Mahakali river

The Mahakali River, also known as the Sharda River in India, is one of the major rivers in Nepal. It originates in the Himalayan glaciers at the Kalapani region in Uttarakhand, India, and flows along the western border between Nepal and India. The river serves as a natural boundary for the two countries, particularly in the far-western region of Nepal, where it is also known as the westernmost border river of the country.

The Mahakali River spans a length of approximately 223 kilometers within Nepal and India before joining the Ghaghara River, a tributary of the Ganges. In Nepal, it flows through the remote and scenic areas of Darchula and Kanchanpur districts, where it is revered as a sacred river, and it plays a key role in irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydropower potential.

Several treaties and agreements, such as the Mahakali Treaty signed in 1996, govern the sharing of the river's water between Nepal and India. The river is also significant for both hydropower and agriculture, with dams such as the Tanakpur Barrage and the proposed Pancheshwar Dam being key projects aimed at harnessing its potential.

Apart from its economic importance, the Mahakali River is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, rugged terrain, and deep gorges, making it an appealing destination for adventure enthusiasts interested in trekking and rafting.