Linganamakki Dam is considered to be one of the major dams in Karnataka. It is located at a distance of 6 km from the famous Jog Falls, hence attracts a large number of visitors on any given day. The dam is located in Sagara Taluk and extends over an area of 2.4 km. A large reservoir behind the dam adds a unique ambiance to the entire region and makes it breathtaking in the true sense.

The dam stretches across the Sharavati River and is a source of irrigation for the nearby regions.

Construction

The dam was built by the Karnataka Government in 1964. The dam is designated to hold over 4368 million cubic metres of water and hence is considered to be a major dam project in the state. The height of Linganamakki Dam has been kept at 554 metres above mean sea level. The dam is primarily rainfed and water from Chakra and Savahaklu reservoirs also flows into this dam.

The catchment area of the dam is around 46 km and it generates power worth 55 MW through its two generation units.

Attractions

Owing to its proximity to the Jog Falls, a large number of tourists visit the Linganamakki Dam. As the entire area is a dense forested zone, it is host to numerous floral and faunal species which make it perfect retreat for a weekend trip. The dam premises have been well maintained and those visiting the area are able to get an overview of the entire region from the dam site.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Jog Falls

Jog Falls are admired throughout the country for its scenic ambiance. Located at a distance of 105 km from Shimoga, Jog Falls are essentially a combination of four waterfalls namely Raja, Rani, Rocket and Roarer. Those visiting Jog Falls ensure that they include Linganamakki Dam in their travel itinerary as both are located in vicinity.

Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary

When on a trip to the Linganamakki Dam site, a visit must be paid to the Sharavathi wildlife sanctuary. The plant and animal life of the Western Ghats has been suitably put to display at the wildlife sanctuary and over 123 sq km of the sanctuary area falls in the Linganamakki reservoir area. Evergreen and moist deciduous forests can be seen in its elegant growth in the sanctuary area. The wildlife sanctuary is also home to animal species like Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Spotted, Barking and Masked deer among others. Reptiles as King Cobra, Python and Crocodile can also be spotted in the sanctuary area.

With Linganamakki reservoir area falling within the preview of the sanctuary area, any tourist planning a visit to the dam site comes to the wildlife sanctuary in the natural course.

Best time to Visit

End of monsoon season is perhaps the best time to plan a visit to the Linganamakki Dam as floral and faunal diversity of the region is in its best bloom during this time.

How to Reach

By Air

Mangalore airport is the nearest air connectivity to the Linganamakki Dam. Taxis can be hired from the airport for a comfortable sojourn to the dam site and the nearby Jog Falls.

By Rail

Shimoga is the nearest railhead to Linganamakki Dam site. Taxis can be hired from the railway station till the dam site.

By Road

The dam is located in close vicinity of Kargal town and is well connected by road.