📚 Part of: Sikkim Cultural Heritage And Geography Mcqs

Kanchenjunga is the tallest peak in India and the third tallest in the world. In which Indian state is it situated?

Category: Sikkim Gk

Correct Answer: D) Sikkim.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world and the tallest peak in India. It is located on the border of Nepal and the Indian state of Sikkim. The mountain is significant in both geographical and cultural contexts, being a major landmark in the Himalayan range.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing Kanchenjunga with other peaks in the Himalayas.
  • Misremembering the state in which Kanchenjunga is located.
  • Not knowing the exact location of Kanchenjunga within India.
Explanation:

Kanchenjunga is a significant mountain peak, standing at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet) above sea level, making it the third highest peak in the world. It is located on the border of Nepal and the Indian state of Sikkim, which is situated in the northeastern part of India. The name "Kanchenjunga" is derived from the Tibetan language, where "Kanchen" means "five treasures" and "Dzonga" means "snow," referring to the five peaks of the mountain.

Sikkim is a small state with a rich cultural heritage and is known for its scenic beauty, including the Himalayan mountain range. The state is bordered by Nepal to the west, Bhutan to the east, and Tibet (China) to the north. Kanchenjunga is a significant landmark for Sikkim, not only because of its height but also due to its cultural and religious significance. The mountain is considered sacred by the local communities and is an important part of the region's spiritual landscape.

The other options provided—Meghalaya, Assam, and Manipur—are all states in northeastern India, but they are not located in the Himalayan region where Kanchenjunga is situated. These states are known for their own unique geographical features and cultural aspects, such as Meghalaya's heavy rainfall and lush forests, Assam's tea gardens and wildlife, and Manipur's rich cultural heritage and traditional sports.

Understanding the location of Kanchenjunga within the context of Indian geography is crucial for students studying the region's topography and cultural significance. It is important to remember that Kanchenjunga is a part of the Himalayan range and is located in Sikkim, making it a key geographical feature of the northeastern part of India.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. Meghalaya is a state in northeastern India, but it is not the location of Kanchenjunga. Meghalaya is known for its lush forests and heavy rainfall, but it does not contain any of the highest peaks in the Himalayas.
  • Option B: Incorrect. Assam is another northeastern state of India, but it is not the location of Kanchenjunga. Assam is known for its tea gardens and wildlife, but it does not contain any of the highest peaks in the Himalayas.
  • Option C: Incorrect. Manipur is a state in northeastern India, but it is not the location of Kanchenjunga. Manipur is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional sports, but it does not contain any of the highest peaks in the Himalayas.
  • Option D: Correct. Sikkim is the correct state where Kanchenjunga is located. Kanchenjunga is situated on the border of Sikkim and Nepal, making it a significant geographical feature of the region. Sikkim is known for its mountainous terrain and is home to several high peaks, with Kanchenjunga being the most prominent.

Mnemonic: Kanchenjunga in Sikkim: "Kanchenjunga stands in Sikkim, not in Assam, Meghalaya, or Manipur."

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