Rivers of Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand, often called the “Land of Rivers”, is home to some of India’s most sacred and life-giving rivers. Originating from the mighty Himalayas, these rivers not only support vast ecosystems but also hold immense religious, cultural, and economic significance. The Ganga and Yamuna, two of the holiest rivers in Hinduism, begin their journey in Uttarakhand, along with many of their tributaries like Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Mandakini, and Tons. These rivers carve deep valleys, nurture fertile plains, and provide water for drinking, agriculture, and hydroelectric projects. Many of them are worshiped at sacred confluences, such as the Panch Prayag, where rivers merge before flowing into the plains. Uttarakhand’s rivers also attract adventure seekers, offering activities like rafting and trekking. However, challenges like glacial melting, pollution, and flash floods threaten their future. Preserving these rivers is crucial for maintaining Uttarakhand’s natural beauty and sustaining millions of lives.
🌊 Ganga River
The Ganga River is not just a river but a sacred entity in India, deeply rooted in culture, religion, and history. It is worshiped as Ganga Mata and is considered the purifier of sins. Millions depend on it for their livelihood, agriculture, and religious rituals. The river originates in the Gangotri Glacier and flows through several states before merging into the Bay of Bengal. Major cities like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Varanasi, and Prayagraj are situated along its banks. The river has significant ecological importance, providing habitat to endangered species like the Ganges River Dolphin and Gharial crocodile.
🗻 Origin: Gangotri Glacier (Gaumukh), Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 2,525 km
🌊 Tributaries: Bhagirathi, Alaknanda, Yamuna, Tons, Ramganga
🔑 Key Points: Forms at Devprayag, where Bhagirathi and Alaknanda merge. Considered the holiest river in Hinduism. Haridwar and Rishikesh are famous pilgrimage and adventure sports destinations.
❗ Fact: The Ganga Basin covers over 1 million sq. km and supports 40% of India’s population.
🌊 Yamuna River
The Yamuna River is the largest tributary of the Ganga and holds immense religious significance. According to Hindu mythology, the river is associated with Lord Krishna, who spent his childhood in Mathura and Vrindavan along its banks. Originating from the Yamunotri Glacier, it flows through several North Indian states, supplying water for drinking and irrigation. Despite its importance, the Yamuna faces severe pollution issues, particularly in Delhi and Agra. The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is located along its banks.
🗻 Origin: Yamunotri Glacier, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 1,376 km
🌊 Tributaries: Tons, Hindon, Chambal, Betwa, Ken
🔑 Key Points: One of the Chhota Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Supplies drinking water to Delhi and Haryana. Mathura, Vrindavan, and Agra are key cities along the river.
❗ Fact: The Tons River, its largest tributary, contributes more water than the Yamuna itself.
🌊 Alaknanda River
The Alaknanda River is a significant tributary of the Ganga, contributing more water than its counterpart, the Bhagirathi River. It originates from the Satopanth Glacier, near the holy shrine of Badrinath. This river is famous for flowing through the five confluences (Panch Prayag) of Uttarakhand: Vishnuprayag, Nandprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag, where it meets the Bhagirathi to form the Ganga. The Alaknanda is also known for its strong rapids, making it ideal for white-water rafting.
🗻 Origin: Satopanth Glacier, near Badrinath, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 195 km
🌊 Tributaries: Mandakini, Pindar, Dhauliganga, Nandakini
🔑 Key Points: Passes through Badrinath, Joshimath, and Rudraprayag. Forms the Ganga at Devprayag after merging with Bhagirathi. Home to many hydroelectric projects, including Vishnuprayag Hydroelectric Plant.
❗ Fact: The Alaknanda valley is prone to landslides and flash floods, making it a high-risk zone.
🌊 Bhagirathi River
The Bhagirathi River is considered the true source of the Ganga in Hindu mythology. According to legend, King Bhagirath performed intense penance to bring the river from heaven to Earth to purify his ancestors’ souls. It originates from the Gangotri Glacier and flows through steep valleys before joining the Alaknanda at Devprayag to form the Ganga. The river is an essential source of hydroelectric power, with the Tehri Dam, one of India’s tallest dams, built on it.
