Although the exact history of the Deccan Plateau is largely undocumented, there is evidence that both the Gupta and Mauryan dynasties once lived on the Plateau, often battling over the land, which was rich in minerals. This Indo-Malayan eco-region comprises pretty much all of the southern peninsula of India. Today, the soil remains rich, resulting in many farms and plantations. One of India's main landmarks, the Deccan Plateau also features many square miles of protected forests.