Anaicut Dam
The Anaicut Dam, specifically the Mordhana Dam, is a vital irrigation and water storage structure located in the Anaicut region near Vellore. It is built across the Koundanya River, a tributary of the Palar River, nestled between two lush green hills of the Eastern Ghats. This dam is crucial for th e agricultural survival of the surrounding villages, providing water for thousands of acres of land. The scenic beauty of the dam is unparalleled in the district, as it creates a vast reservoir that looks like a calm lake surrounded by mountains. During the rainy season, the sight of water overflowing from the shutters is a major attraction, drawing thousands of tourists from Vellore and Gudiyatham. The area around the dam is rich in biodiversity, often frequented by wild elephants and various bird species from the nearby forest reserves. It is a quiet spot, largely devoid of commercial shops, allowing visitors to enjoy nature in its raw form. The cool breeze and the sound of water create a meditative atmosphere. The dam also serves as a popular spot for local youth to enjoy a weekend getaway. Historically, the construction of this dam was a significant milestone for the Vellore district, solving the perennial water scarcity in the Anaicut block. Visiting the dam provides an insight into the rural engineering and the importance of water management in South India. The drive to the dam passes through beautiful countryside, offering views of paddy fields and coconut groves. It is a perfect spot for those looking to escape the city's heat and spend a day in the lap of nature.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 HoursPlace Type:
Dam & Scenic SpotEntry Fees:
There is no entry fee for the dam area. However, some areas might be restricted by the Public Works Department (PWD) for safety reasons, and permission might be needed for professional filming. ...There is no entry fee for the dam area. However, some areas might be restricted by the Public Works Department (PWD) for safety reasons, and permission might be needed for professional filming.Timing:
Special Events:
The Opening of Shutters during the peak monsoon in October or November is treated like a local festival with hundreds of people gathering to witness the force of the water. Local temple festivals in Anaicut village also attract crowds in March. ...The Opening of Shutters during the peak monsoon in October or November is treated like a local festival with hundreds of people gathering to witness the force of the water. Local temple festivals in Anaicut village also attract crowds in March.Best Photo Spots:
Dam Crest: For a symmetrical shot of the water and gates.
Reservoir Bank: For shots of the hills reflecting in the still water.
Forest Path: For greenery-rich nature photography. ...Dam Crest: For a symmetrical shot of the water and gates.
Reservoir Bank: For shots of the hills reflecting in the still water.
Forest Path: For greenery-rich nature photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Sightseeing: Walk on the dam crest for panoramic views.
Photography: Capture the mountain reflection in the reservoir.
Nature Walk: Explore the forest trails near the dam base.
Birding: Spot water birds like ducks and kingfishers.
Relaxing: Sit by the water and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Picnicking: Have a quiet meal at the base of the dam.
Village Tour: Visit Mordhana village to see rural lifestyle.
Trekking: Climb the adjacent hills for a bird's eye view.
Elephant Watching: (With caution) Observe wildlife from a distance.
Stargazing: Enjoy the dark night ski...Sightseeing: Walk on the dam crest for panoramic views.
Photography: Capture the mountain reflection in the reservoir.
Nature Walk: Explore the forest trails near the dam base.
Birding: Spot water birds like ducks and kingfishers.
Relaxing: Sit by the water and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Picnicking: Have a quiet meal at the base of the dam.
Village Tour: Visit Mordhana village to see rural lifestyle.
Trekking: Climb the adjacent hills for a bird's eye view.
Elephant Watching: (With caution) Observe wildlife from a distance.
Stargazing: Enjoy the dark night skies away from city lights.
Information
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Why Famous:
Anaicut Dam (Mordhana) is famous for its stunning location between two hills, often called the 'mini-reservoir' of Vellore. It is a major attraction during the months of November and December when it reaches full capacity. It is also known as a prime spot for spotting wild elephants that come to ...Anaicut Dam (Mordhana) is famous for its stunning location between two hills, often called the 'mini-reservoir' of Vellore. It is a major attraction during the months of November and December when it reaches full capacity. It is also known as a prime spot for spotting wild elephants that come to the reservoir for water. -
Architecture:
The dam is a gravity dam made of high-quality concrete and masonry. It features a series of vertical lift gates (shutters) to regulate water flow.
Dimensions: The dam has a height of approximately 33 meters and a length of about 220 meters. The reservoir has a st...The dam is a gravity dam made of high-quality concrete and masonry. It features a series of vertical lift gates (shutters) to regulate water flow.
Dimensions: The dam has a height of approximately 33 meters and a length of about 220 meters. The reservoir has a storage capacity of several million cubic feet. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Chennai (155 km).
By Train: Vellore Town or Katpadi Station (35 km).
By Road: Take a bus to Anaicut from Vellore, then a local auto to Mordhana.
By L...By Air: Nearest airport is Chennai (155 km).
By Train: Vellore Town or Katpadi Station (35 km).
By Road: Take a bus to Anaicut from Vellore, then a local auto to Mordhana.
By Local Transport: Private cars or bikes are the best way to reach this remote location. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Seasons: Post-Monsoon (October to January) is best for water views. Summer is dry but good for wildlife spotting.
Parts of Day: Late afternoon for the best lighting and breeze. ...Seasons: Post-Monsoon (October to January) is best for water views. Summer is dry but good for wildlife spotting.
Parts of Day: Late afternoon for the best lighting and breeze. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Amirthi Zoo (20km), 2. Vellore Fort (32km), 3. Golden Temple (28km), 4. Palamathi Hills (30km), 5. Jalagandeeswarar Temple (32km), 6. Gudiyatham (25km), 7. Yelagiri (90km), 8. Vallimalai (60km), 9. Ratnagiri (45km), 10. Kaigal Falls (70km).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Do not attempt to swim in the reservoir; the currents are dangerous.
Packing: Carry your own food and water as there are no shops.
Accommodation: Stay in Vellore as there are no hotels nea...Health & Safety: Do not attempt to swim in the reservoir; the currents are dangerous.
Packing: Carry your own food and water as there are no shops.
Accommodation: Stay in Vellore as there are no hotels near the dam.
Cash: Keep cash handy for transport; no ATMs nearby.
Connectivity: Mobile signals are weak near the dam base.
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