Mathur Aqueduct – Kanyakumari
The Mathur Aqueduct, located in the Kalkulam Taluk of Kanyakumari District, stands as one of the longest and highest aqueducts in South Asia. Also known as the Mathur Hanging Trough, this impressive structure spans across the Pahrali (Parazhiyar) River, offering both engineering brilliance and scenic beauty.
The Government of Tamil Nadu constructed the Mathur Aqueduct in 1966 under the leadership of the then Chief Minister K. Kamarajar. Authorities built the aqueduct as a drought-relief initiative to provide irrigation facilities to the surrounding regions of Vilavancode and Kalkulam Taluks. The project was completed at an estimated cost of around Rs. 13 lakhs.
Image Attribution : tshrinivasan
Description of Mathur Aqueduct
The aqueduct derives its name from the nearby village of Mathur. It carries water from the Pattanamkal canal across the Pahrali River, effectively connecting one hill to another for irrigation purposes. The bridge stretches for nearly one kilometre and rises to a height of about 115 feet. In addition, 28 massive pillars firmly support the entire structure.
The trough structure measures approximately 7 feet in height and 7.5 feet in width. Authorities partially concreted the structure, thereby allowing visitors to walk along the bridge and watch the canal water flowing through the trough.
Moreover, the aqueduct features a flight of stairs that enables visitors to climb up easily and access the trough walkway.
Timings and Entry Fee Details of Mathur Aqueduct
The Mathur Aqueduct remains open to visitors on all days from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The applicable entry and facility charges are listed below:
| Entry Fee | Rs. 2/- |
| Parking Fee | Bike (Rs. 3/-), Car (Rs. 25/-), Van (Rs. 40/-), Bus (Rs. 60/-) |
| Camera | Still (Rs. 5/-), Video (Rs. 25/-) |
How to reach Mathur Aqueduct
Mathur Aqueduct has now improved to be a popular tourist attraction in Kanyakumari District. It is about 60 kilometres from Kanyakumari and around 70 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram. If travelling by bus, one needs to take a bus to Nagercoil from Kanyakumari. From Nagercoil take a bus to Thuckalay and then finally to Mathoor.
Kulithurai Railway Station (15 kilometers away) and Kanyakumari Railway Station (around 53 kilometers away) are the nearest stations. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (about 70 kilometers away) is the nearest airport.
Mathur Aqueduct, Kanyakumari – FAQ
Where is Mathur Aqueduct located?
Mathur Aqueduct is located near Mathur village in Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu, about 60 kilometers from Kanyakumari town.
Why is Mathur Aqueduct famous?
The aqueduct is famous for being one of the longest and tallest trough bridges in South India, built to carry water for irrigation across the Pahrali River.
When was Mathur Aqueduct built?
Mathur Aqueduct was constructed in 1966 as part of an irrigation project to support agriculture in Vilavancode and Kalkulam taluks.
How long and tall is Mathur Aqueduct?
The aqueduct is approximately 1,240 feet (about 378 meters) long and stands around 115 feet (35 meters) high.
Yes, visitors can walk along the bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and river valley, making it a popular tourist attraction.