Chapter 15

Physical Features of Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the largest state of India by area, exhibits diverse physical features ranging from the arid Thar Desert in the west to the fertile plains and the Aravalli mountain range in the east. The state's topography is classified into four major regions: the Western Desert (Marusthali), the Aravalli Range, the Eastern Plains, and the South-Eastern Plateau. The Thar Desert covers approximately 60% of the state's area and is characterized by sandy dunes, sparse vegetation, and extreme climatic conditions. The Aravalli Range, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, stretches from the southwest to the northeast, acting as a natural barrier and influencing rainfall patterns. The Eastern Plains, lying east of the Aravallis, are comparatively fertile and support intensive agriculture. The South-Eastern Plateau region, part of the Vindhyan plateau, is rich in minerals and forests. Major peaks include Guru Shikhar (1722 m) in Mount Abu, the highest point in Rajasthan. The state's varied physical features impact its climate, agriculture, and resource distribution. ⭐ परीक्षा महत्वपूर्ण तथ्य: • Rajasthan's total area is 342,239 sq km (10.4% of India's area) • Aravalli Range influences rainfall and divides eastern fertile plains from western arid region • Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan • Questions often ask about highest peak, desert coverage, and major physical regions • Remember district names associated with each physical region

• Thar Desert covers about 60% of Rajasthan's area (approx. 200,000 sq km)
• Aravalli Range is one of the world's oldest mountain ranges, stretching over 692 km
• Guru Shikhar in Mount Abu is the highest peak (1722 meters)
• Eastern Plains are fertile due to proximity to Chambal and its tributaries
• South-Eastern Plateau is rich in minerals like limestone and sandstone
• 📌 Marusthali: Western desert region of Rajasthan
• 📌 Aravalli Range: Ancient mountain range running across Rajasthan
• 📌 Guru Shikhar: Highest peak in Rajasthan

Climate of Rajasthan

Rajasthan's climate is predominantly arid and semi-arid, influenced by its geographical location and topography. The state experiences extreme temperatures, with summer highs often exceeding 45°C in western districts and winter lows dropping below 0°C in places like Mount Abu and Churu. The Western Desert region receives scanty rainfall, averaging less than 250 mm annually, while the eastern and southeastern regions receive higher rainfall (up to 1000 mm) due to the influence of the Aravalli Range. Rajasthan has three distinct seasons: summer (March to June), monsoon (July to September), and winter (October to February). The monsoon is brief and erratic, with most rainfall occurring in July and August. The state is prone to droughts, which impact agriculture and water availability. The climate also affects flora, fauna, and human activities, making conservation of water and resources crucial. ⭐ परीक्षा महत्वपूर्ण तथ्य: • Rajasthan's average annual rainfall is about 575 mm • Droughts occurred in 2002, 2015, and 2019 affecting agriculture • Mount Abu is the wettest place in Rajasthan • Questions frequently focus on rainfall patterns, drought years, and temperature records • Remember district-wise climatic distinctions

• Western Rajasthan receives less than 250 mm rainfall annually
• Churu holds record for lowest temperature (-4.6°C in 1997)
• Mount Abu receives highest rainfall in the state (approx. 1140 mm annually)
• Rajasthan is prone to frequent droughts, affecting over 60% of its area
• Three main seasons: Summer, Monsoon, Winter
• 📌 Arid Climate: Characterized by low rainfall and high evaporation
• 📌 Monsoon: Seasonal wind bringing rainfall, mainly July-September