Dam Sites Kerala

Rivers flowing amidst steep mountains is a normal scenary in Kerala. This peculiar feature of Kerala's geography is absolutely and perfectly suitable for constructing dams. Making use of this geographical speciality, many dams are built across the state, most of which now have become top tourist attractions.

Banasura Sagar Dam

Wayanad is one such rare districts where tourism is always on full swing. Round through the year, tourists are flooding to the district to enjoy their vacations. The top tourist destinations include hill stations, lakes, dams, and so on. Banasura Sagar dam is one of the many magnificent tourist spots in the district.

Banasura Sagar dam, popular as India's largest earth dam, is located in the south-west part of Wayanad district. It is close to Karalad Lake which is another tourist attraction in the district. The dam is built across the river Karamanathodu which is a tributary of the Kabini river.

The project area of Banasura Sagar dam is noted for its topographical features. Many small islands formed during the Monsoon season alone provide a great feast to the tourists' eyes. Banasura Hills that stand as the background for these islands make it more charming. This is one of the major reasons why tourists flow to the site even during the rainy season.

Apart from all the beauties of the dam and the small islands, you will surely find pleasure in engaging yourself in trekking which remains one of the major means for entertainment.

Trekking

Banasura Sagar dam is considered as one of the best spots for trekking in Kerala. It is here that the Banasura peak begins. While trekking remains a major attraction at this location, you can enjoy boating trips on the lake and dam as well.

Trekking through the dark forests of Banasura peak is always entertaining as well as adventurous. Further it will help you explore the matchless beauty of the deep forests. In short,you will see everything which your mind wants to see at this location.

How to reach..?

Nearest Airport : Calicut (Karipur) International Airport

Nearest Railway Station : Kozhikode

Bhoothathankettu Dam

Bhoothathankettu, near Kothamangalam, which means 'monster fort' is another perfect getaway in Kerala for nature lovers.  It is an ideal eco  tourism destination, providing the perfect holiday for nature lovers with forests to trek in, birds to watch, a river for boating, rapids to shoot, a lake to fish in and much more. The water body formed by the construction of a barrage across the Periyar river and land embraced by evergreen forests and bamboo are the major attractions.

This land, mired as it is in mythology and folklore, is also known for its connection with demons, traditionally called 'bhoothams'.  Long before the man made dam was built to tame the flow of the Periyar and irrigate the paddy fields of Ernakulam district, Bhoothathankettu had already earned its name from an interesting legend.  Legend has it that ages ago, demons set out to submerge the Trikariyoor Temple, whose presiding deity was  the Hindu god, Lord Shiva; by damming the Periyar and flooding the area.  But Lord Shiva, suspecting trickery, came up with a plan to deter them. He made it appear that dawn was approaching by making a sound like the crowing of the rooster. The demons, fearing the arrival of daylight, fled from their task. 

But to this day there remains visible proof of their effort  the huge stones that the demons were supposed to have rolled on to the riverbed, the old Bhoothathankettu. The Periyar flows on through the narrow space which the demons did not quite manage to dam up.

That is legend and imagination for all. The actual formation of the old Bhothathankettu remains a conjecture. It has been attributed to two great floods  one in the 4th century and the other in 1341, which threw open the Kochi Port.  The massive landslides during the floods are believed to have caused the gigantic rocks to roll down from the mountain and become entrenched in the old Bhoothathankettu.

If it is curiosity about this place that brings tourists here, it will be Bhoothathankettu's mesmerizing beauty that keeps them enthralled forever. Tall mountains, a calm lake, river Periyar and an all encompassing forest meet at the eco  tourism destination to make it a tribute to nature. 

Bhoothathankettu is 100 metres above sea level and has a very moderate climate. Here a nature loving tourist can enjoy a cruise through the fresh water lake, trek through the deep evergreen forest, and even go for an adventure expedition down the turbulent Periyar. One could also take a cool dip in the fresh clean medicinal water coming down the mountain where Neelakoduveli, a life giving herb is said to grow, a trip upriver on a houseboat, a ride on a speed boat,  go rock climbing, fishing...the possibilities for relaxation and fun remain endless. A trip on the houseboat is a must.

