Kallanai Dam: An Ancient Masterpiece

Introduction of Kallanai Dam – The Marvel of Engineering

The Kallanai Dam, also known as the Grand Anicut, is located in Tamil Nadu, India. It is built across the Kaveri River, one of India’s largest and most important rivers. The dam has a water capacity of 15,000 cubic feet per second. It has a length of 329 meters, a width of 20 meters, and a height of 5.4 meters. It is a sight to behold, especially during the monsoon season, when the river is in full flow.

Imagine standing on the banks of a mighty river, watching the water flow with grace and power. You see a massive structure spanning hundreds of meters, made of huge stone blocks. You marvel at its grandeur and wonder how it was built. You are looking at the Kallanai Dam, one of the oldest and most impressive engineering projects in the world.

In this blog, we will explore the Kallanai Dam in depth, and learn more about its history, engineering, and water distribution. We will also provide some useful information for those who want to visit this amazing site. Let’s dive in!

 

Location: Kallanai Dam in Tamil Nadu

The Kallanai dam is located in Thanjavur district, about 15 kilometers from Tiruchirappalli, also known as Trichy. It is easily accessible by road, rail, or air from major Indian cities.

By air:

The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, about 25 kilometers away. It has flights to and from Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and other cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the dam.

By rail:

The nearest railway station is Tiruchirappalli Junction, about 20 kilometers from the dam. It is connected to Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and other cities by train. From the station, you can take a taxi or bus to the dam.

By road:

The dam is situated on the Tiruchirappalli-Thanjavur highway, part of National Highway 67. It is well connected to Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and other cities by buses and cars. You can also hire a taxi or car from Tiruchirappalli or Thanjavur to reach the dam.

Weather of Kallanai Dam: Best Time to Visit

 

Kallanai dam region weather is hot and humid, with hot and humid summers, mild and pleasant winters, and moderate and wet monsoons. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 38°C throughout the year. The average rainfall is about 800 mm per year, mostly during the monsoon season from June to September.

The most suitable time to visit Kallanai Dam is from October to March. This is when the weather is cool and comfortable, and the river is full of water. This is also the time to witness the spectacular sight of the dam overflowing with water, creating a series of waterfalls. You can also enjoy the greenery and flora and fauna of the region during this time.

Kallanai Dam History: A Journey through Time

The Kallanai Dam has a rich and long history, spanning two millennia. It has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, culture and society changes, and advancements in science and technology. Let’s travel through time and learn more about the kallanai dam history.

The Chola Legacy: Who Built Kallanai Dam?

The Kallanai dam was built by Chola king Karikalan, who ruled from 190 CE to 220 CE. He was one of the greatest rulers of the Chola empire, one of the longest-lasting and most influential empires in South India.

Karikalan had a vision to harness the Kaveri River’s water resources, one of India’s largest and most important rivers. He wanted to use the water for irrigation, navigation, and flood control. To achieve his vision, he built a dam across the Kaveri River, near the town of Kallanai, which means “stone dam” in Tamil. He chose this location because it was the narrowest and shallowest point of the river. He chose it also because it had a natural island in the middle, which could serve as a base for the dam.

The dam was completed in five years, and Karikalan inaugurated it in a grand ceremony. The dam was hailed as a masterpiece of engineering, and a great benefit for the people. It transformed the delta region into a granary of South India, producing large amounts of rice, sugarcane, cotton, and other commodities. It also facilitated trade and commerce, as canals served as waterways for transporting goods and people.

Through the ages

The Kallanai Dam has survived the test of time, and has remained in use for over 2000 years. The dam was maintained and repaired by successive region rulers, such as the Pallavas, the Pandyas, the Vijayanagaras, and the Nayakas. It also faced floods, invasions, and wars, but remained intact and functional.

The British renovated the dam in the 19th century, who recognized its importance and potential. In 1804, Captain Caldwell, a British engineer, surveyed the dam and proposed raising its height and building an additional dam downstream. This was to increase water storage and distribution. His proposal was approved by the British government, and work began in 1836.

The British used modern materials and techniques, such as cement, iron, and explosives, to raise the dam’s height by 1.2 meters. They also built the Lower Anicut, also known as the New Anicut, about 20 kilometers downstream from the Kallanai dam. The Lower Anicut was a stone dam, with a length of 1,080 meters, a width of 5.5 meters, and a height of 6.7 meters. It had 42 vents, which could be opened and closed to regulate water flow.

