List of Rivers in Uttarakhand

Explore the major rivers flowing through Uttarakhand, from the sacred Ganga and Yamuna to important tributaries like Alaknanda, Mandakini, and Ramganga. Discover their origins, confluences, and religious or ecological significance in the Himalayan landscape.

Major Rivers in Uttarakhand

1. Ganga (Ganges)

The most sacred river of India, the Ganga originates in Uttarakhand as the Bhagirathi from the Gangotri Glacier. It becomes the Ganga after meeting the Alaknanda at Devprayag. The river flows through spiritual cities like Rishikesh and Haridwar, attracting millions of pilgrims every year.

2. Yamuna

Emerging from the Yamunotri Glacier, the Yamuna is another holy river worshipped as a goddess. It passes through the western part of Uttarakhand, with the Yamunotri temple being one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.

3. Bhagirathi

A primary tributary of the Ganga, the Bhagirathi starts at the Gangotri Glacier. It meets Alaknanda at Devprayag, forming the Ganga. It flows through Uttarkashi and is revered in Hindu mythology for King Bhagirath’s penance.

4. Alaknanda

Originating near Badrinath from the Satopanth Glacier, the Alaknanda is a major river in Garhwal. It passes through all five Prayags (river confluences) and plays a vital role in forming the Ganga at Devprayag.

5. Mandakini

This river originates from the Chorabari Glacier near Kedarnath. It merges with the Alaknanda at Rudraprayag. The Mandakini is considered sacred and is often associated with the Kedarnath pilgrimage.

6. Dhauliganga

Dhauliganga starts near Niti Pass in the Chamoli district and joins the Alaknanda at Vishnuprayag. It is known for hydroelectric projects and scenic valleys.

7. Pindar River

The Pindar River originates from the Pindari Glacier in Kumaon and merges with Alaknanda at Karnaprayag. It is famous for trekking routes and adventure tourism.

8. Nandakini

Flowing from the Nanda Ghunti region, the Nandakini joins the Alaknanda at Nandprayag, forming one of the five Panch Prayags. It is a relatively lesser-known but important river.

9. Ramganga

Originating from the Dudhatoli hills in Chamoli, the Ramganga flows through Jim Corbett National Park and continues into Uttar Pradesh. It’s a vital source of water for both wildlife and agriculture.

10. Kali (Sharda) River

This river originates from Kalapani in Pithoragarh and forms the international border between India and Nepal. Known as the Sharda River downstream, it merges with the Ghaghra River in UP.

11. Gaula River

The Gaula originates in the Bhimtal region of Nainital and flows into the plains. It’s a key source of irrigation and drinking water for Haldwani and nearby areas.

12. Saryu River

Starting near Kapkot in Bageshwar, the Saryu is sacred in Kumaon and joins the Kali River at Pancheshwar. It holds religious significance and supports local agriculture.

13. Gori Ganga

The Gori Ganga originates from the Milam Glacier and flows through Munsiyari in Pithoragarh. It is a fast-flowing Himalayan river that merges with the Kali River and is known for its white water rapids.

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