Ghodahada Dam
Ghodahada Dam, located near Digapahandi, is one of the largest and most scenic irrigation projects in southern Odisha. Built across the Ghodahada River, a tributary of the Rushikulya, the dam serves as a vital water source for agriculture in the Ganjam district. Beyond its utility, the dam has evol ved into a popular eco-tourism destination due to its breathtaking natural beauty. The reservoir is surrounded by the dense forests of the Eastern Ghats and rolling hills, creating a landscape that looks like a painting. One of the most unique features of Ghodahada is its resident population of Mugger Crocodiles. Unlike many other places where crocodiles are kept in captivity, here they live freely in the reservoir and are often seen basking on the banks. The local community shares a unique bond with these reptiles, co-existing peacefully for decades. The area is also a haven for migratory birds during the winter, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The serenity of the place, away from the typical tourist trails, offers a perfect setting for a quiet day out. There is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ujjaleswar on a nearby hill, which adds a spiritual dimension to the visit. The sunrise and sunset at the dam are particularly spectacular, with the sky's reflection shimmering on the vast expanse of water. The government has recently developed eco-retreat facilities and parks to encourage sustainable tourism in this region.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Eco-Tourism & DamEntry Fees:
Entry Fee: No entry fee for the dam area; a small fee may be required for the children's park or boating.
Parking: Nominal parking charges for cars and bikes are applicable at the entrance. ...Entry Fee: No entry fee for the dam area; a small fee may be required for the children's park or boating.
Parking: Nominal parking charges for cars and bikes are applicable at the entrance.Timing:
Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Winter mornings (8:30 AM) are best for spotting crocodiles and enjoying the pleasant weather. ...Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Winter mornings (8:30 AM) are best for spotting crocodiles and enjoying the pleasant weather.Best Photo Spots:
Dam Wall: The long stretch of the dam wall provides a perfect perspective for wide-angle shots of the reservoir.
Sunset Point: The area near the sluice gates offers the best view of the sun setting behind the hills.
Read MoreDam Wall: The long stretch of the dam wall provides a perfect perspective for wide-angle shots of the reservoir.
Sunset Point: The area near the sluice gates offers the best view of the sun setting behind the hills.
Crocodile Banks: Use a zoom lens to capture the prehistoric-looking crocodiles resting on the distant muddy banks.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Crocodile Watching: Observe the Mugger Crocodiles from the safety of the dam walls as they bask in the sun.
Bird Watching: Carry binoculars to spot a variety of migratory birds that flock to the reservoir during winter.
Photography: Capture the stunning reflections of the surrounding hills in the crystal-clear water of the dam.
Visit Ujjaleswar Temple: Take a short trek up the hill to visit the temple and enjoy the panoramic landscape.
Boating: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride in the reservoir (subject to seasonal availability and safety guidelines).
Nature Walks: Explore the forest trails near the dam to experience the diverse flora and fauna of the Eastern Ghats.
...Crocodile Watching: Observe the Mugger Crocodiles from the safety of the dam walls as they bask in the sun.
Bird Watching: Carry binoculars to spot a variety of migratory birds that flock to the reservoir during winter.
Photography: Capture the stunning reflections of the surrounding hills in the crystal-clear water of the dam.
Visit Ujjaleswar Temple: Take a short trek up the hill to visit the temple and enjoy the panoramic landscape.
Boating: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride in the reservoir (subject to seasonal availability and safety guidelines).
Nature Walks: Explore the forest trails near the dam to experience the diverse flora and fauna of the Eastern Ghats.
Picnic: Spend quality time with family in the designated park areas while enjoying the cool breeze from the water.
Information
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Why Famous:
Crocodile Habitat: Famous for being a natural breeding and living ground for the Mugger Crocodiles in an open reservoir.
Scenic Picnic Spot: Renowned as one of the best locations for nature photography and family picnics in Ganjam. ...Crocodile Habitat: Famous for being a natural breeding and living ground for the Mugger Crocodiles in an open reservoir.
Scenic Picnic Spot: Renowned as one of the best locations for nature photography and family picnics in Ganjam. -
Architecture:
Earth-fill and Concrete Dam: A massive engineering structure designed for irrigation and flood control.
Dimensions: The dam has a length of approximately 1,724 meters and a maximum height of 27. 23 meters. The reservoir has a storage capac...Earth-fill and Concrete Dam: A massive engineering structure designed for irrigation and flood control.
Dimensions: The dam has a length of approximately 1,724 meters and a maximum height of 27. 23 meters. The reservoir has a storage capacity of over 20 million cubic meters and covers a significant catchment area of 138 sq. kms. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Bhubaneswar Airport is the nearest, located about 210 KMS from the dam site.
By Train: Berhampur (BAM) is the nearest major railhead, situated approximately 50 KMS away.
By Road: Well-connected vi...By Air: Bhubaneswar Airport is the nearest, located about 210 KMS from the dam site.
By Train: Berhampur (BAM) is the nearest major railhead, situated approximately 50 KMS away.
By Road: Well-connected via Digapahandi; one can take a taxi or a private car from Gopalpur or Berhampur.
By Local Transport: Regular buses run from Berhampur to Digapahandi, from where local autos can be hired. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter (Nov to Feb): Best time for sightseeing, bird watching, and seeing crocodiles basking in the sun.
Monsoon (July to Sept): The dam is at its fullest and the scenery is incredibly green, but stay safe near the water.Winter (Nov to Feb): Best time for sightseeing, bird watching, and seeing crocodiles basking in the sun.
Monsoon (July to Sept): The dam is at its fullest and the scenery is incredibly green, but stay safe near the water.
Evening Time: Late afternoons are beautiful for photography, but ensure you leave before dark as it is a remote area. -
Near Tourist Places:
Taptapani Hot Spring (30 KMS), Tara Tarini Temple (45 KMS), Berhampur (50 KMS), Gopalpur Beach (60 KMS), Chandragiri (55 KMS), Khasada Waterfall (45 KMS), Tampara Lake (65 KMS), Bhairabi Temple (60 KMS), Panchama Temple (55 KMS), Narayani Temple (70 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Strictly avoid going near the water's edge due to the presence of crocodiles; follow all safety signs.
Packing: Carry your own food and water as there are limited shops; wear comfortable walking shoes.
Read MoreHealth & Safety: Strictly avoid going near the water's edge due to the presence of crocodiles; follow all safety signs.
Packing: Carry your own food and water as there are limited shops; wear comfortable walking shoes.
Accommodation: Limited options nearby; it is best to stay in Berhampur or Gopalpur and plan a day trip.
Cash & Connectivity: Cash Required for all local transactions; no ATMs in the immediate vicinity; mobile signal is patchy.Reviews
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