Sathanur Dam, Tiruvannamalai - Timings, Boating, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 33 km from Thiruvannamalai, Sathanur Dam is a gravity dam located at Sathanur. It is one of the major dams in Tamilnadu, and among the most popular places to visit as part of Tiruvannamalai packages.

Sathanur Dam is a breathtaking structure built over River Thenpennai (River Pennaiyar) which flows through the Chennakesava Hills in Thandarampet Taluk. Its construction began in 1953 and was successfully finished in 1958. The main purpose behind its creation was to enhance the agricultural output of Thiruvannamalai and the neighboring areas. This initiative was part of the significant irrigation projects led by K. Kamaraj, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The project falls under the Command Area Development Authority, also referred to as the CADA scheme, with the total construction cost exceeding INR 35 million, surpassing the initial estimate of INR 22 million.

The Sathanur Dam is a stunning engineering marvel made of stonework and concrete. With a reservoir capacity exceeding 300 million m3, it reaches a depth of 119 feet when at full capacity. This dam serves as a water source for more than 45,000 acres of land. Additionally, a small hydel power plant has been set up to generate electricity for the state of Tamil Nadu.

Nestled amidst verdant greenery and hills, the dam features charming parks, a fish grotto, and a large crocodile farm that attracts nature lovers and tourists in large numbers. The crocodile farm houses over 300 crocodiles that thrive on the local fauna. Moreover, there is a swimming pool available for both adults and children. The site is particularly enchanting during the monsoon season, when the river flows with crystal-clear waters.

Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Rs.5 per Person