12.2 South and Southeast Asia
5 min read•august 16, 2024
South and Southeast Asia are regions of incredible diversity, from towering mountains to tropical islands. This section explores the varied landscapes, climates, and ecosystems that shape life in these areas, from the to the .
The rich cultural heritage of the region is also examined, highlighting the influence of major religions and the blending of traditions. Colonial legacies and post-colonial challenges are discussed, along with current economic disparities and development issues facing these dynamic regions.
Landscapes, Climates, and Ecosystems of South and Southeast Asia
Mountain Ranges and Plains
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- Himalayas dominate northern South Asia influencing climate patterns and river systems across the region
- stretches across northern India and supporting intensive agriculture and dense population centers
- and mountain ranges run parallel to India's coasts creating distinct climate zones and biodiversity hotspots
- Mekong River system supports diverse ecosystems and millions of people across multiple countries in mainland Southeast Asia
- Crucial for agriculture, fishing, and transportation
- Spans six countries (China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam)
Geographic Features and Biodiversity
- Southeast Asia characterized by mix of mainland and insular geography including , , and
- Over 17,000 islands in Indonesia alone
- Volcanic activity shapes many islands ( in Java)
- found in Malaysia and Indonesia are biodiversity hotspots
- Home to unique species (orangutans, Sumatran tigers)
- Facing threats from deforestation and palm oil plantations
- mangrove forest in Bangladesh and India largest of its kind in the world
- Habitat for Bengal tigers and numerous bird species
- Acts as natural barrier against cyclones
Climate Patterns
- Region experiences with distinct wet and dry seasons
- brings heavy rainfall from June to September
- affects eastern coasts from October to December
- Monsoons significantly impact agriculture, water resources, and human activities
- Crucial for rice cultivation in many areas
- Can lead to severe flooding and landslides
- Tropical cyclones affect coastal areas particularly in the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea
- Cause significant damage and loss of life ( in Myanmar, 2008)
Cultural Heritage and Diversity of South and Southeast Asia
Religious Influences
- , , , and profoundly influence cultural landscapes of South Asia
- Shape art, architecture, and social structures
- Hindu temples ( in Cambodia), Buddhist stupas ( in Indonesia)
- Islam predominant religion in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei
- Influences legal systems and social norms
- Buddhism dominant in Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia
- Reflected in daily life and national symbols
- continues to impact social hierarchies and economic opportunities in parts of South Asia particularly India
- Officially abolished but still influential in social interactions and marriages
Cultural Blending and Diversity
- Southeast Asia exhibits unique blend of indigenous, Indian, Chinese, and Western cultural influences
- Resulting in diverse artistic traditions and architectural styles
- Visible in cuisine, language, and religious practices
- exemplified by numerous language families
- (Hindi, Bengali)
- (Tamil, Telugu)
- (Vietnamese, Khmer)
- (Indonesian, Tagalog)
- Ancient civilizations left lasting legacies on region's cultural heritage
- Indus Valley in South Asia (urban planning, script)
- Angkor in Southeast Asia (temple complexes, water management systems)
Artistic and Cultural Traditions
- Traditional practices showcase region's rich performing arts traditions
- incorporates intricate hand movements and elaborate costumes
- includes Hindustani and Carnatic styles
- Southeast Asian shadow puppetry ( in Indonesia)
- Textile traditions reflect cultural diversity
- and
- and
- Culinary traditions vary widely across the region
- Spice-rich curries of India
- Noodle-based dishes of Vietnam
- Rice as a staple food throughout
Colonial Legacies and Post-Colonial Developments in South and Southeast Asia
Colonial Impacts and Independence Movements
- British colonial rule in South Asia led to and in 1947
- Resulted in massive population displacements and ongoing geopolitical tensions
- Created linguistic and religious divisions (Bangladesh's separation from Pakistan in 1971)
- colonial empire laid foundation for modern Indonesia
- Influenced political structure and economic development
- Led to struggle for independence (1945-1949)
- 's colonial legacy evident in political systems and architectural styles
- Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos
- Influenced education systems and administrative structures
Post-Colonial Challenges and Movements
