Deras Dam
Purpose and Location: Deras Dam was primarily built for irrigation purposes, but its location amidst the dense forest and rolling hills of the Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary has transformed it into a popular scenic and picnic spot. Ecological Importance: The dam and its reservoir are a crucial source o f rainwater and sustained water supply for the wildlife, especially the elephants, in the adjacent Chandaka-Dampara Elephant Sanctuary. Tranquility and Nature: It offers a serene escape from the city, characterized by a quiet, lush green landscape and beautiful views of the reservoir and the surrounding small hillocks. It's a key destination for nature lovers.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 hoursPlace Type:
Nature, Picnic Spot, WildlifeEntry Fees:
Entry Fee: There is a nominal entry fee, typically around INR 40 per person, for visitors entering the dam area/picnic grounds, managed by the forest or irrigation department.
Vehicle Charges: A separate fee is usually charged for parking pr...Entry Fee: There is a nominal entry fee, typically around INR 40 per person, for visitors entering the dam area/picnic grounds, managed by the forest or irrigation department.
Vehicle Charges: A separate fee is usually charged for parking private vehicles (cars/bikes).
Safari Cost: If a guided safari into the Chandaka Sanctuary is undertaken, there are separate, higher charges applicable per person and vehicle.
Rest House: If accommodation or use of the rest house is requested, separate charges apply via prior booking.Timing:
Regular Timings: Generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (or 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM). It is often closed after sunset for safety as it borders the sanctuary.
Ideal Visit Time: Afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) is the best time to visit for enjoyin...Regular Timings: Generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (or 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM). It is often closed after sunset for safety as it borders the sanctuary.
Ideal Visit Time: Afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) is the best time to visit for enjoying the magnificent sunset and for the coolest part of the day.
Avoid Midday: Visiting during the hot midday hours is discouraged due to the heat and sun exposure on the embankment.Special Events:
Kumbha Mela (Local): Though not strictly a special event, the local communities around the dam and sanctuary often hold annual harvest festivals and local fairs that are unique to the area.
Monsoon Reservoir Filling: Observing the reservoir ...Kumbha Mela (Local): Though not strictly a special event, the local communities around the dam and sanctuary often hold annual harvest festivals and local fairs that are unique to the area.
Monsoon Reservoir Filling: Observing the reservoir filling up during the peak of the Monsoon season (August/September) is a spectacular natural event showcasing the dam's function.
Wildlife Census/Week: During the state's official Wildlife Week (first week of October), special forest-led programs and guided walks may be organized.Best Photo Spots:
Sunset Over Reservoir: The number one spot is any clear vantage point on the dam's embankment, capturing the sun setting over the wide water body.
Forest Reflections: The reflection of the dense forest and blue sky in the calm water provides...Sunset Over Reservoir: The number one spot is any clear vantage point on the dam's embankment, capturing the sun setting over the wide water body.
Forest Reflections: The reflection of the dense forest and blue sky in the calm water provides stunning symmetrical compositions.
Dam Structure: Capture the functional architecture of the dam wall and spillways, contrasted with the natural green background.
Panoramic Hill View: Photographing the entire dam from an elevated point on one of the surrounding small hillocks.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Day Picnicking: Choose a spot on a hillock or by the reservoir for a relaxing picnic with family and friends.
Nature Walks: Take a peaceful walk along the dam's top or the designated pathways, enjoying the fresh air and green surroundings.
Birdwatching: The reservoir attracts various species of local and migratory birds, making it a great spot for ornithologists and hobbyists.
Photography: Capture the reservoir's landscape, especially the sunset, and the lush forest cover.
Wildlife Safari (Optional): Inquire about a guided safari or trek in the adjoining Chandaka Elephant Sanctuary for a deeper wildlife experience.
Relaxation: Simply sit and enjoy the quiet, serene ambience of the water and the h...Day Picnicking: Choose a spot on a hillock or by the reservoir for a relaxing picnic with family and friends.
Nature Walks: Take a peaceful walk along the dam's top or the designated pathways, enjoying the fresh air and green surroundings.
Birdwatching: The reservoir attracts various species of local and migratory birds, making it a great spot for ornithologists and hobbyists.
Photography: Capture the reservoir's landscape, especially the sunset, and the lush forest cover.
