Overview
The picturesque Banasura Sagar dam is located in the Wayanad district, nestled in the Banasura hills. Banasura Dam is the country’s largest earthen dam, as well as Asia’s second largest. The view of the sprawling reservoir from the dam’s top is breathtaking.
Adventures such as speed boating are available, and a walk up to Banasura Peak is filled with streams, diverse flora and fauna, lush tropical greenery, and magnificent waterfalls. An earthen dam, also known as an embankment dam, is built by stacking mounds of clay, sand, rock, and soil. The view of Banasura Lake from the top of the hill is stunning.
Attractions
This Dam is well-known for its boating and trekking opportunities; there are few places in India that provide an adrenaline-fueled speed boating experience. Horse Racing and Camel Rides are also available if you reserve the service in advance. Green meadows are surrounded by blue hills.
Trekking
Banasura’s exotic panoramic views make it an enticing trekking destination for travelers. A trip to Meenmutty Falls will take all of your worries away. This three-tiered, 300-foot-high waterfall is a two-kilometer hike, but be extremely cautious during monsoon season because the climb is treacherous and has resulted in casualties. The trek to the Banasura hill peak is another captivating journey, with the surrounding landscape providing a visual feast for the eyes.
Places to Visit Nearby
Other options include Suchipara Falls, which is ideal for rock climbing, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves, and Chembara Peak. Many famous temples, including Shri Ayyappa Mandir, Shri Nath Mandir, and Nirur Shiva Mandir, are located near the dam.
The tickets are not readily available, and you may have to wait in queue for your tickets and facilities.
Best Time To Visit Banasura Sagar Dam
The best time to visit is from November to May when the weather is pleasant and the treks are not treacherous.
Exploring Chembra Peak: A Trekker’s Guide to Wayanad’s Scenic Summit
How To Reach Banasura Sagar Dam
The nearest towns are Kalpetta (22 kilometers), Mananthavady (21 kilometers), and Sultan Bathery (43 kilometers). Buses and taxis operate at regular intervals.
The nearest airport and railway station are in Kozhikode, which is nearly 95 kilometers away. Your hotel may also arrange your travel upon request.
More Details about the Banasura Dam
Built along the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of the Kabini River, this tourist destination is well-maintained as part of the Indian Banasura Sagar Project. It provides irrigation, drinking water, and electricity to the surrounding communities. The sprawling area of clear water is a photographer’s dream, dotted with tiny islands, and the view is spectacular during the monsoon season. The hills are named after King Mahabali’s son, ‘Banasura’. Banasura Dam is an ideal picnic spot and one of the most beautiful places in Kerala, if not the entire country.