Explanation: The Garo-Khasi hills are a significant mountain range located in northeastern India, primarily within the state of Meghalaya. These hills are part of the larger Shillong Plateau and are known for their unique topography and climate. The term "windward side" refers to the side of a mountain range that faces the prevailing winds, which in this case, are the winds coming from the Bay of Bengal.
The prevailing winds in this region are the Southwest Monsoon winds, which bring heavy rainfall to the Indian subcontinent during the monsoon season. As these winds encounter the Garo-Khasi hills, they are forced to rise, cool, and condense, leading to significant precipitation. This process is known as orographic lifting, which is a key factor in the high rainfall received by the windward side of the hills.
Meghalaya, which means "abode of clouds" in Sanskrit, is situated on the windward side of the Garo-Khasi hills. This geographical position makes it one of the wettest places on Earth, with towns like Cherrapunji and Mawsynram recording some of the highest annual rainfall in the world. The heavy rainfall has shaped the landscape of Meghalaya, creating lush forests, deep gorges, and unique geological formations such as the living root bridges.
Understanding the concept of the windward side is crucial for comprehending the climate and geography of Meghalaya. The windward side receives more rainfall because it is the first to encounter the moisture-laden winds, leading to the formation of clouds and precipitation. In contrast, the leeward side, which is the side away from the prevailing winds, receives less rainfall due to the rain shadow effect, where the mountains block the moisture from reaching this side.
In summary, Meghalaya lies on the windward side of the Garo-Khasi hills, receiving the most rainfall due to the orographic lifting effect of the Southwest Monsoon winds. This geographical feature is a defining characteristic of Meghalaya's climate and landscape, making it a unique and important region in the study of Indian geography.