Are you looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway from the hustle and bustle of Chandigarh? Do you want to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature, while also enjoying some delicious and exotic cuisines? If yes, then you should definitely visit the Siswan Dam, a hidden gem near Chandigarh that offers a serene and magical experience for all kinds of travellers.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Siswan Dam, its history, ecology, wildlife, things to do, and bush dining at Prey, a unique and memorable restaurant on the banks of the dam.
Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, a foodie, or a romantic, you will find something to suit your taste and preference at the Siswan Dam. So, read on and discover why the Siswan Dam is a must-visit destination for your next trip.
History of the Siswan Dam
The Siswan Dam is a man-made reservoir that was built in the late 1970s to provide irrigation and drinking water to the nearby villages and towns. The dam is located on the Siswan River, a tributary of the Ghaggar River, in the Mohali district of Punjab. The dam has a height of 25 metres and a length of 350 metres, and can store up to 8.5 million cubic metres of water.
The dam also serves as a flood control measure, as it regulates the flow of the Siswan River during the monsoon season. The dam was constructed by the Punjab Irrigation Department, with the assistance of the Central Water Commission and the World Bank. The total cost of the project was around Rs. 12 crore, and it was completed in 1981. The dam has been instrumental in improving the agricultural productivity and the socio-economic conditions of the region, as well as providing a source of recreation and tourism.
Ecology and Wildlife of the Siswan Dam
The Siswan Dam is not only a marvel of engineering, but also a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The dam is surrounded by the Siswan Community Reserve, a protected area that covers 2,800 hectares of forest land. The reserve was established in 2007, with the aim of conserving the biodiversity and the ecosystem of the Siswan Dam and its catchment area.
The reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species. Some of the prominent plants that can be found in the reserve are sal, khair, kikar, neem, jamun, ber, etc. The reserve also boasts of a rich avifauna, with over 150 species of birds, such as peafowl, parakeet, kingfisher, egret, heron, owl, eagle, etc.
The reserve also hosts several mammals, such as nilgai, sambar, chital, jackal, mongoose, porcupine, etc. The reserve also has a few reptiles, such as cobra, python, monitor lizard, etc. The reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, as they can witness the beauty and diversity of nature in its pristine form. The reserve also offers various opportunities for nature education, research, and awareness.
Things to Do at the Siswan Dam
The Siswan Dam is not only a place to admire the nature and wildlife, but also a place to indulge in some fun and adventurous activities. The dam offers a range of things to do for the visitors, such as:
Boating:
One of the most popular and relaxing activities at the Siswan Dam is boating. The visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride on the calm and clear water of the dam, and admire the scenic views of the forest and the hills. The boating facility is available from 9 am to 5 pm, and the charges are Rs. 50 per person for 15 minutes. The visitors can choose from paddle boats, row boats, or motor boats, depending on their preference and availability. The boating is a great way to unwind and refresh oneself, as well as to capture some amazing photographs of the dam and its surroundings.
Fishing:
Another exciting and rewarding activity at the Siswan Dam is fishing. The dam is rich in fish, such as rohu, catla, mrigal, etc. The visitors can try their luck and skill at catching some fish, and enjoy the thrill and satisfaction of fishing. The fishing facility is available from 9 am to 5 pm, and the charges are Rs. 100 per person for 2 hours. The visitors need to bring their own fishing equipment, such as rods, hooks, baits, etc. The fishing is a great way to test one’s patience and perseverance, as well as to enjoy the fresh and delicious fish.
Camping:
Another adventurous and memorable activity at the Siswan Dam is camping. The visitors can spend a night or two at the dam, and experience the charm and serenity of the nature. The camping facility is available from 6 pm to 6 am, and the charges are Rs. 500 per person per night. The visitors need to bring their own tents, sleeping bags, food, water, etc. The camping is a great way to connect with the nature and oneself, as well as to witness the spectacular sunrise and sunset over the dam.
Hiking:
Another exhilarating and healthy activity at the Siswan Dam is hiking. The visitors can explore the forest trails and the hills around the dam, and enjoy the scenic views and the fresh air. The hiking facility is available from 9 am to 5 pm, and the charges are Rs. 200 per person for 4 hours. The visitors need to bring their own hiking gear, such as shoes, backpack, water, etc. The hiking is a great way to exercise and challenge oneself, as well as to discover the hidden gems of the Siswan Dam and its surroundings.
Bush Dining at Prey: A Unique and Memorable Experience
The Siswan Dam is not only a place to admire the nature and wildlife, but also a place to indulge in some delicious and exotic cuisines. The dam is home to Prey, a reservation-only restaurant that offers a unique and memorable bush dining experience. Prey is a fusion of Mughlai and Italian cuisines, featuring bold and exotic flavours that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Prey is located on the banks of the Siswan Dam, amidst the natural beauty of the forest and the water. Prey offers an enchanting dining experience, where you can enjoy your food while watching the stunning sunset and listening to the soothing sound of the river.
Prey is open from 6 pm to 10 pm, and the charges are Rs. 1000 per person for a three-course meal. Prey is a reservation-only restaurant, and you need to book your table at least 24 hours in advance. Prey is a perfect place to celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday, anniversary, or a romantic date. Prey is a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds, the nature and the culture, at the Siswan Dam.
The Siswan Dam is a hidden gem near Chandigarh that offers a serene and magical experience for all kinds of travellers. The dam has a rich history, ecology, and wildlife, as well as a range of fun and adventurous activities. The dam also has a unique and memorable bush dining experience at Prey, a fusion of Mughlai and Italian cuisines. The Siswan Dam is a must-visit destination for your next trip, as it will provide you with a refreshing and rewarding getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and head to the Siswan Dam, and discover why it is a hidden gem near Chandigarh. And don’t forget to share your experience with us on Tripoto, the ultimate travel community.
