Differentiation between Eastern and Western Ghats

Eastern and Western Ghats are two mountain ranges located in India. While they share some similarities, they also possess distinct features that set them apart. Let's delve into the details of each mountain range and explore their contrasting characteristics.

1. Location:
- Eastern Ghats: These mountains extend along the eastern coast of India, running parallel to the Bay of Bengal. They span across the states of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and parts of Karnataka.
- Western Ghats: Situated along the western coast of India, the Western Ghats run parallel to the Arabian Sea. They traverse through the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

2. Size and Length:
- Eastern Ghats: The Eastern Ghats are relatively shorter compared to the Western Ghats, extending for about 1,750 kilometers.
- Western Ghats: The Western Ghats are longer and more extensive, covering approximately 1,600 kilometers and stretching from Gujarat to Tamil Nadu.

3. Elevation:
- Eastern Ghats: These mountains have an average elevation of around 600 to 900 meters. The highest peak in the Eastern Ghats is Jindhagada Peak in Andhra Pradesh, reaching an altitude of 1,690 meters.
- Western Ghats: The Western Ghats are higher in elevation, with an average height ranging from 900 to 1,500 meters. The highest peak in the Western Ghats is Anamudi in Kerala, standing at an impressive 2,695 meters above sea level.

4. Biodiversity:
- Eastern Ghats: The Eastern Ghats are known for their rich biodiversity, hosting a variety of flora and fauna. They are home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Simlipal National Park and the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve.
- Western Ghats: The Western Ghats are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their unparalleled biodiversity. This mountain range houses numerous endemic species, including the endangered Nilgiri tahr and lion-tailed macaque. It encompasses several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Silent Valley National Park and the Periyar Tiger Reserve.

5. Climate:
- Eastern Ghats: The Eastern Ghats experience a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot summers and heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The region receives precipitation from the southwest and northeast monsoons.
- Western Ghats: The Western Ghats have a diverse climate due to their extensive length. They receive heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon, resulting in lush forests and several rivers. The western slopes of the Western Ghats are one of the wettest regions in India, while the eastern slopes are relatively drier.

6. Geological Formation:
- Eastern Ghats: The Eastern Ghats are primarily composed of sedimentary rocks, such as sandstone and shale. They were formed during the Precambrian era around 1.7 billion years ago.
- Western Ghats: The Western Ghats are older and have a more complex geological history. They consist of a mixture of ancient rocks, including granites, gneisses, and basaltic lava flows. The range was formed due to tectonic activity and volcanic eruptions over millions

Eastern ghats nearer to coriander coast and western ghats nearer to Malabar coast.