Rivers in Nepal

River in Nepal

        Diverse physical topography of Nepal is proved to be a boon of nature. Owing to this feature there are many typer of rivers in Nepal. As per its southward slope, they originate in the north and flow southward draining much of the land and ultimately enter India and zone the Ganges. Rivers are Nepal's main source of water and because of this source, the country is ranked the second richest in the world  in water resources.

Beauty of river in Nepal

       There are more than 6000 rivers and rivulets in the country. These are categorized as the first, second and third grade rivers. Those perennial rivers such as Koshi and Trisuli which are fed by snow in the main Himalayas are known as the first grade rivers.The three river systems the Koshi, Karnali and Gandaki fall under this category. These are the main rivers of Nepal. The second grade rivers of Nepal are those which originated from the springs in the Mahabharat range. Many of these get dried in dry winter. Finally the shortest rivers with their origin in the Chure range are known as the third grade rivers. They flow only with the rain water.

      Rivers are the main source of water in Nepal. They supply water for drinking and irrigation. Additionally they supply construction materials such as sand, pebbles and stone. Many roads run along the river banks. As an active of change, rivers have formed different land forms such as V-shaped valleys, I-shaped valleys, river basins and alluvial planes. The fertile river bank have served as the cradle of ancient civilization. Rivers can be  harnessed to generate electricity, too. As our river flow down steep slopes, they are considered ideal for generating hydroelectricity. Our hydroelectric potential thus stand at 83000 MW. Large rivers also serves as water routes. Rivers also act as the local and international borders. Many are suitable for adventure such as rafting and bunge jumping. Besides, rivers provide shelter to many aquatic animal and added to beauty of natural land scape. Rivers in Nepal are treated religiously. These are holy phenomena. Sacred stone saligrams, often worshipped as images of gods and goddesses are found on the bank of the Krishna Gandaki. Sources such as Muktishrestha and confluences such as Devghat and Barahkshetra are taken to be valuable religious sites.

Flood effected place

     There are some demerits of the rivers of Nepal. Many are too small or swift for navigation.Large rivers also have disastrous effects. Many are rain forced by summer monsoon rain. When they are swollen, they sweep away settlement and cultivation areas. All rivers are active agents of erosion.


    With the growth of population and urbanization, our rivers are getting badly polluted. River sides are being illegally occupied by people. We have not been able to realized the high potential of our rivers due to poor economic condition, backward technology and unskilled manpower. Proper utilization of these rivers is sure to raise the economic status of the country.