The short answer
Pothundi Dam: what visitors should know first
Yes, as a stop on the way to Nelliampathy. It takes under an hour, with easy access and views over the reservoir. It is a comfortable stop for older travellers with a car.
History and context
The story behind Pothundi Dam
The page says the dam was built in the 19th century and the irrigation project was completed in 1971 (the infobox gives 1968).
Useful facts
Pothundi Dam facts at a glance
- Location
- Pothundi, Chittur taluk
- Distance
- About 42 km from Palakkad, 17 km from Nelliampathy
- Type
- Earth-filled irrigation dam
- Size
- 32.61 m high, 1,680 m long
- Known for
- Jaggery-and-lime core wall, on the Nelliampathy route
Why it matters
Why Pothundi Dam is worth your time
Wikipedia calls it one of India's oldest dams, with a core wall made of jaggery and quicklime, and says it was built in the 19th century. It irrigates thousands of hectares and supplies drinking water to nearby panchayats.
For travellers it is an easy introduction to the countryside beyond the city.
The dam also matters as a working piece of infrastructure: it supplies irrigation and drinking water to the surrounding area, so the green fields you see lower down depend on it. Stopping here gives you a short lesson in how water shapes life in Palakkad, before the hill road begins and the landscape changes.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Reservoir view
Hills behind the water make the main view.
- 02
On the way up
A natural rest stop before Nelliampathy.
- 03
Old dam
One of India's older dams.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Pothundi is the gate to the hills for most travellers heading to Nelliampathy. The dam stands about 8 km from Nemmara and about 17 km from Nelliampathy. Park near the dam and walk along the garden and embankment.
The dam is earth-filled, 32.61 m high and 1,680 m long, with a reservoir of about 2.75 sq km. Look for the reservoir and the hills behind it, which are the main reason to stop.
Treat it as a break in the drive rather than a destination. Do not rush; the hill road beyond is winding, and a rest here helps.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Combine with Nelliampathy
- Carry water
- Check entry rules locally
- Start early to avoid heat
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Pothundi, Chittur taluk, about 42 km from Palakkad
- Time needed
- 45–90 minutes
- Best time
- Post-monsoon, October to February
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Mostly level paths and car access make it comfortable. There are few facilities, so carry water and shade.
- Tickets and access
- Check current entry arrangements locally; none are verified in our sources.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Pothundi Dam
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Mostly level paths and car access make it comfortable. There are few facilities, so carry water and shade.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Where is Pothundi Dam?
In Chittur taluk, about 42 km from Palakkad.
Is it old?
Wikipedia says it dates from the 19th century.
Is it on the way to Nelliampathy?
Yes, about 17 km before it.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
