Pong Dam is a large man-made lake built on the Beas River. It is also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar and has a beautiful location in the Shivalik hills of Kangra. This famous bird-watching and water-sports destination was built in 1975. The best time to visit here is between November and March.
Do you want to explore a peaceful spot in Dev Bhoomi Himachal, which is easy to reach? Plan a trip to Pong Dam, a huge man-made lake in Kangra, and spend your day watching beautiful birds, enjoying a picnic, or simply relaxing by the lakeside. This blue lake is a safe home to thousands of colorful migratory birds, and every winter, bird lovers visit here to see rare birds flying over the water. Read on to plan a perfect trip to Pong Dam, know how to reach here, what to explore, and more.
History of Pong Dam, Kangra
Pong Dam is built across the Beas River in Kangra, and its construction was completed in 1974. It was originally created to provide electricity and water for the family. Surrounded by green hills and snowy Dhauladhar mountains, it is today a very famous tourist place to explore.
Why Was It Built?
After Independence, when the Indus Water Treaty was signed, India secured access to the three important helper rivers of the Indus. After detailed surveys to identify the location for a major dam project, it was decided that Pong Dam would be built on the Beas River. So, its construction started in 1961 to control floods, provide electricity, and water for farmers in Kangra and nearby states.
Pong Dam to Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary
In 1974, the dam construction was completed. It created a massive lake, which is named Maharana Pratap Sagar, to pay respect to the brave Rajput ruler. This lake spreads across hundreds of square kilometers. Over the years, this area transformed into a beautiful wetland, and in 1983, it was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary because it provides a home to many animals and fish.
Every winter, migratory birds travel from Siberia and Central Asia to rest at the lake. Because of these birds, today it became Himachal’s first internationally known Ramsar Wetland site in 2002. However, due to the creation of the dam and lake, many villages were submerged, and thousands of local families had to move and start new lives elsewhere.
Top Activities to Enjoy at the Pong Dam Lake
Maharana Pratap Sagar or Pong Dam is not only popular for its beautiful location, but also for many exciting activities. You can enjoy a quiet boat ride, try fun water sports, or even hike around. You can simply relax, capture amazing pictures, and enjoy the fresh air at this stunning place.
- Birdwatching: This huge lake is a famous Ramsar site where thousands of colorful birds from Central Asia come to spend winter. It is a great place to quietly watch different types of birds, like ducks, geese, eagles, and other rare species.
- Photography: For nature photographers, Pong Dam is a true heaven. You get the chance to click wonderful pictures of sparkling blue water, green hills, and amazing sunsets. If you plan a trip during winter, you get the chance to capture perfect close-up shots of rare birds.
- Angling and Fishing: The lake is home to different kinds of fish. You can sit calmly by the water with a fishing rod to catch fresh fish and enjoy a relaxing day with your friends and family. Many local providers conduct this special adventure activity.
- Trekking: The deciduous and pine forests of the area make hiking and trekking very enjoyable. You get to breathe fresh air and enjoy the beautiful nature around the lake. You can book a guided hiking package and choose to camp in the forests.
- Water Sports: You can’t miss trying safe and fun activities like rowing, sailing, swimming, and water skiing on the lake waters. Those who have never tried these activities will find the experience of enjoying them for the first time here more special.
- Wildlife Exploration: You can explore the forests and wetlands to spot wild animals like deer, otters, and wild boars living safely in their natural homes. It is always advised to go on a guided tour of the forests to ensure your safety.
- Boating and Kayaking: You can rent a boat or a small paddle kayak to travel across the water. You can easily book one with trusted local service providers. You can choose to explore hidden islands and the famous spots like the submerged Bathu Ki Ladi temples.
- Jungle Safari and Mountain Biking: To make your trip to Pong Dam more memorable, you can take a fun Jeep ride through the woods to see animals. You can also ride a mountain bike to feel the thrill of the jungle.
How To Reach Pong Dam?
You can easily reach the Pong Dam, as it has a favorable location and is well-connected to major cities. You can either take a flight to a nearby airport, take a train, or drive along the state highways.
- By Air: The closest airport is Gaggal Airport (DHM), which is around 40 to 75 km away. Once you land here, you can easily take a bus or taxi to reach the dam.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are Pathankot and Mukerian. The dam is around 20 to 22 km away from both these stations. You can simply hire a cab from the station that will take you directly to your final destination.
- By Road: Pong Dam is directly connected by a great network of roads to all major cities in Himachal and neighboring states. You can comfortably travel by a state or private bus, or hire a car.
Things to Do at Pong Dam
Plan a trip away from busy city life to see the beauty of Pong Dam. This lovely lake and wildlife area in Dev Bhoomi Himachal is a great place. Here are some things that you must do when you visit here:
- Must Explore These Key Spots: Bathu ki Ladi Temples is a major highlight of Pong Dam that you must not miss. This unique group of stone temples remains completely submerged for eight months of the year and emerges only between March and June. Rancer Island is another great spot to explore, which is an untouched island in the middle of the lake.
- Don’t Miss Trying Kangri Dhaam: If you love trying food from different states and regions, you should try Kangri Dhaam on your visit to Pong Dam. You can try this at nearby restaurants and eateries. You can also try dishes like pakoras, dal makhani, mash dal, mittha, and special fish dishes.
- Shopping Near Dam: The dam itself doesn’t have many shopping options around it. But you can explore markets in nearby towns. You can shop for local handmade items, Tibetan textiles and art, and more.
- Festivals Near Pong Dam: You can plan your visit during the annual water sports Regatta Gala organized at the lake. This lively festival attracts many visitors. You can also enjoy festivals in nearby regions like Dharamshala and Kangra.
Places to Explore Near Pong Dam
From visiting famous underwater temples to enjoying fun water activities, you can do so much at Pong Dam. If you are planning a trip here, you can make it more magical by adding the nearby attractions to your travel plan.
| Place Name | Approx. Distance from Pong Dam | Description |
| Chintpurni Temple | Around 45 km | One of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. Thousands of devotees visit here, especially during a grand celebration in Shravan (June-July). |
| Kangra Fort | Around 60 to 70 km | The largest fort in the Himalayan foothills was built by the Trigarta kingdom. It offers a glimpse into India’s grand history. |
| Jwala Devi Temple | Around 55 to 60 km | A sacred Shakti Peetha where there are no idols. Devotees worship an unstoppable, naturally burning oil lamp, considered the Goddess’s blessing. |
Explore Pong Dam: A Nature Lover’s Heaven
Pong Dam is truly a special place for nature lovers and peace seekers. Whether you want to watch beautiful, rare birds, enjoy fun water sports, or simply enjoy the views of the big lake and tall mountains, this place will promise something special. You will also get to see amazing wildlife and lovely green views. The best part is that you can use your cameras and mobile phones freely around the dam. But if you visit the nearby attractions like temples and museums, there you need to follow the photography rules. Plan a trip to this lovely destination with your family or friends today.
Also Read: Renuka Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary Sirmour