To one side of the river lies a dense forest that grows to the very edge of the water, so much so that it seems that a part of the forest is growing on the Periyar itself. On the other side, you can catch an occasional glimpse of habitation between the coconut and rubber trees, but not enough of it to dampen the serenity of the place. The scenario remains unchanged for some time before that side too, is overtaken by forest.

The river dips inland at times, creating tempting green coves that beckon you to swim in. As you go further upstream to the right, the river seems to break away from its almost straight path to flow between Thattekad bird sanctuary and Chelamalai, which might have been the seat of the ancient Chera Empire. According to the locals, the forest on either side of the Periyar was once home to a thriving civilization. Remains of wells, walls, pieces of pottery recovered from there and the ruins of temples of ancient architecture, are ample proof of a vibrant and highly developed culture that once existed on this river bank.

Even if one may not be interested in anthropology, the river itself, embraced by the evergreen forests on both sides, the white storks lazily rising into the air, the kingfishers torpedoing into the water, sights of rare migratory birds from Siberia and above all the absolute peace and quietness that one experiences here, will make the trip to Bhoothathan- kettu truly memorable.

A journey up the Periyar, with its beauty and tranquility, to satisfy your parched senses are mere bonuses. The dam is a vantage point from where you can spot the turbulent water rushing from the dam towards the old Bhothathankettu. The river gives one the impression of sprouting here and there into a pool of blood, due to the presence of a red water plant, possibly algae, that grows on the rocks just beneath the rushing water. A view of the surrounding area from up there will make you forget the scorching rays of the sun that beats down on you. You will be just lost in the beauty of the Periyar. The sun rise from Bhoothathankettu is yet another treat to watch.

Idukki Arch Dam

This is the world's second and Asia's first arch dam 555 ft  in height and 650 ft.  in width,  proudly standing between the two mountains - 'Kuravanmala' (839 meters) and 'Kurathimala' (925 meters ).   A prestigious project of our nation, its underground power house is located at Moolamattom, about 19 kms from Thodupuzha.  Idukki Dam is 43 kms away from Moolamattom. The Idukki reservoir is formed by three dams (Idukki, Cheruthoni and Kulamavu) and natural hills.

The possibility of Hydroelectric development at Idukki was first conceived in 1919. History has it that  Shri Kolumban, the head of the  'Araya' race in1922, showed  the Malankara Estate Superintendent and his friend Thomas, who were on hunting spree in the forest, the spot of the present Arch Dam. He told them of the legend of Kuravan and Kurathi Hills. Thomas was stirred by the sight of water flow between the mountains and it is his idea that has made the dream  of Idukki Arch Dam a reality.. Sri. W.J.John of Malankara Estate submitted a report to the Government of Travancore in 1932 on the possibility of constructing a dam at Idukki for power generation purposes.    

The project was posed for Canadian aid, its scope was enlarged and a revised project report was drawn up in 1956-66. The construction of this dam commenced on 30 April 1969.  Storage of water in Idukki reservoir commenced in February 1973. . The trial run of the first machine was on October 4, 1975. The commercial operation of the power station was commissioned by the then Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi, on February 12, 1976.

Construction of this arch dam and two other dams at Cheruthony and Kulamavu has created an artificial lake of 60 sq. km. width and the water stored is utilised for production of electricity at the unique Moolamattom power house, located inside rocky caves. Best season to visit the dam is from August to March

Malampuzha

Malampuzha is located 10 km. from Palakkad town, The main attractions here are  the dam, amusement park, boating facilities, rock garden and  a ropeway.

Malampuzha, a little township on the foothills of the Western Ghats, takes its name from the river Malampuzha. Nurtured by this tributary of Kerala's longest river, the Bharathappuzha, Malampuzha is a lush green town and a major tourist attraction of Palakkad region.

Around the reservoir of the dam are beautiful gardens and amusement parks. Boating facilities are available on the lake. Other attractions in the Malampuzha garden are the beautiful rock garden, the fish-shaped aquarium, the snake park, the ropeway which takes you on an aerial tour of the park, and the gigantic Yakshi (an enchantress) sculptured by Kanai Kunhiraman, a renowned sculptor of Kerala.

The most interesting feature of the rock garden is that the whole place is made of unwanted and broken pieces of bangles, tiles, used plastic cans, tins and other waste materials. The garden is a master work of sculptor Padmasree Neck Chand Saini.

Nearest railway station is Palakkad. Nearest airport is Coimbatore, about 55 km. from Palakkad town.
 There are frequent buses to Malampuzha from Palakkad.

