Tehri Dam FAQs

1. Where is the Tehri Dam located?

The Tehri Dam is situated on the Bhagirathi River in the Tehri district of Uttarakhand, India. It is about 70 kilometers from the city of Dehradun.

2. What is the purpose of the Tehri Dam?

The Tehri Dam serves multiple purposes, including:

• Hydroelectric Power Generation: It generates electricity to meet the energy needs of the region.
• Water Supply: It provides water for irrigation and drinking purposes.
• Flood Control: The dam helps in managing and controlling floods in the region.
• Tourism: It also serves as a tourist attraction with its scenic beauty and engineering marvel.

3. How tall is the Tehri Dam?

The Tehri Dam is one of the highest gravity dams in the world, with a height of approximately 260.5 meters (855 feet) from its foundation.

4. What is the capacity of the Tehri Dam?

• Reservoir Capacity: The dam creates a large reservoir with a total capacity of about 2.4 billion cubic meters.
• Hydroelectric Power: The installed capacity of the hydroelectric power plant is around 1,000 megawatts (MW).

5. When was the Tehri Dam completed?

The construction of the Tehri Dam began in 1978, and the dam was officially completed in 2006. The power generation facilities were commissioned in phases, with significant portions becoming operational in the early 2000s.

6. Is the Tehri Dam open to visitors?

Yes, the Tehri Dam is open to visitors, and there are designated areas where tourists can view the dam and the reservoir. However, access to certain areas may be restricted due to security and operational reasons.

7. Are there any entry fees or permits required to visit the dam?

There might be a nominal entry fee or permit required for visiting the dam, especially for groups or tourists. It’s best to check with local authorities or the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) for the latest information.

8. What are the best times to visit the Tehri Dam?

The best time to visit is during the cooler months from September to March. The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the views and surroundings comfortably.

9. Can visitors engage in activities around the Tehri Dam?

Visitors can enjoy activities such as sightseeing, photography, and boating on the reservoir. Some adventure activities like trekking and camping may also be available in the surrounding areas.

10. Are there any safety guidelines for visiting the Tehri Dam?

Yes, visitors should adhere to safety guidelines, which include:

• Following the instructions of local authorities and security personnel.
• Avoiding restricted areas.
• Wearing appropriate clothing and footwear.
• Being cautious near water and steep areas.

11. How can I reach the Tehri Dam?

• By Road: The Tehri Dam is accessible by road from major cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the dam.
• By Train: The nearest major railway station is in Dehradun. From there, you can travel by road to the dam.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. You can take a taxi or other transport from the airport to the dam.

12. What are the nearby attractions?

Nearby attractions include:

• Tehri Lake: For boating and water sports.
• Dhanaulti: A picturesque hill station.
• Rishikesh and Haridwar: Famous for their spiritual and cultural significance.