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Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project
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The Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project, located in Dolakha District, is Nepal's largest hydropower plant and a symbol of national self-reliance. With an installed capacity of 456 megawatts, it harnesses the immense hydraulic potential of the Tamakoshi River to provide clean energy to the national grid. The project is unique for being financed almost entirely through domestic resources, with shares distributed among the Nepalese public and local residents. Technical feats included the construction of a 22-meter-high dam and an intake tunnel stretching over eight kilometers through rugged Himalayan terrain. Since its commissioning in 2021, the plant has significantly reduced Nepal's reliance on electricity imports and helped lower energy costs for consumers. It is regarded as a milestone in Nepalese engineering and a vital engine for the country's industrial growth.
- Location: Nepal
- Top sights: stupa, chorten · Gaurishankar Conservation Area
- Nearby: Siraha (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -7 | -5 | -2 | 1 | 5 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 2 | -1 | -4 |
| Rain mm | 6 | 10 | 13 | 22 | 50 | 83 | 174 | 160 | 93 | 24 | 2 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project is Nepal's largest domestically funded hydropower station and a source of national pride. It represents a monumental leap towards energy independence and acts as an engineering marvel deep within the Himalayas.
Visiting
While the underground powerhouse is typically restricted to operating staff, the massive dam structure is often visible to passing travelers. Organized public tours of the inner facilities are exceedingly rare, usually requiring high-level advance permission.
Where to view it
Travelers navigating the rugged mountain roads between Charikot and the Tibetan border at Lamabagar are rewarded with striking views of the dam. The contrast between the sheer scale of the human-engineered walls and the wild landscape is panoramic.
Local products
In the nearby town of Charikot and surrounding villages, visitors can find rustic local markets offering authentic Himalayan products. Travelers typically encounter traditional yak wool garments, local organic teas, and handcrafted religious items.
Active season
While electricity generation continues all year, water release through the spillways is typically most spectacular during the intense summer monsoon season. The most comfortable weather for traveling to see the dam is during the clear autumn and spring months.
Nearby
A journey to the hydroelectric site naturally pairs with exploring the spiritually significant Bhimeshwar Temple in Dolakha. Intrepid adventurers can also use the region as a starting point to explore the pristine alpine Gaurishankar Conservation Area.
Geography
Facts
- Total installed capacity of 456 MW across six Pelton turbine units.
- The project was officially inaugurated in 2021 after 11 years of construction.
- Features a net head of 822 meters, among the highest in the region.
- Financed entirely by Nepalese institutions and public shareholders.
- The underground powerhouse is situated at Gongar village.
- Generates approximately 2,281 gigawatt-hours of electricity per year.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric plant?
It is one of Nepal's largest hydroelectric projects.
Is it accessible to tourists?
No, the plant is primarily industrial infrastructure.
What is its role?
It is essential for the country's power supply.
Is there a visitor center?
Currently, there is no public visitor center.
When was the facility created?
The plant was commissioned in recent years.
Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project: where is it located?
Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project is located in Nepal.
Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project: what is there to see?
Highlights include stupa, chorten, Gaurishankar Conservation Area.
Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project: why is it worth visiting?
The Upper Tamakoshi Hydroelectric Project, located in Dolakha District, is Nepal's largest hydropower plant and a symbol of national self-reliance.
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