About Upper Vaitarna Dam
Upper Vaitarna Dam is an earthfill and gravity dam on the Vaitarna River near Igatpuri in Nashik district, Maharashtra. Completed in 1973, it serves as a critical water supply source for Mumbai and generates electricity. The reservoir spans catchment areas of both Vaitarna and Godavari rivers and is surrounded by Western Ghats terrain. It is a recognized picnic and nature spot located approximately 30 km from Igatpuri town.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect views of a large manmade reservoir set against the Western Ghats with expansive backwaters and surrounding woodland. The site offers opportunities for photography, picnicking, and camping at designated flat lands near Saturli village. Water activities such as boating and kayaking are available seasonally. Access is generally permitted during specified daytime hours, though infrastructure is basic.
Key highlights
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Earthfill and gravity dam completed in 1973 on the Vaitarna River
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Primary water supply source for Mumbai city
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Reservoir surrounded by Western Ghats landscape and backwaters
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Popular spot for photography, picnicking, and lakeside camping
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Seasonal water activities including boating and kayaking
History of Upper Vaitarna Dam
Constructed in 1973, Upper Vaitarna Dam was built to augment Mumbai's water supply and provide hydroelectric power. It remains one of the major dams in Maharashtra and forms part of the Vaitarna river basin water supply system managed for municipal use.
Route
| By train | Nearest railway station is Igatpuri, approximately 30 km away |
|---|---|
| By road |