🗻 Origin: Gangotri Glacier, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 205 km
🌊 Tributaries: Jadh Ganga, Kakora Gad, Bhilangana
🔑 Key Points: Tehri Dam, India’s tallest dam, is built on the Bhagirathi River. Devprayag is the confluence point where it meets Alaknanda to form the Ganga. Considered a holy river in Hindu tradition.
❗ Fact: The name Bhagirathi is derived from King Bhagirath, who is credited with bringing the Ganga to Earth.
🌊 Mandakini River
The Mandakini River is a tributary of the Alaknanda River, originating from the Chorabari Glacier near Kedarnath, one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites. The river flows through rugged terrain and lush green valleys, making it a scenic and spiritually significant water body. In 2013, Uttarakhand experienced catastrophic floods, largely caused by the overflowing Mandakini River, leading to widespread destruction, particularly in Kedarnath. Despite the disaster, the river continues to be an essential source of life and devotion in the region.
🗻 Origin: Chorabari Glacier, near Kedarnath, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 72 km
🌊 Tributaries: Vasukiganga
🔑 Key Points: Passes through Kedarnath, Sonprayag, and Rudraprayag. Joins Alaknanda at Rudraprayag, forming a major tributary of the Ganga. Known for rapid water flow and frequent landslides.
❗ Fact: The 2013 Uttarakhand floods caused massive destruction in Kedarnath due to the sudden rise in Mandakini’s water levels.
🌊 Pindar River
The Pindar River is a major tributary of the Alaknanda River, originating from the Pindari Glacier in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It is known for its picturesque valleys, adventure trekking routes, and white-water rafting opportunities. The river flows through dense forests and steep gorges before merging with the Alaknanda at Karnaprayag. The Pindar Valley is a popular trekking destination, attracting nature lovers and adventurers alike.
🗻 Origin: Pindari Glacier, Bageshwar, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 105 km
🌊 Tributaries: Sunderdhunga, Kafni
🔑 Key Points: Joins Alaknanda at Karnaprayag, forming a crucial part of the Ganga river system. The Pindari Glacier trek is famous among adventure seekers. The river’s waters support irrigation and hydroelectric projects.
❗ Fact: The Pindari Glacier Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Uttarakhand, offering breathtaking views of Nanda Devi and Panwali Dwar peaks.
🌊 Dhauliganga River
The Dhauliganga River originates from the Niti Pass, a strategic mountain pass near the Indo-China border. It is one of the six tributaries of the Alaknanda River and plays a vital role in the hydroelectric power generation of Uttarakhand. The river is famous for the Dhauliganga Dam, which supports the Tapovan Vishnugad Hydroelectric Project. The region around the river is rugged, with steep cliffs and deep gorges, making it both scenic and dangerous.
🗻 Origin: Niti Pass, Chamoli, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 94 km
🌊 Tributaries: Rishi Ganga
🔑 Key Points: Joins Alaknanda at Vishnuprayag. Major hydroelectric projects, including Dhauliganga Power Plant. Region prone to glacial bursts and landslides.
❗ Fact: In 2021, a glacier burst in the Dhauliganga River caused severe flooding, leading to destruction of the Rishi Ganga Power Plant.
🌊 Nandakini River
The Nandakini River is another important tributary of the Alaknanda, originating from the Nanda Devi Glacier, which is part of India’s second-highest peak, Nanda Devi. The river flows through remote and pristine landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. It merges with the Alaknanda at Nandprayag, which is one of the Panch Prayag (five sacred confluences) of Uttarakhand.
🗻 Origin: Nanda Devi Glacier, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 56 km
🌊 Tributaries: Small mountain streams
🔑 Key Points: Joins Alaknanda at Nandprayag, a sacred confluence. Region is known for trekking and biodiversity. Water used for local irrigation and hydroelectric projects.
❗ Fact: The Nandakini River flows through Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique Himalayan flora and fauna.
