Tehri Dam Uttarakhand
Tehri Dam Uttarakhand – Complete Travel, Adventure & Floating Hut Guide
Nestled in the beautiful hills of Uttarakhand, Tehri Dam is not only India’s tallest dam but also one of its most thrilling adventure destinations. Standing proudly on the Bhagirathi River, Tehri Dam is an engineering marvel that now powers thousands of homes and attracts adventure lovers from across India.
What was once a project filled with political, environmental, and social challenges has today become the beating heart of New Tehri’s tourism. Surrounded by snow-clad peaks, peaceful forests, and the sparkling Tehri Lake, this destination is where engineering meets nature – and adventure meets serenity.
What Is Tehri Dam?
Tehri Dam – India’s Tallest Dam
Tehri Dam Uttarakhand stands 260.5 meters (855 ft) tall and stretches 575 meters in length. It is a rock and earth-fill embankment dam that forms the massive Tehri Lake, covering around 52 square kilometers. The dam generates 1,000 MW of hydroelectric power, with an additional 1,000 MW through pumped storage.
The dam complex includes the Koteshwar Dam (400 MW) downstream, together known as the Tehri Hydropower Complex, providing electricity, irrigation, and drinking water across multiple Indian states including Uttarakhand, Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana.
Tehri Dam Uttarakhand – Location & River
Tehri Dam in Which State?
Tehri Dam is located in Uttarakhand, India, in the scenic Tehri Garhwal district.
Tehri Dam Is On Which River?
It is built on the Bhagirathi River, one of the main tributaries of the sacred Ganga.
Where Is Tehri Dam Located?
The dam lies near New Tehri town, about 80 km from Rishikesh and around 110 km from Dehradun.
History of Tehri Dam
The idea for Tehri Dam began in 1961 under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s government. The design, completed by 1972, aimed for a 600 MW capacity, but actual construction began in 1978. The project faced several delays due to funding issues, protests, and environmental concerns.
By 1986, the USSR offered technical and financial support, but after political changes, India continued the project independently. In 1988, the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) was formed to oversee the dam, with most funding provided by the central government.
After decades of struggle and opposition, the dam was finally completed in 2006, marking one of the most ambitious engineering feats in India’s history.
Tehri Dam Technical Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Rock & Earth-fill Embankment Dam |
| Height | 260.5 m (855 ft) |
| Length | 575 m |
| Base Width | 1,128 m |
| Crest Width | 20 m |
| Reservoir Capacity | 3.54 km³ |
| Surface Area | 52 km² |
| Installed Power | 1,000 MW + 1,000 MW Pumped Storage |
| River | Bhagirathi River |
| Location | Tehri Garhwal District, Uttarakhand |
Environmental & Social Story
The dam’s construction displaced over 100,000 people, submerging the old town of Tehri. The residents were resettled in New Tehri, a modern planned town.
Famous environmentalist Sunderlal Bahuguna led protests for years, highlighting concerns about earthquakes, resettlement, and the impact on the sacred Ganga river.
The region falls within a seismic zone, but engineers assure that the dam is designed to withstand earthquakes up to 8.4 magnitude.
Rishikesh to Tehri Dam Distance & How to Reach
- Distance: Around 78 km from Rishikesh to Tehri Dam
- Travel Time: Approximately 2–3 hours by road
- Best Route: Rishikesh → Narendra Nagar → Chamba → New Tehri
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (around 90 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh (around 75 km)
You can easily hire a taxi or self-drive through scenic mountain roads. Public buses and shared jeeps also operate regularly from Rishikesh and Dehradun.
Adventure at Tehri Dam & Tehri Lake
1. Boating on Tehri Lake
Glide across the calm turquoise waters surrounded by the mighty Himalayas. From peaceful paddle boating to speed boating, the lake offers every kind of thrill. Don’t miss the golden reflections of sunset on the lake – it’s a photographer’s delight.
2. Jet Skiing
For adrenaline lovers, jet skiing on Tehri Lake is a must. The vast expanse allows you to race at high speed with wind in your hair and Himalayan peaks in your sightline.
