Gobind Sagar Lake

Located in the picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh, Gobind Sagar Lake is a man-made reservoir that stands as a testament to human ingenuity harmoniously blending with nature’s beauty. Created by the construction of the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River, this vast expanse of water offers a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes Gobind Sagar Lake a must-visit destination.

Historical Significance and Creation

Gobind Sagar Lake was formed in 1976 following the completion of the Bhakra Dam, one of India’s highest gravity dams. The dam was named after the revered Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, and the reservoir was subsequently named Gobind Sagar in his honour. The primary purpose of the dam and the reservoir was to provide irrigation, generate hydroelectric power, and supply drinking water to Punjab, Himachal and other Northern states of India. Over time, Gobind Sagar has also become a hub for tourism and recreational activities.

Bhakra Nangal Dam

Irrigation and power was one of the critical needs of the country in the early years after India’s independence. This Bhakra Dam was one of the biggest projects and was built for the purpose of hydroelectric power generation and for providing much-needed water for irrigation to the Northern states of India.

In 1952, the American Dam Builder MH Slocum came from the US to take over the reins as the primary construction adviser for the Bhakra Nangal dam. In January of the following year, the building of the dam started and was finished in 1963. This is what Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru first Prime Minister of India said about the Bhakra Dam in Bilaspur:-

“Bhakra Nangal Project is something enormous, something stupendous, and also something that shakes you up once you view it. Bhakra, the temple of resurgent India, is the emblem of India’s progress”

Bhakra Dam’s Water Level keeps changing from time to time and is often around 16000 ft. During monsoon, the water level is brought down to prevent flooding.

Geographic and Ecological Overview

Spanning an area of approximately 170 square kilometres, Gobind Sagar Lake stretches across the districts of Bilaspur and Una. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and dense forests, creating a breathtaking landscape that attracts visitors year-round. The lake’s fluctuating water levels, which depend on the season and the dam’s water management needs, add to its dynamic beauty.

The reservoir is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The waters of Gobind Sagar are rich in fish, making it a popular spot for angling. Species like the mahseer and catfish thrive here, providing both ecological balance and recreational opportunities for fishing enthusiasts.

Activities and Attractions

Gobind Sagar Lake is today a popular tourist spot, attracting visitors from all over India and abroad. The lake is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and other water activities.  The Tourism Department of Himachal Pradesh has a constructed Water Sports Complex in Bilaspur with facilities for boarding, accommodation and various types of equipment are also provided.  The plethora of activities for visitors here are :

Boating and Water Sports

Boating is one of the most popular activities on the lake. Various types of boats, including paddle boats and motorboats, are available for hire. For thrill-seekers, water sports such as water skiing, sailing, and kayaking provide an adrenaline rush against the backdrop of stunning scenery.

River Rafting

River rafting or white water rafting, has also made Bilaspur very popular. To get a dose of the adrenaline rush, one can go for rafting across the rapids of the river — Sutlej, directly from Rampur to Bilaspur, passing through the serpentine route in deep gorges, placid mountains, green alpine meadows, and thick woods, all forming a massive spectrum. Those who are new to these sports or don’t have any swimming experience can also enjoy this thrilling experience in an inflatable rubber dinghy, on a number of those milder rapids.

Fishing

As mentioned, Gobind Sagar is a paradise for anglers. The lake’s well-stocked waters are perfect for fishing, and enthusiasts often spend hours trying to catch the prized mahseer.  The Lake is known for its rich fish population, which includes species such as trout, mahseer, and catfish. Anglers can rent fishing equipment and engage in catch-and-release fishing in designated areas around the lake.  Fishing permits can be obtained from local authorities, ensuring sustainable fishing practices.

Nature Walks and Trekking

The area around Gobind Sagar Lake is crisscrossed with trails perfect for nature walks and trekking. These trails offer an opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the region, with chances to spot various bird species, small mammals, and unique plant life.

Haven for Migratory Birds

The surrounding hills and forests of Gobind Sagar make it a haven for bird watchers, as it is home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species, including the black-necked crane and the bar-headed goose. Migratory birds flock to the lake during the winter months. The lake is home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species, including black-necked crane and bar-headed goose. Bird-watching is a popular activity around the lake.