🌊 Kali River (Sharda River)
The Kali River, also known as the Sharda River, forms the natural boundary between India and Nepal in Uttarakhand. Originating from the Kali Glacier in Pithoragarh, the river is revered in Hindu mythology and is one of the major tributaries of the Ghaghara River. The river is known for its rafting spots, lush green valleys, and historical significance, as it flows near the ancient Kali temple in Pithoragarh. It is also a key source of irrigation and hydroelectric power in the region.
🗻 Origin: Kali Glacier, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 252 km
🌊 Tributaries: Gori Ganga, Saryu, Dhauli Ganga
🔑 Key Points: Forms the border between India and Nepal. Hydroelectric projects like Tanakpur Dam provide power and irrigation. The river flows through Champawat and Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, home to diverse wildlife.
❗ Fact: The Kali River is mentioned in the Mahabharata, as it is believed to have been crossed by the Pandavas during their exile.
🌊 Tons River
The Tons River is the largest tributary of the Yamuna and is known for its fast-flowing currents and challenging rapids, making it one of the best white-water rafting destinations in India. It originates from the Bandarpunch Glacier, a famous Himalayan peak in Uttarakhand. The river flows through rugged terrains, dense forests, and deep gorges, providing a lifeline to local villages before merging with the Yamuna near Dehradun.
🗻 Origin: Bandarpunch Glacier, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 148 km
🌊 Tributaries: Rupin, Supin
🔑 Key Points: Biggest tributary of Yamuna. Famous for adventure sports like rafting. Rich in flora and fauna, with sightings of Himalayan wildlife.
❗ Fact: The Tons River carries more water than the Yamuna itself, making it hydrologically more significant despite being its tributary.
🌊 Ramganga River
The Ramganga River is an important tributary of the Ganges, originating from the Namik Glacier in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Flowing through Jim Corbett National Park, the river supports a rich diversity of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and crocodiles. It is also used for irrigation, fishing, and hydroelectric projects before merging with the Ganga in Uttar Pradesh.
🗻 Origin: Namik Glacier, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 596 km
🌊 Tributaries: Kosi, Mandal, Palain
🔑 Key Points: Flows through Jim Corbett National Park. Major irrigation and hydroelectric projects. Contributes to the agriculture of Uttar Pradesh.
❗ Fact: The Ramganga Dam, built at Kalagarh, is an essential source of hydroelectric power and irrigation.
🌊 Saryu River
The Saryu River originates from Sarmul in Pithoragarh and is a key river in Uttarakhand, merging with the Kali River. The river holds great mythological significance, being associated with Lord Ram and Ayodhya. Flowing through the mountains of Kumaon, the river plays a crucial role in local irrigation and water supply.
🗻 Origin: Sarmul, Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 146 km
🌊 Tributaries: Gomati, Ramganga
🔑 Key Points: Merges with Kali River. Important for irrigation and fishing. Mentioned in Hindu scriptures.
❗ Fact: The Saryu River in Uttarakhand is different from the Saryu River in Ayodhya, but both are considered sacred in Hinduism.
🌊 Gori Ganga
The Gori Ganga originates from the Milam Glacier, located near Munsiyari, a famous trekking destination. The river flows through deep gorges, glaciers, and alpine meadows, making it a lifeline for remote Himalayan villages. It eventually merges with the Kali River, contributing to its flow.
🗻 Origin: Milam Glacier, Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 104 km
🌊 Tributaries: Ralam Gad, Lwan Gad
🔑 Key Points: Important tributary of Kali River. Flows through Munsiyari, a famous trekking destination. Supports local agriculture and drinking water supply.
❗ Fact: The Gori Ganga Valley is home to the Johar community, known for their rich cultural heritage and trade history with Tibet.
🌊 Kosi River
The Kosi River, also known as Kosila, originates from Kausani in Almora. It is not a tributary of the Ganga, but it plays a crucial role in irrigation and groundwater recharge in Uttarakhand. The river is known for its monsoon-fed flow, which makes it unpredictable at times.