Wildlife Safari (Optional): Inquire about a guided safari or trek in the adjoining Chandaka Elephant Sanctuary for a deeper wildlife experience.
Relaxation: Simply sit and enjoy the quiet, serene ambience of the water and the hills.
Visit Nearby Shikhar Chandi: Make a combined trip to the nearby Maa Shikhar Chandi Temple for panoramic views.
Information
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Why Famous:
The Chandaka Connection: It is famous primarily for its location bordering the Chandaka-Dampara Elephant Sanctuary, making it a fantastic spot to observe nature and wildlife, particularly birds and the possibility of spotting elephants near the water's edge.The Chandaka Connection: It is famous primarily for its location bordering the Chandaka-Dampara Elephant Sanctuary, making it a fantastic spot to observe nature and wildlife, particularly birds and the possibility of spotting elephants near the water's edge.
Photogenic Sunsets: The quiet waters of the reservoir provide stunning reflections, making it one of the best locations near Bhubaneswar for sunset and landscape photography.
The Picnic Destination: It is a highly favored day-trip and picnic spot for families and groups due to its peaceful ambience and green surroundings, offering a respite from the urban environment. -
Architecture:
Earth-fill Structure: The dam is typically an earth-fill structure, designed to hold back the seasonal rainwater, creating a large reservoir. The design is utilitarian, focusing on water management.
Reservoir Landscape: The architecture is ...Earth-fill Structure: The dam is typically an earth-fill structure, designed to hold back the seasonal rainwater, creating a large reservoir. The design is utilitarian, focusing on water management.
Reservoir Landscape: The architecture is defined by the large, quiet expanse of the reservoir, flanked by viewing points and embankments that offer panoramic vistas of the water meeting the forest.
Tourist Infrastructure: Minimal but effective infrastructure includes pathways, designated picnic spots, and a forest department/irrigation rest house, all blending into the natural environment. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), approximately 27 KMs away. Hire a private cab or taxi for the journey.
By Train: Nearest is Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS), approximately 25 KMs away. Hire a taxi as public tr...By Air: Nearest is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), approximately 27 KMs away. Hire a private cab or taxi for the journey.
By Train: Nearest is Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS), approximately 25 KMs away. Hire a taxi as public transport is less frequent.
By Road: Located on the Kantabada - Deras Dam Road, it requires a dedicated drive. Accessible by private car or hired taxi from Bhubaneswar city.
By Local Transport: Local buses and shared autos are infrequent; it is best to hire a taxi for a return trip, or an auto-rickshaw for a full-day fare. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
July to October: Best Season to visit. The Monsoon brings the maximum water to the dam, and the surrounding hills are at their most lush green and beautiful.
Winter (November-March): Pleasant and cool, excellent for picnics, though the wate...July to October: Best Season to visit. The Monsoon brings the maximum water to the dam, and the surrounding hills are at their most lush green and beautiful.
Winter (November-March): Pleasant and cool, excellent for picnics, though the water level might be lower.
Late Afternoon (Ideal Day Part): Visiting between 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM is perfect for watching the sunset and capturing the soft light. -
Near Tourist Places:
Nandankanan Zoological Park (22 KMs), Chandaka-Dampara Elephant Sanctuary (Adjoining), Maa Shikhar Chandi Temple (21 KMs), Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden (17 KMs), Dhauli Shanti Stupa (35 KMs), Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves (25 KMs), Cuttack City (25 KMs), Pathani Samanta Planetarium (20 KMs), Odisha State Museum (21 KMs), Lingaraj Temple (25 KMs).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Since it is near a wildlife sanctuary, adhere strictly to all forest department rules. Do not wander into the forest after dark.
Packing Essentials: Carry your own food, snacks, and plenty of water as dining options are ver...Health & Safety: Since it is near a wildlife sanctuary, adhere strictly to all forest department rules. Do not wander into the forest after dark.
Packing Essentials: Carry your own food, snacks, and plenty of water as dining options are very limited. Wear insect repellent.
Accommodation Advice: No Accommodation is available at the dam itself. Stay in Bhubaneswar city and treat this as a day trip.
Other Tips: Maintain silence and avoid littering to protect the sanctuary and wildlife. Be cautious near the water's edge.
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