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Pranahita River

Pranahita River

About:

The Pranahita River is a significant tributary of the Godavari River, formed by the confluence of the Wardha and Wainganga rivers. It flows through the states of Maharashtra and Telangana in India. The river is known for its vast catchment area and plays a key role in irrigation and local agriculture.



The River course is principally through the dense forests, which are rich in Sagwan or timber trees. Water transport across the river is used between Sironcha(Maharashtra) and Kaleswaram(Andhra Pradesh).

Location info:
Address:Gadchiroli,Maharashtra,India.
District: Gadchiroli district
Nearest City: Chandrapur.
Best time to visit: October to March

Climate/Weather:
Summer (March to June): Hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C. Monsoon (July to September): The region receives heavy rainfall, with the river's flow increasing significantly due to the monsoon, often resulting in flooding in low-lying areas. Winter (November to February): The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C and 28°C, making it an ideal time to visit.
Average rainfall in mm:1510 mm

History:
The Pranahita River has been an important source of water for the surrounding regions for centuries. In recent years, the Pranahita-Chevella Lift Irrigation Project was proposed to utilize the river’s water for irrigation and drinking water supply to drought-prone areas in Telangana. The river holds cultural significance for the local communities and is often associated with agricultural prosperity.

Interesting things to do:
Explore the scenic beauty of the beautiful rivers and visit the nearby places.

Interesting things to Visit:

Adishakti Devi Temple:
The temple enshrines the idol of Adishakti Devi, found during the excavation conducted in 1986. The idol has four hands and is an example of the excellent quality of carvings undertaken by the sculptors of the erstwhile era.

Bhandareshwar Temple:
Bhandareshwar Temple is an ancient temple situated to the west of Vairagad village in Gadchiroli District of Maharashtra. It lies high on a mound, at the confluence of Khobragadi and Vainlochna rivers. The presiding deity here is Lord Shiva.
This shrine is a very good example of quality architecture and the walls are carved and are believed to be of the period of Hemadpanth. People throng here from far and near. The temple has a natural echo system.

Mobile range info:
Mobile network coverage is generally available in towns and villages near the river, with Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone being the major operators. However, network strength may fluctuate in remote or forested areas.

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station is at Ballarpur, around 100 km away from the river.
Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, located around 250 km from Sironcha.
Road Transport:Roads from the district headquarters at Gadchiroli link all 12 tehsils (subdistricts) and towns.Good road facilities make it reachable from different parts of the country.

Nearest Visiting places:

Ekora:
Ekora is a sacred place in Gadchiroli District of Maharashtra and is west of Vairagad. There is a lake nearby, which is believed to have medicinal value.

Pachpande:
It is about a kilometer north of Vairagad.Five carved stones is the major interest here. It is believed that the Pandava brothers had stayed here.

Vairagad Fort:
It is an important landmark in Gadchiroli. It was the capital of King Virat of the Gond Community. The temples, Bhandareshwar, Gorjai, Pachpande, and Ekora surrounding this fort reflect the culture and the type of architecture of the past. These temples stand as historical evidences of the rich heritage of this region.

Nearest Petrol Pump:
BPCL Petrol Pump, Gadchiroli: Another nearby petrol station for travelers.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Grand Dhillon
Bhilai, Durg, Chhattisgarh

Hotel Vatsa International
Bhilai, Durg, Chhattisgarh

Things to carry:
Insect repellent if you plan on trekking or camping near the river, especially during monsoon. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the heat, especially during summer. Comfortable walking shoes for trekking or exploring the surrounding wilderness. Waterproof gear if visiting during the monsoon. Binoculars for wildlife and bird watching in the nearby sanctuaries.

Tips & Suggestions:
The best time to visit is during winter (November to February), when the weather is pleasant, and the river’s surroundings are lush and green. If visiting during the monsoon, be cautious of potential flooding, especially in low-lying areas near the river. Carry sufficient food and water if you plan to explore remote areas, as amenities may be limited. Ensure you have local guidance if planning to trek or camp in forested areas around the river.

Help Line/Phone Number:
Police Station: 100

Nearest Hospital:

Government Hospital
Durg, Chhattisgarh

Gayatri Hospital
Durg, Chhattisgarh