Explanation: The Ghats are a pair of mountain ranges in India that form the eastern and western edges of the Deccan Plateau. The Deccan Plateau is a large triangular plateau that covers a significant portion of southern India. The Ghats are crucial geographical features that influence the climate, biodiversity, and human settlement patterns of the region.
The Western Ghats, also known as Sahyadri, run parallel to the Arabian Sea on the western coast of India. They extend from the Tapti River in the north to the Kanyakumari in the south, covering a distance of about 1,600 kilometers. The Western Ghats are known for their rich biodiversity and are home to several endemic species of flora and fauna. They also play a significant role in the monsoon climate of the region, as they intercept the moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea, leading to heavy rainfall on the windward side.
The Eastern Ghats, on the other hand, run parallel to the Bay of Bengal on the eastern coast of India. They are less continuous and more fragmented compared to the Western Ghats. The Eastern Ghats extend from the Mahanadi River in the north to the Pennar River in the south, covering a distance of about 1,000 kilometers. They are also important for their biodiversity and contribute to the climate of the eastern coastal plains.
Both the Western and Eastern Ghats are significant for their ecological importance and are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are not only geographical features but also cultural and historical landmarks, with numerous temples, pilgrimage sites, and ancient settlements located within their ranges.
In summary, the Ghats are the correct answer as they are the mountain ranges that form the eastern and western edges of the Deccan Plateau, running parallel to the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea coasts, respectively. Understanding the geographical layout and significance of the Ghats is essential for comprehending the physical geography of peninsular India.