Do you know that Kerala is just not about the Hill Stations, Backwaters, Houseboat or Wildlife Sanctuaries. Kerala has much more to offer that’s the reason Kerala is one of the best tourist destination of India. Kerala has 40+ Dams and Reservoirs and many offers good views for tourists. Yes, tourists are allowed to visit some dams in Kerala. So, let us help you to identify famous dams of Kerala.
Best Dams to Visit in Kerala
Idukki Dam – First Arch Dam of India
Idukki Dam is an iconic structure and an engineering marvel, known as the first arch dam in India. Standing 168.91 meters tall, it is situated between two mountains—Kuravanmala (839 meters) and Kurathimala (925 meters)—on the Periyar River. Dam was constructed to support a 782 MW hydroelectric power station and plays a crucial role in irrigation for the Muvattupuzha Valley. Along with the Cheruthoni and Kulamavu dams, it forms a man-made lake spanning 60 km², which is a perfect spot for photographers to capture the natural beauty of the surrounding Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. If you’re on a Kerala tour, be sure to bring your camera to capture this stunning landscape.
Malampuzha Dam – Biggest Dam in Kerala
Located 10 km from Palakkad, Malampuzha Dam is one of the largest reservoirs in Kerala. It is a combination of stone and earthen work, with a length of 1849 meters and a height of 220 meters. The dam spans 108 meters in height and crosses the Malampuzha River, offering visitors the chance to enjoy a variety of activities. You can explore the rock garden, take a ropeway ride, visit the amusement park, and enjoy boating on the reservoir. Nearby attractions include the Japanese Garden, Yakshi Garden, and Fantasy Park, making this an ideal destination for a fun family outing. The best time to visit is from April to August.
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Mullaperiyar Dam – First Concrete Dam of Kerala
Mullaperiyar Dam, constructed in 1895, is one of the oldest and most historic dams in the world. Located on the Periyar River in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats, the dam spans 365.7 meters in length and rises 53.6 meters in height. It is a masonry gravity dam, built under the administration of the Madras State (now Tamil Nadu). The dam’s location is famous for its scenic beauty, especially in Thekkady, a popular tourist spot. However, the dam has been at the center of a long-standing dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu over control and water rights, making it an interesting site for history and law enthusiasts.
Neyyar Dam – Popular Picnic Spot in Trivandrum
Situated 30 km from Trivandrum, Neyyar Dam is a popular picnic destination. This gravity dam, standing 56 meters high and 294 meters long, is located at the base of the Western Ghats. Visitors can rent speed boats for a scenic tour of the nearby woodlands, with prices starting at Rs. 250 per person. Additionally, the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwanthari Ashram offers yoga courses and meditation retreats, providing a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation. The nearby Agasthya Kooodam is another highlight for nature lovers and trekkers.
Kakkayam Dam
If you’re looking for a serene and untouched location, Kakkayam Dam is a hidden gem. Located 58 km from Kozhikode Railway Station, it offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Kakkayam is well-known for its hard trekking routes and rock climbing experiences along the Kuttiady River. The dam area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a photographer’s paradise. Its isolation and scenic beauty make it an excellent choice for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination.
Banasura Sagar Dam, Padanjarithara – Largest Earth Dam in India
Situated in Wayanad, Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia. Dam is located at the foothills of the Banasura Hills and is named after Banasura, the son of the legendary King Mahabali of Kerala. Dam was built to support the Kalyan Hydroelectric Power Project. Reservoir created by the dam offers breathtaking views, making it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers. Dam is located less than 30 km from Wayanad, making it easily accessible by road. The best time to visit Banasura Sagar Dam is between November and May.
Thenmala Dam
Located 68 km from Kollam, Thenmala Dam is nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats. Known for its rich biodiversity and lush surroundings, this dam is a part of a protected ecological area. The region is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a combination of scenic views, cultural experiences, and environmental awareness. The picturesque setting makes Thenmala Dam a must-visit destination for travelers looking to connect with nature.
Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dam, located in the hills of Kerala, is a concrete gravity dam designed to preserve water for hydroelectric power. Open to visitors daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, the dam offers a range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, including both regular and speedboat rides, with prices starting at Rs. 300 for a speedboat ride. Horseback riding around the dam is another fun way to explore the surroundings. The entry fee is nominal, making it an affordable and enjoyable experience for families.
Cheruthoni Dam
Built in 1976, Cheruthoni Dam is the third highest dam in India. It forms part of the Idukki Hydroelectric Project, along with the Idukki and Kulamavu dams. At a height of 138 meters, Cheruthoni Dam provides a scenic vantage point from which visitors can view parts of Kochi city on clear days. Boating options are available on the nearby reservoir, and the surrounding area offers picturesque landscapes perfect for nature photography. Jeep drive is the best way to reach the dam, which is located at a scenic spot within the Western Ghats.
Kerala’s power and irrigation needs but also provide some of the most breathtaking and peaceful destinations for visitors. Adventurous trekking experience, a peaceful picnic spot, or an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Kerala, these dams offer something for everyone. Make sure to include these stunning spots in your itinerary when exploring the enchanting state of Kerala.
