Tungarli Lake & Dam
Historical Significance and Purpose: Tungarli Lake & Dam is an artificial reservoir created by constructing a dam across the Tungarli stream, primarily to provide water supply to the inhabitants of Lonavala town and the surrounding areas. The construction dates back to the early 20th century, during the British colonial era, showcasing a strong piece of functional engineering. It serves as a vital water source, making it important both functionally and aesthetically. The calm waters of the lake reflect the sky and the surrounding hills, creating a spectacular scene that changes dramatically with the season and time of day. It’s particularly important in managing water resources during the long dry spell.The Landscape and Ambiance: The dam and lake are nestled amidst the picturesque Sahyadri mountains, surrounded by rolling hills that are densely forested. This makes the environment incredibly peaceful and quiet, a welcome break from the busy tourist areas. The wide, flat top of the dam wall is a popular spot for morning and evening walks, offering a clear view of the water on one side and the valley on the other. The area is largely undeveloped, preserving its natural, rustic charm. During the monsoon, the dam overflows, creating its own small, beautiful cascade that attracts many visitors.An Ideal Retreat: Tungarli is less about adventure and more about serenity. It is a preferred spot for couples, families, and solo travelers who wish to spend a few hours relaxing, reading, or simply watching the sunset. The lake's calm waters are a habitat for various bird species, making it a favorite location for bird watchers. The easy accessibility from the city center makes it a convenient and essential part of the Lonavala experience, providing a stunning natural backdrop for quiet reflection and enjoying the cool, fresh air of the hill station.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1. 5 to 2. 5 HoursPlace Type:
Reservoir, Scenic Viewpoint, Relaxation SpotEntry Fees:
No Direct Entry Fee: There is no official ticket or entry fee for visiting the Tungarli Lake or walking on the dam wall, as it is a public water management structure.
Vehicle Parking: Parking near the dam is usually unregulated or managed by ...No Direct Entry Fee: There is no official ticket or entry fee for visiting the Tungarli Lake or walking on the dam wall, as it is a public water management structure.
Vehicle Parking: Parking near the dam is usually unregulated or managed by local volunteers, who may charge a small, variable fee (around Rs.20 to Rs.50 for a car) on weekends to control traffic and security, which should be paid respectfully.
Activity Costs: Any activity like boating (if offered seasonally and regulated) or purchasing local snacks will have its own cost, but the location itself is free to access.Timing:
Regular Timings: The area is generally accessible from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: The two most preferred times are sunrise (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) for tranquility and sunset (5:00 PM to 6:30 PM) for the spectacular views.Regular Timings: The area is generally accessible from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: The two most preferred times are sunrise (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) for tranquility and sunset (5:00 PM to 6:30 PM) for the spectacular views.
Avoidance Time: The midday period (11:00 AM to 3:00 PM) can be quite hot and crowded, diminishing the peaceful experience.
Monsoon Access: While beautiful during the rains, access to the dam wall might be restricted briefly if the water level is too high for safety. Check local updates before visiting during a heavy downpour.Special Events:
Local Fisherman's Festival (Seasonal): While official large-scale events are rare due to its water supply function, the local community, particularly those involved in regulated fishing, often holds small, informal harvest and thanksgiving gatherings near the dam banks, usua...Local Fisherman's Festival (Seasonal): While official large-scale events are rare due to its water supply function, the local community, particularly those involved in regulated fishing, often holds small, informal harvest and thanksgiving gatherings near the dam banks, usually after the monsoon or during the Diwali season, celebrating a successful year of water retention and community welfare. This provides a rare glimpse into local rural life.Best Photo Spots:
The Dam Wall Center: Standing in the middle of the dam wall provides a symmetrical, 360-degree view. One side offers the expansive, still lake, and the other, the deep valley and cascading spillway (in monsoon). This spot is essential for balanced landscape photography.The Dam Wall Center: Standing in the middle of the dam wall provides a symmetrical, 360-degree view. One side offers the expansive, still lake, and the other, the deep valley and cascading spillway (in monsoon). This spot is essential for balanced landscape photography.
