Shivalik Hills: Part of Which Mountain Range?

The question asks to identify the major mountain range to which the Shivalik Hills belong. The Shivalik Hills are a significant geographical feature in the Indian subcontinent.

Understanding the Shivalik Range

The Shivalik Hills, also known as the Outer Himalayas, form the southernmost longitudinal division of the Himalayas. They are characterized by low ranges, hills, and valleys, and are composed of unconsolidated sediments derived from the erosion of the higher Himalayan ranges.

Comparing Options

Let's look at the given options and their relation to the Shivalik Hills:

• Satpura: This is a range of hills in central India, running east-west. It is geologically distinct and geographically separate from the Himalayas.
• Western Ghats: These mountains run along the western coast of India. They are an older mountain system compared to the Himalayas and represent a different geological province.
• Aravali: Located in the northwestern part of India, the Aravali Range is one of the oldest mountain systems in the world. It is not associated with the Himalayan range.
• Himalayas: The Himalayas are a vast mountain system in Asia, separating the plains of the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. The Shivalik Hills are the foothills or the outer range of this colossal mountain system.

Final Identification

Therefore, the Shivalik Hills are an integral part of the Himalayas. They represent the transition zone between the plains and the higher mountain ranges.