Bilaspur Town

A visit to Gobind Sagar Lake is incomplete without exploring the nearby town of Bilaspur. This quaint town offers a blend of traditional Himachali culture and modern amenities. The Bhakra Dam itself is a marvel of engineering and a significant attraction. Visitors can also explore local temples, and markets, and enjoy the hospitality of the local people. For history buffs, there are numerous old forts and temples, many of which are in ruins but still incredibly fascinating.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gobind Sagar Lake is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. During these months, the lake’s water level is stable, making it perfect for boating and fishing. The monsoon season, from July to September, sees the lake at its fullest, creating a spectacular sight, but activities may be restricted due to safety concerns.

Where to Stay in Gobind Sagar Lake and Around

Accommodation options near Gobind Sagar Lake range from budget-friendly guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Bilaspur town offers several lodging options with essential amenities. To find the best options for staying in Gobind Sagar Lake or in the near vicinity check out the travel sites like GoIbibo, Makemytrip, Booking and various other sites.  For a more immersive experience, visitors can opt for camping near the lake, enjoying nights under the stars in the tranquil waters.

How to Reach Gobind Sagar Lake

Reaching Gobind Sagar Lake from nearby towns and cities is relatively straightforward, thanks to well-connected roads and public transportation options. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Gobind Sagar Lake from various starting points:

From Bilaspur

Gobind Sagar Lake is just a short drive from Bilaspur town. The lake is approximately 20-30 kilometres away, and you can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Bilaspur to the lake. The route is as follows:-

• Start from Bilaspur town centre.
• Follow the National Highway NH-205 towards Sundernagar.
• Look for signs directing you to Gobind Sagar Lake.

From Shimla

Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is about 100 kilometres from Bilaspur and from there another 30 or so kilometres to reach Gobind Sagar Lake. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Shimla to Bilaspur, and then follow the directions from Bilaspur to Gobind Sagar Lake.

• Take the NH-205 from Shimla towards Bilaspur.
• The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

By Bus

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs regular bus services from Shimla to Bilaspur. From Bilaspur, you can take a local bus or taxi to Gobind Sagar Lake.

From Chandigarh

Chandigarh is about 165 kilometres away from Gobind Sagar Lake. With the opening of the four lane Kiratpur-Mandi expressway, the distance is much shorter and smooth.  The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours. You can hire a taxi or drive yourself. The route is as follows:-

• Take NH-205 from Chandigarh towards Ropar (Rupnagar).
• Continue on NH-205 through Kiratpur Sahib towards Bilaspur.
• From Bilaspur, follow the local directions to Gobind Sagar Lake.

By Bus

There are regular HRTC and private buses from Chandigarh to Bilaspur. Once you reach Bilaspur, local transport options will take you to Gobind Sagar Lake.

From Manali

Manali is about 185 kilometers from Gobind Sagar Lake. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bilaspur, and then follow the local directions from Bilaspur to Gobind Sagar Lake. Take the following route:-

• Take NH-3 from Manali to Mandi.
• From Mandi, take NH-154 to Bilaspur.
• From Bilaspur, follow the directions to Gobind Sagar Lake.

By Bus

HRTC runs buses from Manali to Bilaspur. The journey takes around 6-7 hours. From Bilaspur, you can take local transport to reach the lake.

From Delhi

Delhi is approximately 360 kilometres from Gobind Sagar Lake. The journey by road takes about 8-9 hours. You can hire a taxi or drive yourself.

• Take NH-1 from Delhi towards Ambala.
• From Ambala, switch to NH-205 towards Bilaspur.
• Continue on NH-205 through Kiratpur Sahib to Bilaspur.
• From Bilaspur, follow the local directions to Gobind Sagar Lake.
• You can also take Kiratpur Sahib to Mandi Four Lane Expressway

By Bus

There are regular Private Volvo and HRTC buses from Delhi to Manali, Kullu, and Mandi passing through Bilaspur. The journey takes about 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. From Bilaspur, take local transport to reach Gobind Sagar Lake.

By Train

You can take a train from Delhi to Kiratpur Sahib or Una, which are the nearest railway stations to Bilaspur. From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to Bilaspur, and then proceed to Gobind Sagar Lake.

Local Transportation

Once in Bilaspur or any of the nearby towns, local transportation options such as taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses are readily available to take you to Gobind Sagar Lake.

Conclusion

Gobind Sagar Lake is not just a reservoir; it is a vibrant ecosystem and a hub of cultural and recreational activities. Its serene waters, surrounded by lush hills and forests, offer a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking peace and tranquillity, Gobind Sagar Lake in Himachal Pradesh is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.