Thally Lake - Tamilnadu
Thally Lake, also known as Shoolagiri Lake, is a beautiful and popular tourist spot in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu. Surrounded by hills and greenery, the lake is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and fishing. It is also an important source of water for the surrounding villages and agricultural land. The lake is situated at the foothills of the Eastern Ghats and is spread over an area of approximately 120 hectares. The picturesque location and the calm and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake is home to a variety of aquatic life, including fish, crabs, and water snakes. Visitors to the lake can often spot migratory birds such as pelicans, cormorants, and painted storks. Thally Lake was constructed by the British as a part of a larger irrigation project. The lake was designed to collect and store rainwater and runoff from the surrounding hills, which would then be used for irrigation purposes. Today, the lake continues to play a crucial role in the agriculture and economy of the region. One of the main attractions of Thally Lake is boating. Visitors can rent pedal boats, rowboats, and motorboats to explore the lake and take in the beautiful surroundings. The lake is also popular for fishing, and anglers can be seen casting their lines from the banks or from boats in the hopes of catching carp, catfish, or mudskippers. For those looking to spend a day in nature, Thally Lake offers several walking and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the nearby hills, take in the scenic views, and enjoy the fresh air and tranquility. The area is also home to several ancient temples and historic sites, making it an interesting and educational destination for history buffs. In recent years, the Tamil Nadu government has taken steps to conserve and protect Thally Lake and its surroundings. The lake is now a part of the Thally Reserve Forest, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The government has also implemented several measures to improve the water quality of the lake, including regular cleaning and the installation of water treatment plants. Visitors to Thally Lake are advised to carry enough food and water, as there are limited facilities available in the area. However, there are several small shops and vendors near the lake selling snacks and refreshments. In conclusion, Thally Lake is a hidden gem in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu. With its natural beauty, calm waters, and various recreational activities, it is an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The lake is not only an important source of water for the surrounding villages and agricultural land but also a habitat for a variety of aquatic life and migratory birds. With the Tamil Nadu government's efforts to conserve and protect the lake, it is expected to remain a popular destination for tourists and locals alike for years to come.
History of Thally Lake
Thali Dam in Krishnagiri was constructed by the Public Works Department (PWD) of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The lake is a man-made lake and is the main source of water for drinking purposes on the land. Construction of Thally Lake began in the early 2000s as part of the government's efforts to address the water shortages facing the community. The project aims to create a sustainable water system by using rainwater and storing it in large reservoirs.
Nearby sightseeing places
Krishnagiri fort, Banki falls, Arulmighu Sri Chandra Choodeswarar Temple, Maralwadi dam, Rajaji memorial house
Activities
Fishing, boating, picnicking, Nature walks, camping
Visiting time
6.00 AM – 6.00 PM
How to reach Thally Lake?
By air – Salem airport is the nearest to Thally lake that covers about 134 km.
By train- Hosur railway station is the nearest to reach Thally lake.
By road - All roadways are well connected in Tamil Nadu to reach Krishnagiri. Driving from Hosur is the easiest way to reach Thally Lake covering 33 km.
National Highways - NH – 46, NH- 7, NH- 66