Which of the following is the longest river of Uttarakhand? 

The correct answer is Kali.

Key Points

• Kali River, also known as Sharda River in Uttarakhand, is considered the longest river in the state.
• The river originates from the Kali Glacier near Kalapani in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.
• It flows through the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and forms a natural boundary between India and Nepal in certain stretches.
• The Kali River is a major tributary of the Ghaghara River, which eventually merges with the Ganges.
• It plays a significant role in the region's ecology, economy, and irrigation systems, benefiting both India and Nepal.

Additional Information

• Bhagirathi:
  • Bhagirathi is one of the headstreams of the Ganges River and originates from the Gangotri Glacier.
  • It is shorter in length compared to the Kali River but has religious significance as it forms the Ganges after merging with the Alaknanda River at Devprayag.
• Yamuna:
  • The Yamuna River originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in Uttarakhand.
  • It is the largest tributary of the Ganges by discharge but is not the longest river in Uttarakhand.
• Alaknanda:
  • Alaknanda is another headstream of the Ganges, originating from the Satopanth Glacier.
  • It meets the Bhagirathi River at Devprayag to form the Ganges.
• Importance of Rivers in Uttarakhand:
  • Rivers like the Kali, Bhagirathi, Yamuna, and Alaknanda are crucial for irrigation, hydropower generation, and drinking water supply.
  • They also hold immense cultural and religious significance in Hinduism.