Difference Between the Himalayan and Peninsular Plateau

Introduction

India's scenery is unique in part because of two important but very different geological features: the Peninsular Plateau and the Himalayan area. With their tall peaks, profound valleys, and swift rivers, the Himalayas display a young morphology that was largely formed by continuing tectonic activity. The Peninsular Plateau, on the other hand, with its wide valleys and slowly ascending hills, offers a radically contrasting landscape. Its geological profile is substantially older than that of the Himalayas since it is mostly composed of ancient igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Himalayan Plateau

The Himalayan Region, often known as the Tibetan Plateau or the Himalayan Plateau and dubbed the "Roof of the World," is a major geographical feature that spans numerous Asian nations and is situated in northern India. It is one of the highest plateaus in the world, with an average elevation of around 4,500 meters above sea level. The Himalayan-Tibetan plateau is unique, and recent research by a group of experts highlighted this fact while highlighting the plateau's importance to the study of continental range-basin systems.

Difference Between the Himalayan and Peninsular Plateau

Peninsular Plateau

The Deccan Traps, or layers of hardened lava, and the Peninsular Plateau, a vast area of old igneous rocks, are the main features that define this important geographical feature in southern India. The Western Ghats influence this plateau's diverse terrain and climate to the west and the Satpura Range to the north. From a geological perspective, one of the main landmasses that emerged during the split of the supercontinent Pangea is Gondwana land, which is thought to have been fragmented and drifted, resulting in the development of the Peninsular Plateau. Knowledge of the plateau's current composition and structure, which includes substantial quantities of economically valuable minerals, requires knowledge of its geological past.

With its highlands and undulating hills, the Peninsular Plateau not only creates a noticeable physical barrier in India's environment but also has a significant impact on the region's climate and wildlife. Geologists and environmental scientists are interested in this area due to its historical and geological development.

Differences

Differences between the Peninsular Plateau and the Himalayan Region

Himalayan PlateauPeninsular Plateau
The Himalayan region has a young topography characterized by high peaks, deep valleys, and fast rivers.Made up of igneous and metamorphic materials, gradually rising hills and wide valleys characterize it.
The Himalayan Region was created when the Indo-Australian and Eurasian plates collided as a result of continental drift.The fragmentation and drifting of the former Gondwana land are the source of this plateau.
The Himalayan region is made up of fold mountains that were raised by tectonic action.Often referred to as a "horst," this region resembles a tableland.
The Himalayan Region is curved.The Peninsular Plateau is formed like a triangle.
Rocks in the Himalayan region are primarily sedimentary.The Peninsular Plateau is mostly made up of volcanic materials.
The Himalayan region was underwater throughout the Cambrian epoch until it was elevated into mountains.Only coastal regions have been periodically inundated since the Cambrian era, when the region was primarily terrestrial.
The Himalayan region has longer, permanent rivers that are fed by both glaciers and rain.Monsoon rains are the only source of water for these shorter, primarily non-perennial rivers.

Conclusion

In summary, the Indian Plateaus are important areas both physically and culturally. Their construction from old igneous and metamorphic rocks gives them a distinctive shape and a variety of landscapes, from wide valleys to undulating hills. Rich mineral, coal, and iron ore resources on the plateau not only make it an important resource center but also support industrial growth and the country's economy. Being a significant agricultural area, it promotes the production of important commodities like rice, wheat, and cotton, preserving the nation's and the local food supply. In addition, the plateau's abundance of historical landmarks, temples, and stunning beaches draws visitors from all over the world, raising its cultural and financial significance. In general, the environmental, economic, and cultural fabric of India is greatly influenced by the Plateaus.