Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit the largest earth dam in India? If you are looking for a unique and memorable experience, you should definitely check out Karapuzha Dam Wayanad, a spectacular destination that combines nature and adventure in a perfect way.
Karapuzha Dam Wayanad: The largest earth dam in India
Karapuzha Dam Wayanad is located in the greenish and natural regions of Wayanad, Kerala, on the Karapuzha River, a tributary of the Kabini River. The dam was built for irrigation purposes, but it has become a popular tourist attraction due to its beautiful location and expert construction.
What is an earth dam and how is it different from other types of dams?
An earth dam is a type of dam that is made of compacted soil or rock and has a core of impermeable material to prevent water leakage. Earth dams are cheaper and easier to build than concrete or steel dams, but they require more maintenance and are more vulnerable to erosion and seepage.
How was the dam constructed and designed?
The construction of the dam started in 1977 and was completed in 2004. The dam has a height of 28 meters and a length of 625 meters. It has a spillway that can discharge up to 226.5 cubic meters of water per second. The dam also has left and right bank canals that are still under construction.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the dam is during the monsoon season (June-September), when the water level goes up to the edge and makes a stunning view. You can also visit the dam during the winter or summer season, when the weather is nice and sunny. You can skip the rainy season, when some activities might be shut or risky because of wet or muddy conditions.
How to reach Karapuzha Dam
Karapuzha Dam is located near Vazhavatta in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is about 17 km from Kalpetta, the district headquarters, and about 7 km from Kakkavayal junction on National Highway 212.
You can reach Karapuzha Dam by road from different nearby cities or towns, such as Kozhikode, Mysore or Ooty. You can also take a bus or a cab from Kalpetta or Meenangadi, which have frequent transport facilities.
Here are some directions to reach Karapuzha Dam by road from different locations:
From Kozhikode: Take the NH 766 and NH 212 towards Kalpetta. After passing Meenangadi, turn left at Kakkavayal junction and follow the road to Vazhavatta. From there, take the road to Karapuzha Dam.
From Mysore: Take the NH 766 towards Sulthan Bathery. After passing Bathery, turn right at Meenangadi and follow the road to Kakkavayal junction. From there, turn left and follow the road to Vazhavatta and then to Karapuzha Dam.
From Ooty: Take the NH 181 and NH 766 towards Gudalur. After passing Gudalur, turn left at Nadugani and follow the road to Sulthan Bathery. From there, take the NH 212 towards Kalpetta. After passing Meenangadi, turn left at Kakkavayal junction and follow the road to Vazhavatta and then to Karapuzha Dam.
You may also like to check out: Tourist Places to Visit in Kalpetta
What are some facts and figures about the dam?
The dam has a capacity of 76.5 million cubic meters of water and covers an area of 7.77 square kilometers. The dam irrigates about 6,000 hectares of land in Wayanad district. The dam also generates hydroelectric power of 1.5 megawatts.
Karapuzha Reservoir: A scenic water body that attracts tourists for boating, birdwatching and picnicking
The dam is surrounded by a scenic reservoir that attracts tourists all year round, especially for a fun boating experience amidst the calm waters of the dam. The reservoir is home to a variety of aquatic life and birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. You can also enjoy a relaxing picnic in the landscaped gardens or the children’s park near the dam.
What are the features and attractions of the reservoir?
The reservoir is a large water body that offers a serene and refreshing environment for visitors. You can enjoy the view of the water, the hills and the sky from different angles and perspectives. You can also spot some fish, turtles, ducks and other aquatic animals in the water.
The reservoir also hosts a rich diversity of birds, such as kingfishers, herons, egrets, cormorants, darters and more. You can watch them fly, perch or hunt in their natural habitat. You can also hear their melodious calls and songs.
The reservoir also offers various activities and facilities for visitors, such as boating, fishing, birdwatching, picnicking, etc. You can rent a pedal boat or a row boat and explore the reservoir at your own pace. You can also try your luck at fishing with a rod or a net. You can also bring your own food or buy some snacks from the nearby stalls and enjoy a picnic in the gardens or the children’s park.
