This happens to be the world's largest earthen dam. Not impressed? The dam also forms the largest artificial lake in Asia. That should definitely do it. The lake, being the largest, also attracts eye-catching wildlife, especially many migratory birds in the winter season. Naturally, the waters in the dam recede as summer kicks in. This doesn't mean that the majestic location won't be worth visiting during summers as this is the time when you'll be able to see temples (on a boat ride in the dam) which are otherwise submerged in water during winters. While close to 150 structures have been destroyed remaining deluged underwater over a period of 58 years, 50 still remain intact. These lost temples make up a great opportunity to dive and explore the underbelly of the dam for adventure enthusiasts all over the world. Moreover, its reservoir is also 55 km long. So if you've been planning a long drive, this is the place to be. Visitors have 2 viewing points to look down at the awe-striking panorama, namely, Nehru Minar and Gandhi Minar.
Length: 25.8 km
Height: 61 m
Location: Sambalpur, Orissa
River: Mahanadi River
While the Hirakud dam tops the charts for being the longest in the country (and in the world), it isn't the highest. The Tehri dam is the Highest Dam in India and the eighth highest in the world. The dam's first phase was built only recently, in 2006. The lake reservoir formed by this dam is a major tourist hub and attracts adventurers from all over the country. Jet skiing, paragliding, and boat riding are activities frequented by travellers flocking in here.
Length: 575 m
Height: 261 m
Location: Tehri, Uttarakhand
River: Bhagirathi River
Built over the sacred Narmada river, Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat (or Narmada Dam) boasts a height of 163 meters. One can't get bored of visiting this magnificent place as there's a lot to see. For starters, there's a beautiful garden with the backdrop of waters gushing down where you could spend some quality time with your family. No doubt the view is spectacular here. But even better is the fact that there are multiple viewing points for you to grasp it all in. There's also a trekking site nearby, so plan a one-day trip with your squad to warm up your hiking muscles.
Length: 1210 m
Height: 163 m
Location: Gujarat
River: Narmada River
The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam in Telangana has an impressive structure to show off. Given the fact that it started building back in 1956, due to lack of advanced technologies, the dam was constructed stone by stone. This gives it the title of largest masonry dam of India. With an exalting height of 124 meters, the dam also forms the third largest lake in the world. This beautiful water body provides an enthralling view of native wildlife. The dam has a lot to offer. There's a wildlife reserve and also a natural waterfall to visit nearby.
Length: 1450 m
Height: 124 m
Location: Telangana
River: Krishna River
The Bhakra Nangal Dam is a human-made wonder. Located on Sutluj River on the Himachal-Punjab border, Bhakra Nangal is world's highest straight gravity dam. The dam forms the Gobind Sagar reservoir which stretches over a humongous area of 40 km sq. Whether you want to indulge in adventure sports such as kayaking, water skiing, kayaking, sailing and water scooter racing or spend a day unwinding, surrounded by a breathtaking view of alluring waters, the Bhakra Nangal Dam never disappoints.
Length: 520 m
Height: 226 m
Location: Punjab and Himachal
River: Sutlej River
For those who have ticked off major tourist destinations in India, head over to any of these dams for a good time. Pristine waters, lush green sceneries, and extravagant wildlife sum up a perfect day's trip to plan with your fam.