Tehri Dam

Tehri Dam is a multi-purpose dam located in Uttarakhand, India. It is the highest dam in India and one of the highest dams in the world, with a height of 260.5 meters (855 feet). The dam was constructed on the Bhagirathi River, a major tributary of the Ganges River, and is the main source of drinking water, hydroelectric power generation, and irrigation in the region.

Tehri Dam began in 1978 and was completed in 2006 after several delays and controversies. The project involved the relocation of thousands of people living in the floodplain of the Bhagirathi River and the construction of a new town, known as Tehri, for the displaced people. The dam also required the construction of many tunnels, canals, and other infrastructure to support hydroelectric power generation and provide irrigation water to the surrounding agricultural land.

The Tehri Dam has a total installed capacity of 2,400 megawatts (MW) of hydroelectric power, making it one of India's largest hydroelectric power plants. It also provides water for irrigation to over 140,000 hectares (346,000 acres) and supplies drinking water to Delhi and Uttarakhand.

In addition to its practical uses, the Tehri Dam is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors worldwide with its scenic beauty and opportunities for adventure sports such as white-water rafting. The dam has also helped boost the local economy by creating jobs in the hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and tourism industries.

Despite its many benefits, the Tehri Dam has also faced criticism for its environmental impact, including the displacement of local communities and the potential for seismic activity in the region. However, the Indian government and the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation, the dam operator, have taken measures to mitigate these impacts and ensure the dam's safe and sustainable operation.

The Tehri Dam is an impressive engineering feat that provides numerous benefits to the region while facing challenges and controversies.

How To Reach Tehri Dam:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Tehri Dam is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 95 kilometres (59 miles) away. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take a bus to reach the dam.

By Train:

The nearest railway station to Tehri Dam is Rishikesh, approximately 70 kilometres (43 miles). You can hire a taxi from the railway station or take a bus to reach the dam.

By Bus:

Regular bus services are available from major cities in Uttarakhand, such as Rishikesh and Dehradun, to Tehri Dam. Buses run by the Uttarakhand Roadways are the most convenient and economical option.

By Car:

If you are driving from Delhi, you can reach Tehri Dam by taking the National Highway (NH) 7, approximately 250 kilometres (155 miles) away; the journey takes about 6 hours by car.

Once you reach Tehri Dam, you can park your vehicle in the designated parking area and walk to the dam. There are also several viewpoints and picnic spots nearby, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the dam and the surrounding landscape.

Best Time To Visit Tehri Dam:

The best time to visit Tehri Dam in Uttarakhand depends on your preferences and the activities you plan. 

Summer (April to June):

If you enjoy warm weather, summer is the best time to visit Tehri Dam. The temperature ranges from 20 to 40 degrees Celsius during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as picnicking, hiking, and water sports.

Monsoon (July to September):

If you don't mind the rain, the monsoon season is also a good time to visit Tehri Dam. During this time, the dam and its surroundings are lush and green, offering a serene environment. However, some roads and trails may become muddy or slippery, so it's important to be cautious.

Winter (October to March):

Winter is ideal for visiting Tehri Dam if you enjoy cooler weather. During this time, the temperature ranges from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the views from the dam and nearby viewpoints.

It's important to note that the weather in Uttarakhand can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before you visit Tehri Dam. Regardless of when you visit, bring appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and other essentials to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.

Places To Visit Near Tehri Dam:

New Tehri:

The town of New Tehri, located near the dam, is a newly developed town that was constructed for the people displaced by the construction of the Tehri Dam. It offers a glimpse into the modern and sustainable architecture of the region.

Surkanda Devi Temple:

The Surkanda Devi Temple is a Hindu temple on a hill near the Tehri Dam. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Surkanda Devi and is surrounded by scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Bhagirathi River:

The Bhagirathi River, on which the Tehri Dam was built, is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. Several operators offer guided trips and equipment rental for water sports.

Rajaji National Park:

The Rajaji National Park is a wildlife reserve located near the Tehri Dam. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various bird species.

Devprayag:

Devprayag is a small town near the Tehri Dam known for its historical and religious significance. The city is the confluence of the Bhagirathi and the Alaknanda, which form the Ganges River.

Rishikesh:

Rishikesh is a popular destination for adventure sports and yoga enthusiasts. It is located approximately 70 kilometres (43 miles) from Tehri Dam and is known for its scenic beauty and spiritual atmosphere.

Chamba:

Chamba is a small town near Tehri Dam known for its natural beauty and scenic views. Lush green forests and rolling hills surround the city and are popular destinations for trekking and hiking.

