The Chakra Dam is constructed across the river Chakra. The dam stands in a small town called Chakra Nagar near the city of Shimoga in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. The dam was built to act as a balancing reservoir and to feed water into the Linganamakki reservoir.
The dam does not have sluice gate to the Linganamakki Dam. It serves the purpose of irrigation in the surrounding areas. The Chakra dam is a project managed by Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL).
The construction of the dam was completed in the year 1985. This rock-fill type of dam has a length of 570 meters. The dam rises to a maximum height of 84 meters above its foundation. The gross storage capacity of the dam at full reservoir level (FRL) is 222.6 mcm. The dam has a live storage capacity of 133 mcm.
Tourists have to obtain special permission to visit the dam area.
Read: The Savehaklu Reservoir – A Hidden Gem in Shivamogga
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QUICK FACTS | |
| Built on | River Chakra |
| Type | Rockfill Dam |
| Length | 570 meters |
| Height | 84 meters above its deepest foundation |
| Gross storage capacity | 222.6 mcm |
| Live storage capacity | 133 mcm |
| Purpose | Balancing reservoir & irrigation |
| Projects | Hydro power plant |
Chakra Dam: A scenic destination
The Chakra dam is a wonderful destination surrounded by scenic beauty on all sides. The abundance of nature and the calm atmosphere of the place attract visitors from far and near. People love visiting the place to enjoy a quiet time away from the hectic city life.
Chakra Dam: Nearby tourist attractions
There are several tourist destinations near the Chakra dam. The place is abundant with natural fascinations as well as manmade attractions. Some of the popular tourist attractions near the Chakra dam are:
Jog Falls: Jog falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls of India and one the main attractions of the Shimoga district. The waterfall has a height of about 1500 feet.
Shivappa Nayaka Palace cum Museum: The Shivappa Nayaka Palace is situated near the banks of river Tunga. The 16th century palace is constructed of rose wood and is now a museum maintained by the Archeology department of Karnataka.
Sacred Heart Church: The Sacred Heart Church is deemed to be the second largest church in India. The huge church has an area of 18000 sq. ft. and proudly displays the Roman and Gothic styles of architecture.
Rameshwara Temple: Rameshwara temple is an ancient temple depicting Hoysala and Dravidian style of architecture. The temple stands on the banks of river Tunga and is a famous attraction of the area.
Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary: The Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to several wild animals and reptiles.
Sakrebailu Elephant Camp: The Sakrebailu Elephant Camp is a huge attraction for the tourists. This training camp has elephants undergoing training to become domesticated.
Chakra Dam: How to reach
Chakra Dam in Shimoga district can be easily reached from the major towns and cities of Karnataka. The district is well connected through road and rail networks.
By Air
The Mangalore International Airport is the nearest airport that connects the district to the rest of the country.
By Train
Shimoga is well-connected through the rail network. There are daily trains with four arrivals each day from Bangalore to Shimoga.
By Bus
The bus depot situated in the center of Shimoga offers bus services that connect the town to all the major towns and cities of Karnataka and the nearby states. There are buses that ply from the city to Goa, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Chennai on a daily basis.
Chakra Dam: Resorts and hotels nearby
The Chakra dam being a popular tourist destination has several options for accommodation near it. There are a number of resorts, lodges, hotels and home stays that offer comfortable stay for the guests.
Contact address and phone numbers of a few resorts and hotels of the area are listed below:
Royal Orchid Central
B.H. Road, Opposite Vinayak theatre
Near Shimoga Bus Stand
Shimoga – 577201
Phone: +91 081 82401 999
Website: http://www.royalorchidhotels.com/index.asp
Hotel Navaratna International
Savarline Road,
Shimoga – 577202
Phone: +91 818 2275 255
Mobile: +91 99025 83665
Email ID: navaratnainternational@yahoo.com
Thirumal Lodge
Park extension,
Shimoga.
Phone: +91 818 2223 872
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