Famous Dams in Kerala: A Marvel of Engineering and Nature

Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is a land of natural beauty and engineering marvels. Among its many attractions, the famous dams in Kerala stand out as significant landmarks. These dams are not only crucial for irrigation and power generation but also serve as popular tourist destinations. Let’s explore some of the most famous dams in Kerala and their unique features.

1. Idukki Dam

The Idukki Dam is one of the most famous dams in Kerala. It is an arch dam constructed across the Periyar River and is situated between two granite hills, known as Kuravan and Kurathi. This dam is the tallest arch dam in Asia, standing at a height of 168.91 meters (554.23 feet).

Key Highlights:

• Power Generation: The Idukki Hydroelectric Project, one of the largest in India, derives its power from this dam.
  
• Scenic Beauty: The dam is surrounded by dense forests and is a part of the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  
• Boating: The reservoir created by the dam offers boating facilities, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Mullaperiyar Dam

Another significant structure among the famous dams in Kerala is the Mullaperiyar Dam. Built over the Periyar River, this masonry gravity dam is located on the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats.

Key Highlights:

• Historical Significance: Constructed in 1895 by the British, it is one of the oldest dams in India.
  
• Controversy and Debate: The dam has been at the center of a long-standing dispute between the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu regarding water sharing and safety concerns.
  
• Tourism: Despite the controversy, the dam and its surroundings attract numerous tourists, offering picturesque views and serene boat rides.

3. Malampuzha Dam

The Malampuzha Dam is among the most visited famous dams in Kerala. It is the largest reservoir in the state and is built on the Malampuzha River, a tributary of the Bharathapuzha River.

Key Highlights:

• Garden and Park: The dam is famous for the Malampuzha Garden, which includes a rock garden, fish-shaped aquarium, and a snake park. The lush greenery and vibrant flowers make it a popular picnic spot.
  
• Boating and Ropeway: Visitors can enjoy pedal boating in the reservoir and get an aerial view of the garden and dam through the ropeway.
  
• Yakshi Statue: The sculpture of Yakshi by the renowned artist Kanayi Kunhiraman is a major attraction here.

4. Banasura Sagar Dam

Banasura Sagar Dam, located in Wayanad district, is another gem among the famous dams in Kerala. It is the largest earthen dam in India and the second-largest in Asia.

Key Highlights:

• Trekking and Boating: The dam is a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts, offering trekking trails and boating facilities.
  
• Banasura Hill Resort: Located nearby, this eco-friendly resort provides a luxurious stay amidst nature, attracting tourists from all over the world.
  
• Hydroelectric Project: The dam supports the Kuttiyadi Augmentation Scheme, which generates hydroelectric power.

5. Neyyar Dam

The Neyyar Dam is another noteworthy structure among the famous dams in Kerala. Built on the Neyyar River, it is located in the foothills of the Western Ghats near Thiruvananthapuram.

Key Highlights:

• Wildlife and Safari: The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, adjacent to the dam, offers wildlife safaris where visitors can spot elephants, tigers, and various species of birds.
  
• Lion Safari Park: The park within the sanctuary is a major attraction, allowing tourists to see lions in their natural habitat.
  
• Boating and Trekking: The reservoir provides boating options, and the surrounding area has several trekking trails.

6. Thenmala Dam

The Thenmala Dam is a part of India’s first planned eco-tourism project and is located on the Kallada River in Kollam district.

Key Highlights:

• Eco-Tourism: Thenmala is renowned for its eco-tourism activities, including boat rides, trekking, and mountain biking.
  
• Musical Fountain: The dam area features a musical dancing fountain, which is a delight for visitors.
  
• Adventure Zone: The adventure zone offers activities like rock climbing, river crossing, and rope bridge walking.

Conclusion

The famous dams in Kerala are not only feats of engineering but also beautiful tourist destinations. Each dam offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and historical significance. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone interested in engineering marvels, these dams provide something for everyone. Plan a visit to these famous dams in Kerala to experience their grandeur and the serene landscapes they offer.

By exploring these remarkable structures, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and natural beauty that Kerala has to offer. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to witness the splendor of the famous dams in Kerala.