Question.
What are some key geographical features of India?
(Geographical Diversity of India-Chapter 1 - Class 7 Social Science NCERT)
Geographical Features of India, Class 7 Geography Chapter 1 MCQ, Geographical Diversity of India, NCERT Class 7 Geography, India Physical Features, Chapter 1 Social Science Quiz, NCERT Geography 2025-26
Answer.
India is rich in geographical features, which make it one of the most diverse countries in the world. Almost all the geographical features of the world are found in India, which include mountains, plains, deserts, plateaus, coastlines, islands, rivers, and forests.
In this chapter, the ten ( 10) key geographical features of India are mentioned, and details of the same are as follows:
1. The Himalayan Mountain Range
The Himalayas lie in the northern part of India and form a massive natural wall. They are divided into three further ranges-
- The Himadri ( the Greater Himalayas)
- The Himachal ( the Lower Himalayas)
- The Sivalik Hills ( The outer Himalayas)
They are among the youngest and highest mountains in the world, with many peaks rising above 8,000 metres.
The Himalayas are the source of major rivers like the Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra, which provide water for millions of people.
They act as a climatic barrier, protecting India from cold winds and influencing monsoon rainfall.
2. The cold desert of 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).
3. The Northern (Gangetic) Plains
South of the Himalayas lie the vast and fertile Northern Plains, formed by the rivers Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra and their tributaries.
These plains have rich alluvial soil, making them ideal for agriculture.
They support dense population, large cities, farming, and an extensive transport network.
4. The Great Indian Desert (Thar Desert)
The Thar Desert is located in north-western India, mainly in Rajasthan.
It has sand dunes, extreme temperatures, and very little rainfall.
Due to harsh conditions, population density is low.
People have adapted through water conservation methods, special clothing, and a lifestyle suited to the desert environment.
5. The Aravalli Hills:
The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world.
It runs through Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat.
The Aravallis act as a natural barrier, preventing the expansion of the Thar Desert toward the fertile plains.
The region is rich in minerals and has historical forts and mining areas.
6. The Peninsular Plateau
The Peninsular Plateau is a large triangular highland region in central and southern India.
It is one of the oldest landforms of India.
The plateau is bordered by the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats.
Rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri, Narmada, and Tapi flow across it.
This region is rich in minerals, forests, waterfalls, and biodiversity, supporting industries, mining, and power generation.
7. The Coastal Plains
India has a long coastline of over 7,500 km, divided into:
Western Coastal Plains (along the Arabian Sea): Narrow, with estuaries and major ports like Mumbai.
Eastern Coastal Plains (along the Bay of Bengal): Wider, with large river deltas such as those of the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri.
Coastal plains support fishing, trade, ports, agriculture, and tourism.
8. Islands of India
India has two major island groups:
Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea, made of coral reefs.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, of volcanic origin.
These islands have unique wildlife, rich marine life, strategic importance, and natural beauty.
9. Rivers, Deltas, and Wetlands
India has a dense network of rivers that provide water, fertile soil, transport routes, and hydroelectric power.
River deltas like the Sundarbans are rich in biodiversity and agriculture.
Wetlands, mangroves, and lagoons support wildlife and protect coastal areas.
10. The hills of the Northeast
Garo, Khasi, and Jantia are important hills of Northeast India. 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.
Conclusion
The key geographical features of India include the Himalayas, plains, deserts, plateaus, coasts, islands, rivers, and forests. These diverse physical features have shaped India’s climate, natural resources, economic activities, culture, and history. This vast diversity is why India is often called a “mini-continent.”
You May Also Like:
ConversionConversion EmoticonEmoticon