Sathanur dam

About Sathanur dam

Sathanur Dam is one of the Major Dam Constructed across Pennaiyar River. The dam can be reached by road 30 km from Thiruvannamalai Town. There is an inflow of 26,000 cusecs to the Sathanur reservoir in Tiruvannamalai district, which has been receiving water from the Krishnagiri dam following heavy rain in the catchment areas of the latter in the last few days. For safety reasons, the water level in the Sathanur reservoir
is being maintained at 116 feet against the full level of 119 feet.A visit to Sathanur Dam is a useful one to the Engineering students who want to know about the irrigation structures, Sathanur Dam is one of the oldest and beautiful dam here to be visited.This is one of the best picnic place in our District. The Beautiful Garden with colorful statues are also available in it. This Garden is one of the Famous Cine Shooting Spot in South India.This is one of the best picnic place in our District. The Beautiful Garden with colorful statues are also available in it. This Garden is one of the Famous Cine Shooting Spot in South India. The colored flood lights installed here flash its brilliance in week-end days. Formed in terrace, spread over 7 acres, this part is full of flower plants, shrubs and ornamental trees.For the delight of visitors, bear, porcupine, hare and birds like pigeons are reared here.

Interesting things to do

• One swimming pool is maintained inside the dam to enjoy the tourist during the visit to dam.
• A large Crocodile farm and a fish grotta is maintained here to know the life of Crocodile and fish culture.
• Drive in Battery cars for tourists at Sathanur dam ,

Location info

• Address:30 km from Thiruvannamalai Town

• District: Tiruvannamalai

• Nearest City: Tiruvannamalai

• Best time to visit: Novemeber, December and January

History of Sathanur dam

This Dam was constructed during the year 1958. Sathanur Dam is the oldest hero in Cinema Industry. All the films in midst of 1960-1980 was shouted here. Beautiful parks were maintained here with lawns and parks. A mini zoo is maintained inside the park area to enjoy the Children.

Things to visit & highlights

A beautiful Botanical garden has been raised on the sheltered lower side of the dam culturing varieties of ornamental plants and their flower add charm to the spot. A zoological park of tourist interest is also set up there. People who make a visit to Tiruvanmalai rarely miss Sathanur and Gingee.

How to reach Sathanur dam

• Nearest Railway Station:

• Nearest Airport:Bangalore International Airport

• Road Transport:public bus transportation

Nearest visiting places

• Tiruvannamalai Temples

Tiruvannamalai is one of the greatest Saivite shrines in Tamil Nadu,India, on a sprawling 24 acre temple campus, drawing hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every full moon. The hill here is considered to be a manifestation of Shiva. Tiruvannamalai is one of the Panchabhoota Stalams signifying the 5 elements of wind (Kalahasti), water (Tiruvanaikka), fire (Tiruvannamalai), earth (Kanchipuram) and space (Chidambaram). Kartikai Deepam festival here is of great significance

Things to carry

Drinking water, Stuffs to pla outdoor games (viz Volleyball, Footballa etc), Camera

Helpline & emergency contacts

• Police Station:100

• Nearest Hospital:Hospitals at the district.

• Society/Community Phone Number

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

Accommodation is available in the nearest town or city. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. Booking ahead during Dasara (Mysore) and peak winter season is recommended.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Sathanur dam

October to March offers pleasant weather. Post-monsoon (October-December) shows the reservoir at fullest level. Summers (March-May) have lower water levels but clear views. Monsoon visits may be restricted during heavy water release.

Timings & opening hours

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Best viewed during daylight hours. Water release timings vary by season — check locally before visiting downstream areas.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee of INR 10-30 per person for the dam viewing area. Parking fees apply. Some dams charge additional fees for boating or garden areas within the dam complex.

Duration needed

1-2 hours to explore the dam, reservoir, and surrounding gardens. Half a day if combining with nearby attractions or enjoying boating facilities.

Safety tips

Follow all safety warnings posted at the dam. Do not enter restricted areas. Swimming or bathing in the reservoir is prohibited near the dam structure. Observe warning sirens — water release can occur without notice. Supervise children at all times.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station in the district. Nearest airport: typically Hubli Airport, Mangalore International, or Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore. KSRTC buses connect to nearby towns.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is the dam open to visitors? A: Yes, dam viewing areas are typically open during daylight hours. Some areas are restricted. Q: Can I walk on the dam? A: Walking on the dam top is generally allowed during visiting hours. Follow safety instructions. Q: Is boating available? A: Boating is available at select reservoirs. Check locally for availability.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Dams

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Sathanur dam

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Sathanur dam on popular travel photography sites and social media.