About Kamaraj Sagar Dam (Kamarajar Dam), Ooty
Kamaraj Sagar Dam (also written as Kamarajar Dam) is a scenic reservoir located on the Ooty–Pykara road. The wide stretch of calm water surrounded by rolling hills and pine belts has made it a favourite backdrop for film songs and photo shoots over the years.
For most visitors it is a short outer-view stop. Cabs or tempo travellers usually halt at safe lay-bys near the water, giving you a chance to step out, enjoy the breeze, click photos with the reservoir and hills, and then continue towards Pykara Falls & Pykara Lake. Some days you may see locals fishing on the banks or small stalls selling snacks and tea near the road.
Reservoir Viewpoint Popular Shooting Location Calm Photo & Reel Spot Pykara Route Sightseeing Stop
Kamaraj Sagar Dam Photo Gallery
Timings, View Experience & Visit Duration
| Item | Details |
|---|
| Best Viewing Time | Daylight hours, especially 09:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM when light is softer on the water. |
| Entry / Tickets | Typically treated as a roadside outer-view point. There is generally no separate entry ticket just to see the reservoir from the usual viewpoints. |
| Parking Charges | Parking or stopping charges may apply for buses, tempo travellers and cabs in some sections as per local rules. |
| Average Stop Time | Plan around 15–25 minutes for photos, a short walk along the edge and enjoying the breeze. |
Access rules around dams can change with security and water level considerations. Always follow local boards, barriers and staff instructions.
How to Reach Kamaraj Sagar Dam from Ooty
- By Cab: Kamaraj Sagar Dam falls naturally on the Ooty–Pykara sightseeing route, about 25–30 minutes from town depending on traffic. Your driver will usually stop at a safe viewing stretch.
- With Sightseeing Packages: Included in many Pykara side city tour itineraries along with Pine Forest, Wenlock Downs, Tree Park (6th Mile), Golf Club outer view, Pykara Falls and Pykara Lake.
- By Auto / Taxi: Autos can reach up to this belt in good weather. Clearly ask for “Kamaraj Sagar Dam on Pykara side” so they understand it is part of the reservoir route.
- Self-Drive: The road is scenic with curves and occasional mist. Drive slowly, use hazard lights if you stop on wider shoulders and avoid blocking the main carriageway.
Parking, Walk Effort & Safety
- Parking: Vehicles usually stop at roadside bays or local open areas near the reservoir. On busy days, follow any traffic police or local staff instructions.
- Walk Effort: Most viewpoints are just a short, level walk away from where the vehicle is parked – fairly easy for most visitors.
- Water Safety: Do not climb over fences, sit on the edge of parapet walls or go too close to drop-offs and deep water. Watch children closely at all times.
- Cleanliness: Avoid throwing plastic or food waste into the water or along the bank. Use dustbins where provided and respect it as a drinking water source and ecological zone.
Best Time & Tips for Visiting Kamaraj Sagar Dam
- Light & Reflections: Mornings and late afternoons give gentle reflections of hills and trees on the water. Mid-day sun can be strong and flat in photos.
- Monsoon & Water Levels: After good rains the reservoir looks fuller and more impressive. On very dry spells, water levels may go down and expose more banks.
- Wind & Chill: Breeze across the water can make the spot feel cooler than the rest of the road. Carry a light jacket, especially in winter.
- What to Carry: Water, cap/hat, basic snacks and your camera/phone with enough battery for photos and reels.
- Combine with Other Spots: Ideal to combine with Pine Forest, Wenlock Downs, Pykara Falls & Lake, Tree Park and Golf Club outer view in a single Pykara-side cab plan.
Weather & Season Guide – Kamaraj Sagar Dam
| Season | Weather | Reservoir View | Tip |
|---|
| Dec–Feb | Cool to cold | Crisp views on clear mornings | Carry warm clothing; breeze across the water can feel extra chilly. |
| Mar–May | Pleasant | Popular holiday season | Good for combining with full Pykara circuit; plan earlier slots to avoid harsh mid-day light. |
| Jun–Sep | Mist & occasional rain | Moodier sky and water | Mist can partially cover hills; carry rain protection and watch for slippery stretches. |
| Oct–Nov | Post-monsoon | Fresh green surroundings | Balanced weather and nice cloud textures – pleasant time for photography. |
As this is mainly a viewpoint stop, the key factors are water level, visibility and safety. Always check for any temporary closures or restrictions during heavy rains or maintenance.
Kamaraj Sagar Dam Highlights (for Visitors)
- Reservoir & Hills: Wide open view of still water with layered blue-green hills behind, giving a calm, cinematic feel.
- Shooting History: Known locally as a film shooting spot, often recognised by visitors from older movie songs.
- Quick Scenic Halt: Short, relaxed break on an otherwise busy sightseeing day – a chance to slow down, stretch and breathe.
- Part of Pykara Story: Naturally fits in the Ooty–Pykara narrative together with forests, downs and waterfalls.
This is not a commercial boating lake like Pykara. Treat it more as a quiet viewpoint and photo stop on the way.
Accessibility & Walk Effort
- For most viewpoints, there is minimal walking – just a few steps from the parking area to the parapet/edge where you stand and see the water.
- The ground can be uneven or gravelly near the edge, so elders should step carefully and avoid going too close to slopes.
- Families with kids should hold hands and keep children away from drop-offs or steep banks near the reservoir.
- Guests with mobility issues can usually enjoy the view from near the vehicle itself on clearer days.
Map & Distance
Kamaraj Sagar Dam lies on the Ooty–Pykara road, a short drive beyond Pine Forest and Wenlock Downs, and before the Pykara Falls & Lake stretch.
Kamaraj Sagar Dam (Kamarajar Dam), Ooty – FAQs
Is there any entry fee for Kamaraj Sagar Dam, Ooty?
Kamaraj Sagar Dam is usually experienced as an outer-view roadside stop. In general there is no separate entry ticket for just viewing the reservoir from the common viewpoints. If any particular area is fenced or ticketed, charges will be displayed on local boards.
How long should I plan to stop at Kamaraj Sagar Dam?
Most sightseeing cabs keep around 15–25 minutes here – enough time to step out, walk a little along the edge, click photos and enjoy the breeze before continuing towards Pykara Falls and Pykara Lake.
Is it safe to visit Kamaraj Sagar Dam with kids and elders?
Yes, it is generally safe as a short viewpoint stop, provided you stand only at safe, allowed sections, keep children away from the water edge and avoid leaning over parapets or barriers. Elders can stay close to the vehicle if they prefer not to walk.
Can I visit Kamaraj Sagar Dam on the way to Pykara Lake?
Definitely. Kamaraj Sagar Dam sits on the same Ooty–Pykara route as Pine Forest, Wenlock Downs and Pykara Lake. It is commonly included in Pykara side cab packages as a calm reservoir viewpoint between other attractions.
Private Cab Packages for Pykara Side (1–3 Days)
Doorstep pickup, curated Ooty & Pykara sightseeing (Kamaraj Sagar Dam viewpoint, Pine Forest, Wenlock Downs, Pykara Falls & Lake), trusted local drivers and flexible timings.
