Major Physiographic Divisions of India

The Indian subcontinent displays a striking physiographic diversity that results from tectonic evolution, crustal movement, and fluvial processes operating over millions of years. Broadly, India is divided into five major physiographic divisions — the Northern Mountains, Northern Plains, Peninsular Plateau, Coastal Plains, and Islands. Each division has evolved through distinct geological and geomorphic processes, reflecting different stages of Earth’s crustal development.

The Northern Mountains (Himalayan Region)

• The Himalayas form the youngest and loftiest fold mountain system in the world, stretching over 2,400 kilometres from west to east.
• Their formation began around 50–60 million years ago when the Indian Plate collided with ....