🗻 Origin: Kausani, Almora, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 168 km
🌊 Tributaries: None major
🔑 Key Points: Supports agriculture in the Kumaon region. Known for seasonal flow variation. Provides drinking water to nearby towns.
❗ Fact: The Kosi Barrage, built in Ramnagar, helps control floods and provides water for Jim Corbett National Park.
🌊 Gaula River
The Gaula River originates from Bhimtal in the Kumaon region and flows through Haldwani and Kathgodam, serving as an important water source for local communities. It is a seasonal river, experiencing heavy flow during monsoons and reduced flow in summers.
🗻 Origin: Bhimtal, Kumaon, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 103 km
🌊 Tributaries: Ghatgarh, Bhakra
🔑 Key Points: Flows through Haldwani and Kathgodam. Essential for irrigation and drinking water supply. Prone to seasonal floods.
❗ Fact: The Gaula Barrage in Haldwani is a key structure for water distribution and flood control.
🌊 Supaligad River
The Supaligad River is a small but significant river flowing through Pithoragarh. It is primarily rain-fed, making it a crucial seasonal water source for villages in the region. It eventually merges with larger rivers, contributing to local agriculture and biodiversity.
🗻 Origin: Flows in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: Short, seasonal river
🌊 Tributaries: None major
🔑 Key Points: Supports local ecosystems. Important for small-scale irrigation.
❗ Fact: The Supaligad River is a lifeline for remote villages in Pithoragarh, providing drinking water and irrigation during the monsoon.
🌊 Bhilling Canal
The Bhilling Canal originates from Chamoli, Uttarakhand, and is a man-made water channel that plays a vital role in local irrigation and water management. The canal supports agriculture and supplies drinking water to nearby villages.
🗻 Origin: Chamoli, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: Varies
🌊 Tributaries: None major
🔑 Key Points: Artificial canal used for irrigation. Supports local agriculture.
❗ Fact: The Bhilling Canal has been developed to help store and distribute water efficiently in Chamoli.
🌊 Bhugmad River
The Bhugmad River originates in the Almora region and is a small river crucial for local biodiversity and groundwater recharge. It is a seasonal river, mostly active during the monsoon.
🗻 Origin: Almora, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: Short, seasonal river
🌊 Tributaries: None major
🔑 Key Points: Seasonal river. Supports irrigation and local water supply.
❗ Fact: The Bhugmad River flows through dense forests and contributes to the regional ecosystem.
🌊 Rispana River
The Rispana River originates in Mussoorie and flows through Dehradun, playing a key role in draining the city. However, due to urbanization, it has suffered from pollution. Efforts are being made to revive and clean the river.
🗻 Origin: Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 10-15 km
🌊 Tributaries: None major
🔑 Key Points: Flows through Dehradun. Affected by urban pollution.
❗ Fact: The Rispana River revival project aims to restore its natural flow and ecological health.
🌊 Bindal River
The Bindal River, another significant river in Dehradun, merges with the Rispana River, contributing to drainage and water flow in the region. It is essential for rainwater management but is also prone to pollution.
🗻 Origin: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: Around 12 km
🌊 Tributaries: None major
🔑 Key Points: Urban drainage system. Faces severe pollution issues.
❗ Fact: The Bindal River is part of Dehradun’s stormwater drainage system, reducing flood risks during monsoons.
🌊 Song River
The Song River originates in the Mussoorie region and is a major tributary of the Suswa River. It provides freshwater for drinking and irrigation in Dehradun and nearby areas.
🗻 Origin: Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 70 km
🌊 Tributaries: Suswa River
🔑 Key Points: Essential water source for Dehradun. Supports irrigation and biodiversity.
❗ Fact: The Asan Barrage, a famous bird sanctuary, is located near the confluence of the Song and Yamuna rivers.
🌊 Suswa River
The Suswa River originates from Dehradun and eventually merges with the Ganga near Rishikesh. It acts as an important drainage system for Dehradun and surrounding areas.
