List of rivers of Bhutan

Characteristics

Rivers in Bhutan are typically fast-flowing, with steep gradients in their upper reaches and broad alluvial plains in the south. Seasonal variation is strong: high flows occur in the summer monsoon and with glacial melt; winter flows are reduced. The rivers carry sediments that shape valley floors and support agriculture downstream.

Major rivers and notable tributaries

• Drangme Chhu (Manas system) – a large eastern drainage that collects several eastern tributaries before joining downstream systems.
• Kuri Chhu – an important eastern tributary system known for deep gorges and hydropower potential.
• Amo Chhu (Torsa) – flows through western and southern Bhutan into adjacent plains.
• Punatsang Chhu (Sankosh) – drains central and western districts and is a focus for hydropower development.
• Wang Chhu (Thimphu/Pa Chu) – flows past the capital region and several historic valley settlements.
• Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu – twin rivers that meet at Punakha, the confluence is culturally and historically significant.

These names represent larger basins; many smaller tributaries and local names exist within each system, reflecting regional geography and culture.

Uses, importance and management

Bhutanese rivers are central to the country's economy and environment. They supply water for irrigation, sustain fisheries, and provide sites for hydropower generation, a major export industry. Rivers also have cultural value, with many valley towns and religious sites located on their banks. Management challenges include mitigating flood risk, reducing sedimentation, addressing climate-driven glacial lake outburst floods, and coordinating transboundary water use with downstream neighbors.

For detailed river names and local tributaries, consult hydrological maps and government resources which list the many streams contributing to Bhutan’s principal basins.