What is the Difference Between Himalayan Rivers and Peninsular Rivers?

The main differences between Himalayan Rivers and Peninsular Rivers are:

1. Origin: Himalayan rivers originate from the Himalayan mountain ranges, while Peninsular rivers arise from the Western Ghats and the Central Highlands.
2. Water Source: Himalayan rivers get water from snow and rain, whereas Peninsular rivers are fed by rain only.
3. Seasonality: Himalayan rivers are perennial, meaning they have water throughout the year, while Peninsular rivers are seasonal, dependent on monsoon rainfall.
4. Catchment Area: The catchment area of Himalayan rivers is larger than that of Peninsular rivers. The catchment area of Himalayan rivers is also very fertile, whereas the Peninsular river basin is not as fertile.
5. Valley Formation: Himalayan rivers form V-shaped valleys, while Peninsular rivers form U-shaped valleys.
6. Major Rivers: Two major Himalayan rivers are the Indus and the Brahmaputra, while the main river systems of Peninsular rivers are the Godavari and the Narmada.
7. Course Length: Himalayan rivers have longer and deeper courses compared to Peninsular rivers.

Comparative Table: Himalayan Rivers vs Peninsular Rivers

Here is a table comparing the differences between Himalayan Rivers and Peninsular Rivers:

Himalayan rivers are perennial, meaning they have water throughout the year, and are fed by snow and rain. They have a large drainage basin and are mainly found in the northern part of India. These rivers have soft, sedimentary, and easily erodible bedrocks, and they form a V-shaped valley. Some major Himalayan rivers include the Indus and the Brahmaputra.

On the other hand, Peninsular rivers are seasonal and rely mainly on rainfall for their water source. They have a smaller drainage basin and are found in the southern part of India. Peninsular rivers have hard, resistant, and not easily erodible bedrocks, and they form a U-shaped valley. Some major Peninsular rivers include the Narmada and the Tapi.