By studying a contour map :
1) The nature of the ground surface or topography of a country whether hilly, undulating or flat can be understood.
2) Possible routes of communication between two different places can be known.
3) The capacity of a reservoir or the area of catchment can be determined approximately.
4) The visibility of points can be established.
5) A suitable route for a given gradient can be marked on the map.
6) The suitable site for most economical alignment can be selected for any engineering projects like dams, canals, roads, sewers, railways, etc.
7) A section of the ground surface can be drawn any direction from the contour map.
8) Quantities of earthwork can be determined approximately.