Karnali River

Title
Karnali River
Description

The Karnali River is the longest river in Nepal, measuring approximately $507\text{ km}$ within Nepalese territory. Originating from the Mapchakhung glaciers near Lake Mansarovar in Tibet, it flows south through western Nepal.

Key Characteristics

  • Longest River: It is the longest river flowing entirely within Nepal, draining a basin area of about $49,000\text{ km}^2$.
  • Name in India: Upon crossing the border into India, it is known as the Ghaghra River (or Sarayu), which later merges with the Ganges.
  • Tributaries: Its seven major tributaries (Sapta Karnali) include Humla Karnali, Mugu Karnali, Tila, Budhi Ganga, West Seti, Bheri, and Babai.
  • Karnali Gorge: The river carves through the Mahabharat Range, forming deep gorges, and is home to endangered species like the Gangetic dolphin.
Category
River
Province
Karnali
Key Figure/Measurement
Longest river in Nepal ($507\text{ km}$)

More from Nepal Geography