Uttar Pradesh, a key state in northern India, is home to several major rivers that are vital for its agriculture, culture, and economy. These rivers, flowing from the Himalayas and other regions, support millions of people with water resources and have deep religious and historical significance. This article explores the top five biggest rivers of Uttar Pradesh, highlighting their importance and impact on the state’s landscape and life.
An Overview of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh, located in northern India, is the most populous state in the country, with over 241 million residents. Covering 243,286 km², it ranks as the fourth-largest Indian state by area. Uttar Pradesh shares borders with several states and Nepal. Its capital is Lucknow, with Prayagraj serving as the judicial capital. Major rivers like the Ganges and Yamuna, as well as significant agricultural land, define its landscape. The state is divided into 18 divisions and 75 districts.
Five Biggest Rivers in Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is home to several significant rivers, which are vital for the state’s agriculture, culture, and daily life. Here are the top five largest rivers in Uttar Pradesh, listed by their length:
- Ganges River – Length: 2,525 kilometers (over 1,000 kilometers in Uttar Pradesh)
- Yamuna River – Length: 1,376 kilometers
- Saryu River – Length: 1,080 kilometers
- Gomti River – Length: 940 kilometers
- Ramganga River – Length: 590 kilometers
Largest River in Uttar Pradesh- The Ganga River
In Uttar Pradesh, the Ganges stands as the largest and most religious river. Originating in Uttarakhand, the Ganges enters Uttar Pradesh at the Bijnor district, flowing through numerous areas before leaving the state near Ghazipur. With a total length of 2,525 kilometers, the Ganges covers more than 1,000 kilometers within Uttar Pradesh alone. Key cities such as Varanasi, Kanpur, Prayagraj, Ghazipur, Bhadohi, Hapur, and Ballia are located along its path.
The Yamuna River
The Yamuna River holds the position of the second most important river in Uttar Pradesh. Beginning in Uttarakhand, the Yamuna travels through Haryana and Delhi before entering Uttar Pradesh. In the state, it flows through various districts and ultimately joins the Ganges at Prayagraj. The Yamuna spans 1,376 kilometers, with a large part of its journey occurring within Uttar Pradesh.
The Ramganga River
The Ramganga River, which originates in Uttarakhand, flows into Uttar Pradesh and eventually merges with the Ganges near Kannauj. The Ramganga stretches over 590 kilometers, with most of its course situated within Uttar Pradesh.
The Gomti River
The Gomti River begins its journey within Uttar Pradesh, starting from Phulhar Lake in Pilibhit district. It flows through several districts before joining the Ganges near Ghazipur. The Gomti extends for 940 kilometers in total.
The Saryu River
The Saryu River has its source at Lake Rakshastal in Tibet and flows through various districts in Uttar Pradesh. Notably, the city of Ayodhya is located on its banks. The Saryu River has a total length of 1,080 kilometers, with part of it flowing through Uttar Pradesh.
Other Significant Rivers of Uttar Pradesh
In addition to these major rivers, Uttar Pradesh is also home to other important rivers such as the Chambal, Rapti, and Gandak, each of which plays a significant role in the state’s geography and culture.