Bhandardara Dam has its existence on Pravara River and is situated 150 metres above ground level. This dam is located in holiday resort village of Bhandardara on the western coast of India. This lies in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. Bhandardara is nearly 185 km away from Mumbai.

This dam was constructed during the colonial administration and the primary aim behind its construction is to support irrigation activities in the area as well as enhance economy. This dam has presence of a garden at its base equipped with thick greenery, streams and gigantic trees as well as several harmless fruit bats. The dam releases water during monsoon season when water level at the lake rises. Water flows through its gates to the plains below.

Fact File

Construction work on Bhandardara Dam was started in 1910 and completed in 1926 by the British administration. This dam is located 270 feet high above the river bed and 278 feet above its lowest foundation.

At the time of completion of the construction work, the dam was considered as the highest in Asia involving an estimated amount of nearly Rs. 84,14,188. The dam was inaugurated by his Excellency Lt. Col. Leslie Orme Wilson, who was the governor of Bombay at that time in December 1926. The dam was named after colonel, keeping in mind his contribution to the British government.

Arthur Hill discovered the site for this dam in 1903. Hill was serving as chief engineer for irrigation and secretary to the government of Bombay at that time. The British government decided to name a lake after him to honour his valuable services in the area of irrigation in Bombay Presidency. Lake Arthur Hill is also famously known as Bhandardara Lake.

In the present era, Bhandardara is emerging as a major tourist destination in the country as well as serving as a major source of water to Ahmednagar district. The dam is also providing a major contribution in the generation of hydro power through water released from it.

Ancient Period

It is an old belief in ancient Indian literature that Shri Agasthya Rishi carried out regular and intense mediation in Bhandardara, surviving only on water and air. As a result of his efforts, the Lord was pleased and blessed him with a stream of Ganga River (Pravara River, which flows through the hillocks of Bhandardara and has a spiritual importance.

Bhandardara

Bhandardara is among the major tourist attractions in India and has the presence of natural beauty, waterfalls, mountains, greenery, invigorating air and pristine ambience. It is small area located just 70 km away from Nashik and majorly attracts fun loving and picnic lovers as well as trekkers from all over. Marathi, Hindi and English are the major languages spoken in the area. Bhandardara is also widely known for its history and ancient forts.

Major Attractions

Bhandardara has an endless number of attractions that fascinate people of all culture and ages. Ratangadh Fort, Amritheshwar Temple, Agasti Rishi Ashram, Umbrella Falls, Randhaa Waterfalls and Ajoba and Ghanchakkar peaks are among the best attractions of this area.

Anandvaan Resort holds a special place in the area as it is located 2,800 feet above the sea level. The resort provides you the view of both hill and lake, and is equipped with private cabins that are available in different sizes to its visitors. Meanwhile, Mount Kalsubai is considered as the highest peak in Maharashtra at a height of 1,646 metres. It is literally a paradise for trekkers and the mountain has a small temple on top as well as an old well in its backyard.

How to Reach

Bhandardara has very good connectivity through bus, train and air plane from all major metropolitan cities. Igatpuri is the nearest railway station and is located approximately 35 km away from Bhandardara.

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai is the nearest airport located almost 185 km from Bhandardara. The airport offers connectivity to all major cities within India as well as several cities abroad. Road transport bus service being operated by the state government of Maharashtra can be easily available up to the downhill. Some of the major cities of Maharashtra are very well connected with Bhandardara through bus.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bhandardara is through October to February as the area is more appealing after rainy season. This area witnesses pleasant climate during this time and is perfect for sightseeing. Meanwhile, the period between March and June is a good time to explore natural attractions of this area. Additionally, the scenic umbrella falls can only be witnessed during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons in the period between July and September.

Climatic Conditions

Bhandardara experiences summer season from March to May when it is hot and dry with temperature reaching as high as 40 °C. The period between June and September is termed as monsoon season when humidity increases as a result of heavy showers and cold winds. Meanwhile, December to February witnesses cold weather with temperature dropping below to 10 °C. This is the most preferred season by the tourists to visit this area as it offers good scenic beauty.