Krishnagiri – Places of Interest

Krishnagiri – Places of Interest

Rayakottai fort

It is located in Rayakottai, 30 Kms from Hosur & 75 Kms from Bangalore. Rayakottah is one of the protected historic monuments. Rayakottah is a hill fort which withstood the Mysore wars. It was a strategic fort for the British, who stationed at this fort till 1861. Rayakottah, which marks the border of Palaghat Plateau, is at a distance of 30 km from Hosur.

The fort is situated within the town of Rayakottai which is one of the ancient fortresses in the Krishnagiri district. It is now one of the protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India. In the 18th century Hyder Ali and Tipu sultan ruled this fort. The fort was captured by Major Gowdie during the third Anglo-Mysore War in 1791. According to the Treaty of Srirangapatna, this fort came into the hands of the British.

The ramparts and the bastions of the fort are more or less intact. The fort is a protected monument. Trekking in this place is a wonderful experience.

Time to Visit: The cooler months of September to February are the best time to trek in Rayakottai as it can get very hot in summer days, and should be avoided. This trek can be done during monsoon also.

There is a temple on the hill which could be a point for having packet-lunch and to take rest in shade.

Please carry the following without fail while visiting this fort;

Ø  2 litres of water (Mandatory)

Ø  Raincoat/Poncho (During monsoon)

Ø  Cap/Hat

Ø  High energy-giving food & drinks  like Snickers, glucose etc. (Mandatory)

Ø  Camera (optional)

Ø  Shoes

Ø  Sunscreen Lotion (Optional)

Ø  Tissue papers (Avoid carrying plastic)

Krishnagiri Dam (KRP Dam)

Krishnagiri Reservoir Project (KRP Dam) is the prime attraction of Krishnagiri. This Dam is situated between Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri at a distance of 7 km from Krishnagiri town. It is built across Thenpennai River to meet the irrigation purpose of Krishnagiri.  Krishnagiri Reservoir Project is also a popular picnic spot, as it has landscaped gardens and lush greenery.

This dam was dedicated to the state by the then Chief Minister K.Kamarajar in 1958 and irrigates nearly thousands of acres of land. It also supplies drinking water to Periyamuthur, Sundekuppam, Thimmapuram, Chowtahalli, Gundalapatti, Mittahalli, Errahalli, Kaveripattinam, Paiyur and other villages in Krishnagiri. To make it a tourist attraction and picnic spot, exotic landscaping and a children’s park maintained by the Public Works Department of the State are in place there. There is also an Agricultural Research Centre established in Krishnagiri. This is a famous tourist spot too. This dam is flooded with tourists during the week ends.

The River Ponnaiyar takes its source near Nandidurg in Karnataka state South India at an altitude of 1000 m above MSL draining through Southeastern slope of Chennakesava Hills. In Karnataka it is known as ‘Dhakshina Pinakini’. After traversing through the Devanahalli and Hoskote taluks of Karnataka, it enters the Tamil Nadu state at a place near Bagalur village of Hosur taluk. The River is called Ponnaiyar from this point in Tamil Nadu. The Krishnagiri reservoir was constructed across the Ponnaiyar River near Periyamuthur village about 7 km from Krishnagiri town in Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu. It is located at the latitude of 12º 28' North and the longitude of 78º 11' East. Krishnagiri district is in the Northwestern part of Tamil Nadu, bordering Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh states.

The execution of the KRP dam was started on Mar 1955, completed and opened for irrigation on Nov 1957, in less than 3 years. The reservoir is now more than 50 years old and continues to serve this region successfully. This reservoir is one of the earliest projects constructed in post independence India in the dry and barren areas of the state. Since then, the reservoir serves as the life line for the region serving multiple uses of water from irrigation to fish culture. Krishnagiri Reservoir is medium size storage and distribution structure with an initial capacity of 68.2×106 m 3 and irrigates 3642 ha of wet crop area supplying water through left and right main canals. The length of the Dam is 1000 m and at FRL, the reservoir has a water spread area of 12.32 km2 and height of 22.8 m from the river bed. The dam has 8 spillways, 3 river sluices and 2 canal sluices.

