Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake (Pong Lake)

Region: On The Beas River, Siwalik Hills, Kangra
Best time to visit: The weather during summer months (April to June) is pleasant and mild

Located in Kangra district, Maharana Pratap Dam is a man-made reservoir. In 1960, a dam was built on the river Beas which ultimately leads to formation of the huge Maharana Pratap Sagar lake. The reservoir is a popular tourist spot of Himachal Pradesh where one can do paddle boating or simply take in the view while walking along the boulevards. The reservoir is a man-made wet land, and is spread over an area of 45,000 hectares.

Don't miss the scenic beauty of the lake which offers a pleasant view of the hills and landscapes; apart from this, the reservoir is an animal sanctuary as well, known as the Maharana Pratap Sagar Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to diversified flora and fauna, while the water sport center established here is a good spot for some adventure and fishing.

Bird watching is an activity that attracts visitors to the Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake. During the months of summer, flock of migratory birds flies to the Maharana Pratap Sagar lake. Since the lake is nestled in the sylvan surroundings of the Kangra valley, it has become home to major species of birds, fishes and animals. One can catch the glimpses of endangered birds, like Northern Lapwing, Spot-Billed Duck, Barheaded Geese, Ruddy Shelduck, Northern Pintail and many more while walking on the lakeside. Maharana Pratap Sagar lake is home to many variety of fishes as well like plovers, egrets, black-headed gulls, terns, etc. Tourist can also spot animals like sambar, wild-boars, oriental small-clawed otters, leopards and barking dears.

Set the spirits free and take a dive in the Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake. The lake is an extraordinary destination for the adventure fanatics to feel the adrenaline rush. Various water sports like canoeing, rowing, sailing, and water skiing, apart from swimming are organized here.

Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake provides excitement like no other. Don't wait further, carry a picnic basket, a book, binoculars and camera and spend a peaceful afternoon on the banks of the lake.