Are you looking for a unique and offbeat destination in India that combines history, nature, and adventure? If yes, then you should definitely visit Gandhi Sagar Dam, a majestic and magnificent structure that stands on the Chambal River in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh.
Gandhi Sagar Dam is not only a marvel of engineering and a source of power and irrigation for the region, but also a hotspot for wildlife, water sports, and scenic views. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Gandhi Sagar Dam, its history, attractions, features, and how to plan your trip to this historical and scenic wonder in Madhya Pradesh.
History of Gandhi Sagar Dam
Gandhi Sagar Dam has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the pre-independence era of India. The idea of building a dam on the Chambal River was first proposed by Sir Malcolm Hailey, the then Governor of the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh), in 1927. However, the project was delayed due to various reasons, such as lack of funds, political turmoil, and World War II. It was only after India gained independence in 1947 that the project was revived and taken up by the newly formed states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
The construction of the dam began in 1954 and was completed in 1960. The dam was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, on 7 February 1960. The dam was named after Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, who had visited the site in 1939 and had expressed his admiration for the project. The dam was the first and the largest of the four dams built under the Chambal Valley Project, a joint venture of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh to harness the potential of the Chambal River for power generation and irrigation.
The dam is an earth-fill gravity dam, which means that it is made of earth and rock materials and relies on its own weight to resist the water pressure. The dam has a height of 62.17 metres and a length of 514.8 metres. The dam has five spillway gates that can release up to 42,476 cubic metres of water per second. The dam has a reservoir capacity of 7.322 billion cubic metres, which covers an area of 425.2 square kilometres. The dam has a power house that houses five hydroelectric turbines, each with a capacity of 23 megawatts, generating a total of 115 megawatts of electricity. The dam also provides irrigation water to an area of 4,36,000 hectares in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
Attractions and Features of Gandhi Sagar Dam
Gandhi Sagar Dam is not just a functional structure, but also a tourist attraction that offers a variety of attractions and features for the visitors. Some of the main attractions and features of Gandhi Sagar Dam are:
Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary:
The reservoir of the dam is surrounded by the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, which was established in 1974 and covers an area of 368.62 square kilometres. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Indian wolf, the sloth bear, the leopard, and the crocodile.
The sanctuary also hosts a large number of migratory and resident birds, such as the sarus crane, the black ibis, the bar-headed goose, and the ruddy shelduck. The sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, who can enjoy safaris, birdwatching, camping, and trekking in the pristine and serene environment.
Water Sports:
The reservoir of the dam is also a hub for water sports, such as boating, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and fishing. The reservoir offers a thrilling and exhilarating experience for the adventure seekers, who can enjoy the scenic beauty and the wildlife of the sanctuary while indulging in their favourite water activities. The reservoir also hosts various events and competitions, such as the National Water Skiing Championship, the National Kayaking Championship, and the National Rafting Championship, which attract participants and spectators from all over the country.
Scenic Views:
The reservoir of the dam is also a source of scenic views, especially during the sunrise and sunset, when the water reflects the colours of the sky and creates a mesmerizing spectacle. The reservoir also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills, forests, and villages, which add to the charm and beauty of the place. The reservoir is a perfect spot for photography, picnic, and relaxation, where one can enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature.
How to Plan Your Trip to Gandhi Sagar Dam
If you are interested in visiting Gandhi Sagar Dam, here are some tips and information that will help you plan your trip:
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Gandhi Sagar Dam is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the water level is high. This is also the best time to enjoy the wildlife and the water sports at the reservoir. Avoid visiting the dam during the monsoon season, from July to September, when the water level is low and the spillway gates are closed.
How to Reach:
Gandhi Sagar Dam is located about 65 kilometres from Mandsaur, the nearest city and district headquarters. Mandsaur is well connected by road and rail to other major cities of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, such as Indore, Bhopal, Ujjain, Jaipur, and Kota. From Mandsaur, one can take a bus, taxi, or private vehicle to reach the dam. The nearest airport is Indore, which is about 250 kilometres from the dam.
Where to Stay:
There are not many accommodation options near the dam, except for a few guest houses and lodges run by the forest department and the irrigation department. However, one can find a range of hotels and resorts in Mandsaur, which cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the popular hotels and resorts in Mandsaur are Hotel Raghav Palace, Hotel Dev Residency, Hotel Yashika Palace, and Hotel Pritam Palace.
What to Do:
Apart from visiting the dam and its attractions, one can also explore the nearby places of interest, such as the Hinglajgarh Fort, Pashupatinath Temple, Gandhi Sagar Dam View Point, and the Chambal River Cruise. One can also enjoy the local culture and cuisine of Mandsaur, which is famous for its opium production, its garlic trade, and its spicy and delicious food.
Gandhi Sagar Dam is a historical and scenic wonder in Madhya Pradesh, which offers a unique and offbeat experience for the visitors. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or adventure, Gandhi Sagar Dam has something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Gandhi Sagar Dam today and discover the beauty and charm of this amazing place.
For more information and services, you can contact the district administration of Mandsaur or visit their website.
