Magnificent Man-Made Attraction
A site to behold, Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is considered as one of the largest dams in Asia. As a tallest masonry dam, Nagarjuna Sagar Dam is also the pride of India. The mighty dam was completed in the year 1969 on river Krishna and is one of the earliest projects built in post-independent India for irrigation as well as hydro power generation.
The project has a catchment area of roughly 215000 sq.km. It also boasts of the largest canal system network in India. The mighty dam has a majestic height of 124 meters. It is 1 km long, and has 26 crest gates. The dam can store up to 11, 472 million cubic meters of water in the reservoir.
The dam was completed fully in 1972 once the crest gates were installed. The dam has two canals, namely the left and right canals which supply water from the reservoir. The dam was envisioned to be a temple of modern India, according to India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Apart from meeting drinking water needs, irrigation and power requirements, this dam is an attractive tourist destination owing to the large reservoir. The mighty flow when the crest gates are opened after a successful monsoon, present a panoramic view which enthralls tourists.
The lake created due to the backwaters of this dam, boasts of its status as one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. The beautiful and scenic water body adds beauty to this impressive structure which offers a breathtaking experience for tourists. The dam derives its name from a nearby hillock and island called Nagarjuna konda, where an ancient Buddhist Guru once lived. Tourists also visit this famous and well-maintained museum here that houses ancient artifacts.
Boating Experience
Boating experiences on large water bodies is a magic in itself. Boating on Nagarjuna Sagar is one such popular boating experience that is a huge draw with tourists all over.Telangana Tourism operates a regular cruise service, covering the picturesque Nagarjunasagar Dam when there is sufficient water. The cruise proceeds along some exotic locations of Nallamalla forest and is a perfect way to savor your holiday. The excellent boating facilities offered by Telangana Tourism has added a distinct charm to the pristine waters of dam. The tourism department offers boating facilities at affordable costs and is an ideal getaway for corporate trips and short picnics with friends and family.
Other Attractions
Buddhavanam
Nagarjuna Sagar dam region, located in Nalgonda district of Telangana is home to some of the oldest Buddhist civilizations in India, where a vast number of historic coins and artefacts were discovered during the construction of the mighty dam. Buddhavanam here is also renowned as the Buddhist Theme Park, located close to the right bank canal of Nagarjuna Sagar dam. The museum showcases an impressive display of Buddhist Sculptures, Buddhist Tankas, Bronzes, Pala, Gandhara Sculptures, Ajantha Paintings and Stone Sculptures. Many rare artefacts have now been preserved in the Buddhist Heritage Museum, called Buddhavanam.
Nandikonda
Nandikonda is a small village located on the banks of the perennial river of Krishna in Telangana, close to the magnificent dam of Nagarjuna Sagar. It was once part of the Ikshvaku Dynasty and this village earned prominence following the unearthing of many Buddhist structures such as pillared halls and monasteries. The relics which have been unearthed during many excavations are on display currently at the Museum of Central Archaeological Department located near the village. There are even ruins of a historic fort, built during the era of Ikshvaku Dynasty.
How to Reach
Nagarjuna Sagar is located at a road distance of nearly 165 km from Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana. Hyderabad is the nearest airport, which takes you to Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. Telangana Tourism offers regular trips and package tours to Nagarjuna Sagar.
Where to Stay
Haritha Vijay Vihar Hotel, is the right accommodation choice for tourists visiting the most popular destination of Nagarjuna Sagar Dam. Accommodation suiting tourists of all budget types, Haritha VijayVihar Hotel offers best facilities for a relaxing stay, with delicious fare and all other amenities to make your holiday a worthwhile experience!