Fantasy Park

Located at  Malampuzha, 10 km from Palakkad town, Fantasy Park is a theme park where the entire family can find some form of amusement. There is a hygienic restaurant and ice cream parlour within the park. The water merry-go-round, striking car, paratrooper, pirate boat, dragon coaster, tora tora, mini tele combat, jumping horse, scooter ride, caterpillar, etc are a few among the entertainment options at this fun world. The park is located in the enchanting backdrop of the mountain ranges of Malampuzha, with the majestic mountain peaks of the Western Ghats overlooking it.
Fantasy Park is open from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, and between 2:00 pm and 9:00 pm on week days.  For more details: Phone: +91 491 2815122, Email: info@fantasypark.in
Nearest railway station is Palakkad, about 10 km. Nearest airport is Coimbatore, about 55 km.

Malankara Dam

This reservoir is an artificial lake situated on the Thodupuzha - Moolamattom Road. The reservoir is formed by the water flowing from the tail-gate of Moolamattom power house. It is about 6 km. from Thodupuzha town.

Malankara is well connected by roads and served by frequent bus services. The irrigation department has plans to landscape the dam and it envisages setting up a garden as well. With permission from the Irrigation Department, visitors will be allowed to stroll along the pathway atop the dam, which commands an overview of the greenery around. The reservoir is ideal for boating and fishing.

Kudayathoor Mala, a picturesque hillock 6 km from Malankara dam site, is ideal for trekking, Elaveezha Poonchira, 6 km upstream is another haunt for picnickers.

Mullaperiyar Dam

155 ft high and 1200 ft long Mullaperiyar Dam, though was built in the year 1895 by the British Corps of Royal Engineer for facilitating irrigation in a few Tamil Nadu districts, has now become a good tourist spot in Kerala. It was then leased to the Tamil Nadu government for a period of 999 years by the British.

With the construction of Mullaperiyar Dam, now there is an artifical lake which is suitable for water sports especially for boating. Boating through this artificial lake remains ideal as the tourists can enjoy their trip very well. Further, tourists will be able to explore the gazing tigers in the Periyar Tiger Reserve. In fact, the dam and the lake are part of Periyar Tiger Reserve.

The dam's name Mullaperiyar is coined by combining Mullayar and Periyar, the names of two rivers across which the dam is built.

History and purpose behind Mullaperiyar Dam

The construction of Mullaperiyar Dam was initiated in the year 1887. It took a few years to complete the dam construction. Sadly making the great efforts of British Corps of Royal Engineers go vain, the first dam was washed off by floods. Thus the dam was completed in their second attempt after eight years i.e. in the year 1895 under the leadership of Pennycuick.

River Periyar's flow was directed to the west. The British found that many of the barren regions -including districts like Madurai, Ramanathapuram, Sivaganga and Theni in Tamil Nadu could turn into fertile lands if the river flows through them. And Mullaperiyar dam was thus their solution for this issue.

Thus the dam being built mainly for the water and irrigation requirements of Tamil Nadu districts, especially of the Madurai Temple town, the operational rights were conferred to Tamil Nadu for nearly thousand years. Now too tourists who visit the site can see tunnels that pierce the western ghats carrying water to the Tamil Nadu districts.

Neyyar Dam

Neyyar dam is situated at Kallikkad Panchayath of Neyyattinkara Taluk. The peak Agasthya kooodam is very near to Neyyar dam. The dam was built in the land given by an agriculturist known as Karuvachiyil Krishan Panicker, Maruthummoottil family,and his other family members for irrigation purposes. One canal of Neyyar flows to western districts of Tamil Nadu. The main river Neyyar flows through Kallikkadu, Ottasekharamangalam, Aryancode, Kezaroor, Marayamuttom, Neyyattinkara and Poovar and ends at the Arabian Sea.

Kallikkadu panchayath has more cultural and historic heritages. The Travancore King Marthanda Varma's footprints are here. he fought against Ettuveettil Pillais and he had to flee from his palace. He walked through the mountains of Kallikkadu such as Agasthakoodam with the Aborigins, Kanikkar. They saved the king and they were rewarded with 36,000 acres (150 km2) of land. This is known as Kanipatt. after the democratic reign Kanis lost the land and it came under the controle of local land lords. there was a famous strike, Kanipattu Samaram led by Karshaka Sangham.

