Ravi River: Length & Origin with Map

Explore the rich tapestry of the Ravi River, one of the five major rivers in the Punjab region of South Asia. Uncover its historical, cultural, and ecological significance as it courses through India and Pakistan, shaping civilizations and sustaining communities.

In this article, get to know the river’s length, discover its tributaries, unravel the story behind key dams, and trace its origin in the Himalayas.

River	Ravi
Length	720 km
Origin	Lahul range
Area	14442 sq. km

Geographical Features of the Ravi River

• Originates in the Lahul range of hills in the Himalayas.
• The total length of 720 km.
• Covers an area of around 14442 sq. km.
• Major tributaries include the Budhil, Nai (Dhona), Seul, Seva, and Tant Gari rivers.
• Flows through diverse terrains, from the Himalayan foothills to fertile plains.
• Notable hydroelectric dams include Thein Dam (Ranjit Sagar Dam) and Chamera Dam.
• Witnessed historical civilizations, including the Harappan civilization.

Map of Ravi

Tributaries of the Ravi River

The Ravi River is enriched by several tributaries, each weaving its own story of origin and contribution to the dynamic ecosystem of the region.

One such tributary is the Budhil River, which originates in the Lahul range of hills in the Himalayas. Notable for its journey of 72 kilometers, it maintains a steep slope of 314 feet per mile as it flows through Bharmour, formerly an ancient capital known as Bharmwar. The Budhil River receives waters from the sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites of Manimahesh Kailash Peak and Manimahesh Lake.

Another significant contributor to the Ravi is the Nai River (Dhona). Rising at the Kali Debi pass, it embarks on a 48-kilometer journey, eventually joining the Ravi River. Impressively, it exhibits a bed slope of 366 feet per mile, highlighting the dynamic nature of its course.

Flowing from the north, the Seul River meets the Ravi River just below Bharmour, formerly the capital of Chamba. This tributary not only witnessed the exploitation of abundant timber trees in its valley but also earned the moniker “the garden of Chamba” due to large fertile terraces supporting crop cultivation.

The Seva River plays a crucial role as it joins the Ravi near Basohli in Jammu and Kashmir. Historically significant, it witnessed the exploitation of forest resources under the control of the then Raja of Chamba. Additionally, the Seva River valley encompasses the Baira-Nalla, a major tributary adding to the river’s complexity.

Lastly, the Tant Gari, a small tributary of the Pir Panjal Range, rises east of Bharmour. This tributary forms a picturesque U-shaped valley, characterized by a riverbed scattered with boulders and glacial deposits, contributing to the diverse landscapes shaped by the Ravi River.

These tributaries, with their unique characteristics and historical significance, contribute to the dynamic nature of the Ravi River, adding layers of complexity to its journey through the heart of the Indian subcontinent.

Dams on the Ravi River

The following are the dams on the Ravi River and their respective locations:

• Thein Dam (Ranjit Sagar Dam): Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, India.
• Shahpurkandi Dam: Pathankot district, Punjab, India.
• Ravi-Beas Link (Proposed): (No specific location as it is a proposed project).
• Chamera Dam: Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, India.
• Ujh Dam: Kathua district, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
• Upper Bari Doab Canal: Punjab, India (Irrigation canal connected to the Ravi River).

Also Read: Mahi River: Origin and Map with Tributaries

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ravi River, originating in the Himalayas, epitomizes geographical diversity. Its course, marked by fertile plains and hydroelectric dams, encapsulates the river’s crucial role in shaping the natural landscape and contributing to regional economies.