The British also built several irrigation canals and distributaries, such as the Calder Canal, the Vainiyarkarai Canal, and the Sozhaman Canal. These canals increased irrigation area and efficiency. The British also introduced various crops, such as indigo, tobacco, and coffee, which boosted the region’s economy.

The British renovations were completed in 1845 and inaugurated by Sir Arthur Cotton, another British engineer, known as the “Delta Architect” for his contributions to irrigation projects in India.

Timeline of Kallanai Dam History: Key Historical Events

The Kallanai Dam history has very long and rich, spanning over 2000 years. Here are some of the key historical events that marked the dam’s evolution and development over the centuries:

2nd century CE:

The dam was built by Chola king Karikalan, who is considered the founder of the Chola empire. The dam is made of unhewn stones, sand, and clay. It has a length of 329 meters, a width of 20 meters, and a height of 5.4 meters. The dam diverts the Kaveri River water into four main canals, which irrigate the delta region.

10th century CE:

The dam was renovated and improved by Chola king Rajaraja I, who is regarded as one of the greatest rulers of the Chola dynasty. In addition to strengthening the dam, he builds a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

19th century CE:

The dam was renovated and improved by the British, who ruled India at the time. They used cement, iron, and explosives to modify and optimize the dam. They also added various features and facilities, such as gates, shutters, spillways, weirs, and gates. They also constructed various canals and channels, such as the Calder Canal, the Vainiyarkarai Canal, and the Kollidam Canal. These canals increased irrigation area and dam water capacity.

20th century CE:

The dam was renovated and improved by the Indian Government, which gained independence from the British in 1947. They use modern materials and techniques, such as concrete, steel, and sensors, to strengthen and enhance the dam. They also apply cutting-edge technologies and innovations, such as remote sensing, satellite imagery, and artificial intelligence, to improve the dam’s efficiency and effectiveness. They also partner with other states and agencies, such as the Central Water Commission, the Kaveri River Authority, and UNESCO. This is to ensure the optimal and sustainable use of the dam and its water resources.

21st century CE:

The dam is preserved and maintained by the Government of Tamil Nadu, the state where the dam is located. They allocate funds and resources for the upkeep and repair of the dam and implement policies and regulations for water distribution and utilization. They also supervise and guide engineers, who monitor and evaluate the dam’s performance and condition and perform necessary improvements and modifications. They also care for and support the people who live and work near the dam. They respect and cherish the dam as part of their culture and identity.

 Modern Relevance

The Kallanai Dam is not a symbol of the past, but a living and active structure that continues to serve the present and the future. The Kallanai Dam is the main source of water for over 400,000 hectares of land. This land produces a variety of crops, such as rice, sugarcane, cotton, bananas, coconuts, and vegetables.

The dam is considered a crucial component of the Kaveri River basin water management system. This aims to ensure the equal and sustainable distribution and utilization of river water resources. The system consists of several dams, such as Krishnarajasagar Dam, Mettur Dam, Kabini Dam, and Banasurasagar Dam. These dams store and release water according to demand and availability. The system also includes several barrages, such as the Biligundlu Barrage, the Grand Anicut Barrage, and the Stanley Reservoir Barrage. These barrages regulate water flow and prevent wastage. The system also involves various canals, such as the Cauvery Canal, the Bhavani Canal, and the Amaravati Canal. These canals carry water to different parts of the basin.

The Kallanai Dam is an integral part of this system. It diverts the water into four main canals, branching out into smaller channels and distributaries. This covers a large area of the delta region. The dam also helps maintain the river’s natural balance, by allowing the passage of fish and other aquatic life. The dam also helps prevent flooding during the monsoon season, by controlling water flow and releasing excess water into the sea.

Engineering Brilliance

The Kallanai Dam History is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. It showcases the ancient Cholas’ technical skill and creativity, who built a dam that is still functional and efficient after 2000 years. It also showcases the British engineers’ brilliance, who renovated and improved the dam with modern materials and techniques.

Unveiling the Secrets: Unique Design and Flow Regulation

The Kallanai Dam has an unusual design, unlike any other dam in the world. It consists of a series of 380 granite block “groynes”, which are perpendicular projections that extend into the river. The groynes are arranged in a zigzag pattern, creating a slope that directs water flow into the four main canals. The groynes are also spaced at different intervals, creating gaps that allow water to pass. The groynes are made of natural stones, fitted together without mortar or cement.

