Image Source: Neeraj Rawat
Asan Barrage
At the meeting point of the eastern Yamuna Canal and the Asan River, the Asan barrage is located in the Doon Valley, near the Uttarakhand-Himachal Pradesh border, in Dehradun district. It is about 11 km from Dakpathar and 28 km northwest of Dehradun.The barrage is 287.5 meters long and has water all year-round. It receives supplies by the Asan River and the Yamuna River’s discharge channel.
Asan river
The Asan River originates from the southern slopes of mussorie in the western part of the Doon Valley. Its often mistakenly called Tons which is different from the main Tons river that flows in the north and meets Yamuna at Kalsi.
Asan River begins as several streams and flows in a U-shaped valley in a south-western direction before merging near Robber’s Cave.
The river passes through the Bijapur canal that supplies water to the western area of Dehradun. It flows through the famous tourist attraction of Dehradun, Tapakeshwar Mahadev, which is a popular Shiva temple. Its movies in the southwest direction are collecting water from streams that are descending from the Vikasnagar-Mussorie range and Shivalik Hills. Its the range that separates Doon Valley from Saharanpur.
In the lower stretch, the river is called Asan. It flows into a flat area feeding the Asan barrage and finally drained into the Yamuna River at Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh.
Bird Watching Paradise
Asan Barrage is a renowned bird sanctuary that was established in 1967. It is home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species. During the winter months, the area transforms into a birdwatcher’s paradise with species like:
- Ruddy Shelduck
- Northern Pintail
- Common Pochard
- Red-crested Pochard
- Greater Cormorant
The sanctuary is home to 50 species of migratory birds and provides an important stopover for avian visitors on the migratory route.
Water Sports and Activities
The calm waters of the reservoir are perfect for water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boating. Adventure seekers can also try their hand at windsurfing or take leisurely boat rides to enjoy the surrounding views.
Eco-Tourism Facilities
The Uttarakhand Forest Department manages eco-tourism initiatives at Asan Barrage. Basic amenities include:
- A well-maintained watchtower for birdwatching.
- Interpretation centre with educational displays about the local flora and fauna.
- Eco-friendly cottages for overnight stays.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Assan barrage is between October and March, when there is a season of arrival of migratory birds. During these months, the sky remains clear with a cool breeze.
How To Reach
- Distance from Dehradun: approximately 40 km (1-hour drive) via NH-307.
- Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun (40 km).
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (50 km).
Maps and Location
Nearby Attractions
- Paonta Sahib: A historic Sikh gurudwara located 25 km from the barrage.
- Dakpathar Barrage: Another serene spot for picnicking, just 10 km away.
- Chakrata: A hill station known for its tranquil ambiance, waterfalls, and trekking trails, located around 70 km away.