Five Major Confluences of Rivers in India (Prayag)
(Important for UPSC, JKSSB, SSC, RRB and other competitive exams)
In Indian geography and Sanskrit tradition, the meeting point of two or more rivers is called a “Prayag” or confluence. These places are considered geographically and culturally important and are frequently asked in competitive examinations.
Important River Confluences in India
| Confluence (Prayag) | Rivers Meeting | Location | Important Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Devprayag | Bhagirathi River + Alaknanda River | Uttarakhand | Formation of the Ganges River |
| Rudraprayag | Alaknanda River + Mandakini River | Uttarakhand | Important pilgrimage site |
| Karnaprayag | Alaknanda River + Pindar River | Uttarakhand | Named after Karna of Mahabharata |
| Nandprayag | Alaknanda River + Nandakini River | Uttarakhand | One of the Panch Prayag |
| Vishnuprayag | Alaknanda River + Dhauliganga River | Uttarakhand | Highest of the Panch Prayag |
Panch Prayag of Uttarakhand (Quick Revision)
| Prayag | Rivers |
|---|---|
| Vishnuprayag | Alaknanda + Dhauliganga |
| Nandprayag | Alaknanda + Nandakini |
| Karnaprayag | Alaknanda + Pindar |
| Rudraprayag | Alaknanda + Mandakini |
| Devprayag | Bhagirathi + Alaknanda |
Important Points for Exams
Ganges River officially begins at Devprayag.
All Panch Prayag are located in Uttarakhand.The Alaknanda River participates in four confluences before meeting Bhagirathi.
PYQ Type MCQs
1. At which place does the Ganga originate after the confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda?
A. Rudraprayag
B. Devprayag
C. Karnaprayag
D. Vishnuprayag
Answer: Devprayag
2. Which of the following rivers meet at Rudraprayag?
A. Alaknanda and Mandakini
B. Alaknanda and Pindar
C. Bhagirathi and Alaknanda
D. Alaknanda and Nandakini
Answer: Alaknanda and Mandakini
3. Which river is common in four Panch Prayag confluences?
A. Bhagirathi
B. Alaknanda
C. Mandakini
D. Pindar
Answer: Alaknanda