There are 16 villages that directly benefit from this reservoir for irrigation and other purposes. In addition, the LMC and RMC supply water to the already existing tanks in these villages, where culture of fishes is also taken up. There is water supply from the reservoir for a period of 10 months in a year, and this ensures that culture operations completed successfully. 29 There are two spring channels that supply water to ayacut even earlier to the construction of the reservoir, and the farmers have acquired riparian rights and water supply is ensured for these original command areas through spring channels throughout the year. The LMC (Left Main Canal) take off near the spillway, while the RMC (Right Main Canal) off take is on the western part of the water spread on the earthen bund part of the Dam structure. During its span of half a century of useful life, the reservoir encountered environmental problems in later years probably due to industrial and agricultural developments in the catchment area.

Facts:

Ø  Time required 1h 0m

Ø  Timings 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Ø  The Best time to visit this place: Between November and March.

Government Museum

Government Museum is one of the popular attractions of Krishnagiri. Government Museum of Krishnagiri has galleries on traditional culture, art and architecture, heritage and history, related especially to Krishnagiri. This museum, situated on Gandhi Salai, was established in the year 1993. The museum displays many ancient artifacts which are related to the history of Krishnagiri.

This museum is one of the popular attractions of Krishnagiri. It has galleries on culture, art, architecture, heritage and history related to this area. This museum, situated on Gandhi Salai, was established in the year 1993. The museum displays many ancient arte facts which are related to the timeline of this zone. It is merely not a place of tourist interest but serves as a center of Education too.

Thali

Thali is one of the prime attractions offered by Krishnagiri. Thali is a scenic destination situated towards the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, at a distance of 25 km from Hosur. Thali was often referred to as ‘the Little England’ during the British Raj as the place is noted for its cool climate and landscape of hills, valleys and cliffs. The cool and cloudy weather at this place, throughout the year, makes it a popular summer retreat at Tamil Nadu.  Bangalore, Ramanagaram, Malur, Magadi are the nearby Cities to Thali. Tamil is the Local Language here. 

It is situated in the land of valleys and cliffs. The climate is very cool and pleasant. It experiences cold and cloudy weather resembling England. Hence it is popular with the name 'Little England' since British Regime. The area is covered by a number of hills. The climate is chill round the year. The taluk headquarters is Denkanikottai. The fort at Denkanikottai is built by Palayakarar in 1530 AD. The fort is destroyed during war with Hyder Ali and Tippu Sultan. There is a temple for Venugopala Swami. Car festival is held during the month of May every year. Thousands of devotees visit during this festival.

It is located 72 Kms towards west from District head quarters Krishnagiri. It is a Taluk head quarter. Thali Pin code is 635118 and postal head office is Thali.
Thali is surrounded by Kelamangalam Taluk towards East, Hosur Taluk towards East, Kanakapura Taluk towards west, Bangalore Rural Taluk towards North. 

There is no railway station near to Thali in less than 10 km. How ever Bangalore CY Jn Rail Way Station is major railway station 50 Kms near to Thali 

Kelavarapalli Dam

Kelavarapalli Reservoir Project is one of the prime attractions at Krishnagiri. Kelavarapalli Reservoir Project or Kelavarapalli Dam is situated at a distance of 10 km away from Hosur and 8 km from Karnataka, across the River Ponnaiyar, which originates from the eastern slopes of Chennakesava Hills. 

Kelavarapalli Reservoir Project, built in 1995, has become a popular picnic spot at Hosur. It is noted for its children’s park and landscaped gardens. It attracts picnickers in large number from the state of Karnataka also. 

Timings: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Kelavarapalli Dam has been built across the Ponnaiyar River that originates from the Chennakesava Hills & the spot has become a great picnic spot, with landscaped gardens and a children's park as well. The dam waters help to sustain the farmlands and provide water to the nearby areas as well. The Kelavarapalli dam stands at a height of 13.5 meters, punctuated by beautiful hills and landscapes all around.

