Frequenting Coorg is common amongst tourists for its pleasant climate and breathtaking beauty. However, Coorg is crowded for the same reason. Tourists would have visited and revisited attractions in Coorg, like the Abbey Falls, Mallalli Falls, Nisargadhama, Madikeri Fort, Dubare elephant camp, etc. They are all common, so it is more appropriate to mention a yet-to-be-explored place in Coorg, the Chiklihole Dam. The Chiklihole Reservoir is a hidden gem in Coorg, slowly catching sight and capturing the hearts of nature lovers and photographers.
Chiklihole Reservoir: A perfect picnic spot
Escape to the lush green environs of the Chiklihole Reservoir, built across the river Chiklihole, flowing through the Cauvery basin of Karnataka. While the green meadows form one side of the reservoir, the forests form the other side of the Chiklihole dam. The Chiklihole reservoir, Attur Forest, Karnataka, is a unique semi-circular structure without any crest gates. Watching the water flowing when the inflow is high is a beautiful sight.
The Chiklihole Dam serves as an ideal picnic spot. Hence, tourists visiting Coorg can explore this hidden paradise while having a picnic. Watching the sunset from the Chilihole Reservoir is a splendid experience. It is an ideal spot to lose oneself in nature and tranquillity. It is undoubtedly a photographic point, too. You can visit the Chiklihole dam with your family to spend quality time away from the hustle and bustle of the town and the thronging crowd. Since the place is remote, it is necessary to pack enough food, water and other essentials owing to the absence of shops nearby.
QUICK FACTS | |
| Built on | River Chiklihole |
| Type | Earthen |
| Length | 464.8 meters |
| Height | 25.3 meters above its deepest foundation |
| Maximum Water Level | 72.6 meters |
| Gross storage capacity | 5.097 mcm |
| Live storage capacity | 4.729 mcm |
| Purpose | Irrigation |
| Projects | Irrigation Project |
The best time to visit the Chiklihole Reservoir
The best time to visit the Chiklihole Reservoir is between June and March when the water inflow is high.
How to reach the Chiklihole dam
Chiklihole Reservoir is about 23 km from Madikeri and 14.2 km from Kushalnagar. It is located near the town of Nanjarayapattana, which lies between Madikeri and Kushalnagar in the Kodagu or Coorg district of Karnataka. Chiklihole Dam is only about 7.7 km from the Dubare elephant camp.
By Air
There is no airport in Coorg. The nearest international airport is Mangalore Airport, which is about 143.9 km away. The nearest domestic airport is about 131.6 km away. From these airports, tourists can take a cab to Coorg and plan a visit to Chiklihole Dam.
By Train
There is no railway station in Coorg. The nearest railway station is the Mysore Railway Station, which is about 116.9 km away. From here, tourists can take a cab to Coorg and plan a visit to the Chilkihole Dam.
By Road
Coorg is well connected by road from all the major cities of Karnataka. However, to reach the Chiklihole reservoir, one should hire a cab from Kushalnagar, Siddapur, Madikeri, or Suntikoppa, as public transport is unavailable. The Chiklihole dam lies about 23.4 km from Madikeri.
To conclude, the Chiklihole Reservoir is a must-visit for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.