Navilutirtha
Overview: Navilutirtha is a stunning gorge located between two hills through which the Malaprabha river flows. The name "Navilutirtha" literally translates to "Pilgrimage of Peacocks," as the area was once teeming with these beautiful birds. In 1974, the Malaprabha Dam (also known as Renuka Sagara) was constructed here to provide irrigation and drinking water to the dry regions of North Karnataka. The dam is unique because it is one of the shortest in the state in terms of length but holds a massive reservoir of water. The site is a popular picnic spot for locals due to its serene environment and the dramatic landscape of the river cutting through the hills. Visitors can enjoy the view of the vast blue water spread across the reservoir, framed by rugged rocky outcrops. The area around the dam is well-maintained with gardens and viewpoints that offer a bird's eye view of the spillway. It is a place where nature's tranquility meets human engineering, providing a much-needed escape from city life. The sunrise and sunset at the dam are particularly famous for the reflection of the orange sky on the calm water surface. It is also a site of spiritual importance as it lies near the famous Savadatti Yellamma Temple, making it a common stop for pilgrims. Whether you are looking for a quiet afternoon or a scenic drive, Navilutirtha offers a refreshing experience in the heart of the district.:
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 - 3 HoursPlace Type:
Nature & EngineeringEntry Fees:
General Entry: Entry to the dam garden and viewpoint area usually costs around 10-20 INR per person.
Vehicle Parking: A standard parking fee of 30 INR for cars and 10 INR for two-wheelers is applicable.
Camera C...General Entry: Entry to the dam garden and viewpoint area usually costs around 10-20 INR per person.
Vehicle Parking: A standard parking fee of 30 INR for cars and 10 INR for two-wheelers is applicable.
Camera Charges: Non-professional photography is free, but commercial filming requires prior permission from the Irrigation Department. :Timing:
Regular Timings: The dam area is open to the public from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is at 4:30 PM to enjoy the cooler breeze and the sunset colors.
Monsoon Alert: ...Regular Timings: The dam area is open to the public from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is at 4:30 PM to enjoy the cooler breeze and the sunset colors.
Monsoon Alert: During heavy rains, access to certain parts of the dam may be restricted for safety reasons. :Special Events:
Monsoon Discharge: The opening of the dam gates is a major local event that draws crowds to witness the powerful "waterfall" effect created by the spillway.
Navaratri at Saundatti: During the October festival, the entire region near the dam ...Monsoon Discharge: The opening of the dam gates is a major local event that draws crowds to witness the powerful "waterfall" effect created by the spillway.
Navaratri at Saundatti: During the October festival, the entire region near the dam becomes a hub of activity with pilgrims visiting the nearby Yellamma temple. :Best Photo Spots:
The Hill Top View: Hike up the small hill near the entrance to get a full view of the dam's unique narrow structure and the gorge.
The Garden Walkway: The colorful flower beds with the blue reservoir in the background provide a classic portr...The Hill Top View: Hike up the small hill near the entrance to get a full view of the dam's unique narrow structure and the gorge.
The Garden Walkway: The colorful flower beds with the blue reservoir in the background provide a classic portrait setting.
The Bridge View: The bridge below the dam offers a great angle to capture the height of the dam wall. :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Boating in the Reservoir: Depending on water levels and local permissions, occasional boat rides allow visitors to see the dam wall from the water.
Garden Strolls: The landscaped gardens near the dam entrance are perfect for a leisurely walk with children.
Photography of the Spillway: Capture the massive gates and the rushing water during the monsoon for high-action shots.
Visit to Saundatti Fort: Just a short drive away, explore the 18th-century fort that offers a historical context to the region.
Picnic by the Riverside: There are designated spots below the dam where families can enjoy a meal with the sound of flowing water.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep a lookout for peacocks and monkeys that freque...
Information
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Why Famous:
Smallest Big Dam: It is famous for being the shortest dam (in length) in Karnataka while managing a significant river flow through a very narrow valley.
Peacock Sanctuary: The region is traditionally famous for its high population of Indian ...Smallest Big Dam: It is famous for being the shortest dam (in length) in Karnataka while managing a significant river flow through a very narrow valley.
Peacock Sanctuary: The region is traditionally famous for its high population of Indian Peacocks, which can still be spotted in the early mornings near the reservoir. : -
Architecture:
Dam Dimensions: The dam has a height of 155 meters and an incredibly short length of only 41 meters across the narrow gorge.
Spillway Design: It features four radial gates that create a spectacular sight when opened during the monsoon to rel...Dam Dimensions: The dam has a height of 155 meters and an incredibly short length of only 41 meters across the narrow gorge.
Spillway Design: It features four radial gates that create a spectacular sight when opened during the monsoon to release excess water.
Reservoir Capacity: The Renuka Sagara reservoir has a storage capacity of approximately 37. 73 TMC, irrigating thousands of hectares of farmland. : -
How To Reach:
By Air: Belagavi Airport (IXG) is 70 KMS away; one can take a bus to Saundatti and then a local auto.
By Train: Dharwad Railway Station (50 KM) is the closest major railhead with better connectivity to the dam via road.
Read More -
Near Tourist Places:
Savadatti Yellamma Temple (10 KM), Savadatti Fort (12 KM), Sogal Waterfalls (35 KM), Kittur Fort (55 KM), Belagavi Fort (70 KM), Gokak Falls (85 KM), Godchinamalaki Falls (75 KM), Sirisangi Kalika Temple (40 KM), Parasgad Fort (15 KM), Hampi (150 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Do not attempt to swim in the reservoir as the depth is unpredictable and there are strong currents.
Packing Essentials: Carry a pair of binoculars for bird watching; wear a wide-brimmed hat as there is limited shade on the...
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