Bagmati River: From Nepal to Bihar with Map & Key Facts
Bagmati River flows from Nepal into North Bihar, with a total length of about 360 km. It lies between the Gandak basin to the west and the Kosi basin to the east, forming a distinct river system across both countries. Additonally, it flows from the Himalayan foothills to the Gangetic plains, forming a transboundary basin between Nepal and India.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Length | Approx. 360 km |
| Origin | Bagdwar, Shivapuri Hills, Nepal |
| Flows Through | Nepal, Bihar (India) |
| Indian Entry Point | Sitamarhi district, Bihar |
| Confluence (End Point) | Joins Kosi River in Khagaria |
| Major Tributaries | Manohara, Lakhandei, Dudhmati, etc. |
Table of Contents
Origin and Course
The Bagmati River originates from Bagdwar, located in the Shivapuri Hills north of Kathmandu, Nepal. From there, it flows south through the Kathmandu Valley, passing through cities like Kathmandu and Patan.
After crossing the India-Nepal border, it enters Bihar near Sitamarhi district and continues flowing south through districts like Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, and Samastipur.
It finally joins the Kosi River near Badlaghat in Khagaria district, Bihar.
Tributaries
- Lalitpur Khola
- Manohara River
- Lakhandei River
- Manohara
- Marin Khola
- Adhwara
- Lalbakaiya
- Bishnumati
- Adhwara Group of Rivers – Khiroi, Marha, and Darbhanga
Religious Sites on the Banks of Bagmati River
Many ancient temples and sacred spots lie along the Bagmati River:
- Bagdwar – The river begins here, in the Shivapuri hills.
- Pashupatinath Temple – A famous Shiva temple and major Hindu pilgrimage site.
- Guhyeshwari Temple – A Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Guhyeshwari, located near Pashupatinath.
- Gokarneshwor Temple – Known for Gokarna Aunsi, a day to honor fathers.
- Shankhamul – A confluence point near Koteshwor, where eastern valley rivers meet Bagmati.
- Kalmochan Temple – A Vishnu temple built in unique Mughal-Kathmandu style.
- Tripureshwor Mahadev Temple – One of the largest temples in the valley, built in the 19th century.
- Pachali Bhairav – A temple linked to the founding of Kathmandu.
- Teku Dovan – Confluence of Bagmati and Bishnumati.
You may also read about other rivers in Bihar such as the Gandak, Kosi, and Mahananda, which form the broader network of the Ganga basin.
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