Arthur Lake & Wilson Dam - History, Timings & Entry Fee

Lake / Backwaters

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Bhandardara): 0.5 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1-2 Hours

Transportation Options: Walk/Trek

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 500 m from Bhandardara Bus Stop, Arthur Lake is a man-made lake situated in Bhadardara, Maharashtra. Also known as Lake Arthur Hill or Bhandardara Lake, it is one of the top places to visit in Bhandardara hill station.

Arthur Lake was formed due to the construction of Wilson Dam and is fed by the Pravara River. It is one of the must include places in Bhandardara tour packages. The clear and placid lake is bounded by thick forests of the Sahyadri hills. This lake is around 34 km long and the stream features a wonderful waterfall, named Randha Falls that comes down from over 45 m in height. This lake also holds religious importance, as Agastya Rishi meditated at this place.

Arthur Lake acts as a reservoir for the Bhandardara Dam or Wilson Dam. The construction work of the dam was started in 1910 AD and was completed in 1926 AD by the British. The dam is one of the oldest dams in India at a height of 492 feet and is famous for the nearby Umbrella Falls. When the gates opened, the outflow creates two huge cascades of water creating a spectacular sight. The dam was inaugurated by Lt. Col. Leslie Orme Wilson, who was the governor of Bombay, and the dam was named after him. There is also a swimming pool and a circular garden situated at the base of the Wilson Dam.

A boat ride on the placid waters of wondrous Arthur Lake is a memorable experience. The lake gets its water from the Pravara River and is bounded by thick canopied forests of the Sahyadri hills. Arthur Lake is also an ideal spot for camping & swimming in its pristine blue waters.

Boating Timings: 8 AM to 7 PM

Boating Cost: Rs. 200 per Person for 1 Hour