Western Ghats

The Western Ghats rise west of Karad, separating the Krishna valley from the Konkan coast. The Krishna and its tributaries descend from the high, rain-fed Sahyadri hills before meeting near Karad and continuing east across the Deccan. Monsoon rains nourish forests on the western slopes, while the eastern valleys open towards the plateau. Mountain passes and fortified heights gave the Maratha rulers access between the coastal lowlands and their inland strongholds.