Physical region

Malabar Coast

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Overview

The Malabar coast in Kerala and Karnataka is the south-west coast. It has kayals (backwaters) such as Vembanad and natural harbours such as Kochi.

It stretches along the south-western coast from Karnataka through Kerala.

It is marked by lagoons and backwaters called kayals, connected to the sea by narrow outlets.

Since ancient times it has traded pepper and spices with West Asia and Europe; Muziris was its famous port.

The coast receives heavy rainfall from the south-west monsoon.

It has many lagoons and sand bars.

Coconut and rubber are major crops.

Kochi is the main port.

Geography and key facts

  • South-west coast
  • Kayals
  • Natural harbours
  • Kayals (backwaters)
  • Spice trade
  • Muziris

Why it matters for UPSC

Asked on coastal plains.

Note for UPSC

The south-west coast in Kerala and Karnataka; lagoons and backwaters. Label position is approximate.

Physical regions help answer questions on soils, crops and drainage; labels are approximate.

Asked in PYQs

No question in our Prelims bank names Malabar Coast yet.

Key facts

Type
Physical region
States / UTs
Puducherry, Kerala
Coordinates
12.017°N, 75.283°E

From the Map Explorer data; positions are for orientation.

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