Gandak River

Gandak River (गंडक नदी) is a major tributary of the Ganga in Nepal and India.

Overview

The Gandak (known as Narayani in Nepal) flows 630 km from its source in the Nepal Himalayas through the Terai plains to join the Ganga near Patna. It is one of the largest tributaries of the Ganga and forms the boundary between Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

History and Legend

The Gandak is mentioned in ancient texts and was historically significant as a boundary river. The river valley was part of the ancient kingdom of Vaishali, associated with both the Mahabharata and Buddhist history. The name Gandak is derived from the Sanskrit ‘Gandaki.’

Architecture and Features

Major sites along the Gandak include the ancient city of Vaishali, the Gandak barrage at Valmiki Nagar, and the Valmiki National Park. The river gorge in the Nepal Himalayas is one of the deepest in the world.

Modern Status

The Gandak is a major source of irrigation in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The Valmiki National Park along the river is home to tigers, rhinoceroses, and diverse wildlife.

Verification Notes

• Gandak (Narayani) documented as major Ganga tributary; Valmiki National Park along its banks.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).