Facts

Full Reservoir Level           831.50 M C. Ft

Total height of the Dam              13.50 Mts

Capacity                                  480 M C. Ft.

Ayacut                                      8000 Acres

The Dam is constructed across Ponnaiyar River.  Ponnaiyar River originates from the eastern slopes of Chennakesava Hills, North West of Nandi Drug and flows towards south east for a distance of 88.8 Kms to reach the dam site.

After flowing through the dam, it flows through the districts of Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Vellore and Cuddalore (331.2 Kms) and empties into the sea near Cuddalore Town.

The dam is having cannels both at the left and right sides.  Left cannel runs up to Soolagiri Village (25.5 Kms) parallel to NH 7.  Right cannel runs up to Thorapalli Village (Birth Place of Statesman Rajaji) i.e. 22 Kms. 

The dam has a park with children play equipments.  Migratory birds like Spoonbills, Pelicans etc., from foreign countries visit the dam and breads at Chennathur village adjacent to the dam site. The park seems modeled on Brindavan gardens although the water works are not many. There are many safe areas here that one can use to play in the water.

The park itself was a big one and a busy one since there were many families here. There is a child play area and some hawkers with basic food / items outside the park.

Venugopala Swami Temple

Venugopala Swami temple is a popular destination at Krishnagiri, which is located in Thali. This temple is famous for its Car or Chariot festival which is held annually during the month of May.

Venugopala Swamy Temple in Thali attracts tourists from across South India. Venugopala Swamy an avatar of Lord Krishna has been enshrined in this beautiful, serene temple. Venu translates as flute in Telugu and the temple personifies the melodious tune of the Lord’s flute. The vast area of the temple broken by numerous columns and pillars made of stone afford an onlooker a glimpse into the glorious past of India. Sounds reverberate across the stone floor and become a part of the sounds of nature surrounding the temple. The temple stands not as an intrusion into nature, but as an integral part of nature.

The month of May is special for the Venugopala Swamy temple because of the car or chariot festival. If you are looking for peace and tranquility, then the month of May may not be ideal as thousands of devotees visit the temple during the month of May.

Shree Parshwa Padmavathi Shaktipeet Tirth Dham

Shree Parshwa Padmavathi Shaktipeet Tirth Dham, known also as Krishnagiri Shaktipeetam, is one of the major attractions at Krishnagiri. Krishnagiri Shaktipeetam, dedicated to Sri Padmavathi Devi, was founded by Sri Vasanth Gurudev-Ji and it focuses on Mathru Upasana of Sri Parshwanath Bhagwan, the 23rd Thirthankar of the 24 Thirthankars of Jainism. Krishnagiri Shaktipeetam is situated at a distance of 7 km from Krishnagiri town at Orappam Village.

Krishnagiri Shaktipeetam is a spiritual organization, which promotes peace and harmony across the world and elevates its devotees from a sense of fake materialism to pure spiritualism through its different endeavors. As Jain dharma gives prominence to Atma Sadhanam or the search for one’s true self, the motive of Krishnagiri Shaktipeetam is to make one realize his/ her inner self through divine mediums like performing puja and offering bhakti. As Krishnagiri Shaktipeetam works on building one’s inner harmony, it becomes one’s final refuge to find love, peace, harmony and goodness in a world of hatred and terrorism.

Krishnagiri Shaktipeetam has been conducting countless good deeds like anna dhanam for the poor, needy and organizing huge events to promote peace and harmony. They have achieved various records in the international forum to promote peace further. As an ambassador for peace and harmony, SRI SRI SRI VASANTH GURUDEV JI has been taking part in several global peace conferences and plays a significant role in rising humanity from the clutches of evil and depravity.

