Bhatghar Dam

Bhatghar Dam is a historic masonry gravity dam on the Velvandi River near Bhor in Pune district, Maharashtra. Completed in 1927 during the British Raj, it is one of the oldest dams in the state and was originally known as Lloyd Dam. The structure serves irrigation and hydroelectric purposes with an installed capacity of 16 MW. Its extensive backwaters surrounded by hills have made it a noted scenic destination.

Visitors can view the century-old masonry dam structure and its expansive reservoir set amidst lush green hills. The site offers opportunities for photography, picnicking, bird watching, and peaceful walks along the shoreline. Boat rides are sometimes available on the calm backwaters depending on seasonal conditions. Facilities are limited, and visitors should expect a natural, quiet environment rather than commercialized amenities.

Constructed between 1913 and 1927 by the British administration, Bhatghar Dam (originally Lake Whiting/Lloyd Dam) is among Maharashtra's oldest large-scale hydraulic engineering projects. It was built at a cost of 172 lakh rupees to support regional irrigation and power generation, representing significant early 20th-century civil engineering in the region.

The dam and its associated government rest house have served as filming locations for Marathi and Bollywood cinema, including 'Natasamrat' and 'Bajirao Mastani'. It remains a culturally significant weekend retreat for residents of Pune and Mumbai.