Pandoh Dam is an embankment Dam that lies in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. Under the Beas Project, the dam was completed in the year 1977 and it was built with the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. The dam is set amidst the picturesque hills, dotted with dense woods and the place offers a wonderful opportunity to capture some breath-taking scenes.
The primary purpose of Pandoh Dam is hydroelectric power generation. The man-made lake created by the dam draws a good number of people towards it. If you want to see the view of the water flowing, you need to reach there at the right time. The sight of water being released is fantastic and is a treat for your eyes. Pandoh Dam and Lake together attract a lot of visitors due to their virgin beauty that comprises emerald green waters nestled amidst the pine forests. You can sunbathe here or splash some fresh water and have fun and frolic with your loved ones. It is one of the best camping sites in Himachal. A serene spot, you won’t miss it if you are traveling from Shimla to Manali. It is an ideal place for bird watchers to find exotic migratory species taking refuge in the reservoir. The chaste beauty of this place is worth mentioning.
This dam diverts the water of the Beas river through 38 km long canals and tunnels. Having an elevation of 70 to 80 m, the reservoir of the dam has five bays that regulate water. Pandoh Lake is the reservoir of the dam. The dam water is used for power generation at the Dehar Power House, before being discharged into River Sutlej. The powerhouse has an installed capacity of 990 megawatts.
The plan was originally named as Beas Project. The first plan was initiated by the Punjab Government in 1957. After a number of alterations, the plan was approved in 1963 and commissioned in 1977.
The plan to construct Pandoh Dam was made to exploit the potential of the Beas and Sutlej river systems. Beas, being a perennial river, has a continuous flow of water from the ice-melt. Thus, the power potential of the project was estimated to be around 1,000 MW.
The best time to visit Pandoh Dam is from April to July and during the winter months from September until December. Monsoon is probably the worst time to visit this area due to heavy and unpredictable rainfall that might also result in landslides.
You can travel byHimachal tourism buses or can hire a private taxi. The area is well connectedto the main city via all means of transport. Bus services are also quiteprominent.
