Kelavarapalli Dam - Tamilnadu

The Kelavarapalli Dam is a significant infrastructure project in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu and a famous tourist attraction. Constructed across the Ponniyar River, a tributary of the Palar River, the dam plays a crucial role in the state's irrigation and power generation. This article explores the history, significance, features, and benefits of the Kelavarapalli Dam. The Kelavarapalli Dam's construction began in 1960 under the supervision of the Tennur Irrigation Project. The dam was completed in 1964, and its formal inauguration took place in 1966. The primary objective of the dam's construction was to store and manage water resources for irrigation and power generation in the Krishnagiri district and its neighboring regions. The Kelavarapalli Dam is a gravity dam with a height of 42.7 meters (140 feet) and a length of 2,523 meters (8,280 feet). The dam has a gross storage capacity of 2,328 million cubic feet (66 million cubic meters) and a live storage capacity of 1,928 million cubic feet (54 million cubic meters). The Kelavarapalli Dam significantly contributes to Tamil Nadu's irrigation and power generation sectors. The dam's reservoir supplies water to 23,830 acres (9,643 hectares) of agricultural land in Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, and Vellore districts. The dam's powerhouse, equipped with two 6.3 MW Francis turbine generators, has an installed capacity of 12.6 MW and produces 30 million units of electricity annually. Apart from its primary purposes, the Kelavarapalli Dam also serves as a popular tourist destination in the region. The picturesque reservoir offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery. The dam's park, maintained by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, is an ideal picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. The park features a children's play area, boating facilities, and a restaurant, providing visitors with an enjoyable and memorable experience. The Kelavarapalli Dam plays a vital role in preserving the ecological balance in the region. The reservoir provides a habitat for various aquatic species and supports the growth of diverse plant life along its banks. The dam's water also recharges groundwater resources, ensuring the availability of water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial uses. The Kelavarapalli Dam is a remarkable infrastructure project that significantly contributes to Tamil Nadu's irrigation and power generation sectors. The dam's reservoir not only supports agricultural activities in the region but also serves as a valuable resource for tourism and recreation. By preserving the ecological balance and supporting groundwater recharge, the Kelavarapalli Dam demonstrates the multi-faceted benefits of well-planned and executed infrastructure projects.

Activities in Kelavarapalli Dam

Boating One of the most popular recreational activities at Kelavarapalli Dam is boating. The reservoir created by the dam is home to many species of fish and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore the water. The dam management provides boats for rent, allowing tourists to enjoy the calm waters and take in the beautiful scenery.
Hiking and rock climbing The lush green forests and rolling hills surrounding Kelavarapalli Dam provide ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the beautiful region. The mountains offer challenging trails for experienced hikers and easier paths for beginners. Additionally, rock climbing enthusiasts can find various spots to test their skills on the granite rock faces.
Camping Spending a night under the stars near Kelavarapalli Dam is a unique experience that allows visitors to connect with nature fully. The peaceful surroundings, fresh air, and beautiful landscape make it an ideal place for camping. Visitors can set up tents near the reservoir or deeper into the forest for a more secluded experience. Make sure to carry essential camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment, as there are no camping facilities provided by the dam management.
Fishing Angling enthusiasts can find various fishing spots around Kelavarapalli Dam. The reservoir is home to many species of fish, including carp, catfish, and murrels. Carry your fishing equipment or rent it from nearby shops to enjoy a day fishing in the reservoir. Remember to follow local regulations and obtain necessary permits before fishing in the area.
Bird Watching The forests surrounding Kelavarapalli Dam attract numerous bird species, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify the different species of birds that inhabit this area. Some common bird species you might encounter include kingfishers, egrets, herons, and various raptors.
Photography Kelavarapalli Dam’s stunning landscape offers excellent opportunities for photographers looking to capture breathtaking images of nature. From capturing the vast expanse of water in the reservoir to close-ups of unique flora and fauna found in the area, photographers will have plenty of subjects to focus on during their visit. Remember to bring extra batteries and storage devices for your camera equipment, as there are no charging facilities nearby.
Stargazing The absence of artificial light sources near Kelavarapalli Dam makes it an ideal spot for stargazing. Visitors can spend time contemplating or admiring the star-studded sky while learning about constellations using mobile apps or star charts. Enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars in this serene environment far from city lights.

How to reach Kelavarapalli Dam?

By Air – Salem airport is the nearest to reach Kelavarapalli Dam covering 135 Km
By Train – Hosur railway station is the nearest junction to reach Kelavarapalli Dam covering 12 Km
By Road – Driving from Hosur via Basthi Road is the best way to reach Kelavarapalli Dam Covering 10 Km.