Mullaperiyar Dam is one place where nature meets tranquility. Set amidst the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, this dam is every photography enthusiast’s delight, the beautiful architecture and scenery surrounding it could leave anyone awestruck. As you enter, the serene water and majestic hills open their arms to welcome you. Immerse in a peaceful retreat and recharge your body and soul.
Walking Along the Dam
Walking across the dam is an experience in itself. The cool breeze brushing your face, absorbing the vast view of the lake formed by this dam, is the essence of the dam visit. At the confluence of Mullayar and Periyar, this artificial lake mirrors the sky above and the greenery around, making it a perfect picture moment at every step. Each step reveals various angles of beauty, like a sunset reflected in water or a distant hill encased in mist.
Periyar Tiger Reserve: Nature at its Best
Periyar Tiger Reserve, a sanctuary that uplifts the appeal of the place, surrounds the dam. Immersing oneself in Thekkady’s unaltered beauty is an excellent experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
More Than the Dam
There is more to explore than just the dam and the reserve. The spice plantations, Cardamom Hills, and vibrant culture of this region invite you to dive deeper into its charm. If you want a leisurely vacation or adventure with a difference, Mullaperiyar Dam and its surroundings promise an unforgettable experience.
Mullaperiyar Dam: A Historic Engineering Wonder
- Location: Situated across the Periyar River, near Thekkady, Kerala.
- Construction: Built between 1887 and 1895 by British engineer John Pennycuick, using lime-surkhi mortar and rubble masonry.
- Size: It is 176 feet high and 1,200 feet long and can store as much as 443 million cubic meters of water.
- Purpose: To divert water from the Periyar River into the Tamil Nadu Vaigai basin for irrigation and power generation.
- Water Transfer: Water is transferred through the tunnels and canals to 685,000 hectares of cultivation lands throughout Tamil Nadu.
- Hydropower: It serves four power plants through which Tamil Nadu gets electricity.
How can you reach Mullaperiyar Dam?
- By Air: The closest airport is Cochin International Airport, 150 km from Thekkady. One can hire a taxi or take a cab from the airport, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach Thekkady.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Kumily Railway Station, which is 5 km away, or Kottayam Railway Station, which is 110 km away. One can hire a taxi or bus from the stations to the dam.
- By Road: Thekkady is well connected by bus or taxi. The dam is approximately 26 km from there, taking around 50 minutes to reach. The drive is through the stunning landscapes of Thekkady.
- Local Transport: Once you reach Thekkady, you can get a local taxi or an auto-rickshaw to take you to the dam. You would also have frequent buses plying between Thekkady and the dam.
The best time to visit Mullaperiyar Dam
The best time to visit Mullaperiyar Dam is between October and March, during the cooler winter months. The weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The summer months can be hot between April and June. Heavy rains are observed Between June and September, which may make your journey unpleasant.
Things to Do at the Mullaperiyar Dam Site
Mullaperiyar Dam is a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. Here’s a peep into what you can do here:
- Visit the Dam and Enjoy the Views: Have a look at the scintillating water cascade from the height of 155 feet of the dam.
- Wildlife viewing: Wild animals, including tigers, elephants, and bison, can be viewed in the Periyar Tiger Reserve that surrounds the dam. The best times for viewing are in the early morning and evenings.
- Photography: Capture the scenic beauty of the dam, Periyar Lake, and wild across the reserve.
- Nature Treks: Walk around the dam site while taking in fresh air and looking at the sights of nature.
Nearby attractions
There is indeed so much more to explore around the Mullaperiyar Dam. The hills, wildlife, and serene lakes make the whole region a perfect spot for an adventure involving fun and relaxation. Here are some of the top attractions that you mustn’t miss:
Tiger Safari in Periyar National Park
Imagine being really close to the wild, watching tigers, elephants, and many other exciting creatures in their natural habitats. Doesn’t that sound quite thrilling? Periyar National Park is nearby, and it houses an exciting tiger safari deep into the heart of nature. Have you ever wondered what seeing a tiger in the wild is like? It’s something you will never, ever forget!
Ottakathalamedu Viewpoint
For a view that takes one’s breath away, the Ottakathalamedu Viewpoint is a must-have experience. One gets a panoramic view of the Mullaperiyar Dam enshrined within the green hills. Picture yourself standing at the top of a mountain, looking out over the green valleys and the dam scintillating in the distance. Sounds peaceful? It is a scenic place for photography, basking in the beauty of nature.
Boating in Periyar Lake
Want to unwind on the water amidst vistas of breathtaking beauty? Boat-trekking in Periyar Lake allows you to glide smoothly over the silent waters of the lake, escorted by the hilly plateaus and wildlife. You may even see some elephants or birds while cruising. Could this add much more to your trip?
Treks
Trekking inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve is a must-do for all adventurous souls. Various trekking trails exist for those willing to rise to the challenge. Indeed, the treks would take you through some great scenery and allow you to connect with nature more deeply.
Mullaperiyar Dam is just the starting. With these attractions near you, there will be many activities and fantastic memories. Which one do you look forward to most?
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable footwear for walking around the dam area.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a comfortable experience.
- Carry only a little luggage since you have to walk short distances to look around.
- Take your Camera to capture the marvelous landscapes and the wildlife.
- Carry snacks and water, especially if you are visiting longer.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat to avoid sun exposure.
- Respect wildlife and adhere strictly to the rules.
- Know the entry timing so that you will have enough time to explore the place.
- Keep the surroundings clean and dispose of waste responsibly.
Accommodation near Mullaperiyar Dam in Thekkady
When you plan a trip to Thekkady, booking the right accommodation is crucial to ensure you have the most enjoyable and stress-free experience. A luxurious resort like the resorts hosted by the Rainwood Hotels can present a wonderful make over to your trip, providing a comfortable and peaceful retreat after a day of exploring the stunning sights of the Mullaperiyar Dam and its surroundings.
Traveling with family and friends or with someone special, staying in a place that caters to your comfort and needs cam mark the difference.
For families, a comfortable stay after a day of sightseeing allows everyone, from your little ones to your partner, to relax and recharge peacefully like being at home. This comfort sets a positive tone for the entire trip.
Traveling with your partner means much more than exploration. It extends to better bonding and having moments of bliss at the lap of nature. Staying in a peaceful and welcoming environment lets you both unwind, share quality time, and enjoy the journey without distractions.
Even with friends, a stress-free setting enables everyone to be in a carefree mood, making every moment enjoyable.
At Rainwood Hotels, we realize that the right place to stay is integral to your trip. We offer four premium resorts in Thekkady, each designed to suit your unique interests, needs, and budget. You can relax, unwind, and enjoy all the best that Thekkady offers, knowing you’re in good hands when you stay with us. Resorts take pride in good hospitality, luxurious amenities, and beautiful surroundings, making a perfect stay.
Here are the resorts you could choose from:
No matter which one you choose, you are guaranteed a memorable experience at Rainwood Hotels, so you can relax and enjoy every moment of your trip. You will surely leave here with happy memories. Come and experience Thekkady with us; let us make your trip more beautiful than you ever imagined!
Book your stay with Rainwood Hotels and explore Thekkady in comfort and style!
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