Nethravathi River
The Netravathi River (ಕನ್ನಡ: ನೇತ್ರಾವತಿ ನದಿ) is a major perennial river in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is considered one of the holy rivers of South India and is the primary lifeblood of the Dakshina Kannada district. Nethravathi is the main river of Dakshina Kannada.
Origin and Course
Section titled “Origin and Course”The river originates in the Western Ghats, specifically at Bangrabalige valley, Yelaneeru Ghat in Kudremukh, located in the Chikkamagaluru district.
From its high-altitude source, the river flows westward through the rugged terrain of the Ghats. It passes through famous pilgrimage centers and towns, most notably Dharmasthala, before reaching the coastal plains.
Physical Characteristics
Section titled “Physical Characteristics”- Total Length: Approximately 103 kilometers (64 miles).
- Basement/Drainage Area: It drains an area of about 3,657 square kilometers.
- Confluence: The Netravathi merges with its main tributary, the Kumaradhara River , at Uppinangadi.
- Outflow: The river eventually empties into the Arabian Sea at Mangaluru (Mangalore). Just before reaching the sea, it forms a common estuary with the Gurupura River.
Economic and Cultural Significance
Section titled “Economic and Cultural Significance”The Netravathi is vital for the region’s agriculture and industry . It provides water for vast tracts of areca nut, coconut, and paddy fields. Additionally, the river is the primary source of drinking water for the city of Mangaluru.
Culturally, the river is deeply integrated into the local folklore and religious practices of the Tulu-speaking population. The “Netravathi Pushkara,” a festival occurring once every 12 years, draws thousands of devotees to its banks for holy dips.