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Dharmapuri District

Dharmapuri District
Dharmapuri District holds a distinctive place in the administrative history of Tamil Nadu. Notably, it became the first district formed after Indian Independence on 2nd October 1965, following its bifurcation from the erstwhile Salem District. Located in the western part of Tamil Nadu, the district plays an important geographical and cultural role, with Dharmapuri town serving as its administrative headquarters.

Geographically, the district shares its boundaries with Krishnagiri District to the north and Salem District to the south. Meanwhile, Thiruvannamalai and Villupuram Districts lie to the east, while the Cauvery River forms the western boundary of the district.

Image Attribution : Sreejith K
In addition to its historical importance, Dharmapuri District features extensive forest cover, accounting for nearly 30% of its total area. As a result, the district supports rich biodiversity and a pleasant natural environment. Furthermore, Dharmapuri plays a vital role in agriculture and stands out as a major producer of mangoes in Tamil Nadu, along with important crops such as ragi and saamai.

Tourist Attractions in Dharmapuri District

  • Hogenakkal Falls
  • Vathalmalai or Vytla Hills
  • Hill Temple at Theerthamalai (Harur Taluk)
  • Adhiyamankottai and Chenaraya Perumal Temple (Adhyamankottam, 7 kilometres from Dharmapuri on Salem–Dharmapuri road)
  • Kottai Kovil / Fort Temple (northern side of Dharmapuri, 1 kilometre from bus stand)
  • Kala Bhairavar Temple (7 kilometres from Dharmapuri bus stand)
  • Dharmapuri Archaeological Museum
  • Subramanya Siva Memorial (Papparapatti)
  • Sir Thomas Munro Pillar, Dharmapuri
  • Sri Anjaneya Temple (Muthampatti, 14 kilometres from Dharmapuri city)
  • Nagavadhi Dam and Thoppayaru Dam (Thoppur, Dharmapuri)

How to Reach Dharmapuri

Road – First and foremost, Dharmapuri District benefits from a well-developed road network. Major national highways such as NH 7 (Kanyakumari to Kashmir), NH 46 (Chennai to Bangalore), and NH 66 (Pondicherry to Bangalore) pass through the district. Consequently, road travel to Dharmapuri remains smooth and convenient.

Rail – In terms of rail connectivity, Dharmapuri has its own railway station. Additionally, the Chennai–Coimbatore and Salem–Bangalore broad-gauge railway lines pass through the district for nearly 126 kilometres, ensuring frequent train services.

Air – For air travelers, Salem Airport is located about 50 kilometres away. Alternatively, Bangalore International Airport, situated approximately 130 kilometres from Dharmapuri, serves as a major international gateway.

To explore more about Dharmapuri tourism, please visit the Dharmapuri Tourism page.