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Valparai tourist place

Aliyar Dam: Visitor Guide

The foothill reservoir where every Valparai journey from Pollachi begins.

  • Aliyar, Pollachi
By Mahesh Kumar R., naturalist Updated 2 min read

At a glance

From Pollachi
~24 km · 35–40 min
From Valparai
~40 km · 1.5 h (ghat)
Time needed
30–60 min
Best time
Morning or late afternoon
Entry
Small park fee (may change)
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Quick answer

Aliyar Dam is a reservoir about 24 km from Pollachi at the foot of the Anamalai Hills, where the 40-hairpin ghat road to Valparai begins. Built as part of the Parambikulam–Aliyar irrigation project, it has a landscaped park, reservoir viewpoints and boating when operating. Plan 30–60 minutes; it is about 40 km below Valparai.

What to see

  • Reservoir views framed by the Anamalai range
  • Landscaped park — good for kids to stretch their legs
  • Boating when operating
  • The Arivu Thirukoil (Vethathiri Maharishi's centre) nearby for those interested

Route context

Aliyar is the last flat stop before the ghat. Just beyond lies Monkey Falls, then the numbered hairpin bends with Loam's View Point looking back down at the reservoir.

Tips

  • Stop here on the way up in the morning; the light is best then.
  • Weekends get busy from mid-morning.
  • Use the restrooms here — there are few on the ghat.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Aliyar Dam from Pollachi?

About 24 km, roughly 35–40 minutes.

Is boating available at Aliyar Dam?

Boating operates at times, depending on water levels and management decisions on the day.

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