🗻 Origin: Dehradun, Uttarakhand
📏 Length: 40 km
🌊 Tributaries: Song River
🔑 Key Points: Joins the Ganga near Rishikesh. Helps drain rainwater from Dehradun.
❗ Fact: The Suswa River is known for its rich aquatic biodiversity and is being considered for conservation and pollution control projects.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Rivers in Uttarakhand
Which is the longest river in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Ganga River is the longest river in Uttarakhand. It originates from the Gangotri Glacier at Gaumukh, in Uttarkashi district, and flows through Devprayag, Rishikesh, and Haridwar, covering a significant portion of the state before entering Uttar Pradesh. The river is revered as a sacred river in Hinduism and is central to the culture and economy of Uttarakhand.
What is the origin of the Yamuna River, and why is it important?
📌 The Yamuna River originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in Uttarkashi district. It is one of the major tributaries of the Ganga River and plays a crucial role in irrigation and drinking water supply across northern India. The Yamunotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Yamuna, is an important pilgrimage site and part of the Char Dham Yatra.
What is the difference between the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers?
📌 Both Bhagirathi and Alaknanda are tributaries of the Ganga River. The Bhagirathi River originates from the Gangotri Glacier, while the Alaknanda River originates from the Satopanth Glacier near Badrinath. The two rivers meet at Devprayag, where they officially form the Ganga River. Bhagirathi is considered the more sacred of the two due to its historical and mythological significance.
Which rivers in Uttarakhand are important for hydroelectric projects?
📌 Uttarakhand’s rivers are a major source of hydroelectric power due to their steep gradients and strong flow. Some important rivers used for hydropower generation include:
✅ Bhagirathi River – Tehri Dam (One of India’s largest dams)
✅ Alaknanda River – Vishnuprayag and Srinagar Hydroelectric Projects
✅ Dhauliganga River – Dhauliganga Hydroelectric Project
✅ Tons River – Used for local irrigation and power generation
✅ Kali River – Several small hydro projects in Pithoragarh
Why is the Kali River significant, and what is its historical importance?
📌 The Kali River (also known as the Sharda River) originates from the Kali Glacier in Pithoragarh and forms the international border between India and Nepal. Historically, the river has been important for trade between India and Nepal. The Mahakali Treaty between the two nations regulates the use of its waters. The river is also sacred in Hinduism and is associated with Goddess Kali.
What is the issue with the Rispana River, and what efforts are being made for its restoration?
📌 The Rispana River, originating in Mussoorie, flows through Dehradun and once played a key role in draining the city’s rainwater. However, due to urbanization, encroachments, and pollution, the river has become highly degraded. The Rispana River Revival Project, launched by the Uttarakhand government, aims to clean and rejuvenate the river by removing encroachments and improving sewage and waste management.
Which river merges with the Ganga near Rishikesh?
📌 The Suswa River originates in Dehradun and is a major tributary of the Ganga River. It joins the Ganga near Rishikesh, playing a crucial role in the water drainage system of Dehradun. The Song River, another important river from Mussoorie, merges into the Suswa before it meets the Ganga.
What are the five sacred river confluences (Panch Prayag) in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Panch Prayag are five major confluences where tributaries merge with the Alaknanda River before forming the Ganga. These sites are sacred in Hinduism:
🔹 Vishnuprayag – Alaknanda meets Dhauliganga
🔹 Nandprayag – Alaknanda meets Nandakini
🔹 Karnaprayag – Alaknanda meets Pindar
🔹 Rudraprayag – Alaknanda meets Mandakini
🔹 Devprayag – Alaknanda meets Bhagirathi (Forms the Ganga River)
What are the major rivers flowing through Uttarakhand, and which regions do they cover?
