Maharana Pratap Sagar is at 450 metres above sea level, 32 degrees North and 76 degrees East. It is made of Beas River. In 1960, a dam was built on the Beas river and this dam resulted in a huge Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake (once known as Pong Lake). This lake was declared sanctuary in 1983.This lake sanctuary is a big attraction for migratory ducks from Siberian region during winter.
Main Attraction: Migratory Ducks
One can see thousands of ducks in the swamp area between Shahnahar barrage and Pongdam and the surrounding shallow waters of the lake. Clean blue water all around with the panoramic view of Dhauladhar Ranges and Kangra Valley make the visit to Ransar Island an unforgettable experience. Black buck and Cheetal on the island along with Surkhab, Cranes, Pintails and variety of water birds welcome the visitors on the Island.
Other Attractions:
The sagar is close to several places of Hindu Pilgrimage – Jawalamukhi, Chamunda Devi, Chintpurni, Brajeshwari Devi, Mahakalesar, Bagalamata and Naina Devi. The seat of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Mcleodganj and the Namgyal Monastery are a short drive away. The other budhist monasteries at hand are Tahijong and Bir.
Transport Information
* By Air: The closest airport is at Gaggal 40-km.
* By Rail: The closest railway stations are at Mukerian – 30-km, and Pathankot – 32km.
* By Road:Located in district Kangra and is 170-km from Chandigarh, 110-km from Amritsar, 55-km from the district headquarters at Dharamsala.
