Are you looking for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Pune? Do you want to experience the beauty and thrill of nature and adventure in one place? If yes, then Panshet Dam is the ideal destination for you.
Panshet Dam is a popular tourist attraction in Pune, Maharashtra, that offers a stunning view of the Sahyadri mountains and the Panshet Lake. It is also a hub for various water sports and activities that will make your trip memorable and exciting.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Panshet Dam, such as its history, its attractions, its activities, its best time to visit, its how to reach, its tips, its nearby places, and its related tours. By the end of this article, you will be convinced that Panshet Dam is one of the best places to visit in Pune.
How to Reach Panshet Dam from Pune
Panshet Dam is located about 50 km from Pune city and can be easily reached by different modes of transport. Here are some of the options you can choose from:
By Air: The nearest airport to Panshet Dam is Pune International Airport, which is about 60 km away. You can take a flight to Pune from any major city in India or abroad and then hire a cab or a bus to reach Panshet Dam.
By Bus: There are many state-run and private buses that ply between Pune and Panshet Dam on a regular basis. You can board a bus from Swargate Bus Stand or Shivajinagar Bus Stand in Pune and get down at Panshet Dam Bus Stop. The bus fare ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200 depending on the type of bus.
By Car: The most convenient and comfortable way to reach Panshet Dam from Pune is by car. You can either drive your own car or rent a car from any car rental service in Pune. The road to Panshet Dam is well-maintained and scenic. You can follow the route of Pune-Satara Road-NH 48-Khadakwasla-Panshet Road-Panshet Dam. The distance is about 50 km and the time required is about 1.5 hours.
Some tips and suggestions for choosing the best mode of transport are:
- If you are traveling with a large group of friends or family, then renting a car or a bus is the best option as it will give you more flexibility and privacy.
- If you are traveling solo or with a partner, then taking a bus or a flight is the best option as it will save you money and time.
- If you are traveling during the monsoon season, then avoid taking a flight as there might be flight delays or cancellations due to bad weather.
- If you are traveling during the peak season, then book your tickets in advance as there might be high demand and low availability.
Best Time to Visit Panshet Dam
The best time to visit Panshet Dam is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and the water level is high. During this time, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the dam and the lake as well as indulge in various water sports and activities.
The temperature during this time ranges from 15°C to 30°C and the rainfall is minimal. You can also witness some festivals and events during this time, such as Diwali, Christmas, New Year, etc.
The timings and the entry fee of the dam are:
Timings: The dam is open from 9 am to 6 pm every day.
Entry Fee: The entry fee for the dam is Rs. 20 per person.
Also Read: Offbeat Getaways From Pune On A Shoestring Budget
Things to See near Panshet Dam
Panshet Dam is not only a great place to visit by itself but also a gateway to some other amazing places near it. Here are some of the nearby places that are worth visiting:
Khadakwasla Dam: Khadakwasla Dam is another beautiful dam that is located about 20 km from Panshet Dam. It is also known as the Chaskaman Dam and is one of the main sources of water for Pune city. It offers a panoramic view of the Khadakwasla Lake and the Sinhagad Fort. You can also enjoy boating, fishing, picnicking, and camping at Khadakwasla Dam.
Sinhagad Fort: Sinhagad Fort is one of the most famous forts in Maharashtra that is located about 25 km from Panshet Dam. It is also known as the Lion’s Fort and has a rich history and culture. It was the site of many battles and wars, especially the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670 when Shivaji Maharaj’s general Tanaji Malusare fought bravely against the Mughals and won the fort. You can also see the samadhi of Tanaji Malusare and the tomb of Rajaram Maharaj at the fort. You can also enjoy trekking, hiking, sightseeing, and photography at Sinhagad Fort.
Rajgad Fort: Rajgad Fort is another magnificent fort that is located about 30 km from Panshet Dam. It is also known as the King’s Fort and was the capital of the Maratha Empire for 26 years. It was the residence of Shivaji Maharaj and his family and has many monuments and structures that reflect their glory and legacy. You can also see the Balekilla, the Padmavati Temple, the Suvela Machi, and the Sanjivani Machi at the fort. You can also enjoy trekking, camping, rappelling, and paragliding at Rajgad Fort.
Torna Fort: Torna Fort is another splendid fort that is located about 35 km from Panshet Dam. It is also known as the Prachandagad Fort and was the first fort captured by Shivaji Maharaj at the age of 16. It is one of the highest forts in Maharashtra and offers a breathtaking view of the Sahyadri mountains and the valleys. You can also see the Menghai Temple, the Budhla Machi, and the Zunjar Machi at the fort. You can also enjoy trekking, rock climbing, and camping at Torna Fort.
Lavasa City: Lavasa City is a planned hill station that is located about 40 km from Panshet Dam. It is inspired by the Italian town of Portofino and has a picturesque landscape and architecture. It offers a range of amenities and facilities, such as hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafes, shops, parks, gardens, etc. You can also enjoy various activities, such as cycling, golfing, kayaking, jet skiing, etc., at Lavasa City.
Activities at Panshet Dam
Panshet Dam is not only a place to relax and admire nature but also a place to have fun and adventure. Here are some of the activities that you can do at Panshet Dam:
Water Sports: Panshet Dam is a paradise for water sports lovers as it offers a variety of options, such as kayaking, canoeing, jet skiing, banana boating, water scooters, etc. You can book these activities through Panshet Water Park or Panshet Adventure Park that are located near the dam. The prices and safety measures of these activities vary depending on the type and duration of the activity.