📌 Some of the major rivers in Uttarakhand include:
✅ Ganga River – Flows through Uttarkashi, Tehri, Haridwar
✅ Yamuna River – Flows through Uttarkashi, Dehradun
✅ Alaknanda River – Flows through Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Tehri
✅ Bhagirathi River – Flows through Gangotri, Uttarkashi, Tehri
✅ Mandakini River – Flows through Kedarnath, Rudraprayag
✅ Pindar River – Flows through Bageshwar, Chamoli
✅ Tons River – Flows through Dehradun, Uttarkashi
✅ Kali (Sharda) River – Flows through Pithoragarh, Champawat
✅ Saryu River – Flows through Pithoragarh, Bageshwar
✅ Kosi River – Flows through Almora, Nainital
What are some lesser-known rivers of Uttarakhand, and where do they originate?
📌 Apart from the major rivers, Uttarakhand is home to several smaller yet ecologically significant rivers:
✅ Ramganga River – Originates from Namik Glacier (Kumaon region)
✅ Gori Ganga – Originates from Milam Glacier (Munsiyari, Pithoragarh)
✅ Gaula River – Originates from Bhimtal, Kumaon
✅ Supaligad River – Flows through Pithoragarh
✅ Bhugmad River – Originates in Almora region
✅ Song River – Originates in Mussoorie, merges with Suswa
✅ Bindal River – Originates in Dehradun, merges with Rispana
Which river in Uttarakhand is most prone to flooding?
📌 The Kosi River is highly prone to seasonal flooding, especially during the monsoon months (June to September). It carries large amounts of sediment, which leads to bank erosion and flooding in the Nainital, Almora, and Ramnagar regions. The Ganga and Bhagirathi Rivers also experience high water levels during heavy rainfall.
Which river in Uttarakhand is considered the purest?
📌 The Bhagirathi River, originating from the Gangotri Glacier, is considered one of the purest rivers in Uttarakhand. The crystal-clear glacial water is revered by devotees as sacred, and it remains relatively unpolluted in its upper course before merging with the Alaknanda at Devprayag to form the Ganga River.
Which is the coldest river in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Alaknanda River and Bhagirathi River are among the coldest rivers in Uttarakhand due to their direct origin from Himalayan glaciers. The Pindar River, originating from the Pindari Glacier, is also known for its icy waters.
Which river in Uttarakhand changes color at different times of the year?
📌 The Alaknanda River is known to change color based on the season and sediment flow. During the monsoon, it appears muddy and brown due to the high silt content, while in winter and summer, it often has a bluish-green tint due to glacial meltwater.
Which river is most sacred in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Ganga River is the most sacred river in Uttarakhand and across India. It is worshipped as Goddess Ganga in Hindu mythology. The Yamuna River also holds great religious significance, as it is associated with Lord Krishna.
Which rivers form the Char Dham circuit?
📌 The four sacred rivers associated with the Char Dham circuit are:
✅ Ganga River – Associated with Gangotri
✅ Yamuna River – Associated with Yamunotri
✅ Alaknanda River – Flows near Badrinath
✅ Mandakini River – Flows near Kedarnath
Which river flows through the Jim Corbett National Park?
📌 The Ramganga River is the lifeline of Jim Corbett National Park. It provides water to the diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, crocodiles, and migratory birds. Several smaller streams like the Kosi River also support the park’s ecosystem.
Which river in Uttarakhand forms the border between India and Nepal?
📌 The Kali River (Sharda River) forms the international border between India and Nepal in the Pithoragarh district. It has significant historical, cultural, and economic importance.
Which river in Uttarakhand is best for adventure sports?
📌 The Tons River and Ganga River are popular for white-water rafting. The Rishikesh stretch of the Ganga is one of the best locations for rafting, kayaking, and river camping, attracting adventure seekers from around the world.
Which river is responsible for the 2013 Kedarnath disaster?
📌 The Mandakini River played a major role in the 2013 Kedarnath floods, when heavy rainfall and a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) caused a massive surge in water levels. This led to large-scale destruction in Kedarnath and surrounding areas.
Which river is the primary source of drinking water in Dehradun?
📌 The Song River and Suswa River are key sources of drinking water for Dehradun. They originate from the Mussoorie region and contribute to the underground water table.
Which river is known as the ‘Tears of Pindari Glacier’?
