Part of: Kerala Gk set 36

Which district in Kerala holds the highest peak in the Western Ghats?

Category: Kerala Gk

Hint: Consider the mountain ranges and peaks within the Western Ghats in Kerala.

Correct Answer: B) Idukki

Exam Relevance: Kerala PSC, UPSC, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Western Ghats is a mountain range that runs along the western edge of the Indian peninsula, extending from the state of Gujarat in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south. In the state of Kerala, the Western Ghats are a significant geographical feature, and the highest peak within this range is Anamudi, which is located in the Idukki district.

Anamudi stands at an elevation of 2,695 meters (8,842 feet) and is the highest peak in South India. It is a part of the Anamudi Shola National Park and is known for its unique biodiversity and ecological importance. The peak is a popular destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The Western Ghats in Kerala are divided into several districts, each with its own unique geographical features. Wayanad, Thrissur, and Kottayam are other districts in Kerala that are known for their natural beauty and cultural significance, but they do not contain the highest peak in the Western Ghats. Wayanad is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife, Thrissur for its cultural heritage and festivals, and Kottayam for its backwaters and literary contributions.

Understanding the geographical features of a region is crucial for comprehending its natural and cultural landscape. In the context of Kerala, knowing the location of the highest peak in the Western Ghats helps in appreciating the state's geographical diversity and the importance of its natural resources. Anamudi, being the highest peak in South India, is a significant landmark that contributes to the ecological and touristic value of the region.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Wayanad is a district in Kerala known for its scenic beauty and wildlife, but it does not contain the highest peak in the Western Ghats. The highest peak in Wayanad is Vellarimala, which is lower than Anamudi in Idukki.
  • Option B: Idukki is the correct answer because it contains Anamudi, the highest peak in the Western Ghats and in all of South India. Anamudi stands at 2,695 meters (8,842 feet) and is a significant geographical feature in Kerala.
  • Option C: Thrissur is a district in Kerala known for its cultural heritage and festivals, but it does not contain the highest peak in the Western Ghats. The highest peak in Thrissur is not as prominent as Anamudi in Idukki.
  • Option D: Kottayam is a district in Kerala known for its backwaters and literary contributions, but it does not contain the highest peak in the Western Ghats. The highest peak in Kottayam is not as significant as Anamudi in Idukki.

Mnemonic: Remember "I" for Idukki and "A" for Anamudi.

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