Vani Vilasa Sagara Dam, Chitradurga - Timings, Boating, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 59 km from Chitradurga, Vani Vilasa Sagara Dam is a dam in Hiriyur Taluk of Chitradurga. Popularly known as Mari Kanive, it is one of the prominent Chitradurga tourist places.

Vani Vilasa Sagara was built in 1907 by the Mysore Maharajas across the Vedavathi River, a tributary of Krishna River. The project was built during the year 1897 to 1907 under the regime of Maharaja of Mysore, Sri Krishna Raja Wodeyar Bahadur and was named after the his mother Kempa Nanjammanni Vani Vilasa. Due to financial constraints, the royal family of Mysore had to pledge their royal jewelry to fund the construction of this dam.

This dam stands as a remarkable example of architecture and engineering for its time. It is recognized as the oldest dam in Karnataka, commonly referred to as Mari Kanive. The dam has a capacity of storing 30 TMC of water, and is taller than KRS dam of Mysore. The primary purpose of the Vani Vilasa Sagara Project is to facilitate irrigation for 12,135 hectares of land in the drought-prone regions of Hiriyur taluk in Chitradurga district. Additionally, the Vani Vilasa Sagara dam serves as a vital source of domestic water for the towns of Hiriyur, Hosadurga, Chitradurga, and Challakere.

Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic landscapes, Vani Vilas Sagara is a popular spot for those who love nature. There is a shrine to Kanive Maramma at the base of the dam. There is also a wonderful park adjacent to the temple. During the month of November, devotees travel to this area to take part in the annual Kanive Maramma fair.

Timings: 8.30 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free