Geography and climate both played significant roles in the settlement and development of ancient Indian civilization. The first geographical feature are the Himalayan Mountains located in the northern portion of the Indian subcontinent that separates India from the rest of Asia, preventing invasion. Another feature would be the two rivers, Ganges and Indus which are the foundations of early Indian civilization that make their land livable. The Ganges river flows southeast through a fertile valley, providing the necessary water for a successful harvest. The Indus River flows southwest across a drier plain, in turn affecting how farming was achieved.
Climate was very important in ancient Indian civilization for many reasons. Monsoons are one of the most important. The first monsoon of the season blows from north to northeast periodically from November through March. Little rain is present during this monsoon. During mid-June through October, a second monsoon indicates the 'wet season' which is also know as the southwest monsoon. The timing of these winds are critical. Too little or too late rainfall results in an unsuccessful harvest, yet too much or an extended period of rainfall causes flooding along the country side.
Climate was very important in ancient Indian civilization for many reasons. Monsoons are one of the most important. The first monsoon of the season blows from north to northeast periodically from November through March. Little rain is present during this monsoon. During mid-June through October, a second monsoon indicates the 'wet season' which is also know as the southwest monsoon. The timing of these winds are critical. Too little or too late rainfall results in an unsuccessful harvest, yet too much or an extended period of rainfall causes flooding along the country side.