$100 Website Offer
Get your personal website + domain for just $100.
Limited Time Offer!
Claim Your Website NowPravara Dam, also known as the Bhandardara Dam, is located near the beautiful hill station of Bhandardara in Maharashtra’s Ahmednagar district. It is built over the Pravara River and is famous for being one of the oldest dams in India. The dam offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Sahyadri mountain ranges and lush green landscapes, making it a serene getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Here is a complete guide covering all aspects of your visit to Pravara Dam
Summarized version of the information on Pravara Dam (Bhandardara Dam) :
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pravara Dam, Bhandardara, Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra 422604 |
| Best Time to Visit | July to February (Post-monsoon and Winter season) |
| How to Reach | – By Train: Igatpuri Railway Station (45 km), train cost ₹150-₹300 – By Bus: From Mumbai to Igatpuri/Akole, bus cost ₹200-₹300 – By Car: 165 km from Mumbai, 175 km from Pune, 4-5 hours drive |
| Place Famous For | Scenic views, Bhandardara Lake (Arthur Lake), Randha Falls, trekking and camping at Mount Kalsubai |
| What to Do | Boating on Bhandardara Lake, visit Randha Falls, trekking to Mount Kalsubai, photography, camping, picnicking |
| Nearby Places to Visit | Randha Falls (10 km), Wilson Dam, Mount Kalsubai (highest peak in Maharashtra), Agastya Rishi Ashram |
| Review & Rating | Praised for its tranquility and natural beauty. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Rating: 4.5/5 |
| SIM Cards and Connectivity | Jio, Airtel, Vodafone have good coverage. Wi-Fi unavailable, mobile internet speeds are decent |
| Nearest Petrol Pump | Igatpuri, 45 km away |
| Things to Carry | Water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, trekking shoes, camera, insect repellent |
| Nearest Hospital | Primary Health Center, Bhandardara |
| Police Station | Akole Police Station, about 20 km away |
| Accommodation & Food | MTDC Resort, Anandvan Resort, guesthouses in Bhandardara. Local eateries and restaurants at resorts offering Maharashtrian meals and multi-cuisine |
| Recommendations | Best time to visit is post-monsoon for lush greenery. Carry food and water. Ideal for camping and trekking enthusiasts. |
About the Place
Pravara Dam was constructed in 1926 as a part of the Bhandardara hydroelectric project and plays a significant role in irrigation and water supply in the region. The dam is not only an important structure for Maharashtra but also a popular tourist attraction due to its natural beauty. The nearby Bhandardara Lake (Arthur Lake) formed by the dam is a stunning sight, surrounded by greenery, hills, and waterfalls.
Key Attractions:
- Scenic views of the Sahyadri mountains
- Peaceful ambiance perfect for relaxation and picnics
- Bhandardara Lake and its picturesque surroundings
- Nearby Randha Falls and Wilson Dam
Best Time to Visit
- Best Time: The best time to visit Pravara Dam is from July to February. The post-monsoon months are particularly ideal as the water levels are high, and the surrounding landscapes are lush and green.
- Monsoon Season: (July to September) – The entire area is transformed into a green haven, with flowing waterfalls and misty weather.
- Winter Season: (October to February) – The cool weather and clear skies make it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like boating and trekking.
How to Reach Pravara Dam
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Igatpuri Railway Station, located about 45 km from Bhandardara.
- Cost: A train ride from Mumbai to Igatpuri costs around ₹150-₹300 depending on the class.
- From Igatpuri: After reaching Igatpuri, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Pravara Dam, which would cost around ₹500-₹700 by taxi or ₹50-₹100 by bus.
By Bus:
- Nearest Bus Station: Regular buses run from Nashik, Mumbai, and Pune to Bhandardara. You can take a bus to Igatpuri or Akole, which are close to Bhandardara, and then hire a taxi.
- Cost: A bus ticket from Mumbai to Igatpuri would cost around ₹200-₹300.
