Image source: Thamizh Selvan
About Vagai Dam
Primarily made for the purpose of irrigation, Vaigai Dam has emerged as a popular tourist spot for the visitors. Located in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu, India, the dam is built across the Vaigai River. The Vaigai River originates from the Varusanadu Hills in the Western Ghats and flows through Madurai before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
Purpose of Dam
Surrounded by the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, the construction of the dam was started in 1959 to serve multiple purposes, including irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation.
It stands to a height of 11 feet and a length of 4,570 feet, capable of holding a significant amount of water. The dam supplies and irrigates thousands of hectares of farmland in the districts of Theni, Madurai, Dindigul, and Sivaganga.
Tourism and Attractions
To attract tourists, the dam has beautiful surroundings and well-maintained gardens. Little Brindavan Gardens, located near the dam, features vibrant flowers, fountains, and manicured lawns, drawing tourists and families.
Boating facilities are available on the reservoir, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the dam and its surroundings.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Vaigai Dam is during the post-monsoon season (September to January), when the reservoir is full and the gardens are at their most vibrant.
The evenings are particularly beautiful, as the dam is illuminated, creating a magical ambiance.
How to Reach
The dam is situated near Andipatti, about 70 kilometres from Madurai and 14 kilometres from Theni.