The dam has a natural fish ladder system, which is a series of steps or pools that enable fish and other aquatic life to migrate upstream and downstream. The fish ladder system is built into the dam, using the gaps between the groins and the natural island in the middle of the river.

The dam can regulate water flow and prevent flooding during the monsoon season when the river is in full flow. The dam has sluices and shutters, which can be opened and closed to control the amount of water that passes through the dam. The dam also has a spillway, which releases excess water into the sea. This is when the river water level is too high. The dam also has a weir, which is a low barrier that raises the water level upstream, creating a reservoir that stores water for later use.

Water Distribution: Main Canals and Channels

The Kallanai Dam is not only a marvel of engineering, but also a marvel of water distribution. It diverts the Kaveri River water into four main canals, branching out into smaller channels and distributaries. This covers a large area of the delta region.

Main Canal Systems

The four main canals originate from Kallanai Dam are:

Calder Canal:

This is the largest and most important canal constructed by the British in the 19th century. It carries water to Thanjavur and Pudukkottai, irrigating about 200,000 hectares of land. It is named after Captain Calder, who supervised its construction. It has a length of 175 kilometers, a width of 30 meters, and a depth of 3 meters. It has several branches and sub-branches, such as the Grand Anaicut Canal, the Vadavar Canal, and the Arasalar Canal.

Vainiyarkarai Canal:

This is another major canal, constructed by the British in the 19th century. It carries water to Thanjavur and Tiruchirappalli, irrigating 100,000 hectares of land. It is named after the Vainiyarkarai village, where it originated. It has a length of 120 kilometers, a width of 15 meters, and a depth of 2 meters. It has several branches and sub-branches, such as the Pullambadi Canal, the Kollidam Canal, and the Uyyakondan Canal.

Sozhaman Canal:

This is an ancient canal, dating back to the Chola era. It carries water to Tanjore and Pudukkottai districts, irrigating about 50,000 hectares of land. It is named after the village of Sozhaman, where it originated. It has a length of 80 kilometers, a width of 10 meters, and a depth of 1.5 meters. It has several branches and sub-branches, such as the Kodamurutti Canal, the Manniar Canal, and the Maruthanadu Canal.

Kollidam Canal:

This is a minor canal constructed by the British in the 19th century. It carries water to Nagapattinam, irrigating 10,000 hectares of land. It is named after the Kollidam River, which is a tributary of the Kaveri River. It has a length of 40 kilometers, a width of 5 meters, and a depth of 1 meter. It has branches and sub-branches, such as the Thirumalairajan Canal, the Vettar Canal, and the Kudamurutti Canal. It also provides water for fishing and salt production in coastal areas.

Smaller Channels and Distributaries

The main canals originating from the Kallanai dam are further divided into smaller channels and distributaries. These channels carry water to villages and fields in the delta region.

Vams:

These are smaller channels that branch out from the main canals and distribute water to different villages and fields. They are usually named after the villages they serve, such as the Thiruvaiyaru Vam, the Thirukattupalli Vam, and the Thiruvonam Vam. They have a length of 10 to 20 kilometers, a width of 2 to 3 meters, and a depth of 0.5 to 1 meter. They have several sub-branches and outlets, which further divide the water among the fields. They also have gates and regulators, which control water flow and prevent wastage.

Erikal:

These are even smaller channels that are located within the villages, and ensure that water reaches the individual fields. They are usually named after the fields they irrigate, such as the Paddy Erikal, the Sugarcane Erikal, and the Coconut Erikal. They have a length of 1 to 5 kilometers, a width of 0.5 to 1 meter, and a depth of 0.2 to 0.5 meters. They have no sub-branches or outlets, but they have small openings or holes, which allow water to seep into the fields. They also have small dams or bunds, which store water for later use.

Local Legends and Folklore

The Kallanai Dam is associated with many local legends and folklore, which add to its charm and fascination. Some of the most popular legends and folklore are:

The Legend of Karikalan:

According to this legend, Karikalan was the son of a shepherd, who was left behind by his father in the forest. He was raised by a tigress, who taught him how to hunt and fight. He grew up to be a brave and strong warrior, who defeated many enemies and became the king of the Cholas. He built the dam to fulfill his mother’s wish, to see the Kaveri River flow in all directions.