Kallikkad Ramachandran the famous writer and film maker, K R Ajayan the Journalist and Short story writer are the products Of Kallikkad. The Neyyar Dam was built in the land given by a famous landlord Karuvachi Krishnan Panicker, Maruthinmoottil, Kallikkad and some of his family members from Kallikkad.

Pazhassi Dam

Located 37 km. East of Kannur and an ideal retreat for tourists, the dam site is famous for its scenic beauty. The DTPC provides pleasure boating facilities at the reservoir. Accommodation is available at the Project Inspection Bungalow.

This dam is situated around 11 km from the birthplace of Pazhassi Raja. The nearest railway station is Kannur and tourists can avail taxis and buses from the station to reach this dam. Accommodation is available at different dormitories available near this dam.

It is the only reservoir with  a garden in Kannur district. The garden is a good attraction with sculptures. The added attractions of the place are the children's park., the Buddha's mountain at Pazhassi and the sculpture of Pazhassi Raja, which are visual delights.   A visit to this dam is really worth it, especially for who are interested in boating.

Peruvannamuzhi

Kuttiady Peruvannamuzhi Dam is one of the most beautiful dams in Kerala. Being situated in a small village, its beauty gets added up. It is approximately 60 km. from Kozhikode district. You could reach by a two hour journey. There are many private bus services to this place.

There is an artificial lake in Peruvannamuzhi, which also offers boating facilities. . While riding through the artificial lake, there, you can see 'Smaraka Thottam', a garden made in the memory of great leaders of the freedom struggle. The garden is also tranquil and enjoyable.

Peruvannamuzhi also has a crocodile farm and a bird sanctuary.. There are more than twenty crocodiles here in different pools. The bird sanctuary also offers you with birds of varieties more than 90 species. The peacocks of Peruvannamuzhi are famous. But ihey are now considered as a vulnerable species. The Peruvannamuzhi dam belongs to the Kuttiady Irrigation project. The water stored here is used for the production of electricity as well as for irrigation. The Peruvannamuzhi Dam provides water to three main districts- Kozhikode, Malapuram and Kannur.  Rest houses and hotels also surround the dam, providing you the best of traditional as well as modern food.

The Indian Institute for Spice Research, producing various varieties of seeds and saplings and the. Kuttiady agricultural farm are also located at Peruvannamuzhi.  Tourists can also visit one of the old churches of Kozhikode district, the Fathima Matha Catholic Church

There is no particular season to visit  Peruvannamuzhi Dam. But it would be better to come here in summer (Mar–May) for boat riding. The Peruvannamuzhi Dam closes at 6pm.and is also closed on national holidays and Sundays.

The Peruvannamuzhi Dam can be reached by road within two hours from Kozhikode city.

Kakkayam

Located 45 km. from Kozhikode, this picturesque dam site, teaming with exotic wildlife, offers excellent trekking and rock climbing opportunities. The best time to visit is between November and April.

Siruvani

Siruvani Waterfalls and Dam

Siruvani Waterfalls and dam offer a kind of sight that will remain ever in the minds of all those who visit the site. You can reach the site by travelling around one hour from Palakkad town which is just 46 km away.

A drive through the paddy fields of Palakkad itself is hgihly entertaining. That is the beauty of  the Palakkadan paddy fields which are golden colored-like.

While Siruvani Waterfalls alone were known for its beauty and charm, it is all the more added with the construction of Siruvani dam. Siruvani dam, though was built by the Kerala government, is meant to sort the drinking water shortage of Coimbatore city.

Being close to the Kerala - Tamil Nadu border, you can witness Kerala and Tamil Nadu architectural styles on both sides of the road that leads to Siruvani Waterfalls and dam. The homes of Mudugars and Irulars, two tribal groups who are found here, are other attractions.

However the most important and prominent attraction would be the view of the Siruvani river whose water is renowned for its taste and mineral properties. The scene of dam from the top of the waterfalls too remains highly attractive.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Aliyar, Anaimalai Hills range, Attapady valley, Karunya University, Sadivayal Checkpost, Parambikulam,  Sholiyar, Palar rivers, etc. are a few other tourist destinations near Siruvani Waterfalls.

How to reach

You can catch buses running in regular intervals from Coimbatore or from Palakkad.