Hidkal Dam - Bridge in Hidkal - Belagavi, India

A view of the new Vitthal temple in Honnur village, Belagavi district; the ancient Vitthal temple emerges from the water in summer. Summers in the Hidkal dam backwaters in the Belagavi district backwaters can yield many surprises. As the waters recede, the Vitthal temple emerges after being underwater for a year. This year, the delay in monsoons has ensured both visitors and villagers will be able to keep the temple in their sights for longer. In 1977, when the construction of the dam was completed, the Hidkal and Honnur villages were completely submerged. Houses and fields, schools and temples all went underwater and eventually disintegrated. The Vitthal temple has stayed intact in spite of being underwater for 45 years. In the peak of summer, the temple becomes accessible. In 2020, when the lake was almost dry, one could drive up to the entrance of the temple. This year, the temple could only be seen from a distance of 50 metres as deep waters still surround it. Viewed from a height, one can clearly catch a glimpse of the interiors of the temple. The wide facade of the temple, built in black stone, is typical of the Hemadpanti style of architecture which was famous during the 12th and 13th centuries. When the dam was being constructed, and the submergence of the temple was inevitable, a similar temple was commissioned at the Honnur village which stands in reminiscence of the old structure. It has similar carvings on the facade and the inner sanctum. The deity inside the sanctum sanctorum is that of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini, his consort. The wide and spacious courtyard has arched pathways which house several rooms today. In the original structure, these arched areas would have been used to tie the animals like cows, horses and ceremonial elephants, typical of many south Indian temples. At a distance, one can see the dilapidated Honnur fort and still further, you can clearly see the main gates of the Hidkal dam. The Honnur fort is believed to be built as a stopover during long military conquests for refuelling and for storage of food grains to be used by the army.

Hidkal dam is located around 25 kilometres from Gokak. It is a water reservoir and a renowned tourist spot as well. Every year, a large number of migratory birds usually flock the water reservoir and it is t

Good to visit this place when dams doors were open. Amazing view . You can see it from front. No need of any permission.

Hidkal dam is not just place, it is heaven on earth! We spent 14years and all the good memories from this place. School, highschool, temples, IB, Dam and above all friends and teachers who shaped our future! There is no words to describe this place.

Hidkal Dam also known as Raja Lakhamagouda Dam across Ghataprabha River with 10 gates is the largest dam in Belgaum district. Gates were closed during the time of visit in February month. But quite a nice spot around Hukkeri for its bluish reservoir and lush green gardens.

Beautiful place, good place to spend in the evening. Very quiet and peaceful place with lush greenary. Sunset is absolutely mind blowing.

Good place for making barbeque with evening sunset. And also decent rooms available.

A very good view during rainy season. The sunset is mind blowing.. Loved it.