Bhushi Dam Lonavala
A picturesque masonry dam on the Indrayani River, Bhushi Dam becomes a stunning natural waterfall during monsoon, attracting crowds for its scenic bea...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer experience
Bhushi Dam Lonavala
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque masonry dam on the Indrayani River, Bhushi Dam becomes a stunning natural waterfall during monsoon, attracting crowds for its scenic beauty and lively atmosphere.
"It's a lively, scenic spot to enjoy the rains and the charm of Lonavala, but be prepared for crowds."
👟 Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Slippery rocks are common. Opt for shoes with good grip or crocs for better traction.
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Weekdays and early mornings offer a more peaceful experience than crowded weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascading Water Steps
Main dam area
Witness the dam overflow into rocky steps, creating a natural waterfall perfect for photos and a refreshing dip.
+1
Vibrant Snack Stalls
Along the dam steps
Enjoy local treats like corn and pakoras from lively stalls, adding to the festive monsoon atmosphere.
Lush Western Ghats Backdrop
Surrounding hills
Soak in the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats, offering a picturesque setting for your visit.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Stay Safe
Monsoon Magic & Entry Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Slippery rocks are common. Opt for shoes with good grip or crocs for better traction.
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Weekdays and early mornings offer a more peaceful experience than crowded weekends.
💧 Stay Safe Near Water
Avoid deep water and heed all safety warnings due to strong currents and potential flash floods.
📸 Capture the Monsoon Magic
The overflowing dam creates stunning photo opportunities, especially during the rainy season.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Slippery rocks are common. Opt for shoes with good grip or crocs for better traction.
⏰ Arrive Early to Beat Crowds
Weekdays and early mornings offer a more peaceful experience than crowded weekends.
💧 Stay Safe Near Water
Avoid deep water and heed all safety warnings due to strong currents and potential flash floods.
📸 Capture the Monsoon Magic
The overflowing dam creates stunning photo opportunities, especially during the rainy season.
💰 Parking Fees
Expect to pay around ₹50 for bikes and ₹100 for cars for parking near the dam.
🛍️ Pack Snacks & Water
Vendor prices can be high; bringing your own refreshments is a good idea.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bhushi Dam is a stunning natural attraction, especially during monsoon when it transforms into a picturesque waterfall. Visitors love the vibrant atmosphere, local snacks, and scenic beauty. However, the overwhelming crowds and littering are significant drawbacks, detracting from the experience and raising safety concerns due to slippery rocks and strong currents.
"It's beautiful here. I just wish locals and visitors would keep the place clean or is it an Indian thing to always have the place looking dirty and littering?
That's the only reason why I rated this 3 stars."
Rohan M
"My first and recent visit to Bhushi dam was a little disappointing. Even on a week day it was crowded and the tourists visiting the place litter around the place making it filthy and dirty. The view is good no doubt but the tourists visiting need to be more responsible and take away the snack packages and bottle back with them when they go and it would be a much cleaner place to visit."
Masban Pereira
"🌧️ Scenic Appeal & Experience
• A masonry dam on the Indrayani River, built in the late 1860s to supply water to steam trains and now popular among tourists for weekend outings .
• During monsoons (July–September), it overflows into rocky cascading steps, creating a picturesque “natural waterfall”—perfect for splashing around and photography .
• The lush Western Ghats backdrop and reservoir views draw large crowds from Pune and Mumbai .
⸻
👍 Pros
• Free entry—no charges for access .
• Vibrant atmosphere with stalls selling corn, pakoras, chai, and snacks along the steps .
• Great for group outings—ideal for families, friends, and couples seeking a fun monsoon excursion .
⸻
⚠️ Cons & Safety Concerns
• Very crowded in peak season (especially Aug weekends, festival times); September weekdays offer a calmer experience ().
• Slippery rocks, wet terrain, and occasional litter; non-slip footwear is advised .
• Safety risks: Several incidents of drowning—about 25 deaths in a 5-year span—and recent tragedies involving families swept away by flash floods .
• Time restrictions: Entry generally allowed from 9 AM to 3–5 PM due to early bans and flood control efforts .
• Tourist bans during heavy rains: Temporary closures enforced by police when water flow becomes unsafe .
⸻
🕒 Tips Before You Visit
1. Go early or prefer weekdays, especially in September, to avoid crowds ().
2. Wear good grip shoes, avoid beer bottles or broken glass .
3. Stay near the steps, don’t venture into deep water ().
4. Pack snacks and water—vendor prices can be steep .
5. Follow local warnings and prohibitory signs, especially during monsoons .
6. Keep valuables secure and waterproofed, cameras and phones might get wet ."
karan tumsare
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Mumbai, you can take a local train to Lonavala station and then hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to Bhushi Dam. The drive is approximately 20-30 minutes. Many visitors also opt for a road trip via car or bike, enjoying the scenic Khandala ghats.
