The Bagmati River, originating in Kathmandu, Nepal, is a transboundary river that serves as the border between Nepal and India. With a total length of 586.3 kilometers, it flows southward through the Kathmandu Valley. This river holds immense religious importance for both Hindus and Buddhists, despite being heavily polluted due to the high population residing along its banks. The Bagmati River merges with the Koshi River near Bornesthan in Bihar, India, and hosts significant religious sites, including the revered Pashupatinath Temple. Notable tributaries of the Bagmati River include the Bishnumati River and Manohara River.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Transboundary River: A river that flows through or forms the border between two or more countries, like the Bagmati River serving as the border between Nepal and India.
- Confluence: The point at which two rivers meet and merge, as the Bagmati River does with the Koshi River near Bornesthan, India.
- Sacred River: A river that holds religious significance and is revered by the local population, as is the case with the Bagmati River, which is considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists.
- Pashupatinath Temple: A significant Hindu pilgrimage site located along the Bagmati River, known for its cultural and religious importance in the region.
