South India - Tourist Attractions - Kallanai - Tamil Nadu
The Kallanai Dam built by the Chola King Karikala Cholan in the 2nd century is an ancient dam located at a distance of 15 kilometers from Tiruchirapalli of Tamil Nadu. It is located in the Kaveri River and is the oldest water diversion structure in India and the fourth oldest in the world that’s still in use.
Specialty of Kallanai - Trichy
The dam was originally built to facilitate irrigation to the delta regions of Tamil Nadu to boost irrigation. The dam was tampered and many hydraulic structures were added to the Dam during the rule of the English. It is stated that the old dam worked well because it reshaped the current in the water instead of controlling them by force.
The Dam was an ancient marvel which makes its visitors to learn more about the Tamil language, literature and the Sangam period. One can take a fresh dip in the Cauvery River and can have mouthwatering fish from the shops nearby the Dam.
This foundation sprawls across 100 acres of area beside the picturesque Chennai, seashore. In today’s scenario Kalakshetra acts as the vital centre for the study and performance of fine arts, envisioned and designed with the style and proportion of Indian aesthetics. Government of India has recognised Kalakshetra as an Institute of National Importance by an act of Indian Parliament in the year 1993.
Best time to visit
The months of October to February are the best time to visit the Dam as it is during the rainy season and a flow of water can be seen in the dam and the river.
Nearby places to visit
Sri Ranganathaswamy temple, Sri Ayyappan temple and the Rockfort Temple.
Ways to reach
By air : The nearest airport is the Trichy International Airport which is located at a distance of 24 kilometers from the Dam.
By train : The nearest train facility is available at the Tiruchirapalli railway station.
By road : Many government transports and car services are available from Trichy to reach the dam.