If you are looking for a place to visit near Pune that offers a scenic and relaxing experience, then Khadakwasala Dam is a great option for you. Khadakwasala Dam is a dam on the Mutha River that is the main source of water supply for Pune and its suburban areas. The dam was constructed in 1873 and has a reservoir known as Khadakwasala Lake that covers an area of 341 million cubic metres.
The dam is also surrounded by many attractions such as Sinhagad Fort, National Defence Academy, Krushnai Water World, etc. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Khadakwasala Dam, such as its location, timing, entry fees, how to reach, history, significance, FAQs, and conclusion. Visit during Pune to Sinhgad Fort One day Trip By cab.
Khadakwasala Dam Location:
Khadakwasala Dam is located at a distance of about 20 km from Pune city, in the Pune district of Maharashtra. The dam is situated on the Mutha River that originates from the confluence of Ambi and Mose rivers near Panshet Dam. The dam is also close to the Khadakwasla village and the Sinhagad Road that connects Pune to Sinhagad Fort.
Khadakwasala Dam Timing/Entry Fees:
Khadakwasala Dam is open for visitors from 12:00 am to 10:59 pm every day. There is no entry fee for the dam or the lake. However, there may be a parking fee for vehicles depending on the availability of space. The dam also has a garden and a park that are open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm and charge Rs. 5 per person for entry.
Khadakwasala Dam How to Reach:
Khadakwasala Dam can be reached by various modes of transport from Pune. The most convenient way to reach the dam is by car or taxi, which takes about 30 minutes to reach from Pune city. There are two routes that can be taken from Pune: one via Sinhagad Road and another via Mumbai-Bangalore Highway. Both routes are well-maintained and offer scenic views along the way.
Another option to reach the dam is by bus. There are regular buses operated by Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) that ply from Swargate Bus Stand in Pune to Khadakwasala Dam. The bus fare is around Rs. 30 per person and takes about an hour to reach the destination.
The third option to reach the dam is by train. There are local trains that run from Pune Junction Railway Station to Shivajinagar Railway Station, which is about 15 km away from the dam. From there, one can take a bus or a taxi to reach the dam.
The fourth option to reach the dam is by bike or scooter. This is a popular option for adventure lovers who want to enjoy the ride and the scenery on their own pace. The road condition is good and there are many petrol pumps and eateries on the way.
History of Khadakwasala Dam:
Khadakwasala Dam was built in 1873 by Sir M Visvesvaraya, who was an engineer and a statesman. He was also known as the chief architect of modern India and was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1955. The dam was built as part of the Mutha Canal Project that aimed to provide irrigation water to the drought-prone areas of Pune district. The project was initiated by Sir Bartle Frere, who was the Governor of Bombay Presidency at that time.
The dam was designed as a masonry gravity dam that could withstand high water pressure and floods. The dam has 11 radial type sluice gates and six irrigation outlets that flow into two canals: Mutha Right Bank Canal and Mutha Left Bank Canal. The canals provide water for irrigation, drinking, and industrial purposes to various areas of Pune district.
The dam also played an important role in the history of India’s defence sector. In 1954, the National Defence Academy (NDA) was established near Khadakwasala Dam as a joint service academy for training cadets of Army, Navy, and Air Force. The NDA is one of the most prestigious institutions in India and has produced many eminent leaders and heroes for the nation.
Significance of Khadakwasala Dam:
Khadakwasala Dam is not only a source of water supply but also a source of recreation and tourism for Pune and its nearby areas. It is a place where one can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature. It is a place where one can have a picnic with family and friends, watch the sunrise or sunset over the lake, enjoy local snacks and delicacies, camp by the waters, and explore the landscape. Some of the activities that can be done at Khadakwasala Dam are:
- Having a picnic with family and friends: Khadakwasala Dam is an ideal spot for a quick weekend getaway. This breezy and misty place with greenery all around provides the much-needed rest from the city life and an environment to feel rejuvenated. One can bring their own food and drinks or buy them from the nearby stalls and vendors. There are also many benches and shades available for sitting and relaxing.
