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South Pennar River

South Pennar River

About:

The South Pennar River, also known as the Ponnaiyar River, is one of the major rivers flowing through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in southern India. Known for its seasonal flow and significant role in supporting agriculture, the river flows across the Deccan Plateau and provides water to many regions in its course. With historical significance and natural beauty, the South Pennar is an important water source for the communities that depend on it.

The sand build of the river is quite impressive, suggesting that it may have been a perennial river with much larger water flow in the past. Mention of the river is found in Sangam & Medevial (Thevaram - Bhakti cult era) literature, where it is depicted as rich with lush vegetation on its banks. There are various temples on its banks.

Nandi Hills or Nandidurg is a hill fortress of southern India, in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka state. It is located just 16 km (till base) 24 km (top of the hill) from Chickballapur town and approximately 60 km from the city of Bangalore.

Location info:
The South Pennar River originates in the Nandi Hills in Karnataka and flows through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. Major cities along the river’s course include Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, and Cuddalore. The river flows for about 500 kilometers, serving as a lifeline for agriculture and water needs in the region.

Climate/Weather:
Summer: (March to May) – Warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C, with a high evaporation rate affecting river levels. Monsoon: (June to September) – Receives moderate to heavy rainfall, increasing river flow and often leading to a lush landscape. Winter: (November to February) – Cool and mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C, ideal for visiting.

History:
The South Pennar River has historical importance, being mentioned in ancient texts and associated with local legends. The river’s basin has been used for agriculture for centuries, with traditional irrigation systems supporting the livelihoods of numerous communities. Many temples and settlements along the riverbanks reflect the cultural heritage of the region. The South Pennar also played a role in ancient trade routes due to its proximity to significant towns and cities.

this droog, one now used as a hotel, built by General Cubbon, sometime British resident; but the rock has a bad reputation for malaria, and except in the very dry months is shunned by visitors, in spite of its, to the senses, delightful climate

Interesting things to do:
Riverbank Exploration: Enjoy scenic walks along the riverbanks in areas like Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri. Photography and Bird Watching: The river and its surrounding areas are home to several bird species, making it a great spot for nature photography and birdwatching. Fishing: Traditional fishing practices are still used in the river, providing an opportunity to observe local fishing techniques.

Interesting things to Visit:

Nandi Hills: The origin point of the South Pennar River, offering panoramic views, trekking, and historical sites. Krishnagiri Dam: A popular picnic and relaxation spot on the river, with beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscape. Hogenakkal Falls: Located downstream near Dharmapuri, this waterfall is a major attraction and offers coracle rides for tourists. Thiruvannamalai Temple: A sacred temple near the river that attracts pilgrims and tourists due to its spiritual significance..

Mobile range info:
Mobile connectivity is generally available along the river in most towns and villages, although signal strength may vary in remote sections of the riverbank.

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station: Major railway stations along the river include Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, and Cuddalore, connecting with key towns and cities.
Nearest Airport:The nearest major airports are in Bangalore (Kempegowda International Airport) and Chennai.
Road Transport:It is well connected by roads various KSRTC & Private Buses ply daily to Kolar from various places.

Nearest Visiting places:
Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri: Known for their natural beauty, with nearby dams and river viewpoints. Hogenakkal Falls: A popular tourist destination for waterfalls and river views. Thiruvannamalai: Known for the Annamalaiyar Temple, one of the largest temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Nearest Petrol Pump:
Petrol pumps are available in towns such as Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, and Cuddalore, ensuring convenient refueling options for those traveling along the river.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Petrol pumps are available in towns such as Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, and Cuddalore, ensuring convenient refueling options for those traveling along the river.

Things to carry:
Light and comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Camera and binoculars for photography and birdwatching. Water bottle and snacks for the journey. Personal hygiene essentials and basic first-aid supplies.

Tips & Suggestions:
Winter is the best time to visit due to cooler weather and pleasant river conditions. Exercise caution near riverbanks, especially during monsoon when water levels may rise unexpectedly. Respect local customs and cultural sites along the river, particularly at temples. Be mindful of waste disposal to help keep the river environment clean and natural..

Help Line/Phone Number:
Karnataka and Tamil Nadu Tourism Information:91-80-2235-2828 (Karnataka) / +91-44-2536-4455 (Tamil Nadu)
Nearest Hospital:Chickballapur

South Pennar River Nearest Attraction
Savana Durga Hills
A left turn some 7 kms before Magadi in Magadi road reduced our travel distance by some 8 kms and itz around 65 kms from bangalore city. Nice road to drive on and lotz of quarries on the way and road having lotz of bends and turns makes your drive a splendid one....more
Antharagange Temples
One of the ancient temples of india. It has miraculous water coming from mouth of got cow statue 365 dayz a year. It is a holy place people visit this temple from many parts of the Karnataka, Kolar District and karnataka state on Mahashivratri festival day every year. It is protected by Forest authority of india, has lots of Monkeys and wild Deers....more
Chikka Thirupathi Temples
Chikka Thirupathi : This sleepy little town is 10 km off Sarjapur. It takes about an hour from the Sarjapur ring-road junction. The road (if you can call it that) is very bad for a few kilometres after the Wipro office. It gets much better as you near Sarjapur. The scenery certainly isn't breathtaking, but it is a nice break from the chaos in Bangalore.....more
Kaivara Temples
Kaivara is centre for pilgrimage. This place is located in the Chintamani Taluk of Kolar district in Karnataka, a state that is in the south western part of India.. It is about 65 km from Bangalore. This place is historically significant. It is said that the Pandavas of the great Indian epic Mahabharata lived here during the exile in the forest (Vanavasa).....more
Kudumalai Temples
Though the name sounds like a place in Tamilnadu, this historically important place is located in Mulabagal taluk of Kolar district in Karnataka. Many people would have seen the century-old giant idol of Lord Ganesha in Bangalore on Bull Temple Road. The idol at Kurudumalai is as awe-inspiring.....more
Palar River
Palar is a river of southern India. It rises in Nandidurg hills in Kolar district of Karnataka state, and flows 93 km in Karnataka, 33 km in Andhra Pradesh and 222 km in Tamil Nadu before its confluence into the Bay of Bengal at Vayalur about 100 KM south of Chennai.....more
Ponnaiyar River
249 The river finally surrenders in to the Bay of Bengal at Cuddalore. The Ponnaiyar river basin is encircled by the Cauvery river basin in the west and south and Palar and Tondiar basins in the east and north respectively.....more