Geographical Diversity of India Class 7 Notes Social Science Chapter 1

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Class 7 Geographical Diversity of India Notes

Class 7 SST Chapter 1 Geographical Diversity of India Notes

Class 7 SST Chapter 1 Notes – Geographical Diversity of India Notes Class 7

→ The word ‘Himalaya’ comes from two Sanskrit words-hima (snow) and alaya (home), meaning ‘the abode of snow.’

→ In summer, melted snow from the Himalayas flows into the major rivers like the Ganga, Indus and Brahmaputra. These rivers provide

→ water for drinking, farming, and industries. That’s why the Himalayas are called the Water Tower of Asia.
The mountains are considered sacred because they are home to temples and monasteries, which attract monks and spiritual seekers from various places.

→ A long time ago, India was part of larger landmass known as Gondwana, next to Africa. Then, it broke off and slowly moved to North. Around 50 million years ago, it reached the Eurasian landmass and collided. This collision made the land rise and form the Himalayan mountains.

→ India moves 5 cm into Asia every year, causing the Himalayas to rise about 5 mm annually. Over 1,000 years, they grow approximately 5 metres taller. The Himalayas are categorised into three ranges such as.

→ The Himadri (Greater Himalayas) is the tallest and roughest mountain range with peaks like Mount Everest (8848.86 m) and Kanchenjunga.

→ The Himachal (Lower Himalayas) lies South of the Greater Himalayas and has a moderate climate. It is Famous for hill stations like Nainital, Darjeeling, and Mussoorie.

→ The Shivalik Hills (Outer Himalayas) form the outermost and lowest range, with rolling hills and dense forests. These foothills are rich in wildlife and act as a transitional zone between the Himalayas and the Gangetic Plains (also called the Northern Plains).

→ Ladakh is the coldest desert in India with temperatures dropping below -30°C and very little rainfall. It has rocky terrain, deep valleys and lakes like Pangong Tso.

→ The terrain here looks similar to the surface of the moon, which is why it is often referred to as moonland.

→ This terrain was formed when the Indian landmass collided with Eurasia, causing the land to fold and rise into mountains. This folded area was once part of an ocean, that is the reason the rocks here are mainly made of sand and clay.

→ Despite its harsh climate, Ladakh is home to rare wildlife such as snow leopards, ibex and Tibetan antelopes.

→ The people of Ladakh live a simple lifestyle, and the region is famous for its ancient monasteries and vibrant festivals like Losar and the Hemis festival.

→ The Gangetic Plains, located in South of the Himalayas, are fertile and have played a key role in India’s history and civilisation.

→ They are enriched by rivers like the Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra, which bring minerals to the soil, making it perfect for farming.

→ For centuries, these rivers have been used for trade and travel. These rivers are also a source for generating electricity.

→ The flat land in this region has allowed for the development of extensive road and railway networks.

→ A large number of people live in Gangetic plains.

→ Name the longest river of India and where it originates.

→ Name one wildlife animal which is found in Ladakh.

→ Kath-kuni and dhajji-dewari are traditional house construction styles of which region?

→ Sand dunes are formed when wind shift and shapes the sand into hills like formation.

→ The Thar Desert spans across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab and Haryana and has hot temperatures, making life difficult for human and animals.

→ The people living there have adapted to these tough conditions, adjusting their food, clothing and lifestyle to survive.

KNOWLEDGE PLUS In the Thar Desert women travel long distances to fetch water. Utensils are cleaned with sand, using only a little water for rinsing, which is then reused for plants. Rajasthan is known for smart water conservation methods like taanka and kunds which store rainwater for drinking and other needs.

→ The Aravallis are one of the oldest mountains in the world, around 2.5 billion years old. The range has many peaks and ridges.

→ Although its highest peak, Mount Abu, rises over 1700 metres, most of its hills are between 300 and 900 metres high.

→ The range spans across Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat, which play an important role in the geography and climate of

→ North-Western India. They also act as a natural barrier, preventing the Thar Desert from spreading further East.

→ These hills are rich in minerals like marble, granite, zinc and copper. These hills have supported mining and construction for centuries.

→ The ancient mines at Zawar show that Indians were the first to master the extraction of zinc over 800 years ago.

→ Historic forts like Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh and Ranthambore are located in this range.

→ A plateau is a flat area of land that is higher than the land around it and it often has steep slopes on some of its sides.