- Post-colonial nation-building efforts marked by challenges
- Ethnic conflicts ()
- Separatist movements (Aceh in Indonesia)
- Struggles for democratic governance (Myanmar's transition)
- initiated by leaders like India's Nehru
- Sought to navigate Cold War tensions
- Asserted independence in foreign policy
- Military coups and authoritarian regimes shaped political landscapes
- (1962-2011, resumed in 2021)
- Thailand's cycle of coups and civilian governments
- Pakistan's periods of military dictatorship
Economic and Political Transformations
- Economic policies in post-colonial era ranged from socialist experiments to export-oriented industrialization
- under Nehru
- Singapore's rapid industrialization under Lee Kuan Yew
- Regional organizations formed to promote cooperation
- Association of Southeast Asian Nations () established in 1967
- founded in 1985
- Shift towards economic liberalization in many countries since 1990s
- India's economic reforms in 1991
- Vietnam's initiated in 1986
Economic Disparities and Development Challenges in South and Southeast Asia
Economic Growth and Inequality
- Rapid economic growth accompanied by widening income inequality and regional development disparities
- India's IT sector boom contrasts with rural poverty
- Indonesia's development concentrated in Java island
- plays crucial role in many countries
- Provides employment but often lacks social protections and regulation
- Significant in sectors like street vending, domestic work, and small-scale manufacturing
- Regional economic integration efforts aim to address development challenges
- established in 2015
- Aims for free movement of goods, services, investment, and skilled labor
Urbanization and Environmental Challenges
- Urbanization trends in megacities present challenges
- , , and face issues in housing, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability
- Urban slums (Dharavi in Mumbai) highlight stark inequalities
- Environmental challenges pose significant threats to sustainable development and livelihoods
- Air pollution in cities like Delhi and Bangkok
- Water scarcity in regions like Maharashtra, India
- Climate change impacts (sea-level rise threatening Mekong Delta and Sundarbans)
Social and Demographic Issues
- Gender inequality remains significant issue
- Disparities in education (lower female literacy rates in some regions)
- Workforce participation (lower female labor force participation in India)
- Political representation (underrepresentation in national parliaments)
- Demographic trends present unique economic and social challenges
- Youth bulges in countries like Pakistan and Philippines
- Aging populations in Singapore and Thailand
- Health challenges vary across the region
- Malnutrition in rural areas of South Asia
- Rising rates of non-communicable diseases in more developed areas
Key Terms to Review (59)
Aceh Separatist Movement: The Aceh Separatist Movement is a political and social movement seeking independence for the Aceh region on the northern tip of Sumatra, Indonesia. It emerged in response to perceived neglect and exploitation by the Indonesian government, aiming to establish a separate state known as Aceh Merdeka, reflecting the desire for self-determination and regional autonomy.
Air Pollution in Delhi: Air pollution in Delhi refers to the presence of harmful pollutants in the air of India's capital, significantly exceeding safe levels. This situation arises from various sources, including vehicle emissions, industrial discharge, construction dust, and crop burning in neighboring regions. The alarming levels of air pollution have serious health implications and contribute to environmental degradation.
Angkor Civilization: The Angkor Civilization was a powerful and sophisticated society that flourished in Southeast Asia, particularly in present-day Cambodia, from the 9th to the 15th century. It is renowned for its impressive architectural achievements, most notably the temple complex of Angkor Wat, which reflects the civilization's advancements in engineering, art, and religion.
Angkor Wat: Angkor Wat is a massive temple complex located in Cambodia, originally built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. It is the largest religious monument in the world and stands as a symbol of Cambodia’s cultural heritage and architectural ingenuity, showcasing the heights of Khmer civilization.
ASEAN: ASEAN, or the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is a regional organization established in 1967 to promote political and economic cooperation and regional stability among its member countries in Southeast Asia. The organization plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue and collaboration on various geopolitical issues, trade relations, and socio-cultural exchanges, thus shaping the dynamics of international relations within the region.
