Pechiparai Reservoir, Kanyakumari

Pechiparai Reservoir, Kanyakumari

Pechiparai Reservoir is a reservoir located near the village of Pechiparai in Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu. The reservoir was formed by the construction of the Pechiparai Dam, which was built across the Kodayar River about 1 mi (1.6 km) below the confluence of the Kallar, Chittar and Kuttiyar tributaries. It was built during the period 1897 - 1906 by the European engineer, Mr. Minchin,(called as Mookanthurai by the local people) during the reign of the Travancore Maharaja Moolam Thirunal. The original cost of construction of the dam was Indian Rupees 216.1 Lakhs (in the late 19th century).

The catchment area of the reservoir is 207.19 km2 (80.00 sq. mi), and the depth is 14.63 m (48.0 ft). The dam is a straight gravity type masonry dam 425.5 m (1,396 ft) long and 120.7 m (396 ft) high above the deepest foundation. There is no inspection gallery. The water from the reservoir is used for both irrigation of crops and for drinking purposes, which has led to conflict between farmers who want to use all the water for their crops, and local authorities, who don't have another place to draw drinking water from, for supply to the urban areas.

The reservoir is surrounded by dense forests which are famous for their valuable trees and rich wild life such as tiger, elephants, deer etc. Hill tribes, small in number known as ‘Kanikars’ dwell in the dense forests around the lake. It is a nice place to mingle with the Mother Nature. The dam is surrounded by hills of the Western Ghats, and is a scenic place.

The weather in Pechiparai village is pleasant throughout the year, however, except extreme summer months between May to July, rest of the year is best time to visit the place. One can enjoy boating in the lake around Pechiparai dam and it also makes a perfect destination for excursions and picnic. The travelers can also enjoy a walk in the dense forest, which is located in the surrounding area of the reservoir. This forest is well known among the locals and travelers for its exclusive range of flora and fauna.

Pechiparai Reservoir is located at about 7 Kms from Thirunanthikarai, 16 Kms from Thiruvattaru, 14 Kms from Thirparappu, 22 Kms from Marthandam, 24 Kms from Kuzhithurai, 26 Kms from Thuckalay, 34 Kms from Boothapandi, 11 Kms from Kulasekharam, 40 Kms from Nagercoil, 65 Kms from Kanyakumari and 62 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Nearest Railway Station is located at Kuzhithurai and Nearest Airport is located at Thiruvananthapuram.