📌 The Pindar River is called the ‘Tears of Pindari Glacier’ because it originates from the Pindari Glacier in the Kumaon Himalayas and is known for its milky-white water.
Which river in Uttarakhand has the most number of confluences?
📌 The Alaknanda River has the most major confluences, known as the Panch Prayag:
🔹 Vishnuprayag (Alaknanda + Dhauliganga)
🔹 Nandprayag (Alaknanda + Nandakini)
🔹 Karnaprayag (Alaknanda + Pindar)
🔹 Rudraprayag (Alaknanda + Mandakini)
🔹 Devprayag (Alaknanda + Bhagirathi → Ganga)
Which is the fastest-flowing river in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Tons River, originating from the Bandarpunch Glacier, is the fastest-flowing river in Uttarakhand. It is also the largest tributary of the Yamuna River and is known for its strong currents.
Which river in Uttarakhand has the highest number of hydroelectric projects?
📌 The Alaknanda River has multiple hydroelectric projects, including:
✅ Vishnuprayag Hydroelectric Project
✅ Srinagar Hydroelectric Project
✅ Pipalkoti Hydroelectric Project
Which river flows through Pithoragarh district?
📌 The Kali River, Saryu River, Gori Ganga, and Supaligad River flow through Pithoragarh district, providing water for irrigation and hydroelectric projects.
Which river in Uttarakhand has the most number of tributaries?
📌 The Ganga River has the most tributaries, including:
✅ Bhagirathi
✅ Alaknanda
✅ Mandakini
✅ Pindar
✅ Nandakini
✅ Dhauliganga
✅ Ramganga
Which river is known as the ‘Silent River’ of Uttarakhand?
📌 The Bindal River in Dehradun is often called the ‘Silent River’ because it has lost much of its original flow due to urban encroachment and pollution.
Which river is known for forming deep gorges in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Bhagirathi River and Alaknanda River are known for carving deep gorges and valleys in the Garhwal Himalayas, creating stunning landscapes.
Which river contributes to the Saraswati River myth?
📌 The Alaknanda River is sometimes associated with the mythical Saraswati River, believed to flow underground and emerge near Mana village (Badrinath).
Which river in Uttarakhand is considered the holiest?
📌 The Ganga River is considered the holiest river in Uttarakhand and India. It is worshipped as Goddess Ganga and holds immense religious significance for Hindus. Haridwar and Rishikesh are major pilgrimage sites along its course.
Which river is known as the lifeline of Uttarakhand?
📌 The Alaknanda River and Bhagirathi River together form the Ganga, making them the lifeline of Uttarakhand. They provide water for agriculture, drinking, and hydroelectric power projects.
Which is the largest river in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Ganga River is the largest river in Uttarakhand in terms of volume and significance. Among its tributaries, the Alaknanda River has the longest course within the state.
Which is the longest tributary of the Ganga River in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Alaknanda River is the longest tributary of the Ganga in Uttarakhand. It originates from the Satopanth Glacier and meets the Bhagirathi River at Devprayag to form the Ganga.
Which river is the cleanest in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Bhagirathi River is considered the cleanest river in Uttarakhand, especially in its upper course near Gangotri Glacier. Strict environmental measures help maintain its purity.
Which river is known for flash floods in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Mandakini River and Dhauliganga River are known for their sudden flash floods, especially during the monsoon season or due to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF). The 2013 Kedarnath disaster was caused by a massive surge in the Mandakini River.
Which river is known as ‘Shyama Ganga’?
📌 The Yamuna River is sometimes called ‘Shyama Ganga’ because of its association with Lord Krishna, who is often depicted with a dark complexion.
Which river in Uttarakhand is known for rafting and adventure sports?
📌 The Ganga River at Rishikesh and the Tons River near Mori are the most famous rivers for white-water rafting, kayaking, and other adventure sports.
Which river originates from the highest glacier in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Dhauliganga River, originating from the Niti Pass, is one of the highest-altitude rivers in Uttarakhand. It eventually merges with the Alaknanda River at Vishnuprayag.