ASEAN Economic Community: The ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is a regional integration initiative established by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to create a single market and production base, promoting economic growth and stability among its member countries. The AEC aims to facilitate trade and investment through the elimination of tariffs, the harmonization of regulations, and the enhancement of connectivity across Southeast Asia.
Austroasiatic: Austroasiatic refers to a language family that includes languages spoken predominantly in Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia, such as Vietnamese and Khmer. This family represents a significant linguistic and cultural heritage in these regions, reflecting ancient migrations and interactions among various ethnic groups.
Austronesian: Austronesian refers to a large family of languages and the peoples who speak them, originating from Taiwan and spreading throughout the islands of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. This group includes numerous languages such as Tagalog, Malay, and Hawaiian, and is significant for its cultural and historical influence in South and Southeast Asia, as well as in the Pacific region.
Balinese dance: Balinese dance is a traditional form of artistic expression from the island of Bali, Indonesia, characterized by intricate movements, elaborate costumes, and a rich musical accompaniment. It plays a significant role in Balinese culture, often performed during religious ceremonies and social events, serving as a means of storytelling and cultural preservation.
Bangladesh: Bangladesh is a country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the west, north, and east, Myanmar to the southeast, and the Bay of Bengal to the south. It emerged as an independent nation in 1971 after a war of liberation from Pakistan, and it is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and significant agricultural sector.
Borobudur: Borobudur is a massive Buddhist temple located in Central Java, Indonesia, built during the 8th and 9th centuries. It is renowned for its intricate design and stunning architecture, featuring a pyramid-like structure with multiple levels and over 500 Buddha statues. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Borobudur stands as a symbol of Indonesia's cultural heritage and serves as a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Buddhism: Buddhism is a major world religion and philosophical system founded in the 5th to 4th century BCE by Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, in ancient India. It focuses on the path to enlightenment through practices such as meditation, ethical living, and the understanding of suffering, which is central to human experience. Buddhism's concepts and practices have significantly shaped cultures and societies, particularly in regions such as East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Caste system: The caste system is a hierarchical social stratification prevalent in South Asia, particularly within Hindu society, where individuals are born into specific social groups that dictate their occupation, social status, and marriage prospects. This rigid structure divides people into four primary categories known as varnas—Brahmins (priests and teachers), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (traders and agriculturists), and Shudras (laborers and service providers)—with an additional classification of Dalits, often referred to as 'untouchables.'
Cyclone Nargis: Cyclone Nargis was a powerful tropical cyclone that struck Myanmar in May 2008, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. It is known for being one of the deadliest natural disasters in Southeast Asia's history, with its impacts highlighting the vulnerabilities of coastal regions to extreme weather events and the challenges in disaster preparedness and response.
Dharavi Slum: Dharavi Slum is one of the largest slums in Asia, located in Mumbai, India, covering an area of about 2.1 square kilometers. It is a densely populated area, known for its vibrant community and informal economy, with a significant number of small-scale industries operating within its confines. Despite its challenges, Dharavi also represents resilience and entrepreneurship among its residents, making it a crucial part of Mumbai's urban landscape.
Doi moi policy: The doi moi policy refers to a series of economic reforms initiated in Vietnam in the mid-1980s aimed at transitioning the country from a centrally planned economy to a socialist-oriented market economy. This policy played a crucial role in revitalizing Vietnam's economy, encouraging foreign investment, and reducing poverty while maintaining the Communist Party's political control.
Dravidian: Dravidian refers to a family of languages spoken predominantly in southern India and parts of Sri Lanka, as well as to the cultural and ethnic groups associated with these languages. The Dravidian language family is distinct from the Indo-Aryan languages found in northern India, and it encompasses major languages like Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. Dravidian culture has rich traditions in literature, art, and architecture, significantly influencing the region's historical development.
