The central part of the plateau lies between the two big rivers of the south, the Narmada and the Krishna. The Narmada and the Tapis rivers flow into the Arabian Sea. The Krishna and the Godavari rivers flow into the Bay of Bengal.

The part of the plateau region beyond the Krishna River towards south in the southern plateau. The Krishna and the Cauveri rivers flow into the Bay of Bengal. The Mettur Dam on the Cauveri is the largest irrigation project in this area.

The Nilgiri is the highest mountain range in this region. Below them to the west, lie the Cardamom hills. The famous Palghat pass lies between the Nilgiri and the cardamom hills.

In this region the rivers have formed deep valleys by cutting through the soft rocks. A waterfall is formed when a river passes over the rocks and falls down a steep hillside into the deep valley. The jog falls on the Sharavati River is the most famous of all.

The climate of this region is neither very hot in summer nor too cold in winter. There are thick forests in come parts where the rainfall is heavy. These forests are famous for their teak and sandalwood trees. Wild animals like tiger, elephant and panther are also found in these forests. Rubber is one of the main crops in this region.

There are large plantations of coffee, cashew nuts and cardamom on the slopes of the hills. About 60% of India’s coffee is produced in Karnataka. Sandalwood is fund in some parts of Karnataka’s forests. Sandalwoods used to manufacturing oil, soaps, and perfumes.

The plateau region is very important to the country because it is rich in minerals and forest products. The mineral wealth of this region has played an important role in the industrialization of the country.