Krishna River
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About:
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The Krishna River is one of the longest rivers in India, stretching over
approximately 1,400 kilometers from its source in the Western Ghats near
Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra, to the Bay of Bengal. The river flows through
four major states—Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra
Pradesh—supporting agricultural, industrial, and domestic water needs across
these regions. Rich in history, the Krishna River basin has been home to
various ancient civilizations and dynasties that thrived along its fertile
plains. Known for its scenic beauty, especially in places like the Krishna
Delta and surrounding hilly regions, the river is lined with a mix of serene
temples, small towns, and bustling cities that contribute to its diverse
cultural heritage. The Krishna River is also famous for its network of dams,
including the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, Srisailam Dam, and Almatti Dam, which
have not only tamed the river's seasonal flows but have also enabled
large-scale irrigation and hydroelectric power generation, playing a key
role in regional development. During the monsoon season, the Krishna River
swells dramatically, providing ample water but also posing a risk of
flooding in low-lying areas. With its abundance of fish and marine life, the
river also sustains a thriving fishing industry. The Krishna River remains a
lifeline for millions, sustaining the agriculture and drinking water needs
of countless villages and cities along its route.
Ecologically, this is one of the disastrous rivers in the world, in that it
causes heavy soil erosion during the monsoon season. It flows fast and
furious, often reaching depths of over 75 feet (23 m). Ironically, there is
a saying in Marathi "sunt vaahate Krishnamaai" which means "quiet flows
Krishna". This term is also used to describe how a person should be, as
quiet as Krishna.
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Location info:
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Address:Krishna River originates in the Western Ghats at an altitude of
about 1300 above sea level in Mahabaleshwar, about passes through Sangli and
conjoins the sea in the Bay of Bengal at Hamasaledevi in Andra Pradesh. It flows
through the states of maharashtra, Karnataka and Andra Pradesh. |
District:maharashtra, Karnataka and Andra Pradesh district. |
Length:Approximately 1,400 km
The river flows through Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh,
with notable locations along its banks including Vijayawada, Sangli, and
Srisailam. |
Best time to visit: Flowing fast and furiously, the Krishna River causes
a high degree of erosion between June and August, often reaching depths of over
75 feet. avoid this time. |
Climate/Weather:
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Best Time to Visit: October to February, when the weather is cooler and water levels are moderate.
Monsoon: Heavy rainfall from June to September, causing the river to swell and creating lush scenery but also increasing flood risks.
Summer: Temperatures can reach 40°C, making it less ideal for outdoor activities along the river. |
History:
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The Krishna River holds a deep historical and cultural significance, dating back to ancient times when it supported thriving civilizations in the Deccan Plateau. The river has been referenced in several religious texts and epics, including the Mahabharata, which highlights its sacred status in Hindu culture. The region around the Krishna River was ruled by powerful dynasties like the Satavahanas, Chalukyas, and Vijayanagara Empire, who revered the river as a divine source of life and prosperity. The river’s fertile plains allowed these dynasties to establish flourishing agricultural economies, supporting large urban centers and impressive architectural marvels. Over the centuries, temples dedicated to deities associated with the Krishna River were constructed along its banks, many of which still stand today as pilgrimage sites, such as the renowned Krishna Temple in Vijayawada and the Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple. The river has also played a strategic role in various wars, with rulers often vying for control over its waters and fertile lands. During British rule, the Krishna River became an important resource for irrigation projects, laying the foundation for modern-day water management and infrastructure like dams and canals. Today, the river remains a vital part of life for millions, with extensive dam networks such as the Nagarjuna Sagar and Srisailam dams enabling agricultural and hydroelectric developments, transforming the region into a major agricultural belt and economic center.
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Interesting things to do:
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Boat Rides: Enjoy scenic boat rides on sections of the river, especially near Srisailam and Vijayawada.
Fishing: The river is known for its rich aquatic life, making it ideal for fishing enthusiasts.
Pilgrimage Visits: Visit famous temples like the Krishna Temple in Vijayawada and Mallikarjuna Temple at Srisailam.
Photography: Capture the picturesque landscapes, especially around the river’s course through hilly terrains and deltas. |
Interesting things to Visit:
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Nagarjuna Sagar Dam: One of the largest dams on the Krishna River, popular for its massive structure and scenic views.
Srisailam Temple: A famous Shiva temple situated by the river, drawing pilgrims year-round.
Prakasam Barrage: An iconic structure in Vijayawada offering a great view of the Krishna River. |
Mobile range info:
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Most major mobile carriers provide coverage along the Krishna River’s route. However, in remote areas or dense forest regions, the signal may weaken. It's advisable to carry networks like BSNL, which tends to have better rural coverage. Generally, mobile data and calling services are reliable in major towns and pilgrimage sites along the river.
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How to reach?
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Nearest Railway Station:Several railway stations are located near the river, such as Vijayawada and Srisailam. |
Nearest Airport: Major airports near the Krishna River include Vijayawada Airport, Belgaum Airport, and Hyderabad Airport. |
Road Transport:The river passes through several major towns and cities, accessible by national highways. |
Nearest Visiting places:
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Amaravati: A historical town in Andhra Pradesh with ancient Buddhist sites and the famous Amaralingeswara Temple.
Hampi: Located along a tributary of the Krishna, known for its Vijayanagara-era ruins.
Badami Caves: Rock-cut temples near the river’s course in Karnataka.
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Nearest Petrol Pump:
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Petrol pumps are available in towns along the Krishna River, with well-serviced pumps in larger cities like Vijayawada, Sangli, and Srisailam.
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Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
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Vijayawada: Offers a range of accommodations from budget hotels to luxury hotels.
Srisailam: Options include budget lodges and government-run accommodations for pilgrims.
Mahabaleshwar: Various hotels and resorts near the river's origin offer scenic views and quality accommodations. |
Things to carry:
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Water bottles and light snacks for convenience.
Sun protection such as hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Comfortable footwear for exploring nearby attractions.
Raincoat or umbrella during the monsoon season. |
Tips & Suggestions:
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Plan visits during the cooler months for a more comfortable experience.
During monsoon, check local conditions to avoid flood-prone areas.
Respect local customs, especially at religious sites along the river. |
Help Line/Phone Number:
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Police Station:100 |
Nearest Hospital:Vijayawada |