Dutch East Indies: The Dutch East Indies refers to the former colonial territories of the Netherlands in Southeast Asia, primarily encompassing the modern-day nations of Indonesia. This term is closely associated with the colonial exploitation of resources, trade routes, and cultural interactions between Europe and Asia during the Age of Exploration and colonialism.
Eastern Ghats: The Eastern Ghats are a mountain range located along the eastern coast of India, stretching from Odisha in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south. They are characterized by a series of low hills and plateaus, distinct from the higher and more continuous Western Ghats, and play a significant role in the climate, biodiversity, and agriculture of the region.
French Indochina: French Indochina was a colonial federation in Southeast Asia established by France in the 19th century, comprising the territories of present-day Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. This colonial entity significantly influenced the political, cultural, and economic landscape of the region, impacting the lives of millions and shaping their struggles for independence throughout the 20th century.
Himalayas: The Himalayas are a vast mountain range in Asia, separating the plains of the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. Spanning five countries—India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan—these mountains include some of the highest peaks in the world, such as Mount Everest. The Himalayas significantly influence climate, biodiversity, and human activities in the surrounding regions.
Hinduism: Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world, originating from the Indian subcontinent, characterized by a variety of beliefs, practices, and rituals. It encompasses a diverse range of philosophies, including concepts of dharma (duty), karma (action), and moksha (liberation). The religion's deep-rooted traditions are tied to sacred texts like the Vedas and the Upanishads, and it has significantly influenced the cultural and spiritual landscape of South Asia.
India's Mixed Economy Model: India's mixed economy model is an economic system that combines elements of both capitalism and socialism, allowing for both private enterprise and government intervention in the market. This model aims to balance economic growth with social equity, reflecting the diverse needs of India's population while fostering industrialization and development.
Indian Classical Music: Indian classical music is a traditional form of music that has evolved over centuries in India, characterized by its complex melodies and rhythms. It is divided mainly into two distinct styles: Hindustani, which originates from North India, and Carnatic, from South India. Both styles emphasize improvisation and the use of intricate ragas and talas, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Indian saris: Indian saris are traditional garments worn by women in India, consisting of a long piece of cloth, usually around six to nine yards in length, that is draped elegantly around the body. This versatile attire not only reflects regional styles and personal tastes but also showcases a rich cultural heritage, often adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors.
Indigenous influences: Indigenous influences refer to the impact and contributions of native populations to culture, society, and the environment in a specific region. These influences can be seen in areas such as language, traditions, agricultural practices, and art, which reflect the deep-rooted histories and relationships of indigenous communities with their land.
Indo-European: Indo-European refers to a family of languages that includes many of the world's major languages, such as English, Spanish, Russian, and Hindi. This linguistic group is believed to have originated from a common ancestor language spoken thousands of years ago, leading to a rich diversity of languages and dialects across Europe and parts of Asia. Understanding this family helps highlight the connections between various cultures, histories, and migrations throughout different regions.
Indo-Gangetic Plain: The Indo-Gangetic Plain is a vast, fertile region in northern India and parts of Pakistan, formed by the alluvial deposits of the Ganges, Indus, and Brahmaputra river systems. This area is significant for its agriculture, supporting millions of people and playing a crucial role in the economies of South Asia. Its rich soil and extensive irrigation networks make it one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world.
Indonesian Archipelago: The Indonesian Archipelago is a vast group of over 17,000 islands located between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, forming the world's largest archipelago nation. This geographical formation plays a crucial role in the culture, economy, and biodiversity of Southeast Asia, connecting various landmasses and influencing trade routes historically and currently.
Indonesian Batik: Indonesian batik is a traditional textile art form characterized by its intricate patterns and designs created through a wax-resist dyeing technique. This unique craft has deep cultural significance in Indonesia, often reflecting the country's diverse heritage, social status, and regional identity, making it a vital part of South and Southeast Asian cultural expression.
Indus Valley Civilization: The Indus Valley Civilization was an ancient urban culture that thrived around 2500 BCE in the northwestern regions of South Asia, particularly in present-day Pakistan and northwest India. Known for its advanced city planning, architecture, and social organization, it was one of the world's earliest major urban centers, alongside Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt.