→ It is also an ancient landform. Since it is a peninsula surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean on three sides, it is known as the Peninsular Plateau.

→ The Western Ghats are taller and run along the Western side of India. During the monsoon season, many beautiful waterfalls flow down their steep sides. Western Ghats are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also has many rivers and animals. The

→ Northern part of the Western Ghats is called the Sahyadri Hills.

→ The Eastern Ghats are lower and broken into smaller hills along the Eastern coast. The Deccan Plateau lies between these two mountain ranges. It is a large, flat land.

→ This region is rich in minerals, forests and fertile land, making it important for India’s economy. The dense forests are home to tribal communities like the Santhal, Gond, Baiga, Bhil and Korku. They have their languages, traditions and live closely with nature.

→ Rivers such as the Godavari, Krishna and Kaveri flow from West to East across the plateau which play a vital role in agriculture and supplying water to millions of people.

→ The plateau has many waterfalls, which are important for tourism, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation.

→ India’s coastline stretches over 7,500 km, with golden beaches, black rock, rocky cliffs, lush forests and coral reefs. Some islands have coral reefs while others are covered in thick jungles.

→ India’s West coast runs from Gujarat to Kerala, passing through Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka. Most rivers originate from the

→ Western Ghats, flow quickly and form estuaries (where rivers meet the sea).

→ The coast has been shaped by alluvial deposits from short rivers and includes features like small bays, creeks and estuaries.

→ The biggest estuaries are formed by the Narmada and Tapti rivers.

→ India’s East Coast lies between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal, stretches from the Ganga delta to Kanyakumari, with wide plains and major river deltas, including the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna and Kaveri. Important water bodies like Chilika Lake and Pulicat Lake are found here.

→ Deltas are landforms that form at the mouth of a river when it drops sediments into a larger body of water, like an ocean, lake, or another river.

→ Over time, these sediments build up, creating a triangular or fan-shaped area. Rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri and Mahanadi form fertile deltas, making the land good for farming.

→ The Indian Islands are groups of islands spread across the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, and they are part of India’s territory.

→ India has two main groups of islands – Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal.
These islands have beautiful beaches, coral reefs, volcanoes and unique wildlife.

→ Lakshadweep is an archipelago (a group of islands) located in the Arabian Sea, near Kerala’s Malabar coast. It is made up of 36 coral islands.

→ India manages a large area of the sea, which is used for fishing, exploring resources and protecting the marine environment.

→ This archipelago are a group of 500+ volcanic islands.

→ They have diverse wildlife and a rich history, including the Cellular Jail, where many freedom fighters were imprisoned. It acts as an outpost to monitor and protect the surrounding waters.

→ The Sundarbans is located in a delta formed by the Ganga, Brahmaputra and their tributaries. This region has a unique combination of river, sea and land. About half of the delta is in India and the other half is in Bangladesh.

→ The Sundarbans are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are known for their rich biodiversity, including the Royal Bengal Tiger.

→ The Garo, Khasi and Jaintia Hills are part of the Meghalaya Plateau. This region is known for its green forests, heavy rainfall and beautiful waterfalls. This region has one of the highest rainfalls in the world, making it rich in forests, wildlife and fertile land.

→ In 1984, astronaut Rakesh Sharma, told Prime Minister Indira Gandhi that India looked, “Sarejahan se achchha.” (better than the whole world).

→ India, the seventh-largest country in the world, is located in Asia.

→ India, along with Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, forms the Indian Subcontinent.

→ India is majorly divided into five regions the great mountain zone, the plains of the Ganga and the Indus, the desert region, the southern peninsula, and the islands.

→ India is a vast and diverse country.

→ The Himalayas form a natural barrier in the north.

→ The Thar Desert and the Arabian Sea mark India’s western boundaries.

→ The Indian Ocean lies to the south and the Bay of Bengal to the east.

→ These natural features separate India from the rest of Asia and have influenced its climate, culture, and history.

→ Many Himalayan peaks above 8000 m in height are collectively known as ‘Eight Thousanders’.

→ a Six countries that covers the mountain ranges included: India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

→ During summer, snow from the Himalayas melts and feeds major rivers such as the Ganga, the Indus, and the Brahmaputra. For this reason, the Himalayas are called the ‘Water Tower of Asia’.

→ The Bhagirathi River, originates from Gaumukh in Uttarakhand, at the edge of the Gangotri Glacier,

→ India was once part of a landmass called Gondwana and shared borders with Africa.

