The short answer
Bhira dam and hydro project: what visitors should know first
Worth a short look if you are already driving to Devkund or Tamhini and enjoy industrial heritage. It is an operating power complex, so treat it as a viewpoint rather than a guaranteed tourist site, and check access rules locally.
History and context
The story behind Bhira dam and hydro project
Wikipedia says the Bhira Hydroelectric Project was completed in 1927, uses water from the Mulshi Dam, and has six 25 MW Pelton turbines plus a 150 MW pumped-storage generator added in 1997. Tata Power operates it, and it received national performance awards in 2007 and 2008.
Useful facts
Bhira dam and hydro project facts at a glance
- Location
- Bhira, Mangaon taluka, Raigad district
- Experience type
- Industrial heritage viewpoint
- Known for
- 1927 Tata hydro complex feeding the Kundalika
- Operator
- Tata Power
- Capacity
- Nominal 300 MW including 150 MW pumped storage
Why it matters
Why Bhira dam and hydro project is worth your time
Bhira explains the river you came to raft. Wikipedia notes that the plant was completed in 1927, has a nominal capacity of 300 MW including a 150 MW pumped-storage unit added in 1997, and is run by Tata Power with water from the Mulshi dam.
The Kundalika's release schedule is a direct consequence of that system, so a short visit helps visitors understand why the river runs when it does.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Hydro heritage
One of India's early large hydro projects, completed in 1927.
- 02
Why rafting works
Releases from this chain reach Kolad a few hours later and create the river flow that rafting depends on.
- 03
On the Devkund route
A natural stop between Kolad and the waterfall or Tamhini Ghat.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Bhira is a working power station set in forested hills, so approach it as a stop on a wider route. From Kolad it sits along the road to Devkund and the Tamhini Ghat; allow extra time for the winding drive.
What you can see from outside depends on current access rules, so keep expectations modest. Some travel guides mention picnic spots and reservoir boating nearby, but current arrangements are unverified, so ask your hotel or driver before building a plan around it.
If you are interested in how the Kundalika behaves, this is the place to understand it. Water from Mulshi passes through the Tata hydro chain, and releases here reach Kolad in the late morning, which is why rafting slots follow that timing.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Check what is accessible before you go
- Follow security signs; this is a working site
- Combine with Devkund or Tamhini rather than visiting alone
- Carry water and snacks
- Avoid heavy-rain days
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Bhira, Mangaon taluka, Raigad district
- Time needed
- 30-60 minutes if access is open
- Best time
- Post-monsoon, when the surrounding hills are green and roads are safer
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Mostly roadside viewing with little walking. There is limited seating and shade, and the area is a working site, so follow any signs and security instructions.
- Tickets and access
- This is an operating hydro complex run by Tata Power. Public access, viewpoints and any boating have varied; confirm what is open locally rather than assuming.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Bhira dam and hydro project
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are live on the partner site.
Travelling with parents?
Mostly roadside viewing with little walking. There is limited seating and shade, and the area is a working site, so follow any signs and security instructions.
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 Bhira project built?
Wikipedia says construction was completed in 1927. A pumped-storage generator was added in 1997.
Can I visit the power station?
Public access has varied. Treat it as an outside viewpoint and confirm locally before travelling.
How is it linked to Kolad?
Releases from the Tata hydro chain flow down the Kundalika and reach Kolad a few hours later.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
