Scenic Dam Reservoirs in Kerala

Image by Rameshng via Wikipedia

Dams are built for irrigation and hydro-electric projects, but they are also  beauty spots where visitors can enjoy the view and the various activities associated with reservoirs. There are comfortable lodgings, hotels and resorts for tourists nearby. There are 53 dams in Kerala.

Malampuzha Dam near Palakkad is the largest reservoir in Kerala. The 125 ft dam was completed in 1955. A network of two canal systems irrigate the farm land. The reservoir provides drinking water to a large area. Many attractions beckon visitors to the site; garden, aquarium, Japanese garden, rock garden, hanging bridge, swimming pool and boating facilities. The distance from Palakkad Railway Junction is 7 km.

Dams in Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary – Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary in Palakkad district has 3 man-made reservoirs, Parambikulam, Thunacadavu and Peruvaripallam all within an area of 20.66 km sq. There are 3 major rivers and a waterfall that empties into one of the reservoirs. Boating facilities are available. 65 km drive from Palakkad to Pollachi and 45 km drive from there take you to the location.

Mullaperiyar Dam on the Periyar river was constructed in 1890s by the British Government. Major Pennycuick and the troops had a great role in building this. It was a great Engineering feat of the day. It is a masonry gravity dam 176 ft high and 1,200 ft long. The dam created the Periyar Thekkady reservoir in a remote gorge above 3000 ft.

Idukki Arch Dam on the Periyar and minor dams on Cheruthoni and Kulamavu form a huge reservoir at a high altitude. It is a major tourist attraction as one can get a panoramic view of hills and green forests. The dam supports a 780 MW hydro-power station. Idukki, a small town 121 km from Kottayam is a tourist center. The Periyar wild life sanctuary is also an attraction.

Image by Martinartz via Flickr

Neyyar Dam 30 km from Trivandrum is a popular picnic spot. The mini wildlife sanctuary, lake and a garden, lion safari park, deer park, and boating are the attractions. Sivananda Asram is much appreciated by those who want to practice yoga and meditate.

Banasura Sagar Dam on the Kabini river in Wayanad is a blessing for the local people as they have no problem regarding potable water. The reservoir submerged some of the surrounding areas and spared some land to form a set of islands. It is a fantastic view, the islands, water with the background of hills. This tourist attraction is 21 km from Kalpetta in Wayanad. It is an ideal starting point for hikers to the scenic hills. (More info on Bansura Sagar Dam can be read here : Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad)