Which is the longest river in Peninsular India?

English বাংলা
PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
WBPSC Miscellaneous Preliminary 2023

Answer

Godavari

Explanation

The Godavari is the longest river in Peninsular (Southern) India and the second-longest river in the country overall, after the Ganga. It originates from Trimbakeshwar in the Nashik district of Maharashtra and flows eastwards to drain into the Bay of Bengal. Due to its length, catchment area, and antiquity, it is affectionately called the 'Dakshin Ganga' or 'Vridha Ganga' (Old Ganga).

Key Points

  • > Length: Approximately 1,465 km.
  • > Origin: Trimbakeshwar, Western Ghats, Maharashtra.
  • > Mouth: Bay of Bengal.
  • > Sobriquets: Dakshin Ganga, Vridha Ganga.
  • > Krishna is the second-longest peninsular river.
  • > Narmada is the longest west-flowing river in India.
  • > Kaveri is known as the 'Ganges of the South' due to its sacredness.

Additional Information

Longest Rivers in India

RiverLength (approx.)OriginFlows Into
Ganga2,525 kmGangotri GlacierBay of Bengal
Godavari1,465 kmTrimbakeshwarBay of Bengal
Krishna1,400 kmMahabaleshwarBay of Bengal
Narmada1,312 kmAmarkantakArabian Sea

Memory Tips

  • Connect Ganga in the North with Godavari in the South. Both start with G and dominate their respective regions.
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