Khadakwasla Dam
Kudje Khadakwasla Link Rd, Pune, India, 411024
Lake views, picnicking spots, and the Sinhagad Fort nearby draw travelers to Khadakwasla Dam, a feat of local engineering on the Mutha River on the outskirts of Pune near Khadakwasla Village. Equal parts water source and tourist attraction, the dam offers lovely views over the lake/reservoir—especially at sunset from the official viewpoint.
The basics
Locals visit the dam primarily to see the sunset—from Pune, you’ll need at least 2 hours to visit, including driving time. In addition to taking in the view, you can combine your visit with stops at nearby attractions such as the Zapurza Museum of Art & Culture, featuring artworks by Indian masters, and the historic Sinhagad Fort, where you’ll find some popular hiking trails. Guided trips from Pune typically visit the latter in addition to the dam.
Things to know before you go
Admission is free
There are food stalls and street hawkers on-site.
The viewpoint lies just north of the dam on Kudje Khadakwasla Link Road.
Unless you’re camping overnight, plan to spend 1–2 hours on your visit; add 1 hour for the round-trip drive.
How to get there
Khadakwasla Dam lies southwest of Pune in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. The drive on Sinhagad Road should take no more than 30 minutes each way; if you're without a car, taking a taxi or booking a customizable tour are the most convenient ways to reach the dam. Other options include taking a bus to the Khadakwasla Dharan or Khadakwasla Gaon bus stop nearby and then taking an autorickshaw.
When to get there
Like much of India, Maharashtra has three seasons: summer, when it's uncomfortably hot and humid; monsoon season, when the temps are more pleasant but rains can be torrential; and winter, a cool period from October to February, and the best time to visit. The 10-day Pune festival is usually held in late August or September.
Where to camp at Khadakwasla Dam
If you’d like to spend more than a few hours at Khadakwasla Dam, and linger after sunset near the water, you can camp at Khadakwasla Backwater Tent Camping and Resort on the southwest side of the reservoir near Girinagar. The resort-like campsite offers tent and safari-tent rentals, and has additional sites available at Panshet Dam nearby.
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