Pandoh Lake — Attraction in Himachal Pradesh

The two major rivers Beas and Satlej flow out of the himalayas and reach a point where they are separated by a crow fly distance of approximately 36 km and have an elevation difference of approximately 1099 ft. The waters of Beas flow from melting ice throughout the year. This was realized and a plan made to exploit the potential of this river system. The power potential was estimated as 1,000 MW. The plans originally called Beas Project Unit - I Beas Satluj Link Project went through several revisions for diverting the waters of Beas river. The first plan prepared by Punjab Irrigation Department in 1957. The 1957 plan contemplated a diversion dam at Pandoh, 11.26-kilometre (7.00 mi) tunnel, 19.31-kilometre (12.00 mi) open channel, 4.82-kilometre (3.00 mi) tunnel. The 1957 report was followed by a 1960 report and the final proposal in 1961. The final proposal included 76.25-metre (250.2 ft) diversion dam at Pandoh, a 7.62-metre (25.0 ft) dia, 13.11-kilometre (8.15 mi) Pandoh baggi tunnel, 11.8-kilometre (7.3 mi) Sunder Nagar hydel channel, 8.53-metre (28.0 ft) dia, 12.35-kilometre (7.67 mi) Sundernagar Satluj tunnel, 22.86-metre (75.0 ft) dia 125-metre (410 ft) high surge shaft, three Dehar penstocks split to six penstocks and Dehar power plant with 6 x 165 MW generators. The system would divert 9,000 cubic feet per second (250 m3/s) of the Beas to the Satluj. An added benefit of the project was the increased inflow to Gobind Sagar thereby increasing power generation capacity at Bhakra Dam and added irrigation waters for the states of Punjab and Haryana. The project was approved in 1963 and...

Pandoh lake is a captivating artificial lake that defies its manufactured origins. Created by the Pandoh Dam, which harnesses the waters of the Beas River, this tranquil oasis has managed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty, making it a favorable destination for nature lovers.

From the moment you approach Pandoh Lake, you are greeted by stunning vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The striking contrast between the vibrant blue of the lake and the lush green hills that encircle it creates a picturesque setting that feels almost enchanted. The area is framed by rugged mountains, which are often cloaked in mist, adding to the ethereal atmosphere and providing numerous photo opportunities that are sure to leave an impression.

One of the most remarkable features of Pandoh Lake is how well it integrates into the landscape. Unlike many artificial lakes that can feel stark or out of place, Pandoh Lake has been beautifully designed and landscaped, allowing it to feel organic and in harmony with its surroundings. The serene water surface mirrors the sky and mountains, inviting visitors to sit back, relax, and soak in the tranquility.

Accessibility is another strong point in favor of Pandoh Lake. It is conveniently located just a short drive from the bustling town of Mandi, making it an easily reachable escape from urban life. This proximity means you can spend a refreshing day here without the hassle of extensive travel, allowing you to fully embrace its...

The Pandoh Dam is an embankment dam on the Beas River in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Under the Beas Project, the dam was completed in 1977 and its primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation. Part of a run-of-the-river power scheme, it diverts the waters of the Beas to the southwest through a 38 km (24 mi) long system of tunnels and channels. The water is used for power generation at the Dehar Power House before being discharged into the Sutlej River, connecting both rivers. *Pandoh Dam Back...