Monsoon is just around the corner. Most of us would look forward to unwinding amidst nature and sniffing the fresh petrichor. If picnicking around serene waterbodies is your idea of weekend fun, we’ve got some great recommendations for you. Here are eight dams of Pollachi that promise a fun-filled and restorative time for nature lovers.
Dams of Pollachi that make for great weekend getaways
Aliyar Dam
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Aliyar Dam is undoubtedly the most popular dam near Pollachi. Nestled amidst the verdant Annamalai Hills, the dam lies between Pollachi and Valparai in Tamil Nadu. It makes for a peaceful getaway from Coimbatore and Chennai. Constructed between 1959 and 1969, the dam facilitates irrigation for agricultural use in Pollachi and nearby areas. The main attraction here is the beautifully-maintained park, which sits at the bottom of the dam. The stunning views of the Annamalai Hills are truly a sight to behold. Apart from picnicking with your loved ones, you can also try boating here.
Parambikulam Dam
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This pristine dam is set in Kerala’s Palakkad district. Constructed across the Parambikulam River, Parambikulam is one of India’s best dams. It was built as a part of the Parambikulam-Aliyar project, which sought to connect the river valley between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. What makes this dam and its environs extremely blissful are the majestic Western Ghats of Kerala that encompass it. The dam lies in the vicinity of the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary and boasts unmatched scenic beauty. When here, you can indulge in birdwatching and boating.
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Thunakadavu Dam
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Thunakkadavu Dam is also a part of the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala. Built across the Thunakkadavu River, a tributary of the Parambikulam River, this dam is also a part of the Parambikulam Aliyar Irrigation Project. What lures tourists to this beautiful dam is its rich biodiversity. Most tourists are welcomed by the sight of deers quenching their thirst at the lake. One of the best ways to make the most of your time here is by embarking on a refreshing boat ride on the lake. It’s advisable to pack your own food as there is a dearth of good eating out options near the dam.
Peruvaripallam Dam
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One of the lesser-known dams near Pollachi, the gorgeous Peruvaripallam Dam is built on the Peruvaripallam River in Kerala‘s Palakkad district. The dam is an earth-filled embankment dam and draws nature lovers and bird-watching enthusiasts with its unmatched beauty. This dam was also constructed as a part of the Parambikulam Aliyar Irrigation Project. Its reservoir is linked to the Thunakkadavu Reservoir and the dam sits north of the Parambikulam Dam.
Sholayar Dam
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Another popular dam on our list, Sholayar Dam is divided into two parts. While the Upper Sholayar Dam lies in Tamil Nadu, the Lower Sholayar Dam is located in Kerala. Encompassed by the lush Sholayar forest, the dam serves as the lifeline for the locals. It’s great for nature and landscape photographers, thanks to the abundant flora and fauna that surround the dam. When here, wildlifers must visit the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve to make the most of your experience in the great outdoors.
Nirar Dam
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Located near the beautiful town of Valparai, Nirar Dam is also segregated into two parts. It’s one of the most important dams near Valparai. The Upper Nirar Dam is blessed with a waterfall, which will remind you of Kodaikanal’s Cascade Falls. The dam’s reservoir is sequestered amidst dense forests and utterly magnificent hills. While the Upper Nirar Dam is 15km from Valparai, the Lower Nirar Dam is 20km from Valparai. The dam also serves the purpose of storing the water from the Chinnakallar Falls.
Thirumoorthy Dam
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And last on our list is the Thirumoorthy Dam. The dam makes for a great weekend getaway from Tiruppur in Tamil Nadu. On offer here is a range of activities, with boating being the most popular. Most people come here to enjoy a long scenic drive, followed by a lunch amidst nature. The drive to the dam takes you through sunflower manures, swaying coconut trees, and beautiful paddy fields. The Thirumoorthy Dam is built across the Palar River, which originates from the northern slopes of the Annamalai Hills.
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