Kallanai Dam, also famously known as Grand Anicut, is one of the oldest water diversion structures in the world still in use. Built across the Kaveri River by the great Chola King Karikala Chola in the 2nd century AD (around 150 CE), this ancient engineering marvel is approximately 2,000 years old.
Spanning 329 meters in length and 20 meters in width, the dam regulates water flow for irrigation in the fertile delta regions of Tamil Nadu. It stands as a symbol of Tamil Nadu’s ancient architectural brilliance and continues to support agriculture even today. The site features a beautiful park, making it a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists.
Kallanai Dam Location
- Address: Kallanai Dam (Grand Anicut), Arasangudi, Near Srirangam, Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) District / Thanjavur District Border, Tamil Nadu — 621003
- Pin Code: 621003
- Administrative Zone: Thanjavur District (located very close to Tiruchirappalli)
| Reference Point | Distance |
| Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) City | 15–20 km |
| Srirangam Temple | 17–18 km |
| Thanjavur | 45 km |
| Grand Anicut Park | Adjacent |
| Tiruchirappalli International Airport | 25–30 km |
| Tiruchirappalli Junction Railway Station | 18–20 km |
Timings and Entry Fee Kallanai Dam
| Activity | Timings | Entry / Activity Fee |
| Dam & Park Visiting Hours | 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM (all days) | Free (No entry fee for the dam) |
| Karikalan Park / Garden | During visiting hours | Adults: ₹10, Children: ₹5 |
| Boating | Subject to water levels | Separate charges (if available) |
Note: The dam area is open and accessible throughout the day. Best visited during daylight hours.
How to Reach Kallanai Dam
- From Trichy City: 15–20 km drive (30–45 minutes) via Trichy–Thanjavur Road.
- By Bus: Frequent government and private buses (e.g., Route Nos. 83, 2A, 2B) from Chatram Bus Stand, Trichy.
- By Taxi/Cab: Easily available from Trichy, Srirangam, or Thanjavur.
- By Train: Tiruchirappalli Junction, then taxi or bus.
Best Time to Visit Kallanai Dam
| Season | Months | Experience |
| Peak Season | November to February | Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing & picnics |
| Monsoon / Post-Monsoon | August to October | Good water flow in Kaveri River, scenic views |
| Summer | March to May | Warm — visit early morning or evening |
The best time is November to February when the weather is cool and comfortable for spending time at the park and enjoying the river views.
Nearby Places to Visit Kallanai Dam
| Place | Distance | Description |
| Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple | 17–18 km | One of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world |
| Rockfort Temple (Uchipillayar Temple) | 18–20 km | Iconic Trichy landmark with panoramic city views |
| Samayapuram Mariamman Temple | 25 km | Famous temple dedicated to Goddess Mariamman |
| Mukkombu Dam | ~30–35 km | Another scenic dam with gardens and boating |
| Thanjavur Brihadeeswara Temple | 45 km | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Grand Anicut Park | Adjacent | Relaxing garden with play area for children |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Where is Kallanai Dam located?
A: Kallanai Dam (Grand Anicut) is located about 15–20 km from Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) on the Kaveri River, on the border of Trichy and Thanjavur districts.
Q2. What are the timings of Kallanai Dam?
A: The dam area is open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The adjacent park is also accessible during these hours.
Q3. What is the entry fee at Kallanai Dam?
A: There is no entry fee to visit the dam. A nominal fee of ₹10 (adults) and ₹5 (children) applies for Karikalan Park.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Kallanai Dam?
A: November to February offers the most pleasant weather. August to October is good for seeing better water flow.
Q5. Why is Kallanai Dam famous?
A: It is one of the oldest dams in the world (built in 2nd century AD) that is still functional, showcasing ancient Tamil engineering excellence.
Overall, Kallanai Dam is a perfect blend of history, engineering, and nature. It makes for an excellent half-day trip from Trichy, especially when combined with a visit to the grand Srirangam Temple. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and families looking for a peaceful riverside experience!
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