Boating: Boating is another enjoyable activity that you can do at Panshet Dam. You can hire a boat from Panshet Boat Club or Panshet Water Park and sail on the calm waters of the lake. You can choose from different types of boats, such as speed boats,pedal boats, row boats, or motor boats. The prices and safety measures of these boats vary depending on the type and duration of the boat.
Camping: Camping is another exciting activity that you can do at Panshet Dam. You can pitch a tent near the lake and enjoy the serene and scenic surroundings. You can also enjoy a bonfire, a barbecue, and some music at night. You can book a camping site through Panshet Camping or Panshet Adventure Park that are located near the dam. The prices and safety measures of these camping sites vary depending on the type and duration of the camping.
Trekking: Trekking is another adventurous activity that you can do at Panshet Dam. You can explore the rugged and hilly terrain of the dam and the lake and discover some hidden spots and views. You can also trek to some of the nearby forts, such as Sinhagad Fort, Rajgad Fort, or Torna Fort, and learn about their history and culture. You can book a trekking guide or a package through Panshet Trekking or Panshet Adventure Park that are located near the dam. The prices and safety measures of these trekking guides or packages vary depending on the type and duration of the trekking.
Birdwatching: Birdwatching is another relaxing activity that you can do at Panshet Dam. You can spot some of the rare and exotic birds that inhabit the dam and the lake, such as kingfishers, egrets, herons, cormorants, ducks, etc. You can also enjoy the sounds and sights of nature and wildlife. You can bring your own binoculars or camera or rent them from Panshet Birdwatching or Panshet Adventure Park that are located near the dam. The prices and safety measures of these binoculars or cameras vary depending on the type and duration of the birdwatching.
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Famous Places to Eat near Panshet Dam
Panshet Dam is not only a place to have fun and adventure but also a place to have some delicious food. Here are some of the famous places to eat near Panshet Dam:
Hotel Rajgad: Hotel Rajgad is one of the most popular places to eat near Panshet Dam. It is located about 10 km from the dam and offers a variety of cuisines, such as Maharashtrian, Punjabi, Chinese, etc. It is famous for its veg and non-veg thalis, misal pav, vada pav, bhakri, etc. It also has a spacious and clean ambiance, friendly service, and reasonable prices.
Hotel Shivraj: Hotel Shivraj is another famous place to eat near Panshet Dam. It is located about 15 km from the dam and offers a variety of cuisines, such as Maharashtrian, Punjabi, Chinese, etc. It is famous for its veg and non-veg dishes, such as chicken masala, mutton curry, paneer butter masala, dal fry, etc. It also has a cozy and comfortable ambiance, courteous service, and affordable prices.
Hotel Shree Ganesh: Hotel Shree Ganesh is another famous place to eat near Panshet Dam. It is located about 20 km from the dam and offers a variety of cuisines, such as Maharashtrian, Punjabi, Chinese, etc. It is famous for its veg and non-veg snacks, such as samosas, kachoris, pakoras, bhajis, etc. It also has a simple and neat ambiance, quick service, and cheap prices.
Hotel Shree Krishna: Hotel Shree Krishna is another famous place to eat near Panshet Dam. It is located about 25 km from the dam and offers a variety of cuisines, such as Maharashtrian, Punjabi, Chinese, etc. It is famous for its veg and non-veg biryanis, pulavs, rotis, parathas, etc. It also has a modern and elegant ambiance, attentive service, and moderate prices.
Hotel Shree Ram: Hotel Shree Ram is another famous place to eat near Panshet Dam. It is located about 30 km from the dam and offers a variety of cuisines, such as Maharashtrian, Punjabi, Chinese, etc. It is famous for its veg and non-veg soups, salads, starters, main courses, desserts, etc. It also has a cozy and warm ambiance, friendly service, and reasonable prices.
Tips for Visiting Panshet Dam
Panshet Dam is a place that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves nature and adventure. However, to make your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free, here are some tips that you should follow:
- Carry cash and ID proof: Panshet Dam is a remote place that does not have many ATMs or card machines. Therefore, it is advisable to carry enough cash for your expenses and emergencies. Also, carry your ID proof for security and verification purposes.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: Panshet Dam is a place where you will be walking, trekking, boating, and doing other activities. Therefore, wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are suitable for the weather and the terrain. Avoid wearing heavy or tight clothes or shoes that might cause discomfort or injury.
- Carry water and snacks: Panshet Dam is a place where you will be spending a lot of time outdoors and doing physical activities. Therefore, carry enough water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized. Avoid drinking tap water or eating street food that might cause health issues.
- Avoid littering and pollution: Panshet Dam is a place that is blessed with natural beauty and wildlife. Therefore, avoid littering and pollution that might spoil the environment and harm the animals. Dispose of your waste properly or carry it back with you. Use eco-friendly products and avoid plastic or harmful substances.
- Respect the local culture and rules: Panshet Dam is a place that has a rich history and culture. Therefore, respect the local culture and rules that might be different from yours. Follow the dress code, the etiquette, the customs, and the laws of the place. Be polite and courteous to the locals and seek their permission before taking photos or entering their premises.
Conclusion
Panshet Dam is a place that has something for everyone. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a foodie, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate at Panshet Dam.
It is one of the best places to visit in Pune for a refreshing and exhilarating break from the city life.
