Linganamakki Dam (Shimoga) | Images, Best Time to Visit

Linganamakki Dam, Shimoga (Shivamogga) Overview

Linganamakki Dam is one of the largest human-made water reservoirs of the country. The length of the dam is a mere 2.4 km but owing to the width, its water storing capacity is much higher than any other dam. Stretching over the Sharavathi River, it is at a distance of 6 km from the world-famous Jog Falls and is located in the Sagara Taluk near Kargal town. The scenery here is exhilarating with magnificent views of forested islands and hills covered in dense foliage. It has resulted in beautiful backwaters, dotted with myriad islands. The islands are rich in biodiversity, and it is a lot of fun hopping from one to another on a kayak.

The Karnataka State Government constructed the dam in 1964 with the initial purpose of providing irrigation facilities in the area. Later, another objective of supplying fresh drinking water was added. It derives most of its water requirements from the annual rainfall. Another water support of this dam is Chakra and Savahaklu water reservoirs, which are linked to the dam through a canal. A hydroelectricity plant has also been set up. For tourists, boating facilities and other water sports activities are available. There is also a park for kids. Various migratory birds and crocodiles can be spotted here. Few scenes from Tamil action thriller 'Lingaa' were shot here.

More About the Dam Project

The Linganamakki dam rises to a whopping height of 1,819 feet above the sea level. This dam is the primary feeder reservoir for the Mahatma Gandhi Hydro Electric Power Unit. It was designed to seize around 4,368 million cubic meters of water in an area measuring up to 300 square km, submerging around 50.62 square km of the wetlands and 7 square km of the dry land; the rest being forest land and wasteland. The water from the Linganamakki Dam flows down to Talakalale Balancing Reservoir through a trapezoidal canal. The adjoining powerhouse (located on the left-hand side of the dam) has a power generation capacity of 55 MW, from two generating units. These units are driven by vertical axis Kaplan Turbines.

Best Time To Visit Linganamakki Dam

Monsoon is the best time to visit the dam as the rainy season imparts a natural charm to the surroundings.

Tips For Visiting Linganamakki Dam

1. You can view the dam only from a distance. A special permit may be required to enter the place. This permit can be obtained by contacting the concerned government authorities.
2. While driving up to the dam, you will come across a hanging bridge which is a great place for clicking photographs.
3. Mobile phones are not allowed near the dam because of high security.
4. Food is not available near the dam, so you need to carry eatables if you are planning to spend some time at the site.
5. It is a good place for trekkers as the dam is surrounded by thick forest and vegetation.

How To Reach Linganamakki Dam

Cabs and auto-rickshaws are readily available from any part of Shimoga. The nearest town is Kargal. The nearest railway station is at Shimoga itself (100 km), and the nearest airport is at Mangalore.