The legend of the crow and the snake:

According to this legend, there was a crow and a snake who were enemies. The crow dropped stones on the snake’s head, while the snake bit the crow’s eggs. One day, the crow dropped a stone on the snake’s head, and the snake bit the crow’s eggs, as usual. But the stone fell into the Kaveri River, and the eggs fell on the stone. The stone and the eggs formed the base of the dam, and the crow and the snake became friends.

The legend of the sage and the king:

According to this legend, there was a sage who lived near the Kaveri River. He meditated and performed holy rites on the river bank. One day, he saw a king who was hunting in the forest. The king shot an arrow at a deer, but the arrow missed and hit the sage’s water pot. This broke and spilled the water. The sage cursed the king, saying his kingdom would be flooded by the river. The king apologized and begged for mercy. The sage told him to build a dam across the river, to prevent flooding. The king obeyed and built the dam, and the sage blessed him and his kingdom.

Tamil Literature and Art

The Kallanai dam is also portrayed in Tamil literature and art, which demonstrates its cultural importance. Some of the examples of Tamil literature and art featuring the dam are:

The Silappatikaram:

This is one of the five exemplary epics of Tamil literature, written by Ilango Adigal in the 2nd century CE. It is a story of love, betrayal, and justice, revolving around Kovalan, Kannagi, and Madhavi. The dam is mentioned in the first chapter of the epic, where Kovalan and Kannagi cross the dam on their way to Madurai.

The Pattinappalai:

This is a long poem written by Uruttirangannanar in the 2nd century CE. It is part of Sangam literature, the earliest Tamil literature. It praises Chola king Karikalan and his achievements and qualities.

The Kallanai Paintings:

These are a series of paintings done by Raja Ravi Varma in the 19th century. He was a famous Indian painter, known for his combination of Indian and European styles. He painted the dam and its surroundings, capturing the beauty and magnificence of the dam.

Agriculture and Economy

The Kallanai dam is also a key factor in the agriculture and economy of the region, as it promotes irrigation and cultivation of the land. The dam has a role in:

Irrigation:

The dam diverts the Kaveri River water into four main canals, which branch out into smaller channels and distributaries. This covers a large area of the delta region. The canals and channels carry water to different parts of the region, irrigating the fields, supplying the villages, and supporting the ecosystems.

Cultivation:

The dam supports the cultivation of rice, sugarcane, cotton, bananas, coconuts, and vegetables. The dam transforms the delta region into a granary of South India, producing large crops of rice, sugarcane, cotton, and other commodities. The dam also facilitates the introduction of various crops, such as indigo, tobacco, and coffee, which boost the region’s economy.

Economy:

The dam boosts the region’s economy, by providing water and crops for farmers and people. The dam supports the livelihoods and food security of millions of farmers and people, who depend on water for irrigation, drinking, and domestic use. The dam also generates hydroelectric power, which contributes to the region’s energy needs.

UNESCO World Heritage

The Kallanai Dam is also a UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List site, which means it is a candidate for listing on the World Heritage List, which is a list of the most outstanding and valuable cultural and natural sites in the world. The dam was nominated for the World Heritage List in 2014, by the Government of India, under the following criteria:

• Criterion (i): The dam is a masterpiece of human creative genius, as it showcases the ingenuity and innovation of the ancient Cholas, who built a dam that is still functional and efficient after 2000 years.
• Criterion (ii): The dam exhibits significant interchange of human values, as it reflects the cultural and religious diversity and harmony of the region, and also influences the subsequent hydraulic engineering projects in India and beyond.
• Criterion (iv): The dam is an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological system, which illustrates a significant stage in human history, as it represents ancient and modern methods of dam building and water management.
• Criterion (vi): The dam is directly or indirectly associated with events or living traditions, ideas, beliefs, or artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance, as it is linked to local legends and folklore, Tamil literature and art, and the agriculture and economy of the region.

Attractive Tourist Spot near Kallanai Dam

The Kallanai Dam is not only a marvel of engineering but also a marvel of tourism. It is surrounded by many attractive tourist spots, which offer an overview of the region’s historical and cultural gems.