Local buses and shared taxis are available from Lonavala town to Bhushi Dam, especially during peak season. However, hiring a private taxi or auto-rickshaw offers more flexibility.
Many travelers prefer driving or riding a bike to Lonavala for Bhushi Dam, as it allows for stops at other viewpoints like Tiger Point and Lion Point.
During heavy monsoon downpours, authorities may temporarily close roads leading to Bhushi Dam for safety reasons. It's advisable to check local conditions before your visit.
Parking is available near Bhushi Dam for both bikes and cars, typically costing around ₹50 for bikes and ₹100 for cars.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Bhushi Dam is free of charge. You only need to pay for parking and any food or snacks you purchase.
Bhushi Dam is generally open from 9 AM to 3-5 PM. However, timings can vary, and the dam may be temporarily closed during periods of heavy rainfall for safety.
To avoid large crowds, it's best to visit Bhushi Dam on weekdays, especially in September. Early mornings are also less crowded than afternoons.
Yes, the monsoon season (July to September) is the most popular time to visit Bhushi Dam as it overflows and creates a beautiful waterfall effect.
During heavy rainfall, authorities may impose temporary bans or restrictions on entry to Bhushi Dam due to safety concerns related to strong water currents.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the cascading water, click photographs, relax by the dam, and try local snacks from the stalls. It's a great spot for group outings and enjoying the monsoon vibe.
Swimming in Bhushi Dam is generally discouraged and can be dangerous due to strong currents and slippery rocks. It's best to stay in designated safe areas and avoid venturing too deep.
Numerous stalls along the dam steps offer popular monsoon snacks like corn on the cob, pakoras, and chai.
Yes, changing rooms are available near the stalls for a small fee, typically around ₹10 per person.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear with good grip, such as non-slip shoes or crocs, as the rocks can be slippery.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The cascading water steps, the lush green surroundings, and the vibrant atmosphere with people enjoying the water are excellent subjects for photography.
Visit during the monsoon when the dam is overflowing. Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, making it easier to capture stunning shots.
Yes, it's highly recommended to protect your camera and phone from water splashes, especially when you're near the cascading water. A waterproof bag or case is advisable.
Early mornings and late afternoons, outside of peak hours, offer better lighting conditions and fewer crowds for photography.
Popular shots include people playing in the water, the panoramic view of the dam with the ghats, and close-ups of the water flow over the steps.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid overwhelming crowds. Ensure children wear non-slip footwear to prevent falls on the wet rocks. While the dam is exciting, be extra vigilant about keeping them away from deeper water and strong currents.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Mumbai/Pune
+1Combine your visit with other Lonavala attractions like Lion's Point or Tiger Point for a comprehensive experience. Remember to pack essentials like water and snacks, and wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for a wet environment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Visit during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. Protect your camera gear from water splashes, as it can get quite wet near the cascades. Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and beauty of the scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Bhushi Dam's History and Purpose
The dam's unique design, with its rocky cascading steps, becomes a natural waterfall when the water levels rise. This transformation is what draws thousands of visitors seeking a refreshing escape from the city heat and a chance to experience the power of nature.
+1While its historical significance is rooted in industrial needs, its current fame lies in its picturesque beauty and the lively atmosphere it fosters during the rainy months. It's a testament to how natural elements can repurpose man-made structures into popular recreational spots.
Safety First: Navigating Bhushi Dam's Risks
Authorities often implement entry restrictions and time limits to mitigate risks. Visitors are strongly advised to adhere to all warning signs and local advisories. It's crucial to avoid venturing into deep water, stay within designated safe zones, and never underestimate the power of the flowing water.
Wearing appropriate footwear with good grip is paramount. Visitors should also be mindful of their surroundings, especially if carrying valuables. The focus should always be on enjoying the natural beauty responsibly and prioritizing personal safety above all else.
The Bhushi Dam Experience: Beyond the Water
These stalls not only add to the sensory experience but also provide a glimpse into the local culture and culinary offerings. Visitors can enjoy these treats while watching the water cascade down, creating a truly immersive experience. The availability of changing rooms also adds to the convenience for those who wish to get closer to the water.
Bhushi Dam is often described as a lively spot, ideal for group outings with friends and family. The combination of natural beauty, local flavors, and a festive ambiance makes it a popular weekend getaway destination for people from Pune and Mumbai.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit