Upper Sholayar Dam
Reservoir System: This is the upper component of the Sholayar Hydroelectric Project, with the main dam (Lower Sholayar) being downstream. The dam is strategically important for storing water from the upstream catchment area before it is utilized for power generation and diverted to the plains. Tranq uil Setting: The dam and its surroundings are incredibly peaceful and untouched, offering serene views of the backwaters and the forested hills of the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve. It is significantly less frequented by tourists than the Lower Sholayar Dam, enhancing its quietude and sense of escape.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 - 2 HoursPlace Type:
Dam/Storage ReservoirEntry Fees:
Adult/Child: Rs 20 - Rs 50 per person (Nominal Entry Fee, subject to security/maintenance charges).
Vehicle Fee: Nominal fee for car/two-wheeler parking.
Photography: Standard cameras are generally free, but...Adult/Child: Rs 20 - Rs 50 per person (Nominal Entry Fee, subject to security/maintenance charges).
Vehicle Fee: Nominal fee for car/two-wheeler parking.
Photography: Standard cameras are generally free, but drones and professional gear are restricted.Timing:
Regular Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM Daily. Restricted access is common, and the entry gate may be closed early due to security concerns or weather.
Ideal Visit Time: Morning (10 AM to 12 PM) to enjoy the clear views and cool breeze without the st...Regular Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM Daily. Restricted access is common, and the entry gate may be closed early due to security concerns or weather.
Ideal Visit Time: Morning (10 AM to 12 PM) to enjoy the clear views and cool breeze without the strong afternoon sun or sudden fog.Special Events:
Water Release: Security officials sometimes announce the opening of the spill gates during the peak monsoon, which is a spectacular display of controlled water force, though it is an unscheduled event. ...Water Release: Security officials sometimes announce the opening of the spill gates during the peak monsoon, which is a spectacular display of controlled water force, though it is an unscheduled event.Best Photo Spots:
Reservoir Panorama: Wide shots capturing the full stretch of the vast water body, emphasizing the tranquility and scale.
The Structure's Top: Photos of the dam's walkway and railings with the reservoir on one side and the deep valley on the ...Reservoir Panorama: Wide shots capturing the full stretch of the vast water body, emphasizing the tranquility and scale.
The Structure's Top: Photos of the dam's walkway and railings with the reservoir on one side and the deep valley on the other, highlighting the elevation.
Mist and Forest: Capturing the reservoir edge where the dense forest meets the water, often shrouded in thick morning mist.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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View Gazing: Appreciating the vast, tranquil backwaters and the cloud-kissed, rolling hills of the surrounding forest.
Photography: Capturing the pristine reflections in the water and the sheer scale of the dam's engineering feat.
Nature Walk: Taking a peaceful walk along the safe sections of the dam's service roads and embankments.
Bird Watching: Spotting various types of kingfishers, herons, and other water-dependent birds of the region.
Picnicking: Enjoying a serene and quiet picnic on the grassy slopes near the viewing area.
Road Trip: The scenic and winding drive to and from the dam is an experience in itself, passing through deep forest and vast tea plantations. ...View Gazing: Appreciating the vast, tranquil backwaters and the cloud-kissed, rolling hills of the surrounding forest.
Photography: Capturing the pristine reflections in the water and the sheer scale of the dam's engineering feat.
Nature Walk: Taking a peaceful walk along the safe sections of the dam's service roads and embankments.
Bird Watching: Spotting various types of kingfishers, herons, and other water-dependent birds of the region.
Picnicking: Enjoying a serene and quiet picnic on the grassy slopes near the viewing area.
Road Trip: The scenic and winding drive to and from the dam is an experience in itself, passing through deep forest and vast tea plantations.
Information
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Why Famous:
Hydro Power Source: Famous for being the critical head storage facility of the significant Sholayar power generation project, making it a critical regional asset for power and water supply.
Peaceful Environment: Known for its remarkable quie...Hydro Power Source: Famous for being the critical head storage facility of the significant Sholayar power generation project, making it a critical regional asset for power and water supply.
Peaceful Environment: Known for its remarkable quietude, pristine air, and lack of large crowds, providing a true escape into the high-altitude reservoir environment of the Western Ghats. -
Architecture:
Structural Design: Similar to the Lower Sholayar Dam, it is a functional gravity dam built primarily for water storage, using concrete and masonry.
Dimension: It is physically smaller than the lower dam but plays a critical role in controlli...Structural Design: Similar to the Lower Sholayar Dam, it is a functional gravity dam built primarily for water storage, using concrete and masonry.
Dimension: It is physically smaller than the lower dam but plays a critical role in controlling the inflow to the entire Sholayar system. The architecture is defined by its strong buttresses and the large spillway system.
Road Access: The dam area is accessible via a service road, often passing through scenic private tea estates, giving a unique visual blend of human enterprise and raw nature. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Sholayar Dam (8 Kms), 2. Nallamudi Viewpoint (10 Kms), 3. Valparai Town (28 Kms), 4. Nirar Dam (15 Kms), 5. Chinnakallar Falls (15 Kms), 6. Tiger Valley (15 Kms), 7. Panchamuga Vinayagar Temple (22 Kms), 8. Koolangal River (30 Kms), 9. Birla Waterfalls (25 Kms), 10. Athirappilly Falls (Kerala) (60 Kms)
Tourism Tips
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Security: Photography of the vital dam machinery and internal powerhouse structures is strictly prohibited; follow guard instructions carefully.
Driving: The road can be winding; drive cautiously and check fuel levels before leaving Valpar...Security: Photography of the vital dam machinery and internal powerhouse structures is strictly prohibited; follow guard instructions carefully.
Driving: The road can be winding; drive cautiously and check fuel levels before leaving Valparai as facilities are non-existent here.
Water Caution: The reservoir is extremely deep; strictly stay behind all barriers and marked safety zones.
Carry Snacks: Limited or no food/water facilities are available; pack your own.
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