Discover the diverse geography of Tamil Nadu, featuring coastal plains, fertile agricultural lands, and the Eastern Ghats. Learn about its varied climate, rich biodiversity, and natural resources. Explore how Tamil Nadu’s unique landscapes influence its culture, agriculture, and economic activities, shaping its distinct regional identity within India.
FAQs on Tamil Nadu Geography
- What is the geographical location of Tamil Nadu?
- Tamil Nadu is a state located in the southernmost part of the Indian Peninsula. It is bordered by the Bay of Bengal to the east, the Indian Ocean to the south, Kerala to the west, Karnataka to the northwest, and Andhra Pradesh to the north.
- What are the major rivers in Tamil Nadu?
- The major rivers flowing through Tamil Nadu are:
- Kaveri (Cauvery): The lifeline of the state, originating in Karnataka and flowing through Tamil Nadu before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
- Palar: A seasonal river that flows through northern Tamil Nadu.
- Vaigai: Flows through the Madurai district and is known for the Meenakshi Amman Temple situated on its banks.
- Thamirabarani: Flows through the Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts and is known for its fertile delta.
- What are the main physiographic divisions of Tamil Nadu?
- Tamil Nadu can be divided into five main physiographic regions:
- The Coastal Plains: A narrow strip of land along the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean.
- The Western Ghats: A mountain range forming the western border of the state, known for its biodiversity.
- The Eastern Ghats: A discontinuous range of hills along the eastern border.
- The Plateau Region: Located between the Western and Eastern Ghats, consisting of rolling hills and valleys.
- The Cauvery Delta: A fertile delta formed by the Kaveri River.
- What is the climate of Tamil Nadu?
- Tamil Nadu has a tropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The state receives most of its rainfall during the northeast monsoon (October to December), while the southwest monsoon (June to September) brings relatively less rain.
- What are the major natural resources found in Tamil Nadu?
- Tamil Nadu’s natural resources include:
- Minerals: Limestone, granite, magnetite, lignite, and bauxite are found in the state.
- Forests: The Western Ghats region has rich forest cover with diverse flora and fauna.
- Marine Resources: The long coastline supports fishing and aquaculture activities.
- What are the major crops grown in Tamil Nadu?
- The major crops grown in Tamil Nadu are:
- Rice
- Sugarcane
- Cotton
- Groundnut
- Coconut
- Mangoes
- Bananas
- Spices
- What are the major cities in Tamil Nadu?
- The major cities in Tamil Nadu include:
- Chennai (Capital)
- Coimbatore
- Madurai
- Tiruchirappalli
- Salem
- What are some important geographical features of Tamil Nadu?
- Some important geographical features include:
- Point Calimere: The southeastern tip of the Indian Peninsula.
- Nilgiri Hills: A biodiverse hill range in the Western Ghats.
- Pamban Island: Connected to the mainland by the Pamban Bridge, it’s home to Rameswaram, a major pilgrimage center.
- Gulf of Mannar: A large shallow bay known for its coral reefs and marine biodiversity.