→ Around 50 million years ago, India collided with Eurasia, crumpling the land and forming the Himalayas.

→ India is still pushing into Asia, at a rate of about five centimetres per year, causing the Himalayas to grow by about five millimetres annually.

→ The word ‘Himalaya’ comes from Sanskrit: ‘hima’ means snow and ‘alaya’ means abode, meaning ‘abode of snow’.

→ The Himalayas are divided into three ranges: Himadri, Himachal, and Shivalik hills.

→ The Himadri or Greater Himalayas are the highest and most rugged, home to peaks like Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga, and remain snow-covered throughout the year,

→ The Himachal or Lower Himalayas have a moderate climate, allowing biodiversity and human habitation. Popular hill stations like Nainital, Darjeeling, Shimla, and Mussoorie are located here,

→ The Shivalik Hills form the outermost range, consisting of low hills and dense forests.

→ The Shivaliks serve as a transition zone between the Himalayas and the Gangetic Plains.

→ Traditional houses in the western Himalayas use the ‘kath-kuni’ or ‘dhajji dewari’ style made of stone and wood, offering warmth and earthquake resistance.

→ The Great Himalayan National Park in Himachal Pradesh has rich flora and fauna and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

→ India also has a cold desert—Ladakh—where winter temperatures can fall below -30°C.

→ Ladakh is also called ‘moonland’ due to its moon-like appearance.

→ Ladakh is home to snow leopards, ibex, and Tibetan antelopes.

→ The people of Ladakh celebrate festivals like Losar and Hemis.

→ South of the Himalayas lies the fertile Gangetic Plains.

→ Rivers like the Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra enrich the soil with minerals, making it suitable for agriculture.

→ A large portion of India’s population lives in the Gangetic Plains.

→ The flat land has helped in developing a good transportation system with roads and railways, q Most rivers in India are named after goddesses, like Ganga, Yamuna, and Kaveri.

→ Brahmaputra, however, means ‘the son of Brahma,’ and its water level rises in summer rather than decreasing.

→ The Thar Desert lies westward and consists of golden sand dunes, some rising as high as 150 metres.

→ The Thar Desert spans Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana.

→ Water conservation methods in Rajasthan include taankas or kunds for storing rainwater, q The Aravalli hills are among the oldest in the world, about 2.5 billion years old.

→ Mount Abu is the highest peak in the range, at over 1700 metres and most Aravalli hills range between 300 to 900 metres in height.

→ The Peninsular Plateau is a triangular landform in south-central India, surrounded by sea on three sides.

→ It is bordered by the Western Ghats (taller, steeper) and Eastern Ghats (lower, broken hills); the Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

→ The Peninsular Plateau, rich in minerals, forests, rivers, and tribal communities (like Santhal, Gond, Bhil), tilts eastward, causing major rivers to flow into the Bay of Bengal, while some flow west, supporting farming, hydropower, and tourism.

→ India’s 7500 km coastline features beaches, cliffs, forests, and coral reefs.

→ The West Coast of India stretches from Gujarat to Kerala, featuring estuaries, coves, and ports vital for economic activity.

→ The East Coast stretches from the Ganga delta to Kanyakumari, featuring wide plains, river deltas (Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri), and important lakes like Chilika and Pulicat, making it ideal for farming,

→ India has two major island groups: Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, known for their unique wildlife, beaches, coral reefs, and volcanoes.

→  Lakshadweep is an archipelago of 36 coral islands in the Arabian Sea, controlled by India for fishing, resource exploration, and environmental protection.

→ The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are an archipelago of over 500 islands, known for their strategic location, rich flora and fauna, and the historic Cellular Jail, where many freedom fighters were imprisoned.

→ Barren Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is India’s only active volcano.

→ The Sundarbans, located in the delta of the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to species like the Royal Bengal Tiger, with half of it in India and the rest in Bangladesh,

→ The Garo, Khasi, and Jantia Hills in the Meghalaya Plateau are known for their lush greenery, heavy rainfall, and rich wildlife.

→ Mawlynnong Village in Meghalaya is Asia’s cleanest village, famous for its eco-friendly practices, bamboo dustbins, and unique living root bridges.

→ Astronaut : A person trained to travel in a spacecraft.

→ Subcontinent : A large, distinguishable part of a continent, such as India and its neighbouring countries.

→ Natural barrier : A physical feature, like mountains or seas, that prevents easy movement.