Places to stay near Karapuzha Dam
Karapuzha Dam is a scenic and adventurous destination that attracts many tourists throughout the year. If you are planning to visit the dam, you might want to stay in a nearby place that offers comfort, convenience and value for money. Here are some of the best places to stay near Karapuzha Dam, based on their popularity and features:
LakeRose Wayanad Resort:
This resort is located near St. Sebastian’s Church, Vazhavatta, just 0.5 miles from Karapuzha Dam. It offers spacious and elegant rooms with lake views, free Wi-Fi, free parking, an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a garden. It also provides free bikes, a 24-hour front desk and room service. The resort is within walking distance from Karapuzha Dam Adventure Park & Garden, where you can enjoy various activities such as zipline, swing, obstacle course and more. The resort costs $124 per night for two guests. You can book your stay at LakeRose Wayanad Resort here.
Vista Del Lago:
This hotel is located near Karapuzha Dam Road, Ambalavayal, just 1.5 miles from Karapuzha Dam. It offers cozy and comfortable rooms with lake views, free Wi-Fi, free parking, an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a terrace. It also provides a 24-hour front desk, room service and a tour desk. The hotel is close to Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of Wayanad. The hotel costs $79 per night for two guests. You can book your stay at Vista Del Lago here.
Mount Xanadu Resorts:
This resort is located near Cheengeri Hills, Heritage Museum Road, Ambalavayal, just 2.1 miles from Karapuzha Dam. It offers luxurious and spacious rooms with mountain views, free Wi-Fi, free parking, an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a garden. It also provides a fitness center, a spa, a games room and a children’s playground. The resort is close to Edakkal Caves, where you can see ancient rock carvings and paintings. The resort costs $128 per night for two guests. You can book your stay at Mount Xanadu Resorts here.
What are some tips and suggestions for visitors?
The best time to visit the reservoir is during the morning or evening hours, when the weather is pleasant and the light is ideal for photography. You can also avoid the crowd and noise during these times.
You should wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are suitable for boating and walking. You should also carry sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, water bottle and camera with you.
You should respect the nature and wildlife around you and avoid littering, feeding or disturbing them. You should also follow the rules and regulations of the dam authorities.
Karapuzha Dam Adventure Park & Garden: A newly developed tourist attraction that offers a variety of activities such as zipline, swing, obstacle course and more
But that’s not all. Karapuzha Dam Wayanad also offers a thrilling adventure park and garden that has been recently developed to cater to the adrenaline seekers. The adventure park and garden features a variety of activities such as zipline, swing, obstacle course, archery, paintball and more. You can also enjoy a breathtaking view of the reservoir and the greenery from the zipline, which is the longest in Kerala.
What are the features and attractions of the adventure park and garden?
The adventure park and garden is a fun and exciting place that offers something for everyone. You can choose from a range of activities that suit your age, skill and preference. You can also challenge yourself and your friends to test your courage, strength and agility.
The adventure park and garden has a zipline that spans across the reservoir and offers a stunning view of the water and the greenery. The zipline is 1.2 kilometers long and reaches a speed of up to 60 kilometers per hour. It is the longest zipline in Kerala and one of the longest in India.
The adventure park and garden also has a swing that is under construction and will be ready soon. The swing will be 30 meters high and will swing over the reservoir. It will be a thrilling experience for those who love heights and speed.
The adventure park and garden also has an obstacle course that consists of various elements such as rope ladder, net bridge, monkey bars, balance beam, etc. The obstacle course is designed to challenge your physical and mental abilities and improve your fitness and coordination.
The adventure park and garden also has other activities such as archery, paintball, rock climbing, rappelling, etc. You can learn new skills or practice your existing ones in these activities. You can also have fun and compete with your friends or family in these activities.
What are the timings, entry fee and best time to visit the adventure park and garden?
The adventure park and garden is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. The entry fee is Rs. 100 per person for adults and Rs. 50 per person for children. The activity charges vary depending on the activity you choose. You can check the rates at the ticket counter or online.
The best time to visit the adventure park and garden is during the winter or summer season, when the weather is dry and clear. You can avoid the rainy season, when some activities may be closed or unsafe due to slippery or muddy conditions.
Karapuzha Dam Wayanad is a stunning destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway, a fun-filled day or an exciting adventure, you will find it here.
You may also like to read: Winding into the wilderness - Wayanad and Kozhikode
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Karapuzha Dam Wayanad today and enjoy this amazing place with your family or friends.
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