Valvan Dam: A Peaceful Retreat Near Lonavala

Valvan Dam is a beautiful destination located near Lonavala, Maharashtra, nestled amidst the lush green hills of the Sahyadri mountain range. The dam, surrounded by nature and scenic beauty, has become a popular spot for tourists looking to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the area. Whether you are a nature lover, photographer, or just someone seeking a peaceful escape from the city, Valvan Dam is an ideal destination. In this article, we will discuss Valvan Dam, its history, significance, and everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful location.

What is Valvan Dam?

The Valvan Dam is a small dam located near the hill station town of Lonavala, within the Pune district of Maharashtra. This dam is built on the River Valvan flowing through the region and is used mainly for providing water for irrigation and as a source of water storage for the adjacent areas.

The dam also caters to supplying water to another popular dam nearby Lonavala, known as Bhushi Dam, which is essential for the regional water supply mechanism. The basic function of the Valvan Dam is to help in irrigation and manage the water supply for the neighboring regions. Over time, this functional dam has transformed into a destination for tourists with its serene surroundings and breathtaking scenery.
History of Valvan Dam
The construction of Valvan Dam was carried out in the early 20th century. It was during 1933 when it was built. The Bombay Presidency constructed this dam for irrigation, mainly to sustain the requirements of agricultural fields of the area. At the time of its building, the dam helped support the agriculture-based economy of the region.

Today, Valvan Dam is one of the most important sources of water supply for the regions surrounding it. In the course of time, it has also become a popular halt for travelers who visit Lonavala due to its peaceful ambiance and the beautiful views it offers.

Valvan Dam Location: Near Lonavala

Valvan Dam Lonavala is located just around 3 kilometers from the main town of Lonavala, thus making it easily accessible to both locals and tourists. The dam is situated at the foot of the Sahyadri range, where the beauty of the hills, valleys, and dense forests present themselves dramatically.

The climate of Lonavala is said to be quite amiable, with natural beauty. Thousands of visitors visit this place throughout the year, especially during weekends and holidays. As a popular hill station in Maharashtra, Lonavala is a perfect base for visiting the nearby attractions like Karla Caves, Bhushi Dam, and, of course, Valvan Dam. In case you are visiting Lonavala, do not forget to visit Valvan Dam to complete your sightseeing.

Attractions Around Valvan Dam

Valvan Dam may be small in size, but the surrounding environment is full of natural beauty and some interesting attractions that make this place a wonderful destination. Some of the most important attractions one can enjoy visiting Valvan Dam include:

Serene Surroundings: The surroundings of the dam are covered with lush greenery, dense forests, and rolling hills. The calmness around the dam makes it an ideal place for a day out to relax, a family picnic, or even a quiet walk. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts find the area to be a perfect one.

Valvan Dam Garden: On one side of the dam, there is a neat garden where one can sit and breathe fresh air. The garden is a good place for families to relax, and it also offers some beautiful photo opportunities with the dam and surrounding mountains as a backdrop.

Photography: The scenario here for photography is striking if you take photographs. The calm waters of the reservoir, the greenery, and the far distant hills are just perfect scenes for taking beautiful pictures. Early morning mist or the golden light of sunset will make this the dam a memorable capture.

Picnics and Relaxation: Due to the peaceful surroundings and cool breeze, Valvan Dam is a great spot for a relaxing picnic with family and friends. The serene environment offers a welcome break from the busy city life, and visitors can enjoy the calm atmosphere while soaking in the views.

Trekking Around the Dam: For outdoor enthusiasts, trekking around Valvan Dam is a thrilling activity. The hills and forests near the dam can be trekked, and walking through the lush landscape enhances the beauty of visiting the place. There are trails that lead to the dam, giving a beautiful view of the surroundings.

Near Attraction: Valvan Dam, while visiting it, you may visit other near attractions in Lonavala as well. Bhushi Dam, Karla Caves, Lohagad Fort, and Tung Fort can be visited all in a day from Valvan Dam.

Best Time to Visit Valvan Dam

The best time to visit Valvan Dam is from October to March, that is, winter time when the weather is pleasant and cool. During this time, the weather in Lonavala is nice for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoons from June to September may also be an excellent time for visit if one likes green sceneries with misty weathers. However, in the monsoon season, the place may face very heavy rain and slippery paths that may lead to restricted access to certain places.

Summers (April to June) in Lonavala can be quite warm, and hence, if you are planning to visit the outdoors around Valvan Dam, it would be best to visit during early morning or late afternoon hours.

How to Reach Valvan Dam

Valvan Dam Lonavala is accessible by road from both Pune and Mumbai. Here’s how you can reach the dam:

From Pune, Valvan Dam is at about 65 kilometers, and it takes by car and taxi something like 1.5 to 2 hours. You can take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to reach Lonavala and then follow the road signs for Valvan Dam.

If you’re coming from Mumbai, then this dam is approximately around 83 kilometers away and would take about 2 to 2.5 hours of driving time. Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to reach Lonavala, and you can follow the road signs to find your way to the dam.

By Train: Lonavala is well-connected by train to both Pune and Mumbai. From Lonavala station, you can get a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the dam, which is 3 kilometers away.

Valvan Dam Timings and Entry Fees

Valvan Dam is open throughout the year for visitors. Being in a relatively peaceful area, you can visit it at any time between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. There are no specific entry fees for visiting the dam or its garden, making it an affordable destination for families, friends, and solo travelers. However, it is recommended to check for any updated regulations or timings before your visit, especially during holidays or peak tourist seasons.

Conclusion

Valvan Dam is a hidden treasure near Lonavala, a place for a serene retreat amidst the natural beauty of Maharashtra. It can be a perfect day out to relax or a picnic. Scenic views of the hills and valleys make it an attractive destination for tourists. Accessibility from both Pune and Mumbai makes it an ideal weekend getaway for people looking to break free from city life and get in touch with nature.

Valvan Dam is definitely worth a visit when you are at Lonavala, with its lush greenery, serene surroundings, and historical background. So pack your bags, bring your camera, and off to the Valevan Dam for a memorable day in nature’s beauty!