→ Altitude : The height of a place above sea level.

→ Tributary : A smaller river or stream that flows into a larger river.

→ Irrigation : The supply of water to land or crops to help growth.

→ Monastery : A place where monks live and worship.

→ Glacier : A large mass of ice moving slowly over land.

→ Landmass : A large area of land, especially a continent or a major part of one.

→ Collision : The act of two objects crashing into each other.

→ National Park : A protected area established to preserve wildlife and natural beauty.

→ Cold desert : A desert with very low temperatures and minimal rainfall.

→ Rugged terrain : Rough and uneven land.

→ Moonland : A nickname for Ladakh due to its moon-like landscape.

→ Desert : A dry, barren area of land with little rainfall and vegetation.

→ Sand dunes : Hills of sand formed by wind in deserts.

→ Taanka/Kund : Traditional water harvesting systems used in Rajasthan to store rainwater.

→ Plateau : A flat area of land that is raised above the surrounding land.

→ Delta : A landform formed at the mouth of a river where it deposits sediments, often creating fertile land ideal for farming.

→ Estuary : A coastal area where fresh water from rivers meets and mixes with salt water from the ocean.

→ India is the seventh-largest country in the world with diverse landforms.

• It forms the Indian subcontinent along with its neighbouring countries.
• The geographical features of India include-mountains, the Ganga plains, the deserts, the southern peninsula and the islands.
• The Himalayan mountain ranges act as a natural barrier in the north, the desert and Arabian sea lies in the west, Indian ocean to the south and the Bay of Bengal in the east.

→ The Himalayas

• The Himalayas are known as the “Water Tower of India”, nourishing cultural beliefs and spirituality.
• Some of the Himalayan peaks are almost 8000 meters tall, together called ‘Eight-Thousanders’.
• It extends across six Asian countries – India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
• It helps origin major rivers such as the Ganga, Sindhu and Brahmaputra.

→ How the Himalayas were formed … an interesting story

• Long ago, India broke away from Gondwana landmass and collided with Eurasia.
• As India pushed against Eurasia the land between them arose and formed the mighty Himalayas.
• The Himalayas are mainly divided into three zones: the Himadri, the Himacha, and the Shivalik.
• The Himadri consists of the roughest and tallest peaks, where life is not uh possible, whereas the Himachal supports human settlement with its adequate climate.
• The Shivalik peaks have dense forests facilitating a rich wildlife.

→ The Cold Desert of India

• Ladakh is a cold desert where temperatures drop below -30°C.
• Due to its rugged terrain, it is often called ‘Moon land.’
• Despite its extreme weather conditions, Ladakh fosters a warm and thriving presence of both humans and wildlife.

→ The Gangetic Plains

• The Gangetic Plains are located south of the Himalayas.
• These plains are highly fertile and ideal for agriculture due to the minerals deposited by rivers such as the Ganga and Brahmaputra.
• A large portion of India’s population is concentrated in these plains, as the terrain has fostered the development of transportation networks and trade systems.

→ The Great Indian Desert or Thar Desert

• The Thar Desert is a dry, subtropical region located in western India.
• Sand dunes are hill-like structures formed by the accumulation of sand due to wind and rain pressure.
• The inhabitants of the Thar Desert have adapted their lifestyle to withstand its extreme climatic conditions.

→ The Aravalli Hills

• The Aravalli Hills, located in northwestern India, are approximately 2.5 billion years old.
• Their highest peak is Mount Abu.
• Rich in minerals such as marble, zinc, and copper, the range has been a centre for mining and construction for centuries.

→ The Peninsular Plateau

• Indian plateau is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean on three sides.
• It is an epicenter of dense forests, a vast range of minerals, and fertile lands.
• The forests are home to many tribal communities, such as the Santhal, Gond, and Baiga.

→ India’s Amazing Coastlines

• India boasts a series of stunning coastlines dotted with dense forests and rocky cliffs.
• The West Coast of India lies between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, extending from Gujarat to Kerala.
• It features vital ports and cities that foster trade and various economic activities.
• The East Coast of India stretches from the Ganga Delta to Kanyakumari and includes major rivers and water bodies such as Chilika Lake and Pulicat Lake.

→ Indian Islands

• Lakshadweep and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are India’s two major island groups, home to rich wildlife and peaceful tribal settlements.
• These islands play a crucial role in monitoring and safeguarding the ocean.
• The historic and complex ‘Cellular Jail/ located in the Andaman Islands, stands as a solemn reminder of our forefathers’ sacrifices.

