Understanding Rainfall in Meghalaya Hills

The question asks us to identify the hills in the state of Meghalaya that receive the maximum amount of rainfall. Meghalaya is known for its exceptionally high rainfall, particularly in specific regions.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the given options:

• Khasi hills: These are a range of hills located in Meghalaya state. This region is famous for having some of the wettest places on Earth, such as Mawsynram and Cherrapunji.
• Aravali: These are one of the oldest mountain ranges in India, located primarily in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Delhi. They are not located in Meghalaya.
• Nilgiri: These hills are part of the Western Ghats mountain range in South India, spanning across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. They are not located in Meghalaya.
• Shivalik: Also known as the Outer Himalayas, this mountain range is spread across many northern Indian states and neighbouring countries. They are not located in Meghalaya.

Why Khasi Hills Receive Maximum Rainfall

Meghalaya's high rainfall is primarily due to its geographical location and topography. The state is shaped like a funnel, and the Bay of Bengal monsoon winds are channeled into the narrow valleys of the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia hills. When these moisture-laden winds hit the elevated terrain of the Khasi hills, they are forced to rise rapidly. This process is called orographic lift. As the air rises, it cools, and the moisture condenses, leading to extremely heavy rainfall on the windward slopes of the Khasi hills.

The specific location of Mawsynram, widely recognized as the wettest place on Earth, and Cherrapunji (Sohra), another location receiving extremely high rainfall, are situated in the southern part of the Khasi hills.

Conclusion

Based on geographical knowledge and the analysis of the options, the Khasi hills in Meghalaya are renowned for receiving the maximum rainfall.

Therefore, the correct option is Khasi hills.

Revision Table: Key Facts on Meghalaya Rainfall

Additional Information: Orographic Rainfall and Meghalaya

Orographic rainfall occurs when moist air is lifted as it moves over a mountain range. As the air rises, it cools and expands. This cooling causes the water vapor in the air to condense and form clouds, leading to precipitation on the windward side (the side facing the wind) of the mountains. The leeward side (the side away from the wind) typically receives much less rain, often creating a rain shadow effect.

In Meghalaya, the Khasi hills are strategically positioned to intercept the moisture-laden monsoon winds coming from the Bay of Bengal. The steep slopes cause rapid uplift, leading to intense and prolonged rainfall, making it one of the wettest regions globally. This phenomenon is a classic example of orographic precipitation.

Understanding the geography and climate of Meghalaya helps explain why the Khasi hills experience such extraordinary levels of rainfall.