Major Rivers of Karnataka

These rivers generally originate in the Western Ghats and flow eastwards across the Deccan Plateau, eventually emptying into the Bay of Bengal. They make up the largest river basins in the state.

• Kaveri (Cauvery): Known as the 'Ganga of the South'. It originates at Talakaveri in the Kodagu (Coorg) district. It is the lifeline of southern Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
• Krishna: Though it originates in Maharashtra, it flows through northern Karnataka. Its major tributaries in Karnataka include the Tungabhadra (formed by Tunga and Bhadra rivers), Ghataprabha, and Malaprabha.
• Pennar (Pinakini) and Palar: Originate in the Nandi Hills and flow into Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

These rivers originate in the Western Ghats and flow swiftly westwards, covering a short, steep distance before joining the Arabian Sea. They are crucial for hydroelectric power generation.

• Sharavati: Famous for the spectacular Jog Falls (one of the highest plunge waterfalls in India).
• Netravati: Originates in Chikkamagaluru and flows through Mangaluru (Dakshina Kannada). It is considered the lifeline of the Mangaluru region.
• Kali: Flows through Uttara Kannada district, known for its dense forests and hydroelectric dams.
• Aghanashini and Gangavalli.

• The East-flowing rivers have gentle gradients, creating broad valleys and fertile plains ideal for extensive agriculture.
• The West-flowing rivers have steep gradients, making them fast-flowing and ideal for generating massive amounts of hydroelectricity (e.g., the Linganamakki Dam on Sharavati).