Khadakwasla Dam
Situated at a distance of about 20m kms to the south west of Pune, the Khadakwasla Dam is among the most visited spots around Pune especially during the monsoons. Thanks to the food vendors that flock around the water body, the dam is popularly known as the ‘Chowpati’ of Pune.
The dam was constructed in the year 1873 to supply water to the city of Pune. The dam was however destroyed in the year 1961 because the water from the Panshet Dam had overflowed causing devastating floods in the city. The dam was rebuilt in the following years to counter the ongoing water crisis.
The dam is built across the Mutha River, near the Khadakwasla village from where the dam derives its name. The water body is a popular hangout among Punekars who love to feast on the fast food served by the vendors while enjoying the beautiful view. The place is especially crowded on weekends and in the monsoon season.
Just a few kilometres away from the dam lie the water reservoirs of Panshet and Varasgaon and the fort of Sinhagad, once ruled by the great Maratha emperor, Shivaji Maharaj. A large bridge that runs parallel to the dam, leads you straight to another famous landmark of Pune, the National Defence Academy (NDA). The NDA utilises the western shore of the water body for boating and sailing related training. The Defence Research and Development Organisation which conducts technical training courses for defence personnel is also located to the south-east of the Khadakwasla Lake.
Some of the other popular picnic spots located close to the dam include the Peacock Bay and Neelkanteshwar. The Peacock Bay is located to the north- east of the Khadakwasla Lake. This bay derives its name from the plethora of the peacocks found in this region. Apart from peacocks, the bay is also the home of other kinds of flora and fauna which attract a lot of visitors from Pune and the adjoining cities. The Peacock Bay is also used frequently by the NDA for conducting the training of new cadets as well as hosting special events. Neelkanteshwar is another tourist attraction located close to the dam. The place gets its name from the temple of Neelkanteshwar or Lord Shiva which is situated on top of a hill.
A visit to Khadakwasla dam is highly recommended if one wishes to escape the busy city life and get his feet wet in the soothing cold water of the Khadakwasla Lake. The beautiful setting of the dam along with its close vicinity to the other city attractions surely makes it an ideal location for a weekend drive.
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