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Pong Dam lake guide
A huge reservoir in western Kangra and one of north India's great winter bird sanctuaries.
430 m
Kangra district
about 60 km from Gaggal Airport
Pong Dam on the Beas created the Maharana Pratap Sagar, a vast lake in the low hills of western Kangra. It is a Ramsar wetland of international importance, and every winter tens of thousands of migratory birds arrive, including big flocks of bar-headed geese.
Few tourists come here, which is the charm: wide water, low hills, sunsets, and Ransar island, a forest-department camp in the middle of the lake.
Things to do in Pong Dam Lake
- Winter birdwatching: November to March, especially around Nagrota Surian and the lake shore.
- Ransar island: Forest-department huts on an island in the lake; book in advance.
- Sunset on the lake: Wide views with the Dhauladhar far behind.
How to reach Pong Dam Lake
About 60 km from Gaggal Airport and 65 km from Dharamshala, via Kangra and Nagrota Surian or towards Talwara.
Best time to visit Pong Dam Lake
November to March for birds. Summers are hot on the lake shore.
Where to stay
Most people visit as a day trip from Dharamshala or Kangra.
Pong Dam Lake: questions
When is the best time for birdwatching at Pong Dam?
From November to March, when migratory birds winter on the lake. January and February usually have the biggest numbers.
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