Kamleshwar Dam Gir National Park
A vital water source in Gir National Park, teeming with crocodiles and birds, offering stunning views and a chance to spot lions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Animals are most active
Kamleshwar Dam Gir National Park
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital water source in Gir National Park, teeming with crocodiles and birds, offering stunning views and a chance to spot lions.
"Beautiful dam with a great view and a lot of crocodiles inside this dam."
🎯 Inquire About Route 12
Ask your safari guide for Route 12, as it's often recommended for wildlife sightings, including near Kamleshwar Dam . :compass:
⚠️ Stay Safe Near Water
Guides will warn you about crocodiles. Always heed their advice and maintain a safe distance from the riverbanks . :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kamleshwar Dam Reservoir
Gir National Park
A vital water source attracting diverse wildlife, including crocodiles and birds. Offers stunning natural beauty.
Crocodile Spotting
Kamleshwar Dam
The dam is a known habitat for mugger crocodiles; keep a safe distance from the banks as advised by guides.
Birdwatching Haven
Kamleshwar Dam
Attracts a variety of bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
Potential Lion Sightings
Near Kamleshwar Dam
While rare, lions have been spotted near the dam's banks. Early morning and late afternoon safaris offer the best chances.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Safari for Kamleshwar Dam
Accessing Kamleshwar Dam
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Inquire About Route 12
Ask your safari guide for Route 12, as it's often recommended for wildlife sightings, including near Kamleshwar Dam. :compass:
⚠️ Stay Safe Near Water
Guides will warn you about crocodiles. Always heed their advice and maintain a safe distance from the riverbanks. :warning:
📸 Capture Nature's Beauty
The dam offers stunning views, especially during monsoon. Ideal for photographers seeking wildlife and landscapes.
🦁 Lucky Lion Sightings
While not guaranteed, lions are occasionally spotted near the dam. Early morning/late afternoon safaris increase your odds. :lion:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Inquire About Route 12
Ask your safari guide for Route 12, as it's often recommended for wildlife sightings, including near Kamleshwar Dam. :compass:
⚠️ Stay Safe Near Water
Guides will warn you about crocodiles. Always heed their advice and maintain a safe distance from the riverbanks. :warning:
📸 Capture Nature's Beauty
The dam offers stunning views, especially during monsoon. Ideal for photographers seeking wildlife and landscapes.
🦁 Lucky Lion Sightings
While not guaranteed, lions are occasionally spotted near the dam. Early morning/late afternoon safaris increase your odds. :lion:
🐦 Birdwatcher's Paradise
The reservoir is a hotspot for diverse bird species. Bring binoculars if you're an avid birdwatcher.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kamleshwar Dam is a beautiful and significant natural reservoir within Gir National Park, praised for its stunning views and abundant wildlife, particularly crocodiles and birds. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see these creatures up close, though caution is advised near the water. While lion sightings are rare, the dam remains a highlight of many safari experiences.
"Beautiful dam which is covered during the safari at Route 3. A lovely beautiful dam with a great view and a lot of crocodiles inside this dam. I also spotted a crocodile near the bank of this river so the driver and guide will warn you not to go near the river as it could be very dangerous. If you are lucky then you may also sight a lion walking on the bank of this dam but very rarely. Overall a lovely place"
Rahul Parab
"Kamleshwar Dam, also known as Hiran-I Dam, is a significant water reservoir located in Gir National Park, Gujarat, India. The dam is situated on the Hiran River and was completed in 1959 for irrigation purposes. With a height of approximately 25 meters and a length of 1304 meters, the dam creates a substantial reservoir with a surface area of 8 square kilometers.
The dam is a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, as it attracts a variety of bird species and is home to mugger crocodiles. The surrounding landscape offers stunning views, making it an ideal location for nature lovers and photographers. The dam's proximity to Gir National Park, which is home to Asiatic lions, leopards, and other wildlife, adds to its appeal.
Visitors can enjoy the scenic views, spot wildlife, and explore the surrounding area. The best time to visit Kamleshwar Dam is during the monsoon season when the reservoir is full, and the surrounding landscape is lush and green. The dam is open from 6 am to 6 pm, except on Sundays, and there are no entry fees.
The dam's significance extends beyond its natural beauty, as it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem of Gir National Park. The reservoir provides a habitat for various aquatic species, and the surrounding landscape supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. The dam's construction has also helped to regulate the water flow in the Hiran River, which has a positive impact on the local environment.
For those interested in exploring the area, Kamleshwar Dam is an excellent starting point. The dam is located near the Gir Jungle Safari, which offers visitors the opportunity to spot Asiatic lions and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Additionally, the nearby Somnath Temple and Uparkot Fort are worth visiting for their historical and cultural significance.
Overall, Kamleshwar Dam is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and those looking to explore the natural beauty of Gir National Park. Its unique combination of wildlife, scenic views, and historical significance makes it an unforgettable experience."
Soumyadip Santra
"One of the most beautiful site in Gir Forest. It is a Natural reservoir and water source situated in between dense forest area of Sasan Gir. However it is not open for Public, one should have a permit from the concerned authority to get through this place.
Dont miss the opportunity if you get a chance."
