Sathanur Dam
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Sathanur Dam

An engineering marvel and scenic retreat, Sathanur Dam offers lush parks, a crocodile farm, and serene boating amidst the Chennakesava Hills.

⭐ 4.3 Dam & Reservoir 📍 Area: Sathanur 🏙️ Tiruvannamalai 📍 Tamilnadu
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Best Time October to March
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Category Dam & Reservoir
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Area / Region Sathanur
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Entry Fee

Dam and Park entry fee ₹5 per person. Separate minimal fees for crocodile farm (e.g., ₹5) and fish grotto.

Boating and parking have additional charges.

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Open Hours

Dam park: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). Crocodile farm & fish grotto: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

🗺️ Get directions to Sathanur Dam (Google Maps)

About this Place

Sathanur Dam is a picturesque gravity dam built across the Thenpennai River, nestled among the Chennakesava Hills in Tamil Nadu. It forms the Sathanur Reservoir, a vital source for irrigation and drinking water, and is the third largest dam in Tamil Nadu.

Beyond its engineering significance, it's a popular tourist spot offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The area features beautifully maintained parks and gardens with fountains, statues, and play areas, making it ideal for picnics and relaxation.

Key attractions include one of India's largest crocodile farms, a unique fish grotto where visitors can feed fish, and opportunities for boating and bird watching. The dam's serene environment and diverse attractions provide a refreshing escape for families, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.

🛡️ Verified Travel Resource 📅 Last Updated: August 16, 2026 11:54 PM (Local Time)

Ideal For & Recommended Visitors

👥 Nature Lovers
👥 Photographers
👥 Families
👥 Solo Traveller
👥 History enthusiasts
👥 Peaceful retreats
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☀️ Optimal Season to Visit

The period from October to March offers pleasant and comfortable weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

Visiting during or just after the monsoon season (July to October) is also recommended as the surrounding landscapes are lush and green, and the reservoir is typically full.

How to Reach

Sathanur Dam is well-connected by road and accessible from major cities. Sathanur village also has a local bus stand.

  • Nearest Airport: Pondicherry Airport (PNY) is approximately 132 km away.

  • Nearest Railway Station: Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is approximately 34 km away.

  • Nearest Bus Stand: Tiruvannamalai Bus Stand is approximately 33 km away.

Sathanur Dam – FAQs

What are the timings of Sathanur Dam?

Dam park: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). Crocodile farm & fish grotto: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

What is the entry fee for Sathanur Dam?

Dam and Park entry fee ₹5 per person. Separate minimal fees for crocodile farm (e.g., ₹5) and fish grotto. Boating and parking have additional charges.

What is the best time to visit Sathanur Dam?

October to March

How to reach Sathanur Dam?

Sathanur Dam is well-connected by road and accessible from major cities. Sathanur village also has a local bus stand. Nearest Airport: Pondicherry Airport (PNY) is approximately 132 km away. Nearest Railway Station: Tiruvannamalai Railway Station is approximately 34 km away. Nearest Bus Stand: Tiruvannamalai Bus Stand is approximately 33 km away.

Where is Sathanur Dam located?

Sathanur Dam is in Sathanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamilnadu (GPS: 12.18307, 78.85008).

📜 Historical Context

Sathanur Dam was constructed in 1958 across the Thenpennai River in the Thandarampet taluk of Tiruvannamalai district. Initiated in 1953 as part of India's First Five Year Plans, it became operational in 1958, inaugurated by then Chief Minister K. Kamaraj. Its primary purpose was to provide irrigation and drinking water and generate hydroelectric power.

As a gravity dam, it's one of Tamil Nadu's major dams and the third largest. Its construction significantly boosted the region's socioeconomic growth, and the Pennaiyar River itself holds cultural and religious significance.

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📍 GPS Accurate Map

GPS Coordinates: 12.18306689, 78.85007857

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