→ The Delta in West Bengal and the Sundarbans

• The Sundarbans are located east of the Himalayas, in the delta formed by the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and their tributaries.
• This vast delta stretches from -ndia to Bangladesh, showcasing a unique blend of rivers, sea, and land.
• Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.

→ The Hills of the Northeast

• The Garo, Khasi, and Jantia Hills are major hill ranges in northeastern India and part of the Meghalaya Plateau.
• These hills experience some of the highest rainfall in the world.
• This region is rich in fertile lands and supports a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Geographical Diversity of India Class 7th Notes

To us, by its very geography, the country [India] appears to be quite distinct from other countries, and that itself gives it a certain national character.

Fig. Jog Falls in Karnataka. Notice the plateau and the waterfalls. The power of the waterfall is converted into electricity (hydroelectricity; ‘hydro’ means water) through special turbines.

In 1984, Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian astronaut to go into space, spoke with the then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi. When she asked him, “How does India look from space?”, he replied, “Sare jahan se achchha” — better than the whole world. (This is the title of a well-known poem of the early 20th century.)

As you go through this chapter, remember to refer periodically to the physical map.
India is the seventh-largest country in the world, and a part of Asia. Along with its neighbours — Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar—it forms the region known as the Indian Subcontinent (subcontinent, since it is part of the continent of Asia). Often, for the purpose of discussion, we refer to five regions — the great mountain zone, the plains of the Ganga and the Indus, the desert region, the southern peninsula, and the islands. In this chapter, we will ‘fly’ over these zones, providing you with a bird’s-eye view of these features and offering glimpses of what things look like in close-up at some of these places. It would be difficult to go into all the details at this stage since, as you will soon see, India is large and diverse.

The Himalayan Mountain range stands as a natural barrier in the north, while the Thar Desert and the Arabian Sea mark its western limits. TO the south, the Indian Ocean and to the east, the Bay of Bengal form a natural boundary. These geographical features create a separation between India and the rest of the continent and have played a crucial role in shaping India’s climate, culture, and history.

Let us now journey together from the Himalayas to the islands in the Indian Ocean, and onward to the east of India. The diverse colours on the map already give us a sense of the geographical diversity. Familiarise yourself with the legend on the map. The different colours indicate the altitudes.

The Himalayas

Look at the length of the Himalayan Range on the map. It is like a massive wall. From the legend, can you guess the altitude at different points of the Himalayas?

Fig. These are satellite images of the Himalayan range. Note that the length of the range is about 2500 km.

In the summer, the snow on the mountains melts and feeds major rivers, such as the Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra. These rivers and their tributaries provide water for drinking, farming, and industrial use, connecting with the lives of hundreds of millions of people. Hence, the Himalayas are sometimes called the ‘Water Tower of Asia’. The Himalayas are also important to many cultures and belief systems. The mountains themselves are considered sacred, and temples and monasteries have been built within them, attracting monks and spiritual seekers from around the world who come to pray and meditate.

Don’t Miss Out
The Bhagirathi River, a major tributary of the Ganga, originates from Gaumukh (‘COW’S Mouth’), in Uttarakhand. It is the edge of the Gangotri Glacier. This glacier is one of the largest in the Indian Himalayas. It is considered sacred and attracts many pilgrims. Gaumukh is also a popular trekking destination. Next time you see the Ganga, remember—its journey began there!

Fig. Gaumukh

How the Himalayas were formed … an interesting story

A long, long time ago, India was part of a much bigger landmass called ‘Gondwana’, where its neighbour was Africa! At some point, it broke away and slowly started moving north. About 50 million years ago, it reached the landmass of Eurasia and collided with it. AS India pushed against Eurasia, the land between them crumpled and rose up—just like how a carpet wrinkles when you push it. That’s how the mighty Himalayan mountains were formed!

Fig. India’s journey to Eurasia

Amazingly, India is still pushing into Asia today, very slowly—about five centimetres each year, which is much slower than the rate at which your hair grows. This means the Himalayas are still growing taller, just a tiny bit each year—about five millimetres, but over a millennium, that adds up to five metres!

Fig. Folded layers of Himalayan rock

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The word ‘Himalaya’ is a combination of two Sanskrit words—hima, meaning ‘snow’, and alaya, meaning ‘abode’ or ‘dwelling’ — thus, ‘abode of snow’.

