It does not lie in the path of the rain-bearing winds.
Explanation
The phenomenon described is governed by the mechanism of Orographic Rainfall (Relief Rainfall). This occurs when moisture-laden winds are forced to rise against a physical barrier, such as a mountain range. The side of the mountain facing the wind is the windward side, while the sheltered side is the leeward side.
Detailed Analysis:
- It lies in the path of the rain-bearing winds. is Incorrect: The side that lies directly in the path of the rain-bearing winds (Southwest Monsoon winds) is the windward side (the western slopes of the Western Ghats). This side receives heavy rainfall because the rising air cools and condenses.
- It is located at a very high altitude. is Incorrect: While the Western Ghats have significant altitude, the dryness of the leeward side is not caused by the altitude itself, but by the behavior of the air mass as it descends from that altitude.
- It does not lie in the path of the rain-bearing winds. is Correct: The leeward side (the eastern slopes and the Deccan Plateau) acts as a Rain Shadow Area. It is sheltered from the direct impact of the rain-bearing winds. As the air crosses the summit and descends on the leeward side, it undergoes adiabatic warming. This warming increases the air's moisture-holding capacity and reduces relative humidity, preventing precipitation.
- It is close to the sea. is Incorrect: Proximity to the sea typically enhances rainfall. The leeward side is drier despite being relatively near the peninsula's coastlines because the moisture from the Arabian Sea is blocked by the Ghats.
Key Takeaway:
The Leeward side of a mountain remains dry because descending air warms up and becomes stable, inhibiting cloud formation. This region is technically referred to as the Rain Shadow Region.