The temple while being colorful and festive is a sanctuary of peace and quiet motivating devotees to find their own inner peace and calm, to be balanced so that humanity as a whole maybe balanced and harmonious. The founder, Sri Sri Sri Vasanth Gurudev Ji has participated in numerous global peace conferences and promotes spiritual well-being through supporting the needy. The temple regularly organizes “Anna dhan” for those devotees in need of a good meal. A visit to the temple can certainly help restore some measure of peace and calm to life.

Rajaji Memorial

Rajaji Memorial is one of the main attractions at Krishnagiri. This memorial was established to commemorate Rajaji, a great freedom fighter. The home where Rajaji was born was converted to a memorial. This memorial is situated at Thorapalli, the birth place of Rajaji, which is about 10 km away from Hosur at Onnalvadi. Some of his belongings and a photo gallery depicting his various walks of life are displayed here. 

Hanumanthathirtham

Hanumanthathirtham is one of the religious attractions at Krishnagiri. Hanumanthathirtham is situated at a distance of 10 km from Uthangarai on the banks of River Ponnaiyar.

This place is situated on the bank of Pennaiyar at a distance of 10 Km from Uthangarai and traditionally associated with Tirtamalai. It is believed that Hanuman who was instructed by Lord Rama to get the water from the Ganges for his penance at Tirtamalai which he could not do it in time. So Rama was said to have done Asthrapryogam and got it. Disappointed at this, Hanuman was said to have thrown down the vessel in which he brought the holy water and this spilled water is believed to be the ‘Hanumantirtham’. The water is considered sacred and during the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August) people frequent this spot.

It comes under Katteri Panchayath. It is located 52 km towards East from District head quarters Krishnagiri and 241 km from Chennai.

By Bus: Buses are available from all places in Uthangarai Taluk to reach this Hanumantheertham.

By Train: The nearest railway station is at Samalpatti (7 km from Uthangarai) in NH-66 to Krishnagiri. After reaching railway station taxes and buses are available to reach Hanumantheertham in Uthangarai Taluk.

By Flight: The nearest airport is Bangalore International Airport which is 91 km to Krishnagiri and Salem Airport which is 110 km to Krishnagiri. After reaching Krishnagiri travel up to Uthangarai Taluk. Buses and taxies are available to visit Hanumantheertham.

Mallachandram

Mallachandram is one of the historical places offered by Krishnagiri. Mallachandram is one of the protected sites in Tamil Nadu, maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Mallachandram Dolmens is one of the most significant dolmens found in the state of Tamilnadu. Mallachandram, which is 19 km away from Krishnagiri and 4 km from Samalpallam, is well-known for the Megalithic specimens called dolmens. These dolmens are the burial chambers of the megalithic people. This is a protected site maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. A must visit site, especially for lovers of history and archaeology.

Experts say present day Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts were the nucleus of the megalithic culture in the state, which existed about 3,500 years ago. The megalithic era materials, including dolmens, cairn circles and urn burials discovered form nearby areas in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh are testimony to this.

Archaeologists say that due to large-scale migration during the Neolithic period (stage before megalithic), one group settled in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and the other moved to Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts in present day Tamil Nadu. It is believed that geographical factors might have prompted them to settle in these places. While the Western Ghats were inaccessible with mighty mountains and thick forests, the Eastern Ghats had several intersections and water bodies, plains and valleys. Since these hillocks were accessible and provided enough opportunities for hunting and gathering, they settled here,

A large number of dolmens and gradual development of architecture from flat granite slabs to decorated moon-shaped slabs show that a huge community had settled here for a long period. Mallachandram was a unique settlement, which was used as an habitation rather than a burial ground. The size of dolmens and spacious interiors indicate that the community might have used it as shelters, probably during rainy seasons, he said.

It is the only megalithic site in Tamil Nadu where you can find four types of dolmens, large number of megalithic paintings and pottery. Contrary to the general perception, megalithic people never buried dead bodies. The bodies were left in the open ground and bones were collected later and placed inside the dolmens.

