Are you looking for a destination that offers both adventure and relaxation, nature and culture, history and mythology? If yes, then Banasura Hill in Wayanad, Kerala, is the perfect place for you. Banasura Hill is the highest peak in Wayanad district, and one of the most scenic and adventurous destinations in South India. Named after a mythological demon king who was defeated by Lord Vishnu, Banasura Hill is home to many attractions and activities that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable.
Whether you want to trek to the top of the hill, witness the beauty of the Banasura Sagar Dam, enjoy the thrill of boating and zip lining, or explore the nearby places like Meenmutty waterfalls and Chembra Peak, Banasura Hill has something for everyone. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about Banasura Hill, including how to reach, when to visit, what to do, and where to stay. Read on to discover why Banasura Hill is a trekker’s paradise and a traveller’s dream in Wayanad, Kerala.
Banasura Sagar Dam
One of the main attractions at Banasura Hill is the Banasura Sagar Dam, which is the largest earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia. The dam is also a major source of hydroelectric power in the region, and a marvel of engineering and architecture. But the dam is not just a functional structure, it is also a stunning sight to behold.
From the dam, you can witness the crystal clear water of the reservoir, the lush green hills of the Western Ghats, the islands that dot the lake, and the wildlife that inhabits the area. The dam also offers a panoramic view of the Banasura Hill, which rises majestically from the horizon. The best time to visit the dam is in the morning or evening, when the sun casts a golden glow on the water and the hills. You can also enjoy a boat ride on the lake, which will take you closer to the islands and the wildlife. The dam is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 10 per person. There are also facilities like parking, restrooms, cafeteria, and souvenir shops at the dam site.
Banasura Hill Trek
If you are an adventure seeker and a nature lover, you will love the Banasura Hill Trek, which is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Kerala. The trek takes you to the summit of the Banasura Hill, which is at an altitude of 2,073 meters above sea level. The trek is about 12 km long, and takes about 6 hours to complete. The trek starts from the base camp near the Banasura Sagar Dam, and follows a forest trail that leads to the grasslands. Along the way, you will encounter various terrains, such as rocky patches, muddy slopes, and slippery streams. You will also see many exotic plants and animals, such as orchids, ferns, butterflies, birds, and monkeys. The trek is not for the faint-hearted, as it requires a good level of fitness and stamina. But the reward is worth the effort, as you will reach the summit and witness the splendid views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and lakes.
You will also see the caves that are believed to be the hiding place of Banasura, the demon king. The trek is best done in the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the visibility is clear. You will need to obtain a permit from the forest department, which costs Rs. 250 per person. You will also need to carry water bottles, lunch box, raincoat, torch, and first aid kit. You can book the trek online or offline, through various operators and agencies. You can also read the reviews and ratings of the previous trekkers, to get an idea of the experience and the expectations.
Meenmutty Waterfalls
Another attraction that you should not miss at Banasura Hill is the Meenmutty waterfalls, which is one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in Wayanad. The waterfalls is a three-tiered cascade that plunges from a height of 300 meters into a pool of water surrounded by rocks and trees. The waterfalls is a hidden gem that can be accessed only by a short trek from the Banasura Sagar Dam. The trek is about 2 km long, and takes about 30 minutes to reach the waterfalls. The trek is easy and scenic, as you will walk through the forest and cross a small bridge.
The waterfalls is a sight to behold, as you will hear the roar of the water, feel the spray of the mist, and see the rainbow that forms in the sun. The waterfalls is a great place to relax and rejuvenate, as you can sit on the rocks, dip your feet in the water, or take a swim in the pool. The waterfalls is open from 8 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 30 per person. There are also facilities like parking, restrooms, and snack stalls at the waterfalls site.
Other Activities and Attractions
Besides the dam, the trek, and the waterfalls, there are many other activities and attractions that you can enjoy at Banasura Hill. Some of them are:
Boating:
You can enjoy a boating session on the Banasura Sagar Lake, which will give you a different perspective of the hill and the dam. You can choose from different types of boats, such as speed boats, pedal boats, and bamboo rafts. The boating is fun and safe, as you will be provided with life jackets and instructions. The boating costs Rs. 100 to Rs. 500 per person, depending on the type and duration of the boat.
Zip lining:
You can experience the thrill of zip lining across the Banasura Sagar Lake, which will give you a bird’s eye view of the hill and the dam. You will be strapped to a harness and a cable, and slide from one end of the lake to the other. The zip lining is exhilarating and exciting, as you will feel the wind in your hair and the adrenaline in your veins. The zip lining costs Rs. 300 per person, and is open from 10 am to 4 pm.
Nature walk:
You can take a nature walk around the Banasura Hill, which will give you a chance to explore the flora and fauna of the region. You will see many varieties of plants and animals, such as orchids, ferns, butterflies, birds, and monkeys. You will also learn about the medicinal and ecological value of the plants and animals, and their role in the ecosystem. The nature walk is informative and educational, as you will be guided by a naturalist or a local expert. The nature walk costs Rs. 200 per person, and is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
Photography:
You can indulge in photography at Banasura Hill, which will give you an opportunity to capture the beauty and diversity of the hill and the dam. You will find many spots and angles to take stunning pictures, such as the sunrise and sunset, the islands and the wildlife, the caves and the waterfalls. You can also use different modes and filters to enhance your photos, such as panorama, HDR, and sepia. The photography is creative and enjoyable, as you will express your artistic and aesthetic sense. The photography is free of cost, and is open throughout the day.
Banasura Hill is a destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travellers of all kinds and interests. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, nature or culture, history or mythology, Banasura Hill has it all. You can trek to the top of the hill, witness the beauty of the dam, enjoy the thrill of boating and zip lining, or explore the nearby places like Meenmutty waterfalls and Chembra Peak. Banasura Hill is a trekker’s paradise and a traveller’s dream in Wayanad, Kerala.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Banasura Hill today, and get ready for a lifetime of memories and stories. Contact us for more information, or share your feedback and queries with us.
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