Mumbai, the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra, is a breathtaking contradiction of chaos and ambition, luxury, modernism, and heritage. It is a vibrant melting pot of cultures and lifestyles. This mega city is known for its historic spots, popular tourist places, and Bollywood.
There are also many beautiful dams spread on the outskirts of the city that serve as water and power source for nearby regions and also a perfect picnic spot for family and friends. Here we have a list of popular Dams near Mumbai for you to visit.
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12 Most Popular Dams Near Mumbai
Vihar Dam
The Vihar Dam is being built on the Vihar River. Vihar Dam is 31 kilometers from Mumbai and is located in the Borivali National Park area. The Borivali National Park, also known as the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, is home to a variety of animal and bird species. The dam was erected in 1860 to address a drinking water deficit and to provide a consistent water supply. The Vihar Dam and lake are among Mumbai’s most popular tourist attractions.
The Vihar Dam was built as an earthen embankment to create a reservoir. It is now an Earth fill dam that provides drinking water to the citizens of Mumbai. The Vihar Dam region is well-developed and acts as a breeding site for numerous fish and bird species. Several kinds of migratory birds visit the area throughout the winter months in quest of suitable breeding grounds. The Vihar Lake and the adjoining Sanjay Gandhi National Park are the area’s main attractions.
Several varieties of migratory birds visit the Vihar Lake area, particularly during the winter months of October to January. There are also several crocodiles in the region, who may often be seen sunning on the lake’s shores. The crocodiles in the area are freshwater crocodiles, commonly known as Marsh crocodiles. The lake is not open to the public, however, because it is part of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, it can be seen from afar.
- Distance from Mumbai: 21 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Vihar Lake Bus Stand (1 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Kanheri Caves, Upvan Lake, KidZania Mumbai, Chota Kashmir Boat Club, Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Tulsi Dam
Tulsi Lake is a freshwater lake on Tulsi Dam in Mumbai’s northern outskirts. It is said to be Mumbai’s second-largest lake and provides some of the city’s potable water. This lake is one of three on Salsette Island, the other two being Powai Lake and Vihar Lake. Tulsi and Vihar lakes are both located in the highly forested Sanjay Gandhi National Park, often known as the Borivali National Park (BNP).
The vegetation on the lake’s hillsides is rich and lush, undisturbed, and of a mixed moist deciduous variety. Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and the Sanjay Gandhi National Park Authority protect the lake and its watershed area. Because the lake is located within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the flora and fauna described for the park are applicable to the lake.
Freshwater crocodiles and Marsh crocodiles are reported to inhabit the lake in sustainable quantities. Because it is impossible to see them in the water, the park has set up a Crocodile Park’ where visitors may see reptiles of all sizes.
- Distance from Mumbai: 21.7 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Mulund Depot (6.5 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Kanheri Caves, Upvan Lake, KidZania Mumbai, Chota Kashmir Boat Club, Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Owe Dam
The Owe Dam lies in the forest region of Owe Village in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. It is unofficially one of the best picnic spots in Kharghar, despite being in a remote position tucked between the Kharghar Hills and the Owe Hills. For those who are unfamiliar with the moniker “Owe,” it is a village in the Owe Camp region of Kharghar, Navi Mumbai.
The Owe Dam is located in the interiors, near Gholwadi hamlet, in the forest area of the Kharghar Hills, and is built on a holding point, or Owe lake, which is placed directly in the center of the hills that surround the water body like a fence. For first-timers, the Owe Dam is not a massive dam or a popular picnic destination like Pandavkada Waterfalls or the driving range waterfalls.
The aloofness and peacefulness of the Owe Dam area make it the best of the bunch, and it is the ideal choice for people who want to enjoy nature alone, rather than in the company of wild and uncaring frolickers. The best part is that Owe Dam is located in a remote area, therefore avoiding the adventures of reckless and uncaring individuals who just know how to have fun and leave trash wherever they go.
The green hills that surround Owe Lake, the silence, the surrounding meadows, the beautiful water, and the complete absence of tiring city life are what make the Owe Dam area unique. The tranquillity that you will find at the Owe Dam, whether alone or with friends, simply gazing at the horizon, the river, or the hills, will provide you with more positive than attending a pub and socializing in chaotic and, let’s face it, expensive circumstances. It is one of the best Dams near Mumbai you can visit for a picnic.
- Distance from Mumbai: 31.9 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Khargar Bus Stand (5 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Central Park, Pandavkada Falls, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Rock Garden, DY Patil Stadium, Gadeshwar Dam, Belapur Mango Garden, Wonder Park, Airoli Knowledge Park, Sagar Vihar Garden, Nerul Balaji Temple, Bhawani Temple, Shiva Temple, ITC Park, Millennium Business Park
Gadeshwar River Dam
Gadeshwar Dam is a tiny dam that is easily accessible from Panvel bus station. This location also has a minor river bridge that leads to Dudhani village. It is located 28 kilometers from Panvel.