Historical and Cultural Gems

The region around Kallanai Dam is rich in history and culture. It has been the seat of many kingdoms and civilizations, such as the Cholas, the Pallavas, the Pandyas, the Vijayanagaras, the Nayakas, and the British. You can visit the region’s historical and cultural gems, including:

Rock Fort Temple:

This is a stunning temple complex built on top of a natural rock fortress. It rises to 83 meters above Tiruchirappalli. The temple complex consists of two temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva. The temple complex also offers beautiful views of the city and the river, and ancient writings dating back to the 3rd century BCE.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple:

This is one of the largest Hindu temple complexes in the world, covering 156 acres. It is located on Srirangam Island, between the Kaveri and Kollidam rivers. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped as Sri Ranganatha, the lying form of the god. The temple complex is renowned for its vibrant architecture, featuring 21 towers, 39 pavilions, 50 shrines, and a hall with 1000 pillars. The temple complex is also a center of religious significance, as it is one of the 108 Divya Desams, or holy places of Lord Vishnu. It is also one of the Pancharanga Kshetrams, or the five sacred sites along the Kaveri River.

Jambukeswarar Temple:

This is an exceptional temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as Jambukeswarar, the Lord of the water element. It is located on the island of Thiruvanaikaval, near Tiruchirappalli. The temple also has five enclosures, representing the five elements of nature, and a hall with 796 pillars. The temple is a source of spiritual and natural significance, as it is one of the PanchaBhoota Sthalams, or the five temples of Lord Shiva representing the five elements, and also one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, or the temples revered by the Tamil Saiva saints in their hymns.

Chettinad Heritage Trails:

The Chettinad region consists of 75 villages spread over four districts, namely Sivaganga, Pudukkottai, Karaikudi, and Devakottai. The region is known for its beautiful architecture and cultural traditions, which reflect the Chettiars’ rich and diverse lifestyle. You can visit the Chettinad mansions, which are palatial houses built with imported materials, such as teak, marble, granite, and stained glass. They are decorated with intricate carvings, paintings, and lighting fixtures. You can also visit the Chettinad temples, which are ornate and colorful structures dedicated to various gods and goddesses. You can also enjoy Tamil cuisine, which is spicy and aromatic fare, made with local and exotic ingredients, such as rice, coconut, tamarind, pepper, and star anise.

Nature and Adventure

The region around Kallanai Dam is blessed with nature’s bounty. It has many waterfalls, forests, hills, and islands, which create a serene and scenic environment. You can visit the nature attractions of the region, including:

Puliyancholai Waterfalls:

These are cascading waterfalls, located about 72 kilometers from the dam, surrounded by lush greenery. The waterfalls are fed by the Kollidam River, and flow over seven stages, creating a spectacular sight. The waterfalls are suitable for a refreshing dip and a scenic picnic, as they have crystal-clear water and shady trees.

Mukkombu:

This is a beautiful island sanctuary, located about 18 kilometers from the dam, on the Kaveri River. The island is ideal for boating, birdwatching, and relaxing surrounded by nature, as it has calm and clear water and green vegetation. You can also visit the nearby Mukkombu Dam, a small dam built by the British. In addition, you can visit the Mukkombu Park, which has a children’s play area, a swimming pool, and a fishing zone.

Agaya Gangai Waterfalls:

These are tiered waterfalls, located about 120 kilometers from the dam, and located in the Kolli Hills. The waterfalls are fed by the Aiyaru River, and they fall from 300 feet, creating a breathtaking view. The waterfalls offer a challenging trek, as they can be reached only by climbing down 1300 steps, through a dense and rocky forest.

Butterfly Park:

This is a vibrant collection of butterflies, located about 25 kilometers from the dam, surrounded by a lovely garden. The park has over 100 species of butterflies, which flutter and fly colorfully and lively. The park also has a butterfly museum, which displays the life cycle and diversity of butterflies, and a butterfly greenhouse, which breeds and preserves butterflies.

Accommodation Options near Kallanai Dam

Kallanai Dam is not only a marvel of nature and adventure but also a marvel of hospitality. It is surrounded by many accommodation options, catering to different tastes and budgets.

Budget-Friendly

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you can choose one of these hotels, which offer clean and comfortable rooms at affordable rates.

Hotel Rock Fort View:

Located just 0.6 km from the dam, this hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms equipped with basic amenities, such as air conditioning, television, and Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant, a coffee shop, and a travel desk to cater to your needs.

