Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and Myanmar | Oxford Student ATLAS: Maps & Tests - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan 
 
Afghanistan: A Land of Rich History, Diverse Culture, and Majestic Landscapes 
Introduction 
Afghanistan, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a 
multiethnic landlocked country situated in the heart of south-central Asia. With a 
history that spans millennia, Afghanistan has been a coveted prize for empire 
builders throughout the ages. Its strategic location along important trade routes 
connecting Asia to Europe and the Middle East has made it a focal point of great 
armies and ambitious conquerors. However, the country's formidable landscape, 
characterized by deserts and mountains, coupled with the indomitable spirit of its 
fiercely independent peoples, has thwarted many imperial ambitions. Today, 
Page 2


Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan 
 
Afghanistan: A Land of Rich History, Diverse Culture, and Majestic Landscapes 
Introduction 
Afghanistan, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a 
multiethnic landlocked country situated in the heart of south-central Asia. With a 
history that spans millennia, Afghanistan has been a coveted prize for empire 
builders throughout the ages. Its strategic location along important trade routes 
connecting Asia to Europe and the Middle East has made it a focal point of great 
armies and ambitious conquerors. However, the country's formidable landscape, 
characterized by deserts and mountains, coupled with the indomitable spirit of its 
fiercely independent peoples, has thwarted many imperial ambitions. Today, 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan stands as a patchwork of contending ethnic factions and ever-shifting 
alliances, reflecting its unique and complex identity. 
The Great Game: Shaping Modern Afghanistan 
The modern boundaries of Afghanistan were established in the late 19th century 
during a geopolitical rivalry between imperial Britain and tsarist Russia, known as 
the "Great Game." This struggle for political ideology and commercial influence 
left a lasting impact on Afghanistan's history. The country became a pawn in the 
power struggle between these two empires, which shaped its territorial 
boundaries and influenced its political landscape. 
From Soviet Occupation to Taliban Rule 
In the latter half of the 20th century, Afghanistan faced the devastating effects of 
civil war exacerbated by a military invasion and occupation by the Soviet Union 
from 1979 to 1989. The country endured a period of armed struggles, including 
the resistance of a communist regime against Islamic insurgents and the rise of 
the Taliban—a strict theocratic regime that ruled from 1996 to 2001. During this 
time, Afghanistan became entangled with international terrorist groups, most 
notably Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda organization. 
Transition to Democracy and Rebuilding 
In December 2001, following a sustained U.S.-dominated military campaign 
against the Taliban and al-Qaeda, the Taliban regime collapsed. Subsequently, 
anti-Taliban forces agreed to a period of transitional leadership, leading to the 
establishment of a democratically elected government and a new constitution. 
Afghanistan embarked on a path of rebuilding, aiming to heal the wounds of war 
and establish a stable and prosperous nation. 
The Enigmatic Capital: Kabul 
Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, stands as a testament to the resilience of its 
people. Once a serene city of mosques and gardens during the reign of Emperor 
Babur in the 16th century, Kabul has witnessed the ravages of war and conflict. 
Page 3


Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan 
 
Afghanistan: A Land of Rich History, Diverse Culture, and Majestic Landscapes 
Introduction 
Afghanistan, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a 
multiethnic landlocked country situated in the heart of south-central Asia. With a 
history that spans millennia, Afghanistan has been a coveted prize for empire 
builders throughout the ages. Its strategic location along important trade routes 
connecting Asia to Europe and the Middle East has made it a focal point of great 
armies and ambitious conquerors. However, the country's formidable landscape, 
characterized by deserts and mountains, coupled with the indomitable spirit of its 
fiercely independent peoples, has thwarted many imperial ambitions. Today, 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan stands as a patchwork of contending ethnic factions and ever-shifting 
alliances, reflecting its unique and complex identity. 
The Great Game: Shaping Modern Afghanistan 
The modern boundaries of Afghanistan were established in the late 19th century 
during a geopolitical rivalry between imperial Britain and tsarist Russia, known as 
the "Great Game." This struggle for political ideology and commercial influence 
left a lasting impact on Afghanistan's history. The country became a pawn in the 
power struggle between these two empires, which shaped its territorial 
boundaries and influenced its political landscape. 
From Soviet Occupation to Taliban Rule 
In the latter half of the 20th century, Afghanistan faced the devastating effects of 
civil war exacerbated by a military invasion and occupation by the Soviet Union 
from 1979 to 1989. The country endured a period of armed struggles, including 
the resistance of a communist regime against Islamic insurgents and the rise of 
the Taliban—a strict theocratic regime that ruled from 1996 to 2001. During this 
time, Afghanistan became entangled with international terrorist groups, most 
notably Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda organization. 
Transition to Democracy and Rebuilding 
In December 2001, following a sustained U.S.-dominated military campaign 
against the Taliban and al-Qaeda, the Taliban regime collapsed. Subsequently, 
anti-Taliban forces agreed to a period of transitional leadership, leading to the 
establishment of a democratically elected government and a new constitution. 
Afghanistan embarked on a path of rebuilding, aiming to heal the wounds of war 
and establish a stable and prosperous nation. 
The Enigmatic Capital: Kabul 
Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, stands as a testament to the resilience of its 
people. Once a serene city of mosques and gardens during the reign of Emperor 
Babur in the 16th century, Kabul has witnessed the ravages of war and conflict. 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Despite its tumultuous history, the city remains a cultural and economic hub, 
striving to regain its former glory as it rebuilds from the ashes of destruction. 
The Geographical Splendor of Afghanistan 
Afghanistan's geographical landscape is as diverse as its people. Completely 
landlocked, the country is roughly twice the size of Norway and is surrounded by 
Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. Its striking shape 
has been compared to a leaf, with the Hindu Kush mountain range serving as its 
prominent feature. This formidable range, along with subsidiary ranges, divides 
Afghanistan into three distinct geographic regions: the central highlands, the 
northern plains, and the southwestern plateau. 
? The Central Highlands: A Region of Majestic Peaks and Valleys 
The central highlands form part of the Himalayan chain and encompass the 
main Hindu Kush range. This region, covering approximately 160,000 
square miles, boasts deep valleys and lofty mountains, with some peaks 
soaring above 21,000 feet. High mountain passes, such as the storied 
Khyber Pass, have played significant strategic roles throughout history, 
shaping the course of trade and political interactions. 
? The Northern Plains: Fertile Landscapes and Rich Mineral Resources 
North of the central highlands lies the northern plains region, extending 
eastward from the Iranian border to the foothills of the Pamirs. This area, 
spanning around 40,000 square miles, is characterized by plains and fertile 
foothills that gently slope towards the Amu Darya River. Intensively 
cultivated and densely populated, the northern plains are home to rich 
mineral resources, including deposits of natural gas. 
? The Southwestern Plateau: A Desert Wonderland 
To the south of the central highlands lies the southwestern plateau, 
encompassing high plateaus, sandy deserts, and semideserts. Covering 
approximately 50,000 square miles, this region includes the sandy Rigestan 
and the desolate Margow Desert. Several significant rivers, such as the 
Page 4


Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan 
 
Afghanistan: A Land of Rich History, Diverse Culture, and Majestic Landscapes 
Introduction 
Afghanistan, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a 
multiethnic landlocked country situated in the heart of south-central Asia. With a 
history that spans millennia, Afghanistan has been a coveted prize for empire 
builders throughout the ages. Its strategic location along important trade routes 
connecting Asia to Europe and the Middle East has made it a focal point of great 
armies and ambitious conquerors. However, the country's formidable landscape, 
characterized by deserts and mountains, coupled with the indomitable spirit of its 
fiercely independent peoples, has thwarted many imperial ambitions. Today, 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan stands as a patchwork of contending ethnic factions and ever-shifting 
alliances, reflecting its unique and complex identity. 
The Great Game: Shaping Modern Afghanistan 
The modern boundaries of Afghanistan were established in the late 19th century 
during a geopolitical rivalry between imperial Britain and tsarist Russia, known as 
the "Great Game." This struggle for political ideology and commercial influence 
left a lasting impact on Afghanistan's history. The country became a pawn in the 
power struggle between these two empires, which shaped its territorial 
boundaries and influenced its political landscape. 
From Soviet Occupation to Taliban Rule 
In the latter half of the 20th century, Afghanistan faced the devastating effects of 
civil war exacerbated by a military invasion and occupation by the Soviet Union 
from 1979 to 1989. The country endured a period of armed struggles, including 
the resistance of a communist regime against Islamic insurgents and the rise of 
the Taliban—a strict theocratic regime that ruled from 1996 to 2001. During this 
time, Afghanistan became entangled with international terrorist groups, most 
notably Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda organization. 
Transition to Democracy and Rebuilding 
In December 2001, following a sustained U.S.-dominated military campaign 
against the Taliban and al-Qaeda, the Taliban regime collapsed. Subsequently, 
anti-Taliban forces agreed to a period of transitional leadership, leading to the 
establishment of a democratically elected government and a new constitution. 
Afghanistan embarked on a path of rebuilding, aiming to heal the wounds of war 
and establish a stable and prosperous nation. 
The Enigmatic Capital: Kabul 
Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, stands as a testament to the resilience of its 
people. Once a serene city of mosques and gardens during the reign of Emperor 
Babur in the 16th century, Kabul has witnessed the ravages of war and conflict. 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Despite its tumultuous history, the city remains a cultural and economic hub, 
striving to regain its former glory as it rebuilds from the ashes of destruction. 
The Geographical Splendor of Afghanistan 
Afghanistan's geographical landscape is as diverse as its people. Completely 
landlocked, the country is roughly twice the size of Norway and is surrounded by 
Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. Its striking shape 
has been compared to a leaf, with the Hindu Kush mountain range serving as its 
prominent feature. This formidable range, along with subsidiary ranges, divides 
Afghanistan into three distinct geographic regions: the central highlands, the 
northern plains, and the southwestern plateau. 
? The Central Highlands: A Region of Majestic Peaks and Valleys 
The central highlands form part of the Himalayan chain and encompass the 
main Hindu Kush range. This region, covering approximately 160,000 
square miles, boasts deep valleys and lofty mountains, with some peaks 
soaring above 21,000 feet. High mountain passes, such as the storied 
Khyber Pass, have played significant strategic roles throughout history, 
shaping the course of trade and political interactions. 
? The Northern Plains: Fertile Landscapes and Rich Mineral Resources 
North of the central highlands lies the northern plains region, extending 
eastward from the Iranian border to the foothills of the Pamirs. This area, 
spanning around 40,000 square miles, is characterized by plains and fertile 
foothills that gently slope towards the Amu Darya River. Intensively 
cultivated and densely populated, the northern plains are home to rich 
mineral resources, including deposits of natural gas. 
? The Southwestern Plateau: A Desert Wonderland 
To the south of the central highlands lies the southwestern plateau, 
encompassing high plateaus, sandy deserts, and semideserts. Covering 
approximately 50,000 square miles, this region includes the sandy Rigestan 
and the desolate Margow Desert. Several significant rivers, such as the 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Helmand River, traverse this area, which is also known for its unique flora 
and fauna adapted to arid conditions. 
Conclusion 
Afghanistan's intricate history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes make 
it a country of immense intrigue and beauty. From the echoes of ancient 
civilizations to the scars of recent conflicts, Afghanistan continues to evolve, 
striving for stability and progress. As the nation forges ahead, it remains a 
testament to the indomitable spirit and resilience of its people. 
Bhutan 
 
Discover the Enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan: A Visual Journey 
Introduction 
Welcome to the mesmerizing Kingdom of Bhutan, also known as Druk Yul - the 
Land of Thunder Dragon. Nestled amidst the southern slopes of the majestic 
Page 5


Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan 
 
Afghanistan: A Land of Rich History, Diverse Culture, and Majestic Landscapes 
Introduction 
Afghanistan, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a 
multiethnic landlocked country situated in the heart of south-central Asia. With a 
history that spans millennia, Afghanistan has been a coveted prize for empire 
builders throughout the ages. Its strategic location along important trade routes 
connecting Asia to Europe and the Middle East has made it a focal point of great 
armies and ambitious conquerors. However, the country's formidable landscape, 
characterized by deserts and mountains, coupled with the indomitable spirit of its 
fiercely independent peoples, has thwarted many imperial ambitions. Today, 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Afghanistan stands as a patchwork of contending ethnic factions and ever-shifting 
alliances, reflecting its unique and complex identity. 
The Great Game: Shaping Modern Afghanistan 
The modern boundaries of Afghanistan were established in the late 19th century 
during a geopolitical rivalry between imperial Britain and tsarist Russia, known as 
the "Great Game." This struggle for political ideology and commercial influence 
left a lasting impact on Afghanistan's history. The country became a pawn in the 
power struggle between these two empires, which shaped its territorial 
boundaries and influenced its political landscape. 
From Soviet Occupation to Taliban Rule 
In the latter half of the 20th century, Afghanistan faced the devastating effects of 
civil war exacerbated by a military invasion and occupation by the Soviet Union 
from 1979 to 1989. The country endured a period of armed struggles, including 
the resistance of a communist regime against Islamic insurgents and the rise of 
the Taliban—a strict theocratic regime that ruled from 1996 to 2001. During this 
time, Afghanistan became entangled with international terrorist groups, most 
notably Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda organization. 
Transition to Democracy and Rebuilding 
In December 2001, following a sustained U.S.-dominated military campaign 
against the Taliban and al-Qaeda, the Taliban regime collapsed. Subsequently, 
anti-Taliban forces agreed to a period of transitional leadership, leading to the 
establishment of a democratically elected government and a new constitution. 
Afghanistan embarked on a path of rebuilding, aiming to heal the wounds of war 
and establish a stable and prosperous nation. 
The Enigmatic Capital: Kabul 
Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, stands as a testament to the resilience of its 
people. Once a serene city of mosques and gardens during the reign of Emperor 
Babur in the 16th century, Kabul has witnessed the ravages of war and conflict. 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Despite its tumultuous history, the city remains a cultural and economic hub, 
striving to regain its former glory as it rebuilds from the ashes of destruction. 
The Geographical Splendor of Afghanistan 
Afghanistan's geographical landscape is as diverse as its people. Completely 
landlocked, the country is roughly twice the size of Norway and is surrounded by 
Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. Its striking shape 
has been compared to a leaf, with the Hindu Kush mountain range serving as its 
prominent feature. This formidable range, along with subsidiary ranges, divides 
Afghanistan into three distinct geographic regions: the central highlands, the 
northern plains, and the southwestern plateau. 
? The Central Highlands: A Region of Majestic Peaks and Valleys 
The central highlands form part of the Himalayan chain and encompass the 
main Hindu Kush range. This region, covering approximately 160,000 
square miles, boasts deep valleys and lofty mountains, with some peaks 
soaring above 21,000 feet. High mountain passes, such as the storied 
Khyber Pass, have played significant strategic roles throughout history, 
shaping the course of trade and political interactions. 
? The Northern Plains: Fertile Landscapes and Rich Mineral Resources 
North of the central highlands lies the northern plains region, extending 
eastward from the Iranian border to the foothills of the Pamirs. This area, 
spanning around 40,000 square miles, is characterized by plains and fertile 
foothills that gently slope towards the Amu Darya River. Intensively 
cultivated and densely populated, the northern plains are home to rich 
mineral resources, including deposits of natural gas. 
? The Southwestern Plateau: A Desert Wonderland 
To the south of the central highlands lies the southwestern plateau, 
encompassing high plateaus, sandy deserts, and semideserts. Covering 
approximately 50,000 square miles, this region includes the sandy Rigestan 
and the desolate Margow Desert. Several significant rivers, such as the 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
Helmand River, traverse this area, which is also known for its unique flora 
and fauna adapted to arid conditions. 
Conclusion 
Afghanistan's intricate history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes make 
it a country of immense intrigue and beauty. From the echoes of ancient 
civilizations to the scars of recent conflicts, Afghanistan continues to evolve, 
striving for stability and progress. As the nation forges ahead, it remains a 
testament to the indomitable spirit and resilience of its people. 
Bhutan 
 
Discover the Enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan: A Visual Journey 
Introduction 
Welcome to the mesmerizing Kingdom of Bhutan, also known as Druk Yul - the 
Land of Thunder Dragon. Nestled amidst the southern slopes of the majestic 
Afghanistan, Bhutan , Pakistan and 
Myanmar 
 
 
eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a landlocked country that captivates visitors with its 
awe-inspiring landscapes, rich biodiversity, and preserved cultural heritage. In this 
article, we will embark on a visual journey through Bhutan, exploring its diverse 
regions, highest peaks, charming towns, and administrative districts. Join us as we 
uncover the hidden treasures of this enchanting kingdom. 
Bhutan's Geographic Splendor 
Bhutan's map reveals a country of remarkable natural beauty and geographical 
diversity. With an area of 38,394 km², Bhutan is slightly smaller than Switzerland 
or about half the size of the US state of Indiana. Its landscape is predominantly 
mountainous, adorned with fertile valleys that offer a pristine environment and 
an abundance of flora and fauna. Let's delve into Bhutan's three major regions: 
? The Southern Dooars and Alluvial Plains: Along Bhutan's southern border 
lies the Dooars (Duar), a region characterized by the outer foothills of the 
Himalayas. Here, the Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands stretch as a narrow 
strip, forming part of the subtropical and tropical alluvial floodplains of the 
Ganges-Brahmaputra lowlands, known as the Indo-Gangetic Plain. 
? The Sub-Himalayan Range: To the north of the plains, Bhutan's landscape 
rises steeply, dominated by the towering mountains of the Sub-Himalayan 
Range. This region boasts one of the most rugged mountain terrains in the 
world, with ranges ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 meters in height. The sub-
alpine Himalayan region (Outer Himalaya) is the primary settlement area in 
Bhutan, showcasing the harmonious coexistence between nature and 
human habitation. 
? The High Mountain Region: Stretching south from the border with Tibet, 
the high mountain region unfolds with its grandeur. Within this majestic 
landscape, hundreds of unnamed, unmapped, and unclimbed peaks await 
discovery. The crown jewel of Bhutan's mountains is the magnificent 
Gangkhar Puensum, standing at a staggering elevation of 7,570 meters 
(24,836 feet). This awe-inspiring peak is considered the highest unclimbed 
mountain in the world, proudly guarding the kingdom's northern frontier.