Bargi Dam

The Bragi Dam is built across the largest river of Madhya Pradesh, Narmada. Bargi is one of the first completed dams out of the chain of 30 major dams to be constructed on Narmada River. The beautiful view from the Bargi dam bridge and the provision to engage in water sports and boat riding/touring in the dam’s reservoir makes the site a favourite among tourists.

The dam construction work started in 1974 and was completed in 1990 when the dam was filled to its complete capacity. Although the proposed power generation was 105 MW, currently only 90 MW is being generated in this HydroPower Generation Plant. Two independent units of 45 MW each have been set up and they function mainly during the evening peak in demand. The height of the dam is 69 m and length 5.4 km. A lake of about 75 km in length and 4.5 km width, spreading over 267.97 km². In Jabalpur, Mandla and Seoni districts is formed when the water is impounded up to the dam FRL of 422.76 m.

Visiting Hours

Bargi Dam in Jabalpur is typically open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Tourism

Backwater of Bargi dam forms a huge lake having enormous potential for tourism development. Realizing this fact, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department took initiative to open a hotel with name of “Maikal Resort”. It offers accommodation, restaurant and boating facility in Bargi Dam. It is a medium sized hotel of air-conditioned rooms offering scenic view of Bargi dam water. Leisure activities offered at Bargi dam includes Cruise ride, water scooter, speed boating, paddle boating etc. Surrounding area of Bargi dam is also good for nature tourism which includes birdwatching, mammals sighting. In addition to this Jabalpur Tourism Promotion Council (JTPC) also organizes some adventurous games at Bargi Dam for tourism promotion.

How to Reach

• By Air: Nearest airport for reaching Bargi dam is Jabalpur Airport (IATA code:JLR). It is about 50 kms from Bargi dam in north direction. After reaching Jabalpur airport, you need to do further traveling by taxi vehicle.
• By Train: Nearest railway station for reaching Bargi Dam is Jabalpur railway station. It is just 40kms from Bargi dam. After reaching Jabalpur railway station, you need to hire a taxi cab for further journey.
• By Road: Their are two ways for reaching dam. One is by using Jabalpur – Mandla road and later using samadhi road to reach dam. Second way is to travel on Jabalpur – Nagpur highway NH-7 and on reaching Bargi police station, take left turn and reach the dam.

Water Activities:

• Speed Boating: A thrilling experience on the Narmada River.
• Paddle Boating: A slower-paced option for enjoying the reservoir.
• Water Scooting: Another way to experience the water.
• Boating Cruises: Full cruises are available with various pricing options.

Nature & Leisure:

• Walking: Stroll along the dam and surrounding areas for scenic views.
• Birdwatching: The area is known for various bird species.
• Wildlife Viewing: Potential sightings of mammals in the surrounding areas.
• Picnics: Bargi Dam is a popular spot for picnics, especially during the cooler months.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bargi Dam near Jabalpur is from October to March, particularly during the winter months (November to February). This period offers pleasant weather and is ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing and boating.