Pravara River: Origin, Map, and Dams

Pravara River is a small tributary of the Godavari River, flowing entirely within the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India. It originates from the eastern slopes of the Sahyadri hills in Ahmednagar. Moreover, it has a total length of 208 km with a drainage basin area of 6,537 square kilometers. Further, the river flows into the Pravara Sangam, where it joins the Godavari River.

Origin of Pravara River

Pravara River originates from the eastern slopes of the Sahyadri Hills, specifically between the Kulang and Ratangad mountains in Akole taluka, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra. It rises at an elevation of about 750 meters above sea level.

According to Indian Vedic scriptures, the Pravara River is deeply connected with the legend of Sage Agastya. It is believed that Sage Agastya undertook intense meditation by surviving solely on water and air for a long period. Impressed by his devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before him and blessed him by manifesting a sacred stream of the Ganga, which later became known as the Pravara River.

What makes the Pravara River truly unique? It is the only major tributary of the Godavari where both its source and confluence are located within the same district — Ahmednagar.

Course & Flow

After starting from the Sahyadri hills, the Pravara River flows in an eastward direction. Its course can be described in stages:

• Bhandardara Town: Shortly after its origin, the river enters Bhandardara, a scenic town famous for its hills and waterfalls.
• Wilson Dam (Bhandardara Dam): Built on the Pravara River in 1910, this dam forms the serene Arthur Lake, a major tourist attraction.
• Umbrella Falls: During the monsoon season, the overflow of Arthur Lake creates the magnificent Umbrella Falls.
• Sangamner: As it continues eastward, the river reaches Sangamner town, where it is joined by the Mahalungi River.
• Nevasa: The Pravara River merges with the Mula River before reaching Nevasa.
• Confluence: Finally, it empties into the Godavari River at Pravara Sangam.

Notable Attractions

• Bhandardara: A serene town surrounded by lush hills and tranquil lakes, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
• Arthur Lake and Umbrella Falls: Popular destinations for nature enthusiasts, especially captivating during the monsoon season.
• Agastya Rishi Ashram: A revered spiritual site, believed to be where Sage Agastya meditated, situated along the river’s path.

Tributaries

• Mula River
• Mahalungi River
• Adhala River

Dams on Pravara

• Wilson Dam (Bhandardara Dam)
• Nilwande Dam

We trust that this article has provided valuable insights into the Pravara River. Should you have any further questions or thoughts, please feel free to share them in the comments section below. We welcome your feedback and look forward to engaging with you.