Which mountain range is regarded as the oldest mountains in India?

Introduction / Context:
Physical geography questions often ask about the age, location, and significance of major landforms. This question focuses on the oldest mountain range in India, a key fact for understanding the geological history of the Indian subcontinent.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks which range is regarded as the oldest mountains in India.
• The options are Western Ghats, Satpura Range, Aravallis, and Eastern Ghats.
• We assume the standard geological classification taught in school and college geography.

Concept / Approach:
The Aravalli Range is widely regarded as one of the oldest fold mountain systems in India, with origins dating back to very early geological eras. In contrast, the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, and Satpura Range are comparatively younger in geological terms. Therefore, recognising the Aravallis as an ancient, highly eroded range that runs roughly from the Delhi region to Gujarat leads us to the correct answer.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: List the mountain ranges mentioned in the options and recall basic facts about each.Step 2: Remember that the Aravalli Range is an old fold mountain system that has undergone long periods of weathering and erosion, giving it rounded peaks and low heights compared with young mountains.Step 3: Note that the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats are major highlands along the coasts, but they are not considered as old as the Aravallis in geological time.Step 4: Recognise that the Satpura Range is a central Indian range formed more recently than the ancient Aravalli system.Step 5: Conclude that Aravallis is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard geography textbooks and competitive exam guides consistently state that the Aravalli Range is among the oldest mountain ranges in India and indeed among the oldest fold mountain systems in the world. Its worn down relief and geological studies support this classification, confirming that it is older than the other ranges mentioned in the options.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Western Ghats: These are a long and important mountain chain along the western coast, but they are not cited as the oldest Indian mountains.
Satpura Range: Located in central India, this range is geologically younger compared with the Aravallis.
Eastern Ghats: These discontinuous hills along the eastern coast are also not considered as ancient as the Aravalli system.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusion may arise because many candidates associate age with how worn down a range looks, and several Indian ranges appear old and eroded. Without specific study, learners might guess Western Ghats or Eastern Ghats. To avoid this, it is important to memorise that the Aravalli Range is cited in exam oriented geography as the oldest mountain range in India, due to its very ancient geological origin.

Final Answer:
The oldest mountains in India are the Aravallis.