Which rivers form natural borders in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Kali River (Sharda River) forms the India-Nepal border in Uttarakhand, while the Tons River separates Garhwal and Himachal Pradesh.
Which river has the largest hydroelectric project in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Tehri Dam on the Bhagirathi River is India’s largest hydroelectric project and one of the tallest dams in the world.
Which river is associated with the myth of Bhagirath bringing Ganga to Earth?
📌 The Bhagirathi River is linked to the legend of King Bhagirath, who is said to have performed intense penance to bring the Ganga from heaven to Earth for the salvation of his ancestors.
Which is the main river supplying water to the Kumaon region?
📌 The Ramganga River (West) is a major water source for Kumaon. It flows through Nainital, Almora, and Jim Corbett National Park before entering Uttar Pradesh.
Which river is called the ‘Tears of Nanda Devi’?
📌 The Nandakini River, originating from the Nanda Devi Glacier, is sometimes referred to as the ‘Tears of Nanda Devi’, symbolizing the sacred mountain goddess.
Which river is the most important for agriculture in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Ramganga River, Kali River, and Alaknanda River are crucial for agriculture, providing irrigation to the fertile plains of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.
Which river has the most significant number of confluences (Sangams) in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Alaknanda River has the highest number of major confluences, known as the Panch Prayag:
✅ Vishnuprayag – Alaknanda + Dhauliganga
✅ Nandprayag – Alaknanda + Nandakini
✅ Karnaprayag – Alaknanda + Pindar
✅ Rudraprayag – Alaknanda + Mandakini
✅ Devprayag – Alaknanda + Bhagirathi → Ganga
Which river is known as the ‘River of Sorrows’ in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Kosi River in Uttarakhand is sometimes called the ‘River of Sorrows’ due to its frequent changes in course, causing floods and erosion in parts of Nainital and Almora.
Which river is named after Lord Shiva?
📌 The Mandakini River is named after Lord Shiva and is considered sacred, especially near Kedarnath.
Which river in Uttarakhand is famous for trout fishing?
📌 The Tons River is known for trout fishing, attracting anglers from across the country.
Which river in Uttarakhand has a disappearing segment?
📌 The Saraswati River near Mana village (Badrinath) is said to disappear underground, leading to its connection with the mythological Saraswati River.
Which river in Uttarakhand forms the base of many trekking routes?
📌 The Pindar River forms the base for the Pindari Glacier trek, while the Tons River is a key route for treks in Govind Pashu Vihar National Park.
Which river flows through the Valley of Flowers?
📌 The Pushpawati River, a tributary of the Alaknanda, flows through the Valley of Flowers, adding to the valley’s breathtaking beauty.
Which river plays a crucial role in the Chipko Movement?
📌 The Alaknanda River and its tributaries were central to the Chipko Movement, a grassroots environmental movement aimed at protecting forests and river ecosystems.
Which river in Uttarakhand is ideal for eco-tourism?
📌 The Ramganga River and Saryu River are known for eco-tourism, supporting wildlife sanctuaries, birdwatching, and camping.
Which river is most prone to landslides in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Mandakini River and Bhagirathi River are highly prone to landslides and erosion, especially in monsoon months.
Which river in Uttarakhand is best for camping?
📌 The Tons River and Ganga River are popular for camping, offering scenic spots and adventure activities.
Which river has a unique confluence with three rivers (Triveni Sangam) in Uttarakhand?
📌 The Triveni Sangam in Rishikesh marks the meeting point of Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati River.
Uttarakhand, known as the Land of Rivers, is home to some of India’s most sacred and life-giving rivers. From the Ganga and Yamuna to the Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, and Mandakini, these rivers shape the culture, economy, and ecology of the state. They are not only vital for irrigation, hydroelectricity, and biodiversity but also hold deep spiritual significance in Hindu mythology. The Prayags (confluences), high-altitude glaciers, and diverse river ecosystems make Uttarakhand a unique and precious water source for India. Protecting these rivers from pollution, deforestation, and climate change is essential for preserving their purity for future generations.