A British-Era Stone Dam Built in 1883 that Created Bhimtal Lake, Nainital District
Victoria Dam is a historic British-era stone dam built in 1883 during the colonial period, which created the beautiful Bhimtal lake by damming the Gaula River. The dam was constructed under the supervision of British engineers to provide irrigation water to the terai plains below and is named after Queen Victoria. It remains one of the oldest functional dams in Uttarakhand.
The dam is located at the outlet end of Bhimtal lake and offers a scenic viewpoint of the lake and surrounding forested hills. The colonial-era stonework of the dam is architecturally interesting and provides a pleasant backdrop for photography. A walk along the dam gives lovely views across the water. The dam area is usually quiet and makes for a peaceful detour during a Bhimtal visit.
Year-round. October to March for the most pleasant weather. The dam and lake are beautiful after monsoon (September–October) when water levels are full.
Nearest railway: Kathgodam (33 km). Taxi to Bhimtal.
Bus to Bhimtal; dam is accessible from lake area.
22 km from Nainital. Dam is at the far end of Bhimtal lake — short walk or taxi.