Khudia Dam (Rajiv Gandhi Reservoir)

Khudia Dam, also known as Rajiv Gandhi Reservoir, is an earthen dam built across the Maniyari River near Khudia village in Mungeli district, Chhattisgarh. Constructed between 1923 and 1930, it is one of the largest reservoirs in the state, primarily built for irrigation. Surrounded by forested hills and agricultural land, the reservoir offers scenic water views and serves as a popular local picnic and sightseeing destination near Lormi and Mungeli.

Visitors can expect a large earthen dam and expansive reservoir on the Maniyari River surrounded by low forested hills and open countryside. The site offers wide water views, an earthen embankment to walk along, and open areas for sightseeing and photography. Boating is available seasonally on the reservoir. The surroundings are rural and quiet, with picnic spots and viewpoints overlooking the water. Facilities are basic and the area is primarily visited for nature viewing and leisure.

Khudia Dam was constructed across the Maniyari River between 1923 and 1930 during the British period to provide irrigation to the region. It is an earthen dam with a significant catchment and storage capacity. Later named Rajiv Gandhi Reservoir, it remains a major irrigation infrastructure for Mungeli district and surrounding agricultural areas.

The reservoir is a locally significant water resource and recreational area for communities in Mungeli and Lormi, commonly used as a picnic and leisure destination and valued for its role in supporting agriculture.