Ravi River

Ravi River (रावी नदी) is a sacred river in northern India and Pakistan.

Overview

The Ravi is one of the five rivers of Punjab, flowing 720 km from the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh through Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab (India), and Punjab (Pakistan) to join the Chenab. It is one of the five rivers that give Punjab (land of five rivers) its name.

History and Legend

The Ravi is mentioned in the Rigveda as “Parusni” and is associated with the ancient kingdom of Lauhitya. The city of Lahore, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in South Asia, sits on its banks. The river is sacred in Sikhism, with several important historical sites along its course.

Architecture and Features

Major sites along the Ravi include Chamba, Kangra, Lahore (Pakistan), and the confluence with the Chenab. The river flows through scenic valleys in Himachal Pradesh before entering the Punjab plains. The Ranjit Sagar Dam on the Ravi is a major hydroelectric project.

Modern Status

The Ravi’s water is shared between India and Pakistan under the Indus Waters Treaty. The river faces pollution from agricultural runoff and urban waste. It is dammed at several points for irrigation and power generation.

Verification Notes

• Ravi mentioned in Rigveda as Parusni; Lahore and historical sites documented.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).