Explanation: The Ravi River is one of the major rivers in the Punjab region, originating in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The river's source is located in the Bara Lacha Pass, which is situated west of the Rohtang Pass in the Kullu hills. The Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, located at an elevation of 3,980 meters (13,060 feet) above sea level. It is a significant geographical feature that separates the Kullu Valley from the Lahaul and Spiti valleys.
The Kullu hills are part of the larger Himalayan range and are known for their scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. The Ravi River, originating in these hills, flows through the Kullu Valley and eventually joins the Sutlej River in Punjab. Understanding the geographical layout of the region is crucial for comprehending the river systems and their sources.
The other rivers mentioned in the options have different origins:
- The Beas River originates in the Beas Kund, located in the Beas Kund valley, east of the Rohtang Pass.
- The Jhelum River originates in the south-eastern part of the Kashmir Valley, far from the Rohtang Pass and the Kullu hills.
- The Satluj River originates from the Rakshastal Lake in Tibet, which is not in the Kullu hills and is not west of the Rohtang Pass.
Thus, the Ravi River is the correct answer as it is the only river whose source lies west of the Rohtang Pass in the Kullu hills of Himachal Pradesh. This understanding of the geographical features and river systems is essential for students studying the geography of Himachal Pradesh and the broader Punjab region.