SRM Hotel Trichy:

Another budget-friendly option, 1.7 km from the dam, features spacious and cozy rooms equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, television, Wi-Fi, and a mini fridge. The hotel also has a rooftop restaurant, which serves delicious local and international cuisine, and offers panoramic views of the city and the river.

Prasanna Devi Lodge:

Situated in the heart of Trichy, 2.3 km from the dam, this heritage lodge offers an exceptional experience, with its old-world charm and affordable rates. The lodge has simple and elegant rooms equipped with basic amenities, such as air conditioning, television, and Wi-Fi. The lodge also has a restaurant, serving authentic South Indian cuisine, and a garden, which adds to the beauty of the place. The lodge’s highlight is its heritage and history. It is one of the oldest lodges in the city, and has hosted many famous personalities, such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Rajendra Prasad. It’s suitable for budget-conscious travelers seeking kallanai dam history.

Mid-Range

If you are looking for a mid-range option, you can choose one of these hotels:

Star Residency:

This stylish hotel, 1.2 km from the dam, features modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and luxury. The hotel has elegant and spacious rooms, equipped with premium amenities, such as air conditioning, television, Wi-Fi, mini bar, and coffee maker. The hotel also has a rooftop pool, which offers a refreshing dip and stunning views of the city and the river. The hotel also has a multi-cuisine restaurant, a bar, a coffee shop, and a conference hall, to cater to your needs.

Hotel Oxina Lygon:

Located 1.2 km from the dam, this hotel offers spacious rooms, excellent service, and a convenient location. It is near Rock Fort Temple and other attractions. The hotel has cozy and well-furnished rooms equipped with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, television, Wi-Fi, a mini bar, and a coffee maker. The hotel’s location is advantageous, as it is close to many historical and cultural gems of the region, such as the Rock Fort Temple, the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, and the Jambukeswarar Temple.

ITC Welcome, Tiruchirappalli:

Though slightly further away (5.7 km), this upscale hotel provides a luxurious experience, with its elegant rooms, spa, swimming pool, and multiple dining options. The hotel has lavish and sophisticated rooms, equipped with deluxe amenities, such as air conditioning, television, Wi-Fi, mini bar, and coffee maker. The hotel also has a spa, which offers a range of treatments and therapies. It also has a swimming pool, which offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Here you can check and Book best hotels near kallanai dam

Homestays & Airbnb

If you are looking for a homestay or Airbnb option, you can choose one of these experiences:

Traditional Chettinad Homestay:

Immerse yourself in the local culture, with a stay in a charming Tamil Nadu homestay near Thanjavur (around 45 km from Kallanai Dam). These homestays offer comfortable accommodations, delicious home-cooked meals, and insights into the authentic Tamil way of life. The homestays are located in the Tamil Nadu region, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural traditions. These traditions reflect the rich and diverse lifestyle of the Tamil community.

Airbnb Experiences:

Find unique Airbnb experiences, hosted by locals, ranging from cooking classes and pottery workshops to guided cycling tours and boat trips on the Kaveri River. These experiences offer a personalized and authentic way to explore the region and learn more about its history, culture, and nature. You can join a cooking class, where you can learn how to make traditional South Indian dishes, such as dosa, idli, sambar, and chutney. You can enjoy them with your host.

Camping

The Kallanai Dam is not only a marvel of hospitality but also a marvel of camping. It is surrounded by many camping options, which offer a thrill and delight for adventurous souls.

Puliyancholai Waterfalls:

For adventurous souls, camping near the majestic Puliyancholai Waterfalls (12 km from Kallanai Dam) offers a stunning and unforgettable experience. You can pitch your tent near the waterfalls, and enjoy the sound and sight of cascading water. Remember to check camping regulations and carry your equipment, such as a tent, sleeping bag, food, water, and a flashlight.

