Karnataka can be divided into four physiographic divisions based on terrain and landscape features - the coastal plains, the Malnad region, the Maidan region, and the South Interior Karnataka plateau. The coastal plains lie along the western coast and are flat with fertile soil good for agriculture. The Malnad region lies in the western ghats and is hilly with abundant rainfall. The Maidan region lies in the center of Karnataka and is a flat plateau with black soil suitable for cotton cultivation. The South Interior Karnataka plateau has a rugged landscape of hills and valleys.