India is home to two major mountain ranges that shape its geography and climate. Stretching along different coasts, these ranges influence rainfall, river systems, biodiversity, and human settlements. Their contrasting features often raise curiosity about how the Western Ghats differ from the Eastern Ghats. Read on to understand their key differences and importance.
Why Is a Comparison Between Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats Important?
The comparison between the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats is important because both ranges play distinct roles in India’s climate, ecology, and drainage systems. Understanding their differences helps explain monsoon patterns, river origins, biodiversity distribution, and regional development.
Western Ghats vs Eastern Ghats Overview
| Feature | Western Ghats (Sahyadris) | Eastern Ghats |
| Location | Parallel to the Western Coast (Arabian Sea). | Parallel to the Eastern Coast (Bay of Bengal). |
| Continuity | Continuous; can only be crossed through specific passes (e.g., Pal Ghat, Thal Ghat). | Discontinuous; broken and dissected by major rivers draining into the Bay of Bengal. |
| Average Height | Higher (average 900–1600 meters). | Lower (average 600 meters). |
| Highest Peak | Anamudi (2,695 m) in Kerala. | Jindhagada Peak (1,690 m) in Andhra Pradesh. |
| Climate Influence | Causes heavy orographic rainfall on the windward side during the Southwest monsoon. | Less rainfall; mostly influenced by the Northeast (retreating) monsoon. |
| Biodiversity | Very Rich; one of the world's 8 "hottest hotspots" of biodiversity. | Moderate; home to many species but less endemicity than the West. |
| River Origin | Source of major perennial rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri. | No major perennial rivers originate here; it is mostly cut through by rivers from the West. |
| Vegetation | Tropical Evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. | Tropical Deciduous (monsoon) forests and scrublands. |
Where Are the Western Ghats Located?
The Western Ghats run parallel to the western coast of India from Gujarat to Kerala, passing through Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. They form a continuous mountain barrier close to the Arabian Sea.
Where Are the Eastern Ghats Located?
The Eastern Ghats extend along the eastern coast from Odisha to Tamil Nadu. Unlike the Western Ghats, they are discontinuous and intersected by rivers flowing into the Bay of Bengal.
How Do the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats Affect Climate?
The Western Ghats block moisture-laden southwest monsoon winds, causing heavy rainfall on the western side and rain-shadow regions on the eastern side. The Eastern Ghats do not significantly obstruct monsoon winds due to their broken structure.
Rivers Originating From Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats
Many short, fast-flowing rivers originate from the Western Ghats and flow into the Arabian Sea. Major east-flowing rivers such as the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri cut across the Eastern Ghats before draining into the Bay of Bengal.
Biodiversity of Western Ghats vs Eastern Ghats
The Western Ghats are recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot with dense forests and endemic species. The Eastern Ghats have fewer dense forests and lower species diversity due to lower rainfall and fragmented terrain.
Interesting Facts About Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats
UNESCO World Heritage Status
The Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are globally recognised for ecological significance.
Older Geological Structure
The Eastern Ghats are geologically older. They have undergone extensive erosion over time.
Monsoon Barrier
The Western Ghats act as a climatic barrier. They influence rainfall patterns across peninsular India.
River Intersections
Major rivers cut through the Eastern Ghats. This breaks the range into separate hill sections.
Ecological Importance
Both ranges support wildlife and forests. They help maintain regional environmental balance.
Read more: Which Mountain Is Known as the Majestic Peak of Asia?
The Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats differ in structure, height, climate influence, and biodiversity. While the Western Ghats play a major role in monsoon rainfall and ecological richness, the Eastern Ghats contribute to river systems and regional geography. Keep reading for more such topics.
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