Informal economy: The informal economy consists of economic activities that are not regulated by the government or covered by formal labor laws, often involving self-employment or small-scale enterprises. This sector plays a crucial role in providing livelihoods for millions, especially in developing regions, and can be characterized by flexibility, low barriers to entry, and limited access to resources such as capital and social protections.
Islam: Islam is a monotheistic religion that originated in the 7th century CE, based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as revealed in the Quran. It emphasizes submission to the will of Allah (God) and is one of the world's major faiths, influencing various cultures, societies, and regions throughout history.
Jakarta: Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia and serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural center. Located on the northwest coast of Java, Jakarta is one of the most populous cities in the world, showcasing a unique blend of modern skyscrapers and historical sites. It plays a crucial role in the context of South and Southeast Asia due to its significance in trade, urbanization, and regional dynamics.
Linguistic diversity: Linguistic diversity refers to the variety of languages spoken in a particular region or by a specific population, highlighting the cultural richness and complexity of human communication. This concept emphasizes that languages are not just tools for communication but also carry cultural identity, traditions, and social structures, making it crucial to understand regions where multiple languages coexist and interact.
Malay Peninsula: The Malay Peninsula is a long and narrow piece of land located in Southeast Asia, stretching southward from the Isthmus of Kra to the Singapore Strait. It serves as a critical geographic bridge between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, influencing trade routes, cultural exchanges, and environmental dynamics in the region.
Manila: Manila is the capital city of the Philippines, located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay. It serves as the political, economic, social, and cultural center of the country, making it a significant hub in Southeast Asia. The city is known for its rich history, diverse population, and vibrant culture, which reflect the influences of Spanish colonization and American rule.
Mekong River: The Mekong River is a major river in Southeast Asia, flowing approximately 4,350 kilometers from the Tibetan Plateau through several countries, including China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It is crucial for the region's ecology, economy, and cultural practices, serving as a lifeline for millions of people who depend on its waters for fishing, agriculture, and transportation.
Monsoon climates: Monsoon climates are characterized by seasonal changes in wind direction, leading to distinct wet and dry seasons. These climates play a crucial role in the weather patterns of South and Southeast Asia, where they bring heavy rainfall during the monsoon season and dry spells at other times of the year, significantly impacting agriculture, water resources, and local economies.
Mount Merapi: Mount Merapi is an active stratovolcano located on the island of Java in Indonesia, known for being one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in the world. Its frequent eruptions have shaped not only the landscape but also the communities surrounding it, impacting agriculture, population distribution, and local culture in this densely populated region of Southeast Asia.
Mumbai: Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra and one of the most populous cities in the world. It serves as a financial, commercial, and cultural hub, reflecting India's rapid urbanization and economic growth. The city is renowned for its diverse population, vibrant culture, and as the heart of Bollywood, the Hindi-language film industry.
Myanmar's Military Rule: Myanmar's military rule refers to the period of direct control and governance by the military, known as the Tatmadaw, over the country of Myanmar (formerly Burma). This authoritarian regime has been marked by suppression of dissent, human rights abuses, and significant political repression, leading to widespread national and international criticism.
Non-Aligned Movement: The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) is an international organization of states that chose not to formally align with or against any major power bloc during the Cold War. It emerged in the 1950s and aimed to promote mutual respect, sovereignty, and economic development among nations, particularly those in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, while rejecting colonialism and imperialism.
Northeast monsoon: The northeast monsoon is a seasonal wind pattern that occurs in South and Southeast Asia, characterized by cool and dry air flowing from the northeast. This monsoon typically brings significant rainfall to the southeastern coast of India and parts of Southeast Asia, particularly from November to March, influencing agriculture and local climates in these regions.
Pakistan: Pakistan is a country located in South Asia, established in 1947 as a result of the partition of British India. It shares borders with India, Afghanistan, Iran, and China, and has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, plains, and deserts. The country plays a crucial role in regional geopolitics, cultural heritage, and economic development within South Asia.
