Rihand Dam, officially known as Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar, is one of the largest dams in India by volume (storage capacity). Built across the Rihand River (a tributary of the Son River), it is a concrete gravity dam located at Pipri in Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh.
Completed in 1962, the dam creates India’s largest artificial lake — Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar — which stretches across the borders of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. The massive reservoir and surrounding hilly landscape make it a scenic yet relatively offbeat tourist destination in the region.
Rihand Dam Location
- Address: Rihand Dam, Pipri, Sonbhadra District, Uttar Pradesh — 231208 (approx.)
- Pin Code: 231208
- Administrative Zone: Sonbhadra District, Uttar Pradesh (near Renukoot)
| Reference Point | Distance |
| Renukoot | 5–8 km |
| Robertsganj (District HQ) | 70–80 km |
| Varanasi | 180–200 km |
| Singrauli | ~50 km |
Timings and Entry Fee Rihand Dam
| Activity | Timings | Entry / Activity Fee |
| Dam Viewpoint Area | 9:00 AM to 5:00/6:00 PM | Free or Nominal |
| Boating on Reservoir | Subject to availability | Separate charges (if available) |
| Photography | During visiting hours | Generally allowed from viewpoints |
Note: Access to the dam structure itself is restricted due to security reasons. Visitors mainly enjoy views from the bridge and designated viewpoints. Boating is limited and depends on local arrangements.
How to Reach Rihand Dam
- From Renukoot: Just 5–8 km (15–20 minutes drive).
- From Robertsganj: 70–80 km.
- From Varanasi: 180–200 km (4–5 hours by road).
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Renukoot or Chopan, then taxi.
- By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Varanasi, then cab.
Best Time to Visit Rihand Dam
| Season | Months | Experience |
| Peak Season | October to March | Pleasant & cool weather, ideal for sightseeing |
| Post-Monsoon | September–November | Full reservoir, greener landscape |
| Monsoon | July–August | Dramatic views but heavy rains |
| Summer | April–June | Very hot — avoid midday visits |
The best time is October to February when the weather is comfortable and the reservoir looks impressive.
Nearby Places to Visit Rihand Dam
| Place | Distance | Description |
| Renukoot | 5–8 km | Industrial town and base for visiting the dam |
| Bandha Devi Temple | Nearby | Popular local temple |
| Dudhi | Further | Scenic areas |
| Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary | Nearby region | Rich biodiversity |
| Chilka Lake (local) | In Sonbhadra | Another water body |
| Fossil Park, Salkhan | ~80–90 km | Prehistoric fossil site |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Where is Rihand Dam located?
Rihand Dam (Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar) is located at Pipri in Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh, near Renukoot.
Q2. What are the timings of Rihand Dam?
The viewpoint area is generally accessible from 9:00 AM to 5:00/6:00 PM.
Q3. What is the entry fee at Rihand Dam?
Entry is free or has a nominal fee. Access is mainly to viewpoints.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Rihand Dam?
October to February is the best period for pleasant weather.
Q5. Why is Rihand Dam famous?
It forms India’s largest artificial lake (Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar) and is one of the largest dams in the country by storage volume.
Rihand Dam is a majestic engineering marvel set in the mineral-rich landscape of Sonbhadra. While it is more of an industrial and irrigation project, its vast reservoir and surrounding hills offer a peaceful experience for those exploring the lesser-visited parts of Uttar Pradesh. It is best combined with other attractions in Sonbhadra like temples, waterfalls, and wildlife areas.
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