The Hydaspes River is the ancient name for the Jhelum River in South Asia, flowing through modern-day India and Pakistan, especially the Punjab region of Pakistan. It is most closely associated with the Battle of the Hydaspes near the modern city of Jhelum in Pakistan.

Where it is

  • Ancient Hydaspes = modern Jhelum River.
  • It runs through the Indus basin and the Punjab region.
  • A commonly cited location for the ancient battle site is near Jhelum in Pakistan.

Why it matters

The river is famous because Alexander the Great fought King Porus there in 326 BCE. That battle made the Hydaspes one of the best-known rivers in classical history.

Quick note

In some sources, the river is also called by the Sanskrit name Vitasta.