Anaimaduvu Reservoir, Belur, Salem
Anaimaduvu
Reservoir or Puzhuthikuttai dam is constructed across Upper Vellar River (also
known as Anaimaduvu River). It is located in Foothills of Upper Kalrayan in
Vazhapadi taluk of Salem district. The purpose of the reservoir is to provide
the water for the irrigation and the entire district and nearby villages have
been benefited by the water.
The
project was approved in 1982 and is located in the state of Tamil Nadu. The
reservoir has a spectacular view with all betel nut trees on the Kalrayan
hills. The place is very good to spend a quiet day along with family and
friends.
History
Anaimaduvu
is the main tributaries of the river Vellar and runs through Salem, Perambalur
and Cuddalore benefit the small villages of irrigation and drinking water. The
project started to build the reservoir in 1982 and the east flowing rivers
between the Kanyakumari and Pennar are involved in the project. The approximate
cost to build the reservoir was 11.46 Crore.
Hydrography
The
reservoir is located in the foothills of the upper Kalrayan and the length of
the reservoir is 670m. The approximate height of the dam is 27.94m. The water
helps the cultivation of the lands in the nearby villages like the Ayodhyapattnam
and Vazhapadi which combines more than 2000 hectares of the total land. The
total basin of the river is measured approximately about 150km and covers the
northern part of the Tamil Nadu state.
Attractions
The
surrounding Kalrayan hills and betel nut trees provides a great visual treat to
eyes. If you are visiting the Belur Shiva temple, then don't miss this spot. It
is just five kms away from the Shiva temple. It is surely a nice getaway from
the city congestion and pollution on a weekend.
Best Time
to Visit
October
to January is the best time when tourists can visit the place and can have a
pleasant vacation. During this time, the dams are full and the tourists can
have a splendid view.
Nearby
Attractions
There
are many places that one can visit in Salem like the Yercaud Hills, which is
called the Ooty of Salem. The tourists can also see Kiliyur Falls, Kurumbapatti
Zoological Park, Kolli Hills, Thanthondreeswarar Temple, Agaya Gangai Water
Falls, and Hogenakkal Falls, Mettur Dam, Poiman Karadu, Poolampatty Water place
and Kalrayan Hills.
Connectivity
Though
Salem has an airport, not many airline companies have shown interest in flying.
The nearest airport is Tiruchchirappalli, Bengaluru, Chennai and Coimbatore.
One can reach the Anaimaduvu Reservoir easily once they reach Salem. Local
buses and auto rickshaws are easily available and can be hired.