Mawsynram in the southern ranges of the _______ receives the highest average rainfall in the world. 

The correct answer is Khasi hills.Key Points

• Mawsynram is located approximately 16 kilometers west of Cherrapunji, another location famous for high rainfall. However, Mawsynram receives a higher annual average rainfall, making it the wettest place on Earth.
• The Khasi Hills form part of the Meghalaya subtropical forests eco-region. Together with the Garo and Jaintia Hills, these form the state of Meghalaya, meaning "abode of the clouds" in Sanskrit.
• Khasi Hills and Mawsynram's high rainfall can be attributed to a phenomenon called "orographic lift". As air from the Bay of Bengal moves over the area, it's forced to rise due to the high elevations. The air cools and condenses, forming clouds and resulting in heavy rainfall.
• Mawsynram is noted for its "living bridges", formed by guiding the roots of rubber fig trees across rivers and streams, serving the local population's traversal needs.
• The Khasi Hills are also known for unique biodiversity. The region is home to numerous endemic species of flora and fauna.
• The Khasi Hills region features a matrilineal social system, which is quite unique in the context of India's predominately patrilineal society. This means descent and ancestry are traced through the female lineage.
• The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) governs the Khasi Hills. This special provision, under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India, allows for the preservation of tribal autonomy in matters of culture and traditional practices.
• Mawsynram's wet climate has resulted in a primarily grassland-type ecosystem, with large patches of remnant sacred grove forests which are protected by traditional tribal laws.
• The average annual rainfall at Mawsynram is about 11,871 millimeters (467.4 in), compared to Cherrapunji's 11,777 millimeters (463.7 in)