Overview:
The Chamera Hydroelectric Complex is a three-stage power generation system on the Ravi River in Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh. Developed and operated by NHPC Limited, the Chamera projects collectively contribute over 1,000 MW to India’s northern grid. While Stage I is a storage-based project, Stages II and III are run-of-the-river schemes—together forming a strategic cascade that balances energy production with ecological flow.
🏞️ Chamera Stage I – The Reservoir Giant
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Bhalai, near Dalhousie, Chamba |
| Coordinates | 32.5972°N, 75.9858°E |
| Commissioned | 1994 |
| Type | Storage-based |
| Installed Capacity | 540 MW (3 × 180 MW) |
| Dam Height | 226 meters |
| Reservoir | Chamera Lake (FRL: 763 m, MDDL: 747 m) |
Highlights:
- Forms the scenic Chamera Lake, ideal for boating and water sports.
- Powerhouse is underground, with a 6.4 km horseshoe-shaped tunnel.
- Supports irrigation and flood control in addition to power generation.
🌊 Chamera Stage II – The Midstream Runner
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Downstream of Stage I, Chamba |
| Coordinates | 32.4734°N, 76.2552°E |
| Commissioned | 2003 |
| Type | Run-of-the-river |
| Installed Capacity | 300 MW (3 × 100 MW) |
| Gross Head | ~292 meters |
| Tunnel Length | ~6.4 km |
Highlights:
- Uses regulated discharge from Stage I for consistent generation.
- Underground powerhouse with Francis turbines.
- Designed for minimal environmental disruption.
🌁 Chamera Stage III – The Downstream Dynamo
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Dharwala, Chamba |
| Coordinates | 32.473°N, 76.253°E |
| Commissioned | 2012 |
| Type | Run-of-the-river |
| Installed Capacity | 231 MW (3 × 77 MW) |
| Dam Height | 64 meters |
| Headrace Tunnel | 15.97 km |
| Net Head | 200 meters |
Highlights:
- Fully underground powerhouse with GE-supplied turbines.
- Generates over 1,100 GWh annually.
- Supplies power to multiple states including HP, Punjab, Delhi, and Rajasthan.
🧭 Accessibility & Tourism
- Nearest Towns: Dalhousie, Chamba, Bhalai, Banikhet
- By Road: Well-connected via NH-154A and NH-503
- By Rail: Nearest station – Pathankot (~100 km)
- By Air: Gaggal Airport, Kangra (~120 km)
Tourist Tip:
Chamera Lake, formed by Stage I, is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, and angling. The absence of aquatic predators makes it ideal for water sports. The surrounding pine forests and fluctuating day-night temperatures add to its mystique.
