Bargi Dam

Bargi Dam Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide – Madhya Pradesh

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Bargi Dam, located near Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh, is a striking example of India’s engineering prowess and a prominent tourist destination. Built across the Narmada River, the dam serves crucial roles in irrigation, hydropower, and water supply, while its vast reservoir—Bargi Lake or Rani Avanti Bai Sagar—has become a hub for recreation, eco-tourism, and cultural events. Set amidst scenic landscapes and close to historic sites like Bhedaghat and Marble Rocks, Bargi Dam is an ideal getaway for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. This detailed guide provides all essential information—history, visiting hours, ticketing, travel tips, activities, facilities, and more—to help you plan your visit seamlessly. (Holiday Landmark, Jabalpurwala, Trawell.in, TravelSetu, MPTourAndTravels)

Introduction
History, Engineering, and Socio-Economic Impact
Visitor Information
Things to Do at Bargi Dam
Accommodation Options
Essential Tips & FAQs
Visual Suggestions
Useful Links & References
Conclusion

History, Engineering, and Socio-Economic Impact

Historical Background

Bargi Dam was conceptualized in the late 1960s by the Central Water and Power Commission as part of a major initiative to harness the Narmada River for irrigation, hydropower, and water supply in Madhya Pradesh. Construction began in 1974 and was completed in the late 1980s, with the dam creating a 75-kilometer-long reservoir covering nearly 268 square kilometers. The project was among the first in the Narmada Valley Development Plan and set a precedent for future river management and development in the region. (Holiday Landmark, Jabalpurwala)

Engineering Features

Structure: Earth-masonry composite, 5.4 kilometers in length, maximum height of 69.8 meters (masonry) and 29 meters (earth section).
Reservoir: Spans 267.97 sq km; storage capacity of 3.92 billion cubic meters.
Hydropower: Installed capacity of 105 MW (90 MW riverbed, 15 MW canal-based).
Irrigation: Extensive left and right bank canals irrigate up to 402,000 hectares in Jabalpur, Mandla, and Seoni districts.
Water Supply: Major source for domestic and industrial needs in the region.
Environmental Impact: Submergence led to displacement of local communities and ecological changes, but also fostered new habitats for birds and aquatic species. Rehabilitation projects and cooperative societies have been established for affected groups. (CWE Journal, IJRDET)

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours & Entry Fees

Hours: Open daily from 8:00 or 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Times may vary slightly seasonally; mornings and late afternoons are best for sightseeing.
Entry Fees: General entry is free. Boating, cruises, and some water sports have separate ticket charges (typically ₹100–₹500 per person, depending on activity). Tickets are available on-site and, for some activities, online via the official Madhya Pradesh Tourism website. (TravelSetu)

Getting There & Accessibility

By Road: 33–40 km from Jabalpur via Jabalpur–Nagpur NH-7 (NH-44). Taxis, private vehicles, and buses are readily available.
By Rail: Jabalpur Junction is the nearest station; major trains connect from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other cities.
By Air: Jabalpur (Dumna) Airport is about 50 km away with regular flights to major metros.
Accessibility: Paved walkways and ramps make the main areas accessible for most visitors; some boating and adventure activities may have limited access for differently-abled guests.

Facilities & Food

Parking: Ample parking for private vehicles and tourist buses.
Food: The Maikal Resort restaurant offers local cuisine; additional snacks and tea stalls are available on-site. For more variety, visit eateries in Jabalpur.
Restrooms: Clean washrooms are located near main viewing and recreation areas.
First Aid: Basic medical facilities are available; the nearest full-service hospital is in Jabalpur.

Things to Do at Bargi Dam

Boating & Water Sports

Cruise Boat: Operated by MP Tourism, cruise rides offer panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding hills—ideal for families and groups.
Speed Boating & Jet Skiing: For adventure seekers; life jackets are mandatory.
Paddle & Banana Boating: Fun for families and children.
Kayaking/Canoeing: Available for more tranquil exploration. (MPTourAndTravels, Tripoto)

Birdwatching & Nature Walks

Birdlife: Spot Myna, Saras (crane), Kali Gauriya, and migratory species, especially in winter.
Nature Trails: Walk through forested hills and lakeside paths; ideal for photography and relaxation. (Jabalpur District Official)

Picnicking & Photography

Picnic Spots: Landscaped gardens and shaded areas are perfect for family outings.
Photography: Capture sunrises, sunsets, dam architecture, and vibrant local life.

Nearby Attractions

Bhedaghat & Marble Rocks: Stunning marble cliffs and Dhuandhar Falls (~40–50 km away).
Chausath Yogini Temple: Ancient hilltop shrine with views.
Balancing Rock, Madan Mahal Fort: Historical and natural sites in Jabalpur.
Kanha National Park: Renowned wildlife sanctuary (~150 km from dam).

Accommodation Options

Maikal Resort (MPTDC): Six air-conditioned rooms with lakeside views and a restaurant.
Hotels in Jabalpur: Wide range from budget to luxury; recommended for broader choice and amenities.
Advance Booking: Essential during peak season (October–March).

Essential Tips & FAQs

Practical Tips

Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy serene views.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for landscape photography.
Carry sunscreen, hats, and water bottles.
Use digital payments where possible, but keep some cash for local purchases.
Follow safety guidelines for all water sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the visiting hours for Bargi Dam?
A: Generally 8:00 or 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily; confirm locally for seasonal changes.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Entry is free; boating and water sports are chargeable.

Q: How do I book boating or cruises?
A: Tickets are sold on-site and online via the official tourism website—advance booking is advised on weekends/holidays.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: October–March is ideal; monsoons (July–September) bring lush views but may limit activities.

Q: Are restrooms and food available?
A: Yes, basic facilities are available on-site.

Q: Can I combine Bargi Dam with visits to other attractions?
A: Absolutely—Bhedaghat, Marble Rocks, and Kanha National Park are popular nearby destinations.

Visual Suggestions

Panoramic View: “Bargi Dam panoramic view during sunset”
Boating: “Boating at Bargi Dam reservoir”
Dam Structure: “Bargi Dam earth-masonry composite structure”
Birdwatching: “Migratory birds at Bargi Dam reservoir”
Tourist Activities: “Tourists enjoying boating at Bargi Dam”
Nearby Sites: “Marble Rocks cliffs at Bhedaghat”

A map highlighting Bargi Dam’s location and nearby attractions can further enhance visitor orientation.

Useful Links & References

Conclusion

Bargi Dam stands as a testament to Madhya Pradesh’s growth, blending utility with natural and cultural attractions. Its well-maintained infrastructure, range of activities, and proximity to other key sites make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region. By following the tips and guidelines above, travelers can enjoy a safe, enriching, and memorable experience—whether for a day trip or a longer holiday.

For the latest updates, ticketing, and personalized travel advice, download the Audiala app or follow us on social media. Plan your visit to Bargi Dam now to experience the synergy of nature, adventure, and heritage in the heart of India.