The main purpose of the dolmens was to offer worship to ancestors. Bones and tools used by the man were placed at the centre and the four sides were covered with huge flat slabs. The top was covered with another huge slab. In one of the upright slabs, a circular hole was made and bones and belongings were pushed inside. One dolmen was used for a family for generations by placing the remains though the open hole. The varying shapes may be because of social stratification that prevailed in the society then. It also shows the development of megalithic architecture.

The Ancestors cult was worshiped by the Megalithic people in the ancient period. In Krishnagiri District three kinds of memorials are observed and they were named a Cairn circle, Dolmen and Urn burials.

Smaller dolmens are erected around the big dolmen. In other words a big dolmen was surrounded by the small dolmens. It looks like a group of people found around the head man. Few dolmens are having white color painting in the western Ortho-stat and it is facing in the eastern side. These painting are painted in the megalithic period.

Dolmens such as those found in Mallachandram are also found in Marayoor, Kerala. Mallachandram is a history enthusiast’s paradise. It is one of the very few places on planet earth that connect ancient history to modern day and keeps human kind connected beyond the realm of time and space.

Mallachandram ‘Marana Paarai Kal Thittai’ ancient Stone Age remains is located near Shoolagiri – Melumalai – Malla Samuthiram village.

It is located 19 km from Krishnagiri and 4 km from Samalpallam. Samalpallam lies on the Krishnagiri-Bangalore Road N.H 7.

Facts

Season: Throughout The Year

Operating Hours: 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Tourism Tips: Take A Villager As A Guide To The Top Of The Hill.

Period Built: Megalithic Period

Chandra Choodeshwara Temple

Arulmigu Maragathamigai Chandra Choodeshwara temple is one of the popular pilgrimage attractions at Krishnagiri. This Shiva temple, situated on a hillock on the Krishnagiri - Bangalore Road N.H 7, is a frequent destination of people from both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

The temple also has a children’s park and an observatory in its vicinity, which were set up by the tourism department of Tamil Nadu.

This is first temple of Shiva which I have seen on a hillock in Tamilnadu, temple is in heart of Hosur city. You can either walk of drive up to the temple. Chandra Choodeshwara means the Lord who adorns Chandra on his hair. View of the city atop is hill is worth seeing in the night fall.

Pooja Timings: Morning: 5.30 to 12.00 Evening: 4.30 to 8.00

Phone Number: 04344-292870

Thala Varalaaru: Arulmigu Chandra Choodeshwara and his wife Maragathambal, while coming from Kailasam, Chandira Choodeswarar became Lizard. Maragathambal was following the Lizard, which was so decorative and beautiful. They reached this place after traveling through hills and forests. There were two scholars by name Muthkalar and Uthchayanar, who were on meditation. Through their meditation power they identified the Lizard as God and they planned to catch the Lizard. As these scholars tried to catch the Lizard, the Lizard disappeared.

Maragathambal got angry over the scholars and she hates them to become Deaf and Dumb. After that she meditated and then Chandira Choodeswarar appeared to them.

Pambar Dam

Pambar Dam is located 4 km away from Uthangarai and one can take a short break and unwind in the Nature of Pambar River. Pambar reservoir has constructed after independence. This dam is located amidst lush green villages Marampatti Village is located near this dam. It is a beautiful village with Coconut and mango trees.

 Hosur 

It is a town in the Krishnagiri District, 48 kms from Krishnagiri and 35 kms from the Bangalore city. Hosur was part of Mysore Kingdom until Tippu lost the war against the British in 1799. Crops produced here include tomatoes, cabbages, onions, mangoes, capsicum, carrot, cucumber, beans dispatched to different parts of South India. It is an Industrial hub on the border of Karnataka supported by a good and pleasant climate. Industrialization of this area during 1980’s began with the establishment of SIPCOT and Hosur transformed to an Industrial Town since then. These industrial units uplift the status of the Krishnagiri District. Electrical, Electronics, Automobile, Chemical, Iron and Steel industries flourishes here because of its proximity to Bangalore and also with good local infrastructure.