Quotes from Historians, Engineers, and Local Residents

The Kallanai Dam has value and significance, not only for the region but also for the world. The dam is admired and appreciated by many people, from different backgrounds and perspectives, who share their views and opinions on the dam. Here are some quotes from historians, engineers, and residents, who express their thoughts and feelings about the dam:

• “The Kallanai dam is a remarkable example of the ancient engineering skill and wisdom of the Cholas. They built a dam that is still in use after 2000 years. The dam is a testimony to the Cholas’ vision and foresight, who created a system that is still relevant and useful in modern times. The dam is a symbol of harmony and cooperation between people and nature, and the balance and sustainability of water resources.” – Dr. R. Nagaswamy, a renowned historian and archaeologist, who has written extensively on the Chola dynasty and the Kallanai dam.
• Known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Kallanai Dam is both efficient and effective in its operation. The dam has an innovative design, unlike any other dam in the world. This allows the water to flow smoothly and evenly, without causing any erosion or sedimentation. The dam also has a simple and robust structure, which can withstand the pressure and the force of the water, without requiring any complex or costly maintenance. The dam is a source of inspiration and innovation, for the engineers and the scientists, who study and learn from the dam, and also apply and improve the dam, using new technologies and methods.” – Dr. S. Mohan, a professor of civil engineering and hydrology, who has conducted research and experiments on the Kallanai dam.
• ‘Kallanai dam is a blessing, as well as a boon, to farmers and residents. The dam provides water for irrigation, drinking, and domestic use, for the fields and the villages, which produce abundant crops and commodities. The dam supports the livelihoods and the food security of millions of farmers and people, who depend on the water for their needs. The dam also creates opportunities and income for the people, who engage in trade and commerce, tourism and hospitality, and other activities, using the water and the canals. The dam is a part of our culture and identity, and we respect and cherish the dam, as our mother and our protector.” – Mr. R. Kumar, a farmer and a resident of Thiruvaiyaru, a village near the Kallanai dam.

Conclusion

The Kallanai Dam is a marvel of engineering, culture, history, nature, and adventure. It is a place that deserves to be visited and witnessed firsthand, by anyone who appreciates human creativity and innovation, and the beauty and bounty of nature. You can visit the Kallanai Dam and marvel at its magnificence and functionality, and learn more about kallanai dam history and significance. You can also explore the surrounding temples, museums, and cultural sites, which offer a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture. You can also enjoy natural and adventurous attractions, which offer a serene and scenic experience, and a thrill and delight for the senses.

The Kallanai Dam is a place that will leave you awestruck and inspired, and also make you think and reflect. It raises a thought-provoking question: How can we preserve and protect ancient engineering marvels, such as the Kallanai Dam, for future generations? How can we ensure that these marvels continue to serve and benefit the people and the planet, without compromising their integrity and value? How can we honor and celebrate the legacy and vision of the people who created these marvels, and inspire and empower the people who will inherit these marvels?

Kallanai Dam invites you to visit, explore, enjoy, and ponder. What are you waiting for? Book your tickets now, and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

 

FAQs

Q: What is the significance of Kallanai dam?

A: Diverting water from the Kaveri River for irrigation through canals in the fertile delta region.

 

Q: Which is the oldest dam in the world?

A: Lake Homs Dam in Syria is the oldest operational dam in the world. It was built in 1300 C.E.

 

Q: Is Kallanai a gravity dam?

A: It is a hydroelectric gravity dam.

 

Q: What is special in Kallanai?

A: It is India’s first dam, and the fourth oldest in the world. Over the past 2,000 years, this project has proven to be rock solid.

 

Q: What is the kallanai dam history?

A: “Grand Anicut,” also known as “Kallanai,” is in Trichy. It is located around 20 kilometers from Thanjavur and Trichy. Kallanai dam was built 2000 years ago by the Great Karikalan Cholan.

 

Q: Who built the first dam in India?

A: Kallanai Dam, also known as the Grand Anicut Dam, was built in the 2nd century AD by the “King Karikala Chola”.

 

Q: Which dam is the highest gravity?

A: With a height of 285 metres, “Grande-Dixence” is the highest gravity dam in the world.

 

Q: What is the difference between gravity dam and dam?

A: Gravity dams resist the horizontal thrust of the water entirely by their own weight. Arch dams are curved dams that rely on arch action to maintain their strength.

 

Q: What is the difference between Earth dam and gravity dam?

A: An earth dam is a retaining structure made of soil, sand, clay and rock. Water can accumulate behind this. Gravity dams are usually larger and made of concrete.

 

Q: Which is the newest dam in India?

A: On the Bhagirathi River the Tehri Dam is located in New Tehri, Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, India.

 

Q: Which is tallest dam in India?

A: With a height of 260.5 m (855 ft) Tehri Dam is the tallest dam in India and the 12th tallest dam in the world.

 

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