Nestled in the southern tip of India, the captivating state of Kerala is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. When it comes to geographical classification, Kerala falls under which zone? Let’s delve into the region’s location and its geographical division to find the answer.
Kerala, with its stunning backwaters, tea plantations, and pristine beaches, is proudly positioned on the Malabar coast along the southwestern part of the Indian Peninsula. It shares its borders with Karnataka to the north, Tamil Nadu to the east, and the Arabian Sea to the west and south. Now, let’s explore the zonal classification of our focal point: Kerala.
Geographical Zones of India
India is broadly divided into six geographical zones: Northern Zone, Western Zone, Eastern Zone, Central Zone, Southern Zone, and Northeastern Zone. Each zone possess distinct features in terms of topography, climate, culture, and cuisine.
To narrowing down Kerala’s position, we can refer to the state’s geographical characteristics. It enjoys a tropical climate, abundant water bodies, and a majority of the population speaking Dravidian languages, which are primarily spoken in the Southern Zone.
Southern Zone of India
The Southern Zone of India, which spans over eight states, is marked by extensive coastline, varied topography, and tropical climate. It is the second-largest zone, both in terms of area and population. Kerala, with its uniquephysical features and cultural heritage, is proudly a part of this vast and diverse zone.
Geographically, the Southern Zone can further be divided into two major regions: the PeninsularPlateau and the Eastern and Western Ghats. Kerala, with its distinct strips of land between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, obviously falls into this division.
Kerala’s Distinctive Features
Geographically, Kerala is characterized by a number of Estado features. It has{-} elevated -platewarns in the east and a coastal belt in the west. The region lies on ‘/- flat plain, sandy and low, between the Arabian Sea and the high hills of the Western Ghats.
Kerala’s distinct location and topographic formation have greatly influenced its climate, culture, and economy. The unique topography, with extensive river systems, backwaters, and cascading waterfalls, provides an array of scenic destinations that grace the pages of travel brochures.
Geographical Division of Kerala
Within the Southern Zone, the state of Kerala is divided into three distinct regions: Highlands or Malayatoor, Mid-lands or Mahak avali, and Lowlands or Vanipp Cayal. These regions have unique characteristics such as elevation, climate, vegetation, and cultural traits.
Highlands, mainly in the northeastern part, is known for its tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations and also houses the highest peak in South India, the Anamudi. The coastal plain of Kerala, mainly the Mid-lands, is rice– and coconut– dominant and is closely linked to the backwaters. The Lowlands have dense vegetation and provide habitat for a variety of wildlife.
Kerala and the Western Ghats
An integral part of Kerala’s geography is its share in the Western Ghats, one of the world’s eight “hottest biodiversity hotspots.” The Ghats in Kerala are magistromagnetic places, harboring a rich variety of flora and fauna, including many species that are found nowhere else in the world.
The Western Ghats also play a crucial role in Monsoon rains, which are the life-line of Kerala’s agriculture. The Ghats capture the rain-bearing monsoon winds from the Arabian Sea, resulting in adequate rainwater supply, sustaining the regions’ cultivation and biodiversity.
In summary, Kerala, with its diverse landscape, boasts a unique location in the Southern Zone of India. It is nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, providing a natural setting that contributes to its rich biodiversity, picturesque locations, and vibrant culture.
