Sharavati River is an important west-flowing river in the state of Karnataka. It is best known for forming the famous Jog Falls, which is one of the highest waterfalls in India. The river originates in the Western Ghats in Shivamogga district and flows west before meeting the Arabian Sea near Honnavar in Uttara Kannada district.
Quick Overview of Sharavati River
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Ambutheertha, Shivamogga district |
| Total Length | ~ 128 km |
| Direction of Flow | East to West |
| Confluence | Arabian Sea near Honnavar |
| Major Tributary | Haridravathi River |
| Famous Waterfall | Jog Falls |
| Major Dam | Linganamakki Dam |
| Drainage Area | Around 3000 sq. km. |
| River Basin Region | Western Ghats |
Origin of Sharavati River
The Sharavati River begins at Ambutheertha, a place in Thirthahalli taluk of Shivamogga district. From there, it flows west through Sagara taluk and into Uttara Kannada district.
On its way, the river forms the spectacular Jog Falls near Kargal. After creating the waterfall, the river moves westward through forests and valleys and finally joins the Arabian Sea near Honnavar on the west coast of Karnataka.
Tributaries of Sharavati
- Haridravathi
- Nandihole
- Mavinahole
- Hilkunji
- Yennehole
- Hurlihole
- Nagodihole
Map of Sharavati
Jog Falls
One of the most famous features of the Sharavati River is the Jog Falls, also called Gerosoppa Falls or Joga Jalapatha. It is one of the highest waterfalls in India, with a drop of 830 feet (253 meters).
Jog Falls splits into four separate cascades:
Dams and Hydroelectric Projects
- Linganamakki Dam: Built in 1964 near Kargal. Further, it creates the Linganamakki Reservoir, one of the largest in Karnataka.
- Gerusoppa Dam: Located downstream of Jog Falls. and was completed in 2002.
Sharavati Bridge – Longest Railway Bridge in Karnataka
The Sharavati Bridge is a significant railway bridge located just south of Honnavar, Karnataka. It carries the Konkan Railway across the Sharavati River, helping connect major regions along India’s west coast.
Completed in 1994, this bridge is remarkable for its length — stretching about 2,060 meters, it holds the title of the longest railway bridge on the Konkan Railway line, and also the longest railway bridge in Karnataka.
