Kherkatta Dam
Engineering Marvel: Kherkatta Dam, also known as the Paralkot Reservoir, is a medium irrigation project built across the Kotri River. Completed in 1981, it is the largest dam in the Kanker district and stands as a testament to post-independence development in the region. The reservoir covers a massi ve area of 1,300 acres, providing water for over 24,000 acres of agricultural land. The dam was constructed by the Dandakaranya Development Authority to support local farmers and tribal settlements. The vast expanse of water looks like an inland sea, especially during the monsoon when the floodgates are opened. The area has become a thriving ecosystem for fish, with over 25 species recorded in its waters. Migratory birds often visit the reservoir during the winter months, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. The surrounding landscape consists of gentle hills and open fields, offering a different vibe from the dense forests of northern Kanker. It is a crucial spot for the local fishing industry and supports the livelihoods of many families. The dam also plays a role in flood control during heavy rains. It is a popular spot for educational trips where students learn about water management and engineering.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Dam & ReservoirEntry Fees:
Entry Policy: Access to the dam wall is usually free, but certain restricted areas near the gates require permission.
Parking Charges: A nominal fee of 30 rupees for four-wheelers and 10 rupees for two-wheelers is common. ...Entry Policy: Access to the dam wall is usually free, but certain restricted areas near the gates require permission.
Parking Charges: A nominal fee of 30 rupees for four-wheelers and 10 rupees for two-wheelers is common.Timing:
Operating Hours: Open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; the evening time is most preferred for the view.
Ideal Visit Time: September is perfect as the dam is full and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. ...Operating Hours: Open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; the evening time is most preferred for the view.
Ideal Visit Time: September is perfect as the dam is full and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.Special Events:
Independence Day Gatherings: Locals often gather here on August 15th to celebrate near this symbol of progress.
Fish Harvesting Season: A busy time when the reservoir is bustling with traditional fishing activities and local markets. ...Independence Day Gatherings: Locals often gather here on August 15th to celebrate near this symbol of progress.
Fish Harvesting Season: A busy time when the reservoir is bustling with traditional fishing activities and local markets.Best Photo Spots:
Floodgate Action: Capturing the powerful gush of water when the gates are opened during the peak monsoon.
Reflection Shots: The still water of the reservoir acts as a giant mirror for the surrounding hills and sky.
Read MoreFloodgate Action: Capturing the powerful gush of water when the gates are opened during the peak monsoon.
Reflection Shots: The still water of the reservoir acts as a giant mirror for the surrounding hills and sky.
Wide Angle Landscapes: Using a wide lens to capture the sheer scale of the 1,300-acre water body.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Sunset Strolls: Walking along the 610-meter long dam wall to enjoy the cool breeze and the setting sun.
Angling and Fishing: Engaging with local fishermen or trying traditional rod fishing in designated areas.
Bird Watching: Using binoculars to spot species like the Lesser Whistling Duck and Egrets along the banks.
Boating Trips: Occasional local boat rides are available to take visitors into the middle of the reservoir.
Engineering Tour: Observing the gate mechanism and the canal system that distributes water to distant fields.
Nature Walks: Exploring the flatlands around the reservoir which are rich in local grasses and small shrubs.
Picnic by the Bank: Finding...Sunset Strolls: Walking along the 610-meter long dam wall to enjoy the cool breeze and the setting sun.
Angling and Fishing: Engaging with local fishermen or trying traditional rod fishing in designated areas.
Bird Watching: Using binoculars to spot species like the Lesser Whistling Duck and Egrets along the banks.
Boating Trips: Occasional local boat rides are available to take visitors into the middle of the reservoir.
Engineering Tour: Observing the gate mechanism and the canal system that distributes water to distant fields.
Nature Walks: Exploring the flatlands around the reservoir which are rich in local grasses and small shrubs.
Picnic by the Bank: Finding a shady spot near the water to enjoy a meal with a view of the vast reservoir.
Information
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Why Famous:
Largest Dam in District: Famous for its massive size and its role as the primary irrigation source for Paralkot.
Fishing Hub: Renowned for its rich ichthyofaunal diversity, producing a large variety of freshwater fish. ...Largest Dam in District: Famous for its massive size and its role as the primary irrigation source for Paralkot.
Fishing Hub: Renowned for its rich ichthyofaunal diversity, producing a large variety of freshwater fish. -
Architecture:
Embankment Structure: It is an earth-fill embankment dam with a height of 20 meters and a length of 610 meters.
Spillway Design: The dam features two major floodgates that are 12 meters wide each, designed to handle peak monsoon discharge. ...Embankment Structure: It is an earth-fill embankment dam with a height of 20 meters and a length of 610 meters.
Spillway Design: The dam features two major floodgates that are 12 meters wide each, designed to handle peak monsoon discharge. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Raipur (250 KMS); it's a long drive, so an early start is recommended.
By Train: The closest major railway station is in Dalli Rajhara (90 KMS), which connects to the main line.
B...By Air: The nearest airport is Raipur (250 KMS); it's a long drive, so an early start is recommended.
By Train: The closest major railway station is in Dalli Rajhara (90 KMS), which connects to the main line.
By Road: Located near Pakhanjur, it is well-connected by state highways from Kanker and Durg.
By Local Transport: Shared jeeps and buses run regularly from Pakhanjur town, which is 20 KMS away. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Post-Monsoon: September to November is the best time to see the reservoir at its maximum capacity.
Winter Season: December to February is the most comfortable for spending long hours outdoors by the water. ...Post-Monsoon: September to November is the best time to see the reservoir at its maximum capacity.
Winter Season: December to February is the most comfortable for spending long hours outdoors by the water. -
Near Tourist Places:
Pakhanjur (20 KM), Kapsi (10 KM), Dev Dhara (55 KM), Jalhur Hill Station (65 KM), Kanker Palace (110 KM), Gadiya Hill (112 KM), Maa Shivani Temple (111 KM), Malanjhkudum Falls (125 KM), Charre Marre Falls (80 KM), Dudhawa Dam (140 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Sun Protection: The dam area is very open, so bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
Safety First: Never attempt to swim in the reservoir as the depth can be unpredictable and currents strong.
T...Sun Protection: The dam area is very open, so bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
Safety First: Never attempt to swim in the reservoir as the depth can be unpredictable and currents strong.
Travel Distance: Since it is far from Kanker city, combine this visit with a trip to Pakhanjur or Kapsi.
Local Food: Try the fresh fish preparations at small stalls in the nearby Kherkatta village for an authentic taste.
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