The short answer
Rana Pratap Sagar Dam: what visitors should know first
A good, short stop if you are in Rawatbhata: the dam is large, the views are open and it takes under an hour. Security rules may apply, so carry ID and ask locally about access to the dam top and recreational area.
History and context
The story behind Rana Pratap Sagar Dam
Construction of the dam began in 1953 as part of the Chambal River Valley Development plan, and it was completed in 1970. The cost was about Rs 4,065 million, including the power plant.
It is a gravity masonry dam with an ogee spillway, 53.8 m high and 1,143 m long, built 48 km downstream of Gandhi Sagar Dam.
Useful facts
Rana Pratap Sagar Dam facts at a glance
- Location
- Near Rawatbhata, Chittorgarh district
- Experience type
- Dam viewpoint and reservoir
- Opened
- 9 February 1970
- Size
- 53.8 m high, 1,143 m long
- Power
- 172 MW hydroelectric station
Why it matters
Why Rana Pratap Sagar Dam is worth your time
Rana Pratap Sagar is one of four dams on the Chambal, along with Gandhi Sagar, Jawahar Sagar and Kota Barrage. Construction began in 1953 as part of the Chambal Valley development plan, and it was opened on 9 February 1970. The dam is about 53.8 m high and 1,143 m long, with a reservoir covering roughly 198 sq km.
Its 172 MW hydropower station and its water supply to the Rajasthan Atomic Power Station explain why Rawatbhata exists as a town. Seeing the dam helps you understand the landscape and the water that shapes the sanctuary and the fort's river setting.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The dam wall
A long masonry wall holds back the Chambal reservoir.
- 02
Reservoir birds
The reservoir is a wetland for resident and migratory birds.
- 03
Recreational area
A viewpoint area gives a broad view of the dam.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Start at the recreational area, which gives a wide view of the dam wall and the reservoir. The dam is a gravity masonry structure, with a spillway built to handle large floods, and the power station at its foot generates electricity.
If access to the road across the top is open, drive or walk it slowly and look upstream over the water. The reservoir stretches back towards Gandhi Sagar Dam and works as a wetland for resident and migratory birds, so bring binoculars in winter.
Treat it as a half-hour or hour stop rather than a full outing. Keep to permitted areas, follow any security instructions, and avoid photographing restricted infrastructure.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Carry ID in case of security checks
- Go early or late for softer light
- Bring binoculars in winter
- Avoid photographing restricted areas
- Carry water; shade is limited
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Near Rawatbhata, Chittorgarh district, about 7 km from Bhainsrorgarh
- Time needed
- 45-60 minutes
- Best time
- Morning or late afternoon, after the monsoon
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The recreational area and viewpoints are mostly level. There is little shade, so go early and carry water.
- Tickets and access
- Access rules and any fees are not published here. Security restrictions may apply at the dam and power station; carry identification and confirm locally.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Rana Pratap Sagar Dam
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The recreational area and viewpoints are mostly level. There is little shade, so go early and carry water.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
When was the dam built?
Construction began in 1953 and it was opened on 9 February 1970.
Can you walk on the dam?
Access to the dam top depends on current rules; confirm locally.
Is it near the fort?
Yes, Rawatbhata and the dam are a short drive from Bhainsrorgarh Fort.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
