayas to the southern peninsula. They are formed by the deposition of sediments brought down by the rivers originating in the Himalayas. The Ganga and the Brahmaputra are the two major rivers that flow through the Northern Plains.

The Peninsular Plateau

The Peninsular Plateau is a large plateau that covers most of the southern peninsula of India. It is bounded by the Eastern Ghats, the Western Ghats, and the Satpura Range. The plateau is rich in mineral resources and is home to many important cities, including Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai.

The Indian Desert

The Indian Desert is a large arid region that covers the western part of Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat and Haryana. It is one of the most inhospitable regions in India, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C in the summer months.

The Coastal Plains

India has two major coastal plains - the Western Coastal Plain and the Eastern Coastal Plain. The Western Coastal Plain is a narrow strip of land that runs along the Arabian Sea, while the Eastern Coastal Plain is a wider strip of land that runs along the Bay of Bengal.

The Islands

India has two major island groups - the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal and the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to many indigenous tribes, while the Lakshadweep Islands are known for their pristine beaches and coral reefs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India is a country with diverse physical features. From the towering Himalayan Mountains in the north to the pristine beaches of the Lakshadweep Islands in the south, India has something to offer for everyone. Understanding the physical features of India is essential for anyone who wants to understand the country's geography and culture.