Sutlej River is the longest tributary of Indus River. It is also one of the five major rivers of the Punjab region. The river originates in Tibet and then enters India through Himachal Pradesh before flowing into Punjab region and crossing into Pakistan, where it joins the Indus River System. Keep reading in detail about the Sutlej River.
Which States Does the Sutlej River Flow Through?
In India, the Sutlej River flows through two states Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. The river originates in Tibet and enters India near Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh. It then flows through the mountainous regions of Kinnaur, Shimla, Kullu, Bilaspur and other districts before entering Punjab near Ropar. Then it continues across the plains of Punjab before crossing into Pakistan.
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Where Does the Sutlej River Originate?
Located near Mount Kailash in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, the Sutlej River originates from Lake Rakshastal (Rakas Tal). The river flows to the west for a while through Tibet before it gets to India. It starts at a high point more than 4,500 metres above sea level, which makes the river one of the rivers that starts the highest point in the Indus basin.
Major Dams Built on the Sutlej River
The Sutlej River is crucial for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation in northern India. Several major dams and projects have been developed along its course.
| Dam/Project | State |
| Bhakra Dam | Himachal Pradesh |
| Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Project | Himachal Pradesh |
| Karcham Wangtoo Hydroelectric Project | Himachal Pradesh |
| Kol Dam | Himachal Pradesh |
Why Is the Sutlej River Important?
It is a key river under the Indus Waters Treaty (1960), which gives India all the rights under which India has rights over the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi river. It is also important river that helps in irrigation throughout Punjab.