Halali Dam & Reservoir, Bhopal - Timings, Boating, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 39 km from Bhopal, Halali Dam is a manmade reservoir located at Khoha village in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the famous picnic spots near Bhopal, and among the best places to visit near Bhopal.

Also known as Samrat Ashok Sagar Project, Halali Dam is constructed in 1973 across Halali River, a tributary of the Betwa river. The river was earlier known as the Thal River. According to local legends, Dost Muhamad Khan a Nawab ruler killed a rival force from Rajput near Jagdishpur on the bank of the tributary. In consequence, since it appeared red with the victim's blood, hence the name Halali which means the river of slaughter.

The dam is 945 m long with a maximum height of 29.57 m above the foundation level. With a catchment area of around 699 sq. km, the colossal dam is quite popular among the locals of Bhopal as an excellent spot for picnics and boat rides. Apart from this, the reservoir is home to aquatic life. Mainly used for irrigation and fishery, the reservoir attracts a large number of birds during winter. The dam has an MP tourism hotel - Halali Retreat that has about 6 - 8 rooms with nice ambiance, a restaurant, playground for children, Meeting and Party Hall.

Timings: 8 AM - 4 PM

Entry: Free