**Altitude as the Cause of Climatic Difference in Agra and Darjeeling**

**Introduction:**
The climate of a particular region is influenced by various factors, including latitude, altitude, distance from the sea, and geographical features such as mountains. In the case of Agra and Darjeeling, the primary cause of climatic difference is the difference in altitude.

**Altitude and Climate:**
Altitude refers to the height or elevation of a place above sea level. As altitude changes, it has a direct impact on the climate of a region. The higher the altitude, the lower the temperature tends to be. This is because as we go higher in the atmosphere, the air becomes thinner, and there is less pressure. Consequently, the air can hold less heat, leading to a decrease in temperature.

**Agra:**
Agra is located in the northern part of India, close to the Tropic of Cancer. It is situated at a relatively low altitude of around 169 meters (554 feet) above sea level. Due to its low altitude, Agra experiences a hot semi-arid climate. The summers are scorching with temperatures often reaching above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The winters are relatively mild, with temperatures ranging between 8 to 24 degrees Celsius (46 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit).

**Darjeeling:**
On the other hand, Darjeeling is a town in the Indian state of West Bengal, located in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. It is situated at a significantly higher altitude, ranging from 2,000 to 2,700 meters (6,500 to 8,900 feet) above sea level. As a result, Darjeeling enjoys a temperate climate. The temperatures in Darjeeling are generally mild, with average summer temperatures ranging between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, the winter temperatures can drop below freezing, with occasional snowfall.

**Impact of Altitude:**
The difference in altitude between Agra and Darjeeling plays a crucial role in the variation of their climates. The higher altitude of Darjeeling allows it to be cooler compared to the lower-lying Agra. The decrease in temperature with increasing altitude is a characteristic feature of mountainous regions. The presence of the Himalayan Mountains further enhances this effect in Darjeeling.

**Conclusion:**
In conclusion, the primary cause of climatic difference between Agra and Darjeeling is the variation in altitude. While Agra, with its lower altitude, experiences a hot semi-arid climate, Darjeeling, situated at a higher altitude and in the foothills of the Himalayas, enjoys a temperate climate with milder temperatures. Understanding the impact of altitude on climate helps us comprehend the diverse climatic conditions found in different regions of the world.