The outermost range of the Himalayas is called the Shiwaliks. The three major features of these ranges are
(i) They extend over a width of 10-50 km and have an altitude varying between 900 and 1100 metres.
(ii) These ranges are composed of unconsolidated sediments brought down by rivers from the main Himalayan ranges located farther north.
(iii) These valleys are covered with thick gravel and alluvium. The longitudinal valley lying between lesser Himalaya and the Shiwaliks are known as Duns, such as Dehra Dun, Kotli Dun and Patli Dun.