Auli:

Auli is a ski resort near Tehri Dam in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and is a popular destination for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.

Narendra Nagar:

Narendra Nagar is a small town near Tehri Dam known for its historical and cultural significance. The city is home to several ancient temples and is a popular destination for religious pilgrims.

Mussoorie:

Mussoorie is a hill station located approximately 60 kilometres (37 miles) from Tehri Dam. It is known for its scenic beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and colonial architecture and is a popular destination for travellers looking for a peaceful escape from the city.

Haridwar:

Haridwar is a holy city located approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles) from Tehri Dam. The city is one of Hinduism's seven most sacred places and is a popular destination for religious pilgrims and tourists.

Yamunotri:

Yamunotri is a Hindu pilgrimage site in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, near Tehri Dam. The site is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna and is one of the four sacred shrines in the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit.

These are just a few other places to visit near Tehri Dam in Uttarakhand. Whether you're interested in adventure, history, culture, or nature, there is something for everyone in this beautiful and diverse region.

Things To Do Near Tehri Dam:

Water Sports:

The Tehri Dam is surrounded by several lakes and rivers, making it a great place for water sports such as rafting, kayaking, and boating. Several operators offer guided trips and equipment rental for these activities.

Trekking and Hiking:

The region near Tehri Dam is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking. Several trails and routes range from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks.

Wildlife Watching:

The Tehri Dam is near several wildlife reserves, including the Rajaji National Park. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various bird species. Visitors can take guided tours or wildlife safaris to see the animals in their natural habitats.

Religious Pilgrimages:

The region near Tehri Dam is home to several important Hindu pilgrimage sites, including Surkanda Devi Temple and Devprayag. Visitors can learn about these sites' religious and cultural significance and participate in traditional rituals and ceremonies.

Winter Sports:

The ski resort of Auli is located near Tehri Dam and is a popular destination for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Visitors can enjoy stunning Himalayas views while participating in these activities.

Adventure Sports:

The region near Tehri Dam offers several opportunities for adventure sports, including rock climbing, rappelling, and bungee jumping. Several operators offer guided trips and equipment rental for these activities.

Adventure Activities Near Tehri Dam:

Rafting:

The Tehri Dam is surrounded by several rivers, including the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda, that offer great rafting opportunities. Visitors can take guided rafting trips down these rivers, known for their challenging rapids and stunning scenery.

Rock Climbing:

The region near Tehri Dam has several cliffs and rock formations that offer rock climbing and rappelling opportunities. Several operators offer guided trips and equipment rental for these activities.

Zip Lining:

The region near Tehri Dam offers several zip-lining experiences, which allow visitors to soar through the air while taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Bungee Jumping:

Several operators near Tehri Dam offer bungee jumping experiences, which allow visitors to experience the thrill of jumping from a high platform with a bungee cord attached to their feet.

Paragliding:

The region near Tehri Dam is a popular destination for paragliding, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Several operators provide guided paragliding trips and equipment rental for this activity.

Kayaking and Canoeing:

The lakes and rivers near Tehri Dam are ideal for kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can take guided trips and rent equipment to explore these waterways and enjoy the region's scenic beauty.

Mountain Biking:

The region near Tehri Dam offers several challenging and scenic mountain biking trails, which allow visitors to explore the surrounding landscape by bike.

Camping:

The region near Tehri Dam is home to several scenic camping sites, which offer opportunities to spend time in nature and experience the tranquillity of the surrounding landscape.

Wildlife Safaris:

The region near Tehri Dam has several wildlife reserves, including the Rajaji National Park, which offers wildlife watching and exploring opportunities. Visitors can take guided wildlife safaris to see animals in their natural habitats.

Mountain Climbing:

The region near Tehri Dam is home to several mountains, including the Himalayas, that offer mountain climbing and trekking opportunities. Visitors can take guided trips to explore these peaks and experience the region's beauty.

Horseback Riding:

The region near Tehri Dam offers several horseback riding opportunities, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding landscape on horseback.

Trout Fishing:

The rivers and lakes near Tehri Dam are home to several trout species, making it a popular destination for fishing. Visitors can take guided fishing trips and rent equipment to try their hand at this popular activity.

These are just a few more of the many adventure activities that visitors can enjoy near Tehri Dam in Uttarakhand. Whether you're looking for a physically challenging experience or want to explore the outdoors in a new way, there is something for everyone in this beautiful and diverse region.