1. River System: The Indus River and its tributaries provided a vital source of water for drinking, irrigation, and transportation. As a result, many settlements were established along the river banks. Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, two of the largest cities of the Indus Valley Civilization, were both located on the banks of the Indus River.
2. Floodplains: The Indus River and its tributaries were prone to flooding, which helped create fertile floodplains. These floodplains were ideal for agriculture, and as a result, many settlements were established in these areas.
3. Mountains: The mountains to the north and west of the Indus Valley provided a natural barrier against invaders. This helped to create a sense of security for the people of the Indus Valley and allowed them to develop their civilization without fear of attack.
4. Deserts: The deserts to the east and south of the Indus Valley made it difficult for people to travel and trade with other regions. As a result, the Indus Valley Civilization was relatively isolated from other civilizations.
5. Climate: The climate of the Indus Valley was hot and dry, with very little rainfall. This made it difficult for people to grow crops, and as a result, many settlements were located near rivers or other sources of water.
In conclusion, the physical features of the Indus Valley had a significant impact on the settlement patterns of the people who lived there. The river system, floodplains, mountains, deserts, and climate all played a role in shaping the way that people lived in the Indus Valley.