Hirakud Dam
Sambalpur, Odisha · Sambalpur travel guide
World's longest dam, Asia's largest artificial lake.
One of the longest dams in the world, built across the Mahanadi River near Sambalpur. It forms the largest artificial lake in Asia and is a major multipurpose river valley project. It is 15 km from Sambalpur.
Plan your visit
| Time to spend | About 2.5 h (1.5–3.5 h) |
|---|---|
| Best time of day | 4–6 PM — cooler, sunset over reservoir from Gandhi Minar; 6:30–9 AM — mist on the water, fewer people |
| Avoid | 12–3 PM — hot, little shade on the dam crest |
| Best months | Sep–Feb |
| Months to avoid | Apr–May |
| Entry fee | Free entry |
| Opening hours | Mon–Sun: 8 AM–6 PM |
| Setting | Outdoor |
| Effort | Easy |
| Good for | Families, Kids, Elderly, Couples, Solo, Groups |
| Rating | 4.6 / 5 on Google (755 reviews) |
Reservoir is fullest after monsoon and migratory birds arrive in winter; summers are very hot.
Frequently asked questions
How much time do you need at Hirakud Dam?
Most visitors spend about 2.5 h; 1.5–3.5 h depending on pace.
What is the best time to visit Hirakud Dam?
4–6 PM, for cooler, sunset over reservoir from Gandhi Minar. The best months are Sep–Feb.
What is the entry fee for Hirakud Dam?
Entry is free.
What are the timings of Hirakud Dam?
Mon–Sun: 8 AM–6 PM.