- Watching the sunrise or sunset over the lake: Many travellers and locals visit the dam to watch the magnificent sunrise and sunset over the lake. The dam offers a panoramic view of the sky and the water that changes colours with the sun. One can also capture some stunning pictures during these hours and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Enjoying local snacks and delicacies: Khadakwasala Dam is also popular for its local snacks and delicacies that are sold by many roadside eateries and hawkers. One can savour various items such as bhakri (flatbread), pitla (gram flour curry), zunka (spicy gram flour dish), vangyache bharit (eggplant mash), matki usal (sprouted beans curry), kanda bhaji (onion fritters), dahi (curd), tak (buttermilk), etc. One can also try sweet corn, roasted groundnuts, fruits, tea, coffee, etc.
- Camping by the waters: The area around Khadakwasala Dam offers camping options for adventure lovers who want to spend a night under the stars. One can bring their own tent or rent one from the nearby campsites and set up their camp by the water. One can also enjoy bonfire, music, games, and local food at the camp. The camping experience is enhanced by the cool breeze, soothing sound of water, and clear sky.
- Exploring the landscape: Khadakwasala Dam is surrounded by many scenic attractions that one can explore by car, bike, or foot. Some of the places that one can visit near the dam are Sinhagad Fort, National Defence Academy, Krushnai Water World, Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden, etc. These places offer a glimpse of the history, culture, nature, and fun of Pune and its nearby areas.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the best time to visit Khadakwasala Dam?
A1. The best time to visit Khadakwasala Dam is during the monsoon (July to September) or winter (October to March) seasons, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and activities. The dam looks green and lush during the monsoon, with water flowing at its full capacity. The dam also offers a clear view of the sunrise and sunset during the winter, with misty clouds covering it.
Q2. What are the facilities available at Khadakwasala Dam?
A2. Khadakwasala Dam has basic facilities such as toilets, drinking water, parking, garden, park, security guards available for visitors. There are also many stalls and vendors that sell snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and local delicacies near the dam.
Q3. What are the activities that can be done at Khadakwasala Dam?
A3. Khadakwasala Dam offers many activities for visitors such as having a picnic with family and friends,
watching the sunrise or sunset over the lake, enjoying local snacks and delicacies, camping by the waters, and exploring the landscape. Some of the activities that can be done at Khadakwasala Dam are:
Water sports: If you are looking for some thrill and fun, you can also enjoy water sports at Khadakwasala Dam. There are various water sports facilities available near the dam, such as boating, kayaking, jet skiing, banana ride, etc. You can also visit Panshet Dam nearby, which offers more water sports options such as rafting, windsurfing, water scooters, etc. The water sports are conducted by trained instructors who provide all the necessary equipment and safety measures.
Neelkantheswar Temple: If you are interested in spirituality and culture, you can also visit Neelkantheswar Temple near Khadakwasala Dam. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on a hilltop that offers a scenic view of the lake and the valley. The temple is also known for its sculptures of various Hindu gods and goddesses that are carved on the rocks. The temple can be reached by a trek of about 5 km from the dam or by a vehicle.
Peacock Bay: If you are fond of nature and wildlife, you can also visit Peacock Bay near Khadakwasala Dam. This bay is a part of the National Defence Academy and is home to many peacocks and other birds. The bay also has a garden and a park that are open for visitors. You can enjoy the beauty of nature and watch the peacocks dancing and spreading their feathers.
Kudje Village: If you want to experience the rural life and culture of Maharashtra, you can also visit Kudje Village near Khadakwasala Dam. This village is famous for its pottery and handicrafts that are made by the local artisans. You can also interact with the villagers and learn about their lifestyle and traditions. You can also buy some souvenirs and gifts from the village.
Conclusion:
Khadakwasala Dam is a place that offers a scenic and relaxing experience for visitors of all ages and interests. It is a place where one can have a picnic with family and friends, watch the sunrise or sunset over the lake, enjoy local snacks and delicacies, camp by the waters, explore the landscape, enjoy water sports, visit Neelkantheswar Temple, Peacock Bay, Kudje Village, etc. Khadakwasala Dam is a place that has something for everyone and leaves a lasting impression on its visitors.
