Asia's First Hydro-Electric Power Station
Sub Place Details: The Shivanasamudra Hydro-Electric Power Station is a monument to human ingenuity and a historic landmark that changed the industrial landscape of South India forever. Established in 1902, it holds the prestigious title of being the first major hydroelectric generating station in a ll of Asia. The project was born out of a desperate need for consistent energy at the Kolar Gold Fields (KGF), which were then among the deepest mines in the world. The idea was first proposed in 1898 by the visionary Alain Chartier Joly de Lotbiniere, a French engineer working for the British government, and was passionately supported by the Dewan of Mysore, Sir K. Seshadri Iyer. The station harnessed the mighty force of the Kaveri River at the Shivanasamudra Falls, specifically utilizing the 90-meter drop to generate electricity that was then transmitted over a distance of 147 kilometers to the mines—at the time, the longest power transmission line in the world. This feat of engineering not only powered the gold mines but also paved the way for the electrification of Bangalore in 1905, making it the first city in India to have electric streetlights. Even today, over a century later, the station remains operational under the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), maintaining its status as a living museum of colonial-era technology. Visitors can see the heritage structures, the old machinery, and the unique winch system that still transports personnel and equipment down the steep gorge to the power house. The site is not just a power plant but a symbol of the progress of Karnataka and a testament to the early adoption of renewable energy in the Indian subcontinent. It represents a bridge between the late Victorian era industrial spirit and modern sustainable practices, drawing historians, engineers, and curious travelers who wish to witness the roots of India's power grid. :
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage & IndustrialEntry Fees:
Government Regulation: Entry to the inner machinery area is restricted; however, the viewpoint is free.
Special Permission: To enter the powerhouse, one must obtain a permit from KPCL in Bangalore or Mandya, which may involve a nominal proc...Government Regulation: Entry to the inner machinery area is restricted; however, the viewpoint is free.
Special Permission: To enter the powerhouse, one must obtain a permit from KPCL in Bangalore or Mandya, which may involve a nominal processing fee.
:Timing:
Regular Timings: The viewpoint is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM for the best sunlight on the powerhouse below.
:...Regular Timings: The viewpoint is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: Arrive by 10:00 AM for the best sunlight on the powerhouse below.
:Special Events:
Engineer's Day: Celebrated on September 15th every year in honor of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, with special displays and decorations at the plant.
Heritage Week: Periodic events highlighting the station's 120-year history.
Read MoreEngineer's Day: Celebrated on September 15th every year in honor of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, with special displays and decorations at the plant.
Heritage Week: Periodic events highlighting the station's 120-year history.
:Best Photo Spots:
The Bluff Ridge: This spot offers a panoramic 300-word view of the penstock pipes and the power house below.
Winch Track: The steep rails offer a dramatic perspective for depth-of-field shots.
Historical Plaque:...The Bluff Ridge: This spot offers a panoramic 300-word view of the penstock pipes and the power house below.
Winch Track: The steep rails offer a dramatic perspective for depth-of-field shots.
Historical Plaque: Capture the 1902 founding stone for historical documentation.
:Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Industrial Heritage Walk: Explore the history of 1902 and see the ancient generators.
Winch Sightseeing: Watch the historical winch lift moving down the steep "Bluff" slope.
Viewpoint Observation: Stand at the Bluff Viewpoint to see the pipes (penstocks) carrying water to the turbines.
Nature Photography: Capture the convergence of heavy machinery and the lush greenery of the Kaveri valley.
Educational Tour: Learn about the transition from steam power to hydropower.
Sunset Watching: View the sunset over the Kaveri River from the high ridge near the station.
Museum Visit: Check out the old maps and blueprints displayed in the small administrative block.
Information
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Why Famous:
Historic Milestone: This station is globally famous for being the first of its kind in Asia, proving that long-distance power transmission was possible in the Indian terrain.
Engineering Marvel: It is celebrated for its 1902 technology, feat...Historic Milestone: This station is globally famous for being the first of its kind in Asia, proving that long-distance power transmission was possible in the Indian terrain.
Engineering Marvel: It is celebrated for its 1902 technology, featuring original General Electric equipment that has functioned for decades.
Economic Impact: Its fame stems from its role in sustaining the legendary Kolar Gold Fields, which were the economic engine of the Mysore state.
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Architecture:
Sub Place Architecture:
The Colonial Industrial Design: The architecture of the station is a classic example of British industrial design of the early 20th Century, characterized by sturdy granite structures and functional ironwork.
<...Sub Place Architecture:
The Colonial Industrial Design: The architecture of the station is a classic example of British industrial design of the early 20th Century, characterized by sturdy granite structures and functional ironwork.
The Winch System Dimensions: A prominent feature is the British-built winch lift, which operates on a track descending nearly 400 feet at a sharp 45-degree angle.
Generating Hall Structure: The main power house building is a rectangular block approximately 120 feet long and 50 feet wide, built with thick stone walls to withstand the vibrations of the heavy General Electric turbines.
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How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest international airport is Bangalore (KIA), approximately 170 km away.
By Train: Reach Maddur Railway Station (25 km away) via the Bangalore-Mysore line.
By Road: Drive from Bangalore via t... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Gaganachukki Falls (1 km), 2. Bharachukki Falls (2 km), 3. Madhya Ranga Temple (2 km), 4. Someshwara Temple (2. 5 km), 5. Talakadu (35 km), 6. Somanathapura (30 km), 7. Muthathi (40 km), 8. Bheemeshwari (55 km), 9. Channapatna (50 km), 10. Mysore (75 km).
Tourism Tips
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Safety & Health: The cliffs are steep; stay behind the railings at the Bluff.
Packing: Carry water as there are few shops inside the restricted area.
Accommodation: Stay in Malavalli or Kollegal for better ...
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Information about New and Updated Locations(702+) of Karnataka Has Been Added :-
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