Pandoh Dam viewpoint
The Pandoh Dam viewpoint offers a panoramic overlook of the Pandoh Reservoir and the Beas River valley, with dramatic views of the dam’s concrete spillway and the surrounding Himalayan foothills. It is a short, accessible stop popular with photographers, nature lovers and travellers heading to Mandi and nearby hill towns. The site combines engineering interest with scenic landscape vistas—especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
Location
Pandoh Dam Viewpoint, Mandi (near Pandoh), Himachal Pradesh, India
Duration
30 minutes to 1.5 hours (can be extended if combining with a picnic or short walk).
Best Time to Visit
October to March for clear skies and crisp views; late afternoon/sunset or early morning for the best light. Monsoon (July–September) shows lush greenery but brings slippery paths and possible landslides.
Pricing
Free to visit. Small parking or vehicle entry fee may be charged at private/managed parking areas (typically ₹10–50).
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Panoramic views of Pandoh Reservoir and the Beas River valley
Visible dam structure and spillways (good for engineering/photography interest)
Sunrise and sunset vistas with Himalayan foothills as backdrop
Nearby picnic and resting spots
Opportunities for landscape and drone photography* (check local restrictions)
Itinerary
Park and walk to the main viewpoint platform.
Small footpaths and viewing platforms; brief uphill/steps may be present. Wear comfortable shoes.
Photography and viewing of the reservoir, dam, and valley.
Best to explore several vantage points along the verge; watch for barriers and restricted zones.
Short picnic or tea at nearby stalls; short walk to downstream gorge areas.
Local vendors may offer tea/snacks; carry trash back with you to keep the site clean.
Safety Requirements
Do not cross safety barriers or enter restricted/operational zones near the dam.
Keep a safe distance from steep edges and slippery rocks, especially during and after rain.
Children should be supervised at all times due to steep drop-offs.
No swimming or boating in unauthorized areas—strong currents and sudden releases may occur.
Carry ID and mobile phone; network may be patchy in some spots.
Tips
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.
Carry water, sun protection, and comfortable footwear for short walks.
Check local weather and road conditions in monsoon and winter (occasional fog/snow can reduce visibility).
If planning drone photography, confirm regulations with local authorities—Pandoh Dam is critical infrastructure and may have flight restrictions.
Use local parking areas and support nearby vendors; avoid littering to preserve the viewpoint.
Combine the stop with nearby attractions around Mandi (historic temples, local bazaars) for a fuller day trip.
