Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, a colossal masonry dam on the Krishna River, is a major tourist attraction in Guntur. It's one of the world's largest dams, offering breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy the sheer scale of the dam, explore the nearby island museum, and take boat rides on the reservoir. The dam's construction is an impressive feat of engineering, and the area provides a great escape from city life. It's a perfect blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the region.
The Nagarjuna Sagar Dam's construction began in 1955 and was completed in 1969. It was a major project of independent India, aimed at harnessing the Krishna River for irrigation and power generation. The dam's name honors the Buddhist philosopher Nagarjuna, who once had a major university in the area. The project resulted in the formation of the Nagarjuna Sagar reservoir, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. The construction required the relocation of several villages and also submerged many historical sites. The dam played a crucial role in boosting the agricultural output of the region.