3. Kayaking & Canoeing
If you enjoy calm adventure, try kayaking or canoeing. Rentals are easily available at the Tehri Lake Adventure Zone. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
4. Banana Boat Rides
Groups and families can hop on a banana boat ride – a fun, splashy activity where you hold tight as the boat whips through the waves.
5. Parasailing Over Tehri Lake
Imagine soaring high above the glistening lake, looking down on the dam and surrounding forests. Parasailing is one of the most popular and visually stunning experiences here.
6. Scuba Diving (Seasonal)
Yes, scuba diving in Tehri Lake is a new adventure offered by certified operators. Divers can explore the submerged remains of old Tehri town – a haunting yet fascinating experience.
7. Water Zorbing
Roll, bounce, and laugh your way across the lake inside a huge transparent ball. Water zorbing is great fun for kids and families.
8. Trekking Around Tehri
Several short treks begin near Tehri Lake – such as to Chamba Hilltop, Kanatal, or Kunjapuri Temple – offering mesmerizing Himalayan views.
9. Camping & Bonfire Nights
Spend a night under the stars beside the lake. Adventure camps offer tents, bonfires, local food, and music – a perfect blend of thrill and relaxation.
10. Tehri Lake Festival
Held annually by the Uttarakhand Tourism Department, the Tehri Lake Festival showcases adventure sports, cultural performances, folk dances, and food stalls. It’s one of the best times to visit Tehri Dam for both locals and travelers.
Floating Huts – Stay on Water
Perhaps the most unique attraction at Tehri Lake is the floating huts or floating cottages. Imagine waking up to sunrise over the water, sipping tea on your private deck, and watching reflections of mountains on the lake’s glassy surface.
Facilities usually include:
- Cozy bedroom and balcony
- Attached modern bathroom
- Dining area on the deck
- 24-hour electricity and safety staff
A night in a floating hut feels like a dream – it’s peaceful, eco-friendly, and Instagram-worthy!
Why Visit Tehri Dam – Top Reasons
- Tallest Dam in India – Experience a true engineering wonder.
- Adventure Paradise – Water sports, trekking, and parasailing await thrill seekers.
- Unique Stay Options – Floating huts and lakeside camping for peaceful nights.
- Breathtaking Views – Snow-covered Himalayan peaks and blue lake waters.
- Cultural & Natural Blend – A mix of spirituality, nature, and innovation.
Best Time to Visit Tehri Dam
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| March – June (Summer) | Ideal for adventure sports, pleasant weather |
| July – September (Monsoon) | Lush greenery but risky travel |
| October – February (Winter) | Cold and clear views of the snow peaks |
The Tehri Lake Festival is usually held in March, making it the perfect time for an adventurous getaway.
Travel Tips for Tehri Dam Visitors
- Carry light woolens even in summer; evenings get chilly.
- Always wear life jackets during water sports.
- Pre-book floating huts or camps during peak season.
- Respect local culture and environment – no littering.
- Hire local guides for trekking or diving activities.
Sample 3-Day Tehri Adventure Itinerary
Day 1 – Rishikesh to Tehri
- Depart early morning from Rishikesh
- Stop at Kunjapuri Temple for sunrise views
- Reach New Tehri by afternoon
- Evening walk near Tehri Lake
Day 2 – Tehri Adventure
- Enjoy water sports: jet skiing, kayaking, parasailing
- Visit Tehri Dam viewpoint
- Evening bonfire & dinner at lakeside camp
Day 3 – Floating Hut Experience & Return
- Morning breakfast on floating hut deck
- Short trek or visit Chamba town
- Return to Rishikesh by evening
Conclusion
Tehri Dam Uttarakhand is more than a power project – it’s a story of human ambition, nature’s beauty, and thrilling adventure. From its towering presence over the Bhagirathi River to the serenity of floating huts, from heart-pumping jet skiing to tranquil boating, Tehri offers experiences for every kind of traveler.
If you love mountains, water, and adventure, Tehri Dam should be on your travel list. Come explore India’s tallest dam – where the Himalayas meet innovation, and every sunrise over Tehri Lake feels like a new beginning.