Question
What are the Physiographic divisions of West Bengal? Write about any 2 of the divisions in detail.
Answer
West Bengal can be broadly divided into three physiographic divisions, which are as follows:
- The Himalayan Region: This region lies in the northernmost part of West Bengal, and it comprises the Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts. The Himalayan region is characterized by its high mountains, deep valleys, and steep slopes. Some of the famous peaks in this region include Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, and Sandakphu, the highest peak in West Bengal. The region is also known for its beautiful hill stations like Darjeeling and Kalimpong, which attract tourists from all over the world.
- The Terai and Duars Region: This region lies in the foothills of the Himalayas and is also known as the Terai and Dooars region. The Terai region is a narrow strip of land that lies between the foothills of the Himalayas and the Gangetic plain. The Dooars region, on the other hand, is a vast stretch of land that lies between the easternmost foothills of the Himalayas and the Brahmaputra River. This region is known for its vast expanses of tea gardens, which produce some of the best tea in the world. The region is also home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Jaldapara National Park, the Buxa Tiger Reserve, and the Gorumara National Park.
- The Gangetic Plain: This region lies in the southern part of West Bengal and comprises the districts of Bardhaman, Hooghly, Howrah, Kolkata, Nadia, Murshidabad, and Malda. This region is characterized by its flat terrain and fertile soil, which makes it ideal for agriculture. The region is also home to several industries, including the jute industry, the iron and steel industry, and the tea industry. The region is also known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to several famous temples, mosques, and other historical monuments.