By Own Vehicle:
- Route from Mumbai/Pune: Bhandardara is about 165 km from Mumbai and 175 km from Pune. You can take the Mumbai-Nashik Expressway (NH 160) or the Pune-Nashik Highway to reach Bhandardara. The drive takes around 4-5 hours.
- Parking: Parking facilities are available near the dam and lake area for private vehicles.
Place Famous For
Pravara Dam is famous for:
- Scenic beauty: The dam is surrounded by the scenic Sahyadri ranges, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.
- Picnic spot: The peaceful atmosphere by the dam and lake makes it a great spot for family picnics.
- Trekking and Camping: The nearby hills offer trekking opportunities, and the Bhandardara region is a popular camping destination.
- Randha Falls: A major attraction near the dam, especially during the monsoon.
Location and Address
- Location: Pravara Dam is located in Bhandardara, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra.
- Distance from Major Cities: Around 165 km from Mumbai, 175 km from Pune, and 70 km from Nashik.
- Exact Address: Pravara Dam, Bhandardara, Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra 422604.
What to Do After Reaching Here
- Boating on Bhandardara Lake (Arthur Lake): Enjoy boating in the calm waters of the lake.
- Visit Randha Falls: This majestic waterfall is just a few kilometers from Pravara Dam and is a must-see, especially during the monsoon.
- Trek to Mount Kalsubai: If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you can trek to the nearby Mount Kalsubai, the highest peak in Maharashtra.
- Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes of the Sahyadri mountains, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Camping: Bhandardara is a popular camping site, and you can spend a night under the stars by the lake.
Nearby Places to Visit
- Wilson Dam: Another beautiful dam located near Bhandardara, ideal for a serene outing.
- Randha Falls: Just 10 km from Pravara Dam, these falls are a sight to behold during the monsoon.
- Mount Kalsubai: The highest peak in Maharashtra, offering spectacular views and a challenging trek.
- Agastya Rishi Ashram: A spiritual site located nearby.
Review & Rating
Pravara Dam is a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Its picturesque surroundings and nearby attractions make it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The dam area is well-maintained, and visitors often speak highly of the peaceful ambiance and the stunning natural beauty of the place.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommendations
- Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (July to February) for the best weather and scenic views.
- Things to Carry: Water, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, insect repellent, trekking shoes, camera.
- SIM Cards and Connectivity: Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone provide good network coverage in the Bhandardara region. Mobile internet speeds are decent, though Wi-Fi is usually unavailable.
- Nearest Petrol Pump: The nearest petrol pump is located in Igatpuri, about 45 km from the dam.
- Nearest Hospital: The Primary Health Center in Bhandardara is the closest medical facility.
- Police Station: The nearest police station is in Akole, around 20 km from Bhandardara.
Accommodation and Food
While there are no hotels directly at Pravara Dam, Bhandardara has plenty of options for accommodation, ranging from budget lodges to luxury resorts:
- Hotels & Lodges: MTDC Resort, Anandvan Resort, and budget guesthouses are available in Bhandardara.
- Food Options: There are local eateries serving simple Maharashtrian meals, as well as restaurants at the resorts offering a variety of cuisines.
Genuine Experience
Visitors to Pravara Dam often describe it as a hidden gem in Maharashtra. Many people appreciate the serenity and scenic beauty, especially after the monsoon, when the area turns into a lush paradise with flowing waterfalls. The experience of boating in Arthur Lake, trekking nearby, and camping under the stars is often highlighted as a memorable experience. However, visitors recommend carrying food and water as there are limited facilities available near the dam. The journey to Pravara Dam, especially by car, is enjoyable, offering stunning views along the way.
Conclusion
Pravara Dam is a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. With its beautiful lake, nearby waterfalls, and trekking opportunities, it offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight camping adventure, Pravara Dam and the surrounding Bhandardara region provide a peaceful escape into nature. Just remember to visit during the monsoon or winter season for the best experience!