The Hilltop Viewpoint: A short, accessible climb up the hill directly adjacent to the dam offers a full bird's-eye view of the entire lake and dam structure, perfect for showing the scale of the reservoir and the surrounding hills.
Sunrise/Sunset Shore: The eastern and western shores, where light breaks or dips, are ideal for capturing golden hour shots, focusing on the water reflections and the silhouettes of the surrounding Sahyadri peaks.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Leisurely Walks on the Dam Wall:
Morning Strolls: Take a refreshing walk along the wide crest of the dam wall, which is often done by locals and tourists in the early morning.
Sunset Viewing: Witness the magnificent sunset over the Sahyadris as the sky turns into a canvas of orange and pink, a mandatory activity here.
Duration: Allow 1 hour for a slow walk and viewing.
Photography and Scenic Shots:
Reflections: Capture the stunning reflections of the clouds and hills in the still waters of the lake.
Macro Shots: Focus on the rich variety of waterfowl and small, local fauna near the lake's edge.
Panorama: The elevated position of the...Leisurely Walks on the Dam Wall:
Morning Strolls: Take a refreshing walk along the wide crest of the dam wall, which is often done by locals and tourists in the early morning.
Sunset Viewing: Witness the magnificent sunset over the Sahyadris as the sky turns into a canvas of orange and pink, a mandatory activity here.
Duration: Allow 1 hour for a slow walk and viewing.
Photography and Scenic Shots:
Reflections: Capture the stunning reflections of the clouds and hills in the still waters of the lake.
Macro Shots: Focus on the rich variety of waterfowl and small, local fauna near the lake's edge.
Panorama: The elevated position of the dam allows for excellent panoramic landscape photography, especially of the lake meeting the mountains.
Picnicking and Relaxation:
Family Fun: The grassy banks near the lake are perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket and spending quality time with family and friends.
Reading: The peaceful environment makes it an ideal spot to read a book or journal, listening only to the sounds of nature.
Kite Flying: On windy days, especially during winter, flying a kite from the open area near the dam is a popular, fun activity.
Bird Watching: The lake is an important ecological spot. Carry binoculars to spot local and migratory waterfowl, especially early in the morning. Species often seen include various ducks, egrets, and cormorants, providing a subtle, enriching nature activity.
Information
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Why Famous:
Source of Water and Life: Its primary fame comes from being a crucial source of drinking and irrigation water for Lonavala and Khandala. This utilitarian function makes it a respected and protected site by the locals.
Sunrise and Sunset Views:Source of Water and Life: Its primary fame comes from being a crucial source of drinking and irrigation water for Lonavala and Khandala. This utilitarian function makes it a respected and protected site by the locals.
Sunrise and Sunset Views: Tungarli is widely famous among photographers and romantics for offering the most spectacular, uninterrupted views of sunrise and sunset in the area. The calm water acts as a perfect mirror, doubling the beauty of the colorful sky.
Peaceful Ambiance: Unlike crowded tourist spots, Tungarli Lake retains a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere, making it a famous retreat for those seeking peace and quiet amidst nature, away from the hustle of the town center. -
Architecture:
The Masonry Dam Structure and Material: The dam is a classic example of British colonial-era masonry architecture, primarily built using locally sourced stone and mortar.
Dimension: It is a relatively low-height gravity dam, built to withsta...The Masonry Dam Structure and Material: The dam is a classic example of British colonial-era masonry architecture, primarily built using locally sourced stone and mortar.
Dimension: It is a relatively low-height gravity dam, built to withstand the hydrostatic pressure of the water it holds. The dam crest provides a safe walking path, spanning several hundred meters in length. The spillway section, where excess water is released, is a key architectural feature, designed for controlled overflow, which turns into a temporary waterfall during the peak monsoon season.
