Notes on Bihar Geography
Bihar is a state in eastern India known for its rich cultural heritage and geographical diversity.
Here are some key notes on the geography of Bihar:
1. **Location and Boundaries:**
- Located in eastern India, Bihar lies between 24°20'N to 27°31'N latitude and 83°19'E to 88°17'E
longitude.
- It is bordered by Nepal to the north, West Bengal to the east, Uttar Pradesh to the west, and
Jharkhand to the south.
2. **Physical Divisions:**
- **Northern Plains:**
- Part of the Gangetic plains, characterized by fertile alluvial soil.
- Formed by rivers like the Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, and Bagmati.
- **Southern Plateau:**
- Consists of rocky and hilly terrain, part of the Chota Nagpur Plateau.
- **Terai Region:**
- Lies along the northern border with Nepal, marked by marshy grasslands.
3. **Major Rivers:**
- The **Ganga River** is the lifeline of Bihar, flowing west to east.
- Tributaries include Gandak, Kosi, Son, Punpun, Bagmati, and Falgu.
- The Kosi River is often referred to as the "Sorrow of Bihar" due to frequent floods.
4. **Climate:**
- Bihar experiences a tropical monsoon climate with three main seasons:
- **Summer:** March to June, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 45°C.
- **Monsoon:** June to September, with heavy rainfall, especially in northern areas.
- **Winter:** November to February, with temperatures between 4°C and 20°C.
5. **Soil Types:**
- Alluvial soil dominates, supporting agriculture, especially in the northern plains.
- Red and laterite soils are found in the southern plateau region.
6. **Flora and Fauna:**
- Bihar has diverse vegetation, including forests in the southern and Terai regions.
- Notable wildlife includes tigers, leopards, elephants, and deer.
- Protected areas: Valmiki National Park and Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary.
7. **Natural Resources:**
- Minerals: Mica, bauxite, and limestone are found in southern Bihar.
- Forests provide timber, lac, and medicinal plants.
8. **Agriculture:**
- Agriculture is the backbone of Bihar's economy, with rice, wheat, maize, and sugarcane as major
crops.
- The state is also known for its production of pulses, fruits, and vegetables.
9. **Economic and Strategic Importance:**
- Fertile plains contribute to Bihar's agricultural economy.
- Rivers support irrigation and fisheries.
- Rich cultural and historical sites boost tourism.
Bihar's geography has played a pivotal role in shaping its history, economy, and cultural legacy.
Understanding its geographical features is essential for appreciating its significance in India.