The Himalayas are broadly categorised into three main ranges:

• The Himadri (the Greater Himalayas) are the highest and most rugged part of the range, home to towering peaks like Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga. This region remains snow-covered throughout the year. Life here is tough, and there are not many human settlements.
• The Himachal (the Lower Himalayas) lie south of the Greater Himalayas and have a more moderate climate, allowing rich biodiversity and human habitation. Popular hill stations, such as Nainital (Uttarakhand), Darjeeling (West Bengal), Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), and Mussoorie (Uttarakhand), are located in this region.
• The Shivalik Hills (the Outer Himalayas) form the outermost and lowest range, consisting of rolling hills and dense forests. These foothills are rich in wildlife, serving as a transition zone between the Himalayas and the Gangetic Plains (also called the Northern Plains).

Don’t Miss Out
The traditional house construction method in the western Himalayan region is known as ‘kath-kuni’ or ‘dhajjidewari’ style of houses. A combination of locally available stone and wood is used, which not only keeps the house warm but also resists damage in the event of mild earthquakes.

Fig. Kath-kuni House, Himachal Pradesh

The Great Himalayan National Park in Himachal Pradesh has a wide diversity of flora and fauna. The park has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The biodiversity of the park is being preserved by the government as well as the village communities that live inside the park.

1. Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area.
2. Himalayan monal (male).
3. A monastery in Ladakh.
4. The Beas river in Himachal Pradesh.
5. Snow Leopard
6. A display of produce in a local market in the Himalayas.
7. Rhododendron — a type of sherbet is made out of this flower

The cold desert of India

The word ‘desert’ immediately evokes an image of a hot place. However, there are also cold deserts, and we have one in India. Ladakh is a cold desert where winter temperatures drop below -30°C. There is very little rainfall, and the landscape is rugged, with rocky terrain, deep valleys, and lakes such as Pangong TSO (tso means lake).

The terrain here resembles that of the moon; hence, it is called ‘moonland’. Geologists explain the formation of this terrain, as we saw earlier, by the fact that the mountains were ‘folded’ when the Indian landmass collided with Eurasia. This folded portion was part of an ocean, and SO the rocks in this area are made largely of sand and day. Wind and rain have eroded the mountains into the shapes you see in the photograph.

Fig. Moonland, Ladakh

Yaks are very important for the lives of people in the Himalayas. They are reared for their milk, meat. wool and dung, and are also used for transport.

Fig. Pangong Tso, Ladakh. This lake has salty water unlike most other lakes. The saltiness is a result of the minerals that dissolve from the surrounding mountain areas.

Despite the harsh conditions, Ladakh is home to unique wildlife like snow leopards, ibex, and Tibetan antelopes. The Ladakhi people lead a simple life. The region is known for its ancient monasteries and colourful festivals such as Losar and the Hemis Festival.

The Gangetic Plains

As we move southwards from the Himalayas, we reach the vast and fertile Gangetic Plains. These plains have been an important part of the history and civilisation of India. These plains are nourished by mighty rivers originating from the Himalayas, providing a vital lifeline: water. The Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra river systems, along with their extensive network of tributaries, enrich the soil with minerals, making the region highly fertile and ideal for agriculture. The rivers bring with them minerals that enrich the soil, enabling abundant agriculture. The rivers are also a source for generating electricity. A large proportion of India’s population lives in these plains.

The flat land of the Northern Plains has allowed for the development of an elaborate transportation network. Road and railway networks facilitate the movement of people and goods over long distances. AS you will see in the Tapestry of the Past chapters, the Ganga, the Brahmaputra and other rivers have been used for millennia for travel and trade.

Fig. Modes of transport in the Gangetic plains

The Great Indian Desert or Thar Desert

If we move westward on the map, you will notice a yellowish area. This area is the Thar Desert. What do you see? A vast stretch of golden dunes, rugged terrain, and a wide-open sky?

Fig. A traveller among the sand dunes of the Thar Desert.

Fig. Jaisalmer, the ‘Golden City’, located in the middle of the Thar desert in India. The Jaisalmer fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Sand dunes are formed when the wind shifts and shapes the sand into hill-like formations. Sometimes these rise as high as 150 metres.
The Thar is a vast arid region. Most of it lies within India, spanning the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana. The desert acts as a natural barrier due to the harsh conditions that deter human and animal movement — including very high daytime temperatures and cold nights, as well as a lack of access to water.