This dam is bordered by paddy fields and green hills, which can be reached by adjacent paths. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season. Summers will be hot and sunny, and because the dam is small, you will not be able to see the downstream as well.
It is a gorgeous location with thick greenery where one can snap some stunning moments. The sight of water being unleashed is a magnificent and visual pleasure. The dam is around 2 kilometers long from one end to the other. A magnificent lake can be seen in the distance, stretching all the way into the mountains. This is one of the best Dams near Mumbai
The entire coast will be covered in trees, allowing you to relax and enjoy the view of the tranquil lake and surrounding mountains. You can even take a sun bath with very cool water surrounding you. It is best to visit the dam between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM. There is no entrance fee.
- Distance from Mumbai: 44.8 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Panvel Bus Station (8 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle, or via Train through Panvel Railway Station (15.6 km)
- Nearby Places to Visit: Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Karnala Fort, Prabalgad Fort, Beth El Synagogue, Ballaleshwar Mandir, Adai Waterfalls, Khandeshwar Shiva Temple, Shivganga Waterpark And Resort, Kalavantin Durg
Chikloli Dam
- Distance from Mumbai: 50.7 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Chikloli Village Bus Stop (2 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle, or via Badlapur Railway Station (4 km)
- Nearby Places to Visit: Kondeshwar, Khandoba Temple, Mulgaon, Tahuli Peak, Shanti Sagar Resort and Water Park, Malanggad, Bhoj Dam
Morbe Dam
Morbe Dam is a gravity dam on the Dhai River near Khalapur in Maharashtra’s Raigad district. The Morbe lake serves as the city of Navi Mumbai’s primary water supply. The dam was developed by the Maharashtra government’s Water Supply and Sanitation Department.
Morbe Dam is about a half-hour drive from Matheran and is popular for weekend picnics from Mumbai and Pune. The dam is surrounded by mountains and provides a very serene atmosphere while also providing entertainment opportunities such as boating. The dam was also used as a filming location for films such as Slumdog Millionaire, and the song “Lean On” was recorded there. Monsoons are the best time of the year for those seeking adventure. White water rafting is done on the higher sections of river Ulhas in the month of July to September.
- Distance from Mumbai: 55.3 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Chowk City Bus Stand (1 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Raigad Fort, Jagadishwar Temple, Takmok Tok, Queen’s Palace, Raigad museum, ShivtharGhal, Gangasagar Lake, Sagargad Fort, Varsoli Beach, Kihim Beach, Kondana Caves
Jambhivali Dam
- Distance from Mumbai: 60.4 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Reliance Gate No.1 NMMT Bus Stop (7 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Raigad Fort, Jagadishwar Temple, Takmok Tok, Queen’s Palace, Raigad museum, ShivtharGhal, Gangasagar Lake, Sagargad Fort, Varsoli Beach, Kihim Beach, Kondana Caves
Barvi Dam
- Distance from Mumbai: 64.9 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Barvi Dam Road (1 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle, or via Train through Badlapur Railway Station (12.5 km)
- Nearby Places to Visit: Kondeshwar, Chikhloli Dam, Khandoba Temple, Mulgaon, Tahuli Peak, Shanti Sagar Resort and Water Park, Malanggad, Bhoj Dam
Shahapada Dam
- Distance from Mumbai: 70.8 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Washi Naka Bus Stop (6 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Raigad Fort, Jagadishwar Temple, Takmok Tok, Queen’s Palace, Raigad museum, ShivtharGhal, Gangasagar Lake, Sagargad Fort, Varsoli Beach, Kihim Beach, Kondana Caves
Tansa Dam
Tansa Dam, located in Maharashtra’s Thane district, is a massive gravity dam used to generate water for drinking and other multipurpose uses. The dam is well-known for being one of Mumbai’s seven sources of drinking water supply. It is also a famous tourist destination due to its gorgeous surroundings and quiet.
People flock here in large numbers to spend an evening in peace and quiet, as well as for day picnics. It is one of the most popular dams near Mumbai for picnics. The dam was erected in 1925, but its height has been steadily expanded throughout the years to suit the demands.
You can also bring a portable burner and cook dinner outside to share with your friends and family. Tansa Lake is quite close to the Tansa Dam and is an embodiment of surreal beauty and an absolute ataraxy. The dam contains a wide flora and fauna, as well as rich wildlife and biodiversity.
At the lake, you can participate in a variety of tourist activities such as night camping, boating, and bird watching. Tourists visit both the dam and the lake, which are particularly popular among photographers and those seeking quiet.
