Bandh Baretha Dam

Bandh Baretha Dam is a historic man-made reservoir constructed on the Kakund River in the Bayana tehsil of Bharatpur district, Rajasthan. Built between 1866 and 1897 by the rulers of Bharatpur, it serves as the centerpiece of the Bandh Baretha Wildlife Sanctuary. The dam spans approximately 50 square kilometers and provides drinking water to Bharatpur and surrounding villages while supporting a diverse ecosystem with over 200 bird species.

Visitors can explore the historic dam structure and enjoy views of the expansive reservoir surrounded by wetlands and hills. The area offers opportunities for birdwatching with sightings of migratory and resident species including Sarus Cranes, Painted Storks, and various geese. Visitors can engage in boating activities on the calm waters, take nature walks along the reservoir edges, and photograph wildlife and landscape scenery. An ancient royal palace near the dam provides panoramic viewpoints and showcases traditional Rajasthani architecture with carved stone pillars.

The construction of Baretha Dam was initiated in 1866 by Maharaja Jaswant Singh of Bharatpur and completed in 1897 under Maharaja Ram Singh. The dam was built on the Kakund River and served as part of the royal hunting grounds. In 1985, an area of approximately 192.76 square kilometers surrounding the dam was designated as a wildlife sanctuary by the Government of Rajasthan.

The dam represents 19th-century engineering by the Bharatpur rulers and remains culturally significant as a vital water source for Bharatpur and adjoining villages. The adjacent ancient royal palace showcases traditional Rajasthani craftsmanship with carved stone pillars and animal designs.