The Shivalik Range, also known as the Shiwalik Hills or simply Shiwaliks, is a low mountain range in South Asia that is part of the larger Himalayan system. Here’s some information about the Shiwalik Range:
- Location and Geography: The Shiwalik Range runs parallel to the main Himalayan range and lies at the southernmost edge of the Himalayas. It spans approximately 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles), extending from the Indus River in Pakistan to the Brahmaputra River in northeastern India. The range acts as a transition zone between the Himalayas and the Indo-Gangetic Plains.
- Formation: The Shiwalik Range was formed by the deposition of sediments brought down by rivers flowing from the higher Himalayas. Over millions of years, these sediments were deposited at the foothills, creating a series of ridges and hills. The range is composed primarily of unconsolidated sedimentary rocks, such as sand, gravel, and clay.
- Physical Features: The Shiwalik Range is characterized by a series of hills and valleys, with an average elevation ranging from 600 to 1,500 meters (2,000 to 5,000 feet). The peaks of the Shiwaliks are generally less prominent and lower in elevation compared to the main Himalayan peaks. The range is known for its gentle slopes, forested areas, and numerous rivers and streams that drain into the Indo-Gangetic Plains.
- Biodiversity: The Shiwalik Range is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The lower slopes of the range are covered with tropical and subtropical forests, while the higher elevations are dominated by temperate forests. The region supports a variety of wildlife, including species like leopards, bears, deer, monkeys, and a rich avian population.
- Human Settlements and Agriculture: The Shiwalik Range is densely populated, with numerous towns and villages scattered throughout its foothills. The fertile valleys and slopes of the range support agriculture, and farming activities such as cultivation of crops like wheat, rice, maize, and sugarcane are common.
- Economic Significance: The Shiwalik Range has economic importance for the region. The range serves as a source of construction materials such as sand, gravel, and stones. It also contributes to tourism, with its scenic beauty and accessibility attracting visitors interested in nature, trekking, and wildlife.
Overall, the Shiwalik Range plays an important role in the physical, ecological, and human geography of the region. It acts as a buffer between the Indo-Gangetic Plains and the higher Himalayas and supports a range of ecosystems and human activities.

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