People living in the Thar have adapted their way of life to the place and what it offers; food habits, clothing and lifestyle are suited to these harsh conditions.

Fig. Camel vendor at the Pushkar Mela (at the edge of the Thar Desert)

Fig. (Left) Women fetching water from a source far away from home.
(Right) Rainwater harvesting structure in a hamlet.
Water is scarce in the desert. Women often need to travel long distances every day to fetch water for their families. SO, the traditional method for cleaning utensils is to scour them with sand until they are clean. A little water can be used for a light rinse. The water used for rinsing is reused for purposes like watering a plant. SO, the next time you leave the tap running, remember the people of the Thar Desert. Rajasthan is also famous for its ingenious water conservation methods, including taanka or kunds. These are special water collection systems that store rainwater, often for drinking purposes.

The Aravalli Hills

The Aravallis are among the oldest mountains in the world, some 2.5 billion years old! The range has many peaks and ridges. Although its highest peak, Mount Abu, towers at over 1700 m, most of its hills are between 300 and 900 metres high. Isn’t it fascinating that a drive of about 4 and a half hours can take us from Mount Abu in the Aravallis to Jodhpur in the Thar Desert, a drive into a completely different geography?

Fig. (Left) A part of the Aravallis; just beyond this range, the Thar Desert begins.
(Right) A part of the Aravallis seen from space.

The Aravallis play a vital role in shaping the geography and climate of northwestern India. One of its most important functions is acting as a natural barrier, preventing the Thar Desert from expanding further eastward. You will read more about this later.

The Aravallis, rich in minerals like marble, granite, zinc, and copper, have supported mining and construction activities for centuries. In fact, evidence from its ancient mines at Zawar has shown that over eight centuries ago, Indians were the first in the world to master the delicate process of extraction of zinc. Historic forts, such as Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, and Ranthambore, are located here.

Fig. Kumbhalgarh Fort surrounded by the Aravallis; this location in the hills proved to be an excellent deterrent to the enemy.

The Peninsular Plateau

A plateau is a landform that rises up from the surrounding land and has a more or less flt surface; some of its sides are often steep slopes.

India has several plateaus; the most important one is the triangular peninsular area in the middle and south of the country.

It is also a very old land formation! Since this region is a peninsula, surrounded by water on all three sides by the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean, it is called a peninsular plateau. The plateau is bordered by two mountain ranges, the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats. The Western Ghats are taller and run along the western coast like a wall, with many beautiful waterfalls flowing down their steep sides during the monsoon season.

Don’t Miss Out
The Western Ghats have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are home to many rivers and have a rich biodiversity. The northern portion of the Western Ghats are also known as the Sahyadri Hills.

The Eastern Ghats are lower and broken into smaller hills along the eastern coast. Between these mountain ranges lies the Deccan Plateau, a vast area of flt highlands.
Rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri flw across the plateau from west to east. These rivers are important for farming and provide water to millions of people.

Fig. Dense forests of Chhattisgarh, home to many tribal communities

This plateau is rich in minerals, forests, and fertile land, making it vital for India’s economy. It tilts a little to the east, So a few of the rivers in this region flow towards the Bay of Bengal. East-flowing rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, and Mahanadi originate here, providing water for farming, industries, and hydroelectric power. There are west-flowing rivers (Narmada, Tapti) too, which drain into the Arabian Sea.

Dense forests on the plateau are home to tribal communities, including the Santhal, Gond, Baiga, Bhil, and Korku. These tribes have distinct languages, traditions, and ways of life closely connected to Nature.

Plateaus are home to many beautiful waterfalls in India, as rivers flow over their uneven and rocky surfaces. These waterfalls not only attract tourists but also help in hydroelectric power generation and provide water for irrigation.

Fig. Powerhouse Waterfalls at Periyakanal, near Munnar, Kerala


Fig. This is an insectivorous plant, meaning it feeds on insects, found in the Western Ghats. It catches small insects in sticky traps and digests them!

Fig. Coal mines in the plateau; an important resource, especially in the production of electricity. Coal is a fossil fuel, the use of which contributes to global warming.

Fig. Mumbai, on the west coast, is India’s fiancial centre

India’s Amazing Coastlines

India’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs, and lush green forests. Some beaches have golden sand while others have black rocks. Some islands have coral reefs while others are covered in thick jungles. India’s coasts are full of surprises! The Indian coastline is over 7500 km long.

