5 Must-Visit Rivers in Karnataka

Kaveri is the largest river in Karnataka and there is no better way to start our list than exploring this river. Amid the Brahmagiri Hills in the Coorg (or officially known as Kodagu) district nestles a famous pilgrimage spot named Talakaveri. From this place originates river Kaveri. And then it snakes through the southern parts of Karnataka to its eastern parts before entering Tamil Nadu. Its final destination is the Bay of Bengal. The river holds a special religious value and pilgrims often are seen taking holy dips in its water.

Whatever time Kaveri spends in the boundary of Karnataka, it adorns a lush green coat created by the greenery on its banks. Along with that, it allows its visitors to take part in the marvellous activity called river trekking. You get to trek in waist-deep water and see the many islands that the river has created on its way. In fact, the Kaveri river trek is one of the most thrilling adventure activities in India. So, you know you gotta try it!

This river in Karnataka is another beauty that you must not miss! The Gangamoola hills in the Chikkamagaluru district is where the river Bhadra begins its long journey. The rivers flow elegantly across the Deccan Plateau and meet river Tunga at Koodli. After that, it continues its journey with the name river Tungabhadra, merges into river Krishna on its way and finally drains into the Bay of Bengal.

Needless to say, the Karnataka river name has a beautiful appeal along with a significant agricultural value. What makes the place even more alluring to the tourist is the many hills and wildlife areas around the river, the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary being a huge crowd puller. There is another major attraction that makes this river a must-visit place for adventure enthusiasts. And that attraction is the array of ideal river rafting locations the river offers. While rafting through this river, you will get to see many thick forests and plantations.

River Kali, or you may also know it as river Kalindi, is a major lifeline to many people and a support-giver to many fishermen. Also, many dams have been built on the river that generates electricity for the state. And hence, this river comes into our mind whenever we are asked to name some important rivers of Karnataka. Let’s learn more about this river. There is a small village named Diggi near Dandeli. River Kalindi originates from that village and gushes through the Uttara Kannada district.

Coming to what else you can expect when you take a trip to Kali river. You can enjoy a fun ride on coracles (bowl-shaped rowboats). If you plan your visit between the months of October and March, you will get amazing chances of white water rafting. If you are not in the mood for a coracle ride or white water river rafting, you can also indulge in bird watching.

River Panamaram and river Mananthavady converge in the Wayanad district in Kerala. The reason we are talking about these two rivers’ confluence in Kerala is because the next name on our list of rivers in Karnataka emerges from the same confluence. And that river is Kabini. After originating in Kerala, it enters Karnataka and joins the river Kaveri in Tirumakudal Narsipur. Now let’s see why this river is a must-visit!

The backwaters of Kabini and the surrounding thick forests house rich wildlife. While you can explore many magnificent faunas, the major attraction is the large group of Asiatic elephants. Visit the Nagarhole National Park, preferably during the summer and you will get to see these majestic animals roaming around. If you want to make the most of your trip to Kabini, we will suggest a camping trip. Camp on the banks of the river and witness the rich flora and fauna from up close!

A garuda or an eagle named Suparna performed atonement on the banks of the river and gained salvation. And thus the name river Souparnika. This is the story that you will find in Mythology and this is the reason why this river is believed to be sacred by many. People often visit this river to take a holy dip and you can too. While you are here, a visit to the nearby Mookambika Temple is also suggested. Other than the river being holy, there is another belief around the river. And that is it having healing properties. Actually, the river flows through dense forests that have medicinal plants and hence, the belief.

That was all the stories about Souparnika. Now let’s focus a little on its journey. Souparnika originates in the Kodachadri hills and then travels through Kundapur and Gangolli in Karnataka. On its way, it meets rivers like Varahi, Kedaka, Chakra and Kubja. Finally, Souparnika ends its journey in the Arabian Sea!

So many amazing rivers waiting with so many amazing experiences for you. And that is why you must make plans to visit these rivers the next time you are in Karnataka!