- Distance from Mumbai: 80.1 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Vedvahal Bus Stand (4 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary, Pazar Talav, Hidden Village
Teenvira Dam
Teenvira Dam is Alibaug Road’s most gorgeous spot in Mumbai, especially during the monsoon season. It’s a little dam for local water supply, but the backdrop of Sagargad makes it very picturesque. A week into the monsoon, the dam overflows, and the stone wall becomes a lovely cascade. People can access the dam from the highway, which is relatively safe because there are no deep streams on the flow side. Soaking under the waterfall with the dam wall as back support is one of the most relaxing experiences. The dam’s garden has now been converted into an eco-sensitivity center, which should also be observed.
- Distance from Mumbai: 83.2 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Tinvira Bus Stop (1 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Murud Janjira Fort, Kihim Beach, Kolaba Fort, Nagaon Beach, Kanakeshwar Forest, Khanderi Fort, Akshi Beach, Rewas Jetty, Magnetic Observatory, Raigad Bazaar, Vikram Vinayak Temple
Hetavne Dam
This dam is not as well-known as others. This location is seldom visited, if not unknown. It should, however, be added to your monsoon bucket list.
- Distance from Mumbai: 83.5 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Ramwadi Bus Stand (14.1 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Raigad Fort, Jagadishwar Temple, Takmok Tok, Queen’s Palace, Raigad museum, ShivtharGhal, Gangasagar Lake, Sagargad Fort, Varsoli Beach, Kihim Beach, Kondana Caves
Bhatsa Dam
- Distance from Mumbai: 93.6 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Shahapur (10 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle, or via Train through Atgaon Station (7 km)
- Nearby Places to Visit: Bhandardara, Igatpuri, Tansa Lake, Tansa Dam, Wada
Vaitarna Dam
Vaitarna Dam, also known as Modaksagar Dam, is a gravity dam on the Vaitarna River that feeds water to Palghar, Mumbai, but is located in the districts of Palghar and Nashik in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It first opened its doors in 1957.
With the Western Ghats in the background, the dam is a popular picnic destination for inhabitants of adjacent towns such as Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik. This dam has a panoramic perspective thanks to a gorgeous lagoon with a huge stretch of backwaters surrounded by undulating woodlands. Many photographers and nature lovers visit the Vaitarna Dam.
Camping is ideal for people of all ages. Saturli Village is the finest site for camping because it has flat terrain around the water body. This location is easily accessible by vehicle and motorcycle. The greatest time to visit is during the monsoon season, when the rains enhance the splendor of this location, converting it into a green carpet.
- Distance from Mumbai: 104.7 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Devgaon Bus Stop (2 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Tringalwadi Fort, Vaitarna Dam, Vihigaon Waterfall, Kalsubai Peak, Ghatandevi Mandir, Camel Valley, Bhatsa River Valley
Modak Sagar Dam
- Distance from Mumbai: 107.9 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Devgaon Bus Stop (10 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle
- Nearby Places to Visit: Tringalwadi Fort, Vaitarna Dam, Vihigaon Waterfall, Kalsubai Peak, Ghatandevi Mandir, Camel Valley, Bhatsa River Valley
Bhavali Dam
The Bhavali Dam is a massive dam erected on the River Bham in the village of Bhavali in Igatpuri, Maharashtra. The dam, which stands 111.5 feet tall and 5090 feet long, is a famous tourist attraction in the area. People come here to admire the magnificent natural beauty, and it is also a favorite picnic location in the area. Furthermore, the dam’s water is used for cultivation and drinking in the neighboring areas. The location, which reeks of tranquillity and peace, may be reached by climbing a flight of approximately 100 stairs.
- Distance from Mumbai: 127.4 km
- Nearest Bus Stand: Igatpuri Bus Stand (3.5 km)
- How To Visit: Bus, Cab, Personal Vehicle, or via train through Igatpuri Railway Station (3 km)
- Nearby Places to Visit: Tringalwadi Fort, Vaitarna Dam, Vihigaon Waterfall, Kalsubai Peak, Ghatandevi Mandir, Camel Valley, Bhatsa River Valley
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Mumbai, the world’s most populous city, quenches its thirst with fresh water from seven lakes/dams. There are several dams near Mumbai. The four dams are located on the outskirts of Mumbai. Vaitarna, Tansa, Bhatsa, and Modak Sagar are the four dams. The other three lakes are all located in Mumbai.
Jayakwadi Dam is located in the Paithan tehsil of the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India. It is Maharashtra’s largest dam.
Following are the major dams of Maharashtra:
1. Koyna Dam
2. Mula Dam
3. Mulshi Dam
4. Ujjani Dam
5. Jayakwadi Dam
There are around 1821 dams in Maharashtra.
The Mithi River flows through Salsette Island, an island in Mumbai, India.