Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam

January

10.7 - 32.3 °C

February

13.3 - 36.0 °C

March

17.5 - 39.5 °C

April

19.7 - 40.9 °C

May

19.8 - 42.1 °C

June

21.2 - 40.4 °C

July

21.5 - 36.1 °C

August

21.9 - 35.1 °C

September

21.7 - 35.8 °C

October

19.2 - 35.1 °C

November

14.1 - 33.3 °C

December

11.0 - 31.4 °C

Major Airports :

Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR)

Nearest Railway Station :

Ratlam Junction (RTM)

A River’s Gift to the Land

In the southern reaches of Rajasthan, where the Aravalli hills roll gently into the plains, the Mahi River flows like a lifeline. It is here, just 16 kilometers from Banswara, that nature and engineering meet in a spectacular union—the Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam. Known as the second-largest dam in Rajasthan, this colossal structure is more than concrete and stone; it is a promise of prosperity, a sanctuary of beauty, and a destination that leaves travelers spellbound.

The Story Behind the Marvel

The dream of harnessing the Mahi River began in the late 1960s, when the need for irrigation and power in Rajasthan’s tribal belt became urgent. The foundation stone was laid by Morarji Desai in 1960, and after years of relentless effort, the dam was completed in 1983 and dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Named after freedom fighter Jamnalal Bajaj, this multipurpose project transformed the region—bringing water to parched fields, generating clean energy, and creating a vast reservoir that now defines Banswara’s identity as the “City of Hundred Islands.”

An Engineering Wonder

Stretching over 3,019 meters in length and rising 43 meters high, the Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam is a masterpiece of masonry and embankment design. Its massive reservoir holds over 2 billion cubic meters of water, feeding an intricate network of canals that irrigate thousands of hectares across Rajasthan and Gujarat. The dam also powers a hydroelectric station with an installed capacity of 140 MW, lighting homes and fueling industries while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Nature’s Canvas

But beyond its utility, the dam is a feast for the senses. The vast expanse of water glimmers under the sun, dotted with countless islands that lend Banswara its poetic name. Hills rise in the distance, their green slopes mirrored in the tranquil waters. During monsoon, when the dam gates open and the river roars in full glory, the sight is nothing short of majestic—a photographer’s dream and a traveler’s delight.

Experiences That Await

Visiting the Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam is not just about admiring its scale; it’s about immersing yourself in its serene surroundings. Take a leisurely walk along the 3 km-long wall road, where the breeze carries whispers of the river. Pack a picnic and settle by the reservoir’s edge, or explore the nearby fountain gardens that add a splash of charm to the landscape. For those who love adventure, the islands beckon with opportunities for boating and nature trails.

Timings

Opening time - 06:00 AM

Closing time - 08:00 PM

The Best Time to Visit

While the dam is accessible year-round, the post-monsoon months (September to March) are ideal. The weather is pleasant, the reservoir brims with water, and the surrounding hills wear a lush green cloak. If you crave drama, visit during the rains when the spillway gates open—the thunderous cascade is a spectacle you’ll never forget.

Beyond the Dam

Pair your visit with explorations of Banswara’s other gems—Anand Sagar Lake, the ancient temples of Arthuna, and the sacred Tripura Sundari Temple. For a cultural touch, wander through local markets brimming with tribal handicrafts and vibrant textiles—a perfect way to carry home a piece of Rajasthan’s soul.