India is a land of diversity, and its geography is no exception. From the towering Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters in the south, India has something to offer for everyone. Among these geographical wonders, the Western and Eastern Ghats hold a special place. Covering a vast expanse of land, these mountain ranges have played a crucial role in shaping India's history, culture, and ecology.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
India is a land of diversity, and its geography is no exception. From the towering Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters in the south, India has something to offer for everyone. Among these geographical wonders, the Western and Eastern Ghats hold a special place. Covering a vast expanse of land, these mountain ranges have played a crucial role in shaping India's history, culture, and ecology.
Location and Extent
The Western Ghats, also known as Sahyadri, run parallel to the western coast of India, covering an area of about 1,40,000 square kilometers. It spans across six states, viz., Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. The Eastern Ghats, on the other hand, are located along the east coast of India, covering an area of about 75,000 square kilometers. It stretches across five states, viz., Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Puducherry.
Geological Significance
The Western and Eastern Ghats are one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, dating back to about 160 million years. They are believed to have formed during the breakup of the supercontinent Gondwana. These mountain ranges have a rich geological history and are home to several unique rock formations and minerals. The Western Ghats, in particular, are known for its rich biodiversity, and it is one of the eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity in the world.
Ecological Importance
The Western and Eastern Ghats are home to several endemic species of plants and animals. The Western Ghats alone are home to about 7,400 species of flowering plants, 1,800 species of non-flowering plants, 139 mammal species, 508 bird species, and 179 amphibian species. These mountain ranges also serve as the source of many rivers, which are the lifeline of several states in India. The Western Ghats are also home to several tribal communities who have been living in harmony with nature for centuries.
Tourism
The Western and Eastern Ghats are popular tourist destinations in India, attracting millions of visitors every year. The Western Ghats, in particular, offer a range of activities such as trekking, camping, wildlife safari, and bird watching. Some of the popular tourist destinations in the Western Ghats include Munnar, Ooty, Mahabaleshwar, and Goa. The Eastern Ghats, on the other hand, are relatively less explored but offer a unique experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Question and Answer
Q. What is the extent of the Western Ghats?
The Western Ghats cover an area of about 1,40,000 square kilometers and span across six states in India.
Q. What is the significance of the Western and Eastern Ghats?
The Western and Eastern Ghats are one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world and have a rich geological history. They are also home to several endemic species of plants and animals and serve as the source of many rivers. They are also popular tourist destinations in India.
Q. What are some of the popular tourist destinations in the Western Ghats?
Some of the popular tourist destinations in the Western Ghats include Munnar, Ooty, Mahabaleshwar, and Goa.
Q. What activities can one do in the Western Ghats?
The Western Ghats offer a range of activities such as trekking, camping, wildlife safari, and bird watching.
Conclusion
The Western and Eastern Ghats are a testament to India's rich geography and biodiversity. These mountain ranges have played a crucial role in shaping India's history, culture, and ecology. They offer a unique experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers and are a must-visit destination for anyone visiting India.
