QGIS for Topography and Bathymetry Training in Thimphu, Bhutan

This course is designed to provide professionals and researchers with hands-on skills in using QGIS to visualize, analyze, and interpret topographic and bathymetric data. Participants will learn how to acquire, process, and present elevation and depth information using raster and vector datasets, including DEMs, contour lines, seabed models, and related tools for terrain analysis.

Course Agenda

Introduction to Topographic and Bathymetric Mapping

• Overview of elevation data types (DEM, DSM, bathymetric grids)

• Global data sources: SRTM, GEBCO, ETOPO1, etc.

• Coordinate reference systems and vertical datums

Working with DEMs and Contour Lines

• Importing DEMs and raster styling

• Creating contour lines using processing tools

• Applying hillshade and terrain relief

Bathymetric Data Handling in QGIS

• Importing seabed data (BAG, XYZ formats)

• Interpolation and surface modeling

• Depth shading and isoline generation

Terrain Analysis

• Slope, aspect, and ruggedness calculation

• Terrain profile extraction and cross-section generation

• Merging topographic and bathymetric data layers

Advanced Visualization Techniques

• Multiband elevation styling and color ramp creation

• 3D terrain visualization using QGIS 3D View

• Labeling contour and depth lines

Map Layout and Export

• Designing high-quality map layouts

• Adding legends, scale bars, grids, and north arrows

• Exporting to print and web-ready formats

Hands-on Exercises