Dhupdal Dam
The Charm of Dhupdal: Dhupdal Dam, also known as the Ghataprabha Weir, is one of the oldest and most significant water management structures in the Belagavi region. Located near the town of Gokak, it was originally constructed by the British in 1883 to divert the waters of the Ghataprabha River into a canal system for irrigation. The dam is an engineering marvel of the colonial era, featuring a long, low masonry wall that creates a serene reservoir. This reservoir is the primary source of water for the nearby Ghataprabha Bird Sanctuary. The site is remarkably picturesque, especially during the Monsoon season when the river is in full flow and the excess water spills over the weir in a uniform, curtain-like fashion. A beautifully maintained garden is located adjacent to the dam, providing a perfect spot for families to picnic and relax amidst lush greenery. The dam also plays a role in the historical industrialization of the region, as it supplied water to the Gokak Mills, where the first hydroelectric power in India was generated in 1887. Today, it remains a vital lifeline for the local agricultural community and a peaceful retreat for tourists visiting the nearby Gokak Falls. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rocky outcrops and deciduous vegetation that turns vibrant green after the rains. Walking along the dam offers panoramic views of the river backwaters and the distant hills. It is a place where history, utility, and nature converge seamlessly. Despite being over a century old, the structure remains robust, standing as a testament to 19th-century masonry techniques. For those looking for a quiet afternoon away from the crowds of the main falls, Dhupdal offers a tranquil environment with cool breezes and rhythmic sounds of flowing water.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Dam / Picnic SpotEntry Fees:
Garden Entry: A small entry fee of Rs.10-20 is charged for the maintenance of the Dhupdal garden.
Parking Fees: Standard parking charges of Rs.20 for cars apply at the entrance. ...Garden Entry: A small entry fee of Rs.10-20 is charged for the maintenance of the Dhupdal garden.
Parking Fees: Standard parking charges of Rs.20 for cars apply at the entrance.Special Events:
Monsoon Festival: Though informal, the opening of the weir during heavy rains attracts thousands of local visitors.
Garden Shows: Occasional floral displays organized by the tourism department in the nearby gardens. ...Monsoon Festival: Though informal, the opening of the weir during heavy rains attracts thousands of local visitors.
Garden Shows: Occasional floral displays organized by the tourism department in the nearby gardens.Best Photo Spots:
The Weir Edge: Capturing the "water curtain" effect with a slow shutter speed.
Garden Walkway: Photos of the symmetrical garden against the backdrop of the dam.
Twilight Reflection: The river backwaters glow...The Weir Edge: Capturing the "water curtain" effect with a slow shutter speed.
Garden Walkway: Photos of the symmetrical garden against the backdrop of the dam.
Twilight Reflection: The river backwaters glowing during the blue hour.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Garden Strolls: Walk through the manicured lawns of the Dhupdal garden.
Viewing the Weir: Watch the water spill over the masonry wall in a beautiful curtain.
Photography: Take long-exposure shots of the flowing water over the dam.
Picnic: A perfect spot for a weekend outing with home-cooked food.
Visit the Garden Fountains: Enjoy the "water dance" during the evening hours.
Birding: Spot early morning birds that fly over from the nearby sanctuary.
Educational Tour: Learn about the 19th-century irrigation system of the Ghataprabha.
Evening Relaxation: Sit by the river and enjoy the cool breeze away from city heat. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Historic Weir: It is famous as one of the oldest dams in the region, built during the British era to support the local textile industry.
Peaceful Ambience: Unlike the roaring Gokak Falls, Dhupdal is known for its calm, curtain-like water flo...Historic Weir: It is famous as one of the oldest dams in the region, built during the British era to support the local textile industry.
Peaceful Ambience: Unlike the roaring Gokak Falls, Dhupdal is known for its calm, curtain-like water flow and serene gardens. -
Architecture:
Colonial Masonry: Built in 1883, the Dhupdal Dam reflects British colonial irrigation architecture. It is a long weir constructed of dressed stone masonry with lime mortar.
Garden Layout: The adjacent Dhupdal Garden is designed in a classic...Colonial Masonry: Built in 1883, the Dhupdal Dam reflects British colonial irrigation architecture. It is a long weir constructed of dressed stone masonry with lime mortar.
Garden Layout: The adjacent Dhupdal Garden is designed in a classic symmetrical style, featuring paved walkways, manicured lawns, and floral beds that complement the horizontal lines of the stone weir. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Belagavi Airport is 75 KMS away; take a taxi via the Gokak route.
By Train: Ghataprabha Railway Station (5 KMS) is very close and well-connected to Belagavi.
By Road: Regular KSRTC buses run from Be... -
Near Tourist Places:
Gokak Falls (6 KMS), Ghataprabha Bird Sanctuary (4 KMS), Godachinmalki Falls (10 KMS), Yogikolla (12 KMS), Hidkal Dam (25 KMS), Belagavi (65 KMS), Sankeshwar (35 KMS), Hukkeri Fort (20 KMS), Mahalingeshwara Temple (6 KMS), Rani Channamma Circle (30 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Be careful near the water edge; the current can be strong during the Monsoon.
Packing: Bring a picnic mat and basic snacks; the local shops have limited varieties.
Accommodation: Best to s...
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