CM Stalin Announces Major Restoration and Tourism Projects at Historic Cholagangam Lake to Mark Rajendra Chola’s Birth Anniversary

On the occasion of Emperor Rajendra Chola’s birth anniversary celebrations, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced a series of heritage restoration and tourism development projects in Ariyalur district, specifically around the historic Cholagangam Lake (also known as Sabanaseri), originally built by the emperor over a thousand years ago.

The state government has sanctioned ₹12 crore for critical water resource rejuvenation work at Cholagangam Lake and ₹7.25 crore for the development of tourism infrastructure in the area.

The Government of Tamil Nadu has been officially celebrating Emperor Rajendra Chola’s birth anniversary as a state festival since 2021. To honour his legacy, a new museum commemorating the emperor’s achievements and showcasing the historical significance of the region is being developed across 10 acres at a cost of ₹22.10 crore in Kanganankudi Chozhapuram, Ariyalur district. Planning and initial groundwork for the project are already underway.

To commemorate the 1000th anniversary of Rajendra Chola’s Southeast Asian conquests, the state government has now announced further initiatives as part of this year’s Aadi Thiruvizha (falling on July 23, 2025). Cholagangam Lake, historically constructed by the emperor in memory of the Kangan battles and the welfare of his people, is undergoing extensive restoration.

As per CM Stalin’s directive, the ₹12 crore restoration works will include strengthening the lake’s embankments over its 700-acre spread, desilting of 15 km of surface drainage canals, cleaning and repairing of 4 main canal sections and sluices, and deepening of 38 km of field canals. These efforts will benefit more than 1,374 acres of agricultural land across the villages of Pichanur, Guruvayarpuram, Ilayaperumal Nallur, Kanganankudi Chozhapuram, Udayanadu, and Ayuthakalam.

Additionally, under the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department, ₹7.25 crore has been earmarked to develop the lake area into a major tourist destination. Planned facilities include an interpretation centre, a children’s play area, a themed garden with pathways and lighting, boating, observation towers, public toilets, security arrangements, and parking facilities.

Chief Minister Stalin has instructed departments to ensure the timely and high-quality implementation of both heritage and tourism infrastructure projects to preserve the legacy of Rajendra Chola and boost local economic development through tourism.

Issued by:
Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Chennai-9