Which Is the Longest Tributary of the Ganga?

Last Updated: Sep 6, 2026, 18:50 IST

Discover the longest tributary of the Ganga River is the Yamuna. Explore its total length, origin at Yamunotri Glacier, states covered, major sub-tributaries, and key geographical facts.

Which Is the Longest Tributary of the Ganga?
Which Is the Longest Tributary of the Ganga?

The Yamuna River is one of the most important tributaries of the Ganga and is generally regarded as its longest tributary. Originating in the Himalayas, the river flows through several northern Indian states before meeting the Ganga at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. Keep reading to know in detail.

Which Is the Longest Tributary of the Ganga?

The Yamuna is the longest tributary of the Ganga, with a total length of approximately 1,376 km. It is a major right bank tributary of the Ganga. The river originates in the Yamunotri Glacier in Uttarakhand. It flows from the Himalayan region towards the northern plains. It then joins the Ganga at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Where Does the Yamuna River Originate?

The Yamuna originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in Uttarakhand. The source lies in the Bandarpoonch range of the Himalayas.

What Is the Length of the Yamuna River?

The Yamuna is approximately 1,376 kilometres long. Its long course makes it one of the most important river systems of northern India. It begins in the Himalayas. It flows through the northern plains. It eventually meets the Ganga at Prayagraj.

Where Does the Yamuna Meet the Ganga?

The Yamuna meets the Ganga at Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. The confluence is known as Triveni Sangam. It is one of the most famous river confluences in India. The Ganga and Yamuna are the two visible rivers at the confluence. The traditionally believed Saraswati is also associated with the Sangam.

Which Type of Tributary Is the Yamuna?

The Yamuna is a right-bank tributary of the Ganga. The Yamuna joins the Ganga from the southern side. It is therefore classified as a right-bank tributary.

Which States and Regions Does the Yamuna Flow Through?

The Yamuna river system is associated with several states and regions in northern India. These include Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.

Major Cities Located Along the Yamuna

The Yamuna flows through or near several historically and economically important cities. The Yamuna passes through the eastern part of Delhi. Mathura is closely associated with the Yamuna. The Yamuna flows through Agra. The famous Taj Mahal is situated on the banks of the river. The Yamuna meets the Ganga in Prayagraj. The Triveni Sangam is one of the city’s major landmarks.

Major Tributaries of the Yamuna

Several rivers join the Yamuna during its journey. The important tributaries include Chambal, Sind, Betwa, Ken and Tons.

Important Dams and Projects on the Yamuna System

Infrastructure / Structure Location & Key Details
Hathnikund Barrage Haryana
Wazirabad Barrage Delhi
Okhla Barrage Delhi
Matatila Dam Located on the Betwa River (Major Yamuna tributary)
Tajewala Irrigation System Upper Yamuna region

Yamuna and the Taj Mahal

The Yamuna is closely associated with the Taj Mahal in Agra. The monument stands on the southern bank of the Yamuna.

Feature Yamuna Ganga
Type Tributary Major river
Source Yamunotri Glacier Gangotri Glacier region
Approx. length 1,376 km About 2,525 km (in India)
Confluence Prayagraj
Basin Yamuna basin Ganga basin
Major cities Delhi, Mathura, Agra, Prayagraj Haridwar, Kanpur, Varanasi, Patna, and others

Jasreet Kaur
Jasreet Kaur

Executive - Editorial

Jasreet Kaur is a journalist with over 3 years of experience in digital media and news content creation. She specializes in covering Trending News, including major National and International developments, with a focus on delivering accurate, engaging, and reader-friendly stories. Prior to this, she worked with Zee News as a Content Writer, where she gained extensive experience in news reporting and content strategy. Driven by curiosity, credibility, and a passion for impactful journalism, Jasreet aims to contribute to informed public discourse while supporting positive growth in organizations, society, and the world.

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First Published: Sep 6, 2026, 18:50 IST

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