Gandaki River, Major river system in central Nepal and northern India.
The Gandaki is a major river flowing through Nepal and northern India. It cuts through deep canyons between two high mountain ranges before reaching the plains and joining other waterways.
The waterway existed before the surrounding mountains rose to their current height, cutting through the rising land. An irrigation project from the mid-20th century now regulates water sharing between two countries.
Pilgrims search the riverbed near Muktinath for small black stones believed to carry divine presence. These fossils are kept in temples and household shrines across South Asia.
The best viewpoints lie along mountain roads in Nepal, where views open across deep valleys. Travelers reaching the plains find many bridges and riverside paths that show the waterway from different angles.
Over a thousand glaciers feed the river system, creating a network of lakes and tributaries in the upper regions. This waterscape supports habitats that span several climate zones.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