The West Coast of India
The West Coast of India stretches from Gujarat to Kerala, passing through Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka. Most rivers here originate in the Western Ghats, flow swiftly, and form estuaries. The coastline is shaped by alluvial deposits from short rivers and features coves, creeks, and estuaries, with the Narmada and Tapti estuaries being the largest.

Fig. The west coast has many important ports and cities. These have been the centres of economic activity for millennia.

The East Coast
The East Coast lies between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal, stretching from the Ganga delta to Kanyakumari. It has wide plains and major river deltas, including Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri. Important water bodies like Chilika Lake and Pulicat Lake (a lagoon, which is a body of water separated from larger bodies of water by a natural barrier) are found here.

Fig. Satellite view of the East Coast of India.

Deltas are landforms formed at the mouth of a river when it deposits sediments into a larger body of water, such as an ocean, a lake, or another river. Over time, these sediments build up, forming a triangular or fan-shaped area. The Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri and Mahanadi rivers create fertile deltas, making the land ideal for farming.

Indian Islands

The Indian Islands refer to the group of islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal, which form part of India’s territory. India has two major island groups — Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal. These islands have unique wildlife, beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and volcanoes. Several ancient tribes made these islands their home tens of thousands of years ago.

Lakshadweep islands
Lakshadweep is an archipelago (a group of islands) located in the Arabian Sea, close to the Malabar coast of Kerala. It is made up of 36 islands made of coral. Not all islands are inhabited by people. India controls a vast marine area, allowing for fishing, resource exploration, and environmental protection.

Fig. (i) Coral reef in the Lakshadweep Islands
(ii) Coral reef in the Andaman Islands

Andaman and Nicobar islands
This archipelago comprises more than 500 large and small volcanic islands, divided into two distinct groups—the Andaman and the Nicobar Islands. Their location is very important.

Fig. A flating dock (a small port) of the Indian Navy near the Andaman Islands.

Fig. An aerial view of the active volcano on Barren Island, the only one in India

They are like the outposts of India, keeping an eye on the ocean. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The Andaman Islands are also significant from a historical point of view—many of our freedom fighters were jailed there under the most severe conditions in a prison complex called ‘Cellular Jail’. It has been preserved to remind us of the tremendous sacrifices that our forefathers made SO we could be free. We will discuss this some more in higher classes.

The Delta in West Bengal and the Sundarbans

As we travel back from the islands towards the eastern side of the Himalayas via the Bay of Bengal, we come to the Sundarbans. This is located in the delta of the Ganga, Brahmaputra (you saw them earlier in the chapter) and their tributaries. This delta has a unique combination of the river, sea and land. About half of it is located in India, and the rest is in Bangladesh. This is also a UNESCO Heritage site. The Sundarbans are home to many species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Fig. Mangroves of the delta in the Sundarbans of West Bengal

Note: Do remember to look at the map and identify where the delta is.

Fig. Left to right, top to bottom: Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Meghalaya, India; The Shad Suk Mynsiem festival is celebrated by the Khasi people as a form of gratitude towards nature; Living roots bridge near Nongriat village, Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya

The hills of the Northeast

Stay on the map as we move towards the hills of the Northeast, our final destination for now. Can you see Garo, Khasi, and Jantia marked on the map? These hills, part of the Meghalaya Plateau, are known for their lush greenery, heavy rainfall, and breathtaking waterfalls. This region experiences one of the highest rainfalls in the world, making it rich in forests, unique wildlife, and fertile land.

Mawlynnong Village, situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, is renowned as the ‘cleanest village in Asia’. This picturesque village is famous for its well-maintained cleanliness, bamboo dustbins, and eco-friendly living practices. The village is also known for its living root bridges, which are created by weaving tree roots over the course of many years.

Fig. Living root bridges showcase the craftsmanship of the tribes of the Northeast.

Before we move on …

• India gives its name to the subcontinent it is a part of.
• It has many diverse geographical features, ranging from the snowy Himalayas to the heat of the Thar Desert.
• The plains are watered by a large number of rivers. There is also a peninsular plateau with the Arabian Sea on the west and the Bay of Bengal in the east.
• These diverse geographic features have created a variety of conditions with respect to soil, flora, fauna, life and economic opportunities, and honed a rich culture.
• These geographical features have played an important role in shaping our civilisation.

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