Partition of India: The Partition of India was the division of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, which took place on August 15, 1947. This significant event marked the end of British colonial rule in the region and was driven by religious, political, and social tensions between Hindus and Muslims, leading to large-scale violence and mass migrations.
Philippine Islands: The Philippine Islands, an archipelago in Southeast Asia, consist of over 7,000 islands located in the western Pacific Ocean. This diverse region is known for its rich cultural heritage, biodiversity, and strategic geopolitical position, making it a significant area for trade, tourism, and environmental conservation.
Philippine piña cloth: Philippine piña cloth is a traditional textile made from the fibers of the pineapple plant, known for its delicate texture and lustrous appearance. This unique fabric has deep cultural significance in the Philippines, often used in formal attire and ceremonial garments, reflecting the rich heritage of Filipino craftsmanship and weaving techniques.
Sikhism: Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab region of South Asia in the late 15th century by Guru Nanak and subsequently shaped by nine other Gurus. It emphasizes equality, community service, and devotion to one God, and it plays a significant role in the cultural and religious landscape of South and Southeast Asia.
Singapore's Economic Model: Singapore's economic model refers to the country's unique approach to economic development that combines free-market principles with strong government intervention. This model has allowed Singapore to achieve rapid economic growth, transform from a developing nation into a global financial hub, and maintain high levels of social welfare and public services.
South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC): The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an intergovernmental organization established in 1985 to promote regional cooperation and development among its member states, which include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. SAARC aims to enhance economic and social progress through collaboration on issues like trade, agriculture, education, and disaster management.
Southwest monsoon: The southwest monsoon is a seasonal wind pattern that brings heavy rainfall to South and Southeast Asia, typically occurring from June to September. This phenomenon is characterized by moist air being drawn from the Indian Ocean, which leads to significant precipitation, crucial for agriculture and water resources in the region. The effects of the southwest monsoon are felt across various countries, influencing climate, agriculture, and local economies.
Sri Lanka's Civil War: Sri Lanka's Civil War was a prolonged conflict that lasted from 1983 to 2009 between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a militant organization that sought to create an independent Tamil state in the north and east of the country. This war was characterized by intense ethnic tensions between the majority Sinhalese and the minority Tamils, leading to significant social, economic, and political repercussions in South Asia.
Sundarbans: The Sundarbans is a vast mangrove forest located in the delta region of the Padma, Meghna, and Brahmaputra river basins, spanning parts of India and Bangladesh. It is known for its rich biodiversity, including the famous Bengal tiger, and serves as a critical ecosystem that provides numerous environmental services, such as coastal protection and habitat for wildlife.
Thai Silk: Thai silk is a traditional textile made from the fibers of the silkworm, particularly the Bombyx mori, and is known for its luxurious texture and vibrant colors. It holds a significant cultural and economic role in Thailand, where it has been woven for centuries using age-old techniques that are passed down through generations.
Tropical rainforests: Tropical rainforests are dense, warm forests found near the equator, characterized by high rainfall, rich biodiversity, and a layered structure of vegetation. These ecosystems play a crucial role in maintaining global climate and supporting countless species of plants and animals, making them essential for ecological balance and human life.
Water scarcity in Maharashtra: Water scarcity in Maharashtra refers to the insufficient availability of fresh water resources to meet the demands of its population and agriculture. This issue is exacerbated by factors such as seasonal rainfall patterns, over-extraction of groundwater, and a growing population, making it a critical concern for sustainable development in the region.
Wayang kulit: Wayang kulit is a traditional form of shadow puppet theater that originates from Indonesia, particularly Java and Bali. This art form combines intricate puppetry, music, and storytelling, often depicting tales from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of South and Southeast Asia.
Western Ghats: The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Mountains, is a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is recognized for its rich biodiversity and is home to numerous endemic species of flora and fauna. The range significantly influences the climate of the region and plays a critical role in the monsoon patterns that affect South Asia.