Ashif Garana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kamleshwar Dam is located within Gir National Park. The most common way to reach it is by booking a safari tour from Sasan Gir. The dam is often included in specific safari routes, particularly Route 12, which is known for wildlife sightings. Ensure your safari operator includes it in the itinerary.
Generally, private vehicles are not permitted inside the core zone of Gir National Park. Access to Kamleshwar Dam is typically restricted to official safari vehicles booked through authorized operators.
The best way to experience Kamleshwar Dam is by taking a guided safari tour. This allows you to safely observe the wildlife, including crocodiles and birds, and potentially spot lions, while also learning about the area from your guide.
There are no separate entry fees specifically for Kamleshwar Dam. The cost is typically included within your Gir National Park safari permit and fees.
The exact distance can vary depending on the safari route taken. Kamleshwar Dam is situated within the park, and safari routes are designed to cover key wildlife areas, often taking an hour or more to reach from the entry points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the dam itself is within a protected zone, access is usually granted through a standard Gir National Park safari permit. Some sources suggest prior permission might be needed for specific activities like professional photography or research, but for general tourism, a safari booking is sufficient.
Kamleshwar Dam is accessible during the operational hours of Gir National Park safaris, which are typically from 6 AM to 6 PM. It is usually closed on Sundays, though this can vary.
The cost of a safari to Kamleshwar Dam is part of the overall Gir National Park safari package. Prices can vary based on the type of vehicle (jeep) and the number of people, but typically range from INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per jeep.
While safaris are designed to cover popular wildlife spots, it's best to confirm with your safari operator if Kamleshwar Dam is on their planned route. Inquiring about specific routes like Route 12 can increase your chances.
No, generally it is not possible to visit Kamleshwar Dam without being on an official Gir National Park safari. The dam is located within the core protected area of the park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Kamleshwar Dam is a prime spot for mugger crocodiles and a wide variety of bird species.
Yes, there is a watchtower at Kamleshwar Dam that provides excellent panoramic views of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape, enhancing wildlife viewing opportunities.
The monsoon season (July to September) is often recommended as the reservoir is full and the landscape is lush and green. However, wildlife sightings, especially lions, are often better in the drier months when animals congregate near water sources.
Facilities at Kamleshwar Dam are minimal, as it's a natural wildlife habitat. Restrooms are usually available at the safari entry points or rest houses within the park, but not directly at the dam itself. It's advisable to carry your own water and snacks.
During a safari, your time at Kamleshwar Dam will be limited to the duration of your stop, typically 15-30 minutes, allowing for observation and photography. The overall safari duration is usually 3-4 hours.
📸 📸 Photography
Kamleshwar Dam offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography, especially of crocodiles and birds.
For general tourist photography, no special permission is usually required beyond your safari permit. However, professional wildlife photographers or those conducting research might need to obtain specific permits from forest authorities.
A telephoto lens (200mm or more) is highly recommended for capturing wildlife like birds and crocodiles from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the dam and its surroundings.
Drone usage is generally prohibited within national parks and protected wildlife areas in India due to privacy and wildlife disturbance concerns. Always check the latest regulations before your visit.
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best lighting conditions for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The watchtower provides a safe vantage point to observe the dam and its inhabitants.📸 Wildlife Photographers
The dam's landscape itself provides beautiful backdrops, especially during sunrise and sunset. While lion sightings are rare, the possibility adds an element of thrill. Consider bringing a telephoto lens for wildlife and a wide-angle for landscapes. Some sources suggest professional photographers might need special permits.🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
The surrounding lush greenery, especially after the monsoon, offers a serene environment for observation. It's a perfect spot to appreciate the intricate ecosystem of Gir, from the smallest insects to the largest predators.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hiran River and Kamleshwar Dam's Ecosystem
The dam's ecosystem supports a rich variety of life. It's a well-known habitat for mugger crocodiles, which are often seen basking on the banks or in the water. The surrounding wetlands and water bodies attract a plethora of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and ornithologists. The presence of these prey species, in turn, supports the larger predators of Gir, including the Asiatic lion and leopards, which are occasionally sighted near the dam, particularly during their active hours.
Beyond its role in wildlife sustenance, the dam's construction has also helped in regulating water flow in the Hiran River, positively impacting the local environment and agriculture. The scenic beauty of the dam, especially when the reservoir is full during the monsoon, adds to its appeal as a natural attraction within the park.
It's a testament to how human infrastructure can coexist with and even support natural ecosystems when planned thoughtfully.Wildlife Spotting at Kamleshwar Dam
Visitors often report seeing crocodiles basking on the banks or swimming in the reservoir, a thrilling sight that underscores the importance of maintaining a safe distance as advised by guides.While the dam is a reliable spot for reptiles and birds, the possibility of encountering the park's apex predators, the Asiatic lion and leopards, adds an extra layer of excitement. Although sightings are not guaranteed and are often a matter of luck, lions have been known to visit the dam's vicinity, especially during the drier months when water sources are scarce.
It's crucial to remember that Gir National Park is a wild habitat, and respecting the animals and their environment is paramount. Always follow the instructions of your safari guide, maintain silence when observing wildlife, and avoid any actions that could disturb the animals or their natural behavior. The experience at Kamleshwar Dam is a powerful reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of conservation efforts.
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