The Reservoir System and Catchment: The lake, or reservoir, is the primary feature. The dam’s architectural design efficiently captures the seasonal runoff from the surrounding hills, ensuring maximum storage. The dam’s base includes simple, manually operated sluice gates and outlets designed to control the flow of water into the main supply canals for Lonavala town. The engineering here is simple, functional, and long-lasting, integrating perfectly with the natural bowl of the valley. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Similar to Kune Waterfalls, the closest airports are Pune International Airport (PNQ, 70 KMS) and Mumbai International Airport (BOM, 95 KMS). A taxi ride is the only option from the airport directly to the lake area.
By Train: Lonava...By Air: Similar to Kune Waterfalls, the closest airports are Pune International Airport (PNQ, 70 KMS) and Mumbai International Airport (BOM, 95 KMS). A taxi ride is the only option from the airport directly to the lake area.
By Train: Lonavala Railway Station (LNL) is the nearest station (4 KMS). It is a major hub connected to metropolitan areas. From the station, the lake is a short 15-minute journey.
By Road: From Lonavala town, the lake is easily reachable via a well-paved road that winds slightly uphill. It is a simple drive of 10 to 15 minutes. It is easily navigable by private car or taxi. From Mumbai or Pune, take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Lonavala exit and follow the signs for Tungarli Village.
By Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are the most common and convenient way to get to Tungarli Lake from anywhere in Lonavala town. The fare should be negotiated beforehand, typically around Rs.100 to Rs.150 depending on the starting point. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
The Post-Monsoon Magic (October to November): This period is arguably the best. The lake is full, the surrounding hills are still intensely green, and the air is clear and cool without the heavy, persistent rain of the core monsoon. The ideal day-part is the late afternoon...The Post-Monsoon Magic (October to November): This period is arguably the best. The lake is full, the surrounding hills are still intensely green, and the air is clear and cool without the heavy, persistent rain of the core monsoon. The ideal day-part is the late afternoon for the sunset.
The Gentle Winter (December to February): Ideal for quiet picnics and long walks. The cool temperature (dropping to 10°C) makes daytime visits very comfortable. The ideal day-part is the early morning for peaceful walks and cool air.
The Monsoon Season (July to September): The dam often overflows, creating a spectacular sight. The atmosphere is very dramatic with low-hanging clouds and mist. However, access can be restricted due to heavy rain. The ideal day-part is mid-morning, between the heavy showers. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Lonavala Market (4 KMS) 2. Bushy Dam (10 KMS) 3. Duke's Nose (10 KMS) 4. Lion's Point (12 KMS) 5. Tiger Point (15 KMS) 6. Karla Caves (12 KMS) 7. Lohagad Fort (16 KMS) 8. Ekvira Devi Temple (13 KMS) 9. Ryewood Park (4 KMS) 10. Valvan Dam (5 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety:
Insects: Carry mosquito repellent, especially during the monsoon and evening hours.
Slippery Surfaces: Be cautious while walking on the dam wall, especially if it has recently rained, as ston...Health & Safety:
Insects: Carry mosquito repellent, especially during the monsoon and evening hours.
Slippery Surfaces: Be cautious while walking on the dam wall, especially if it has recently rained, as stone can be slippery.
Packing Essentials:
Binoculars: Recommended for bird watching.
Water Bottle: Carry your own reusable water bottle.
Warm Layers: Evenings can be cool, so pack a light jacket or shawl.
Accommodation:
Resorts: Several excellent mid-range and luxury resorts are located near Tungarli Village, offering beautiful views of the lake.
Homestays: You can find cozy, local homestays that offer an authentic village stay experience.
Environmental Responsibility:
Avoid Pollution: Since this is a drinking water source, absolutely no littering, washing, or polluting of the lake water is allowed. Please respect this rule strictly.
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