Banasura Sagar Dam

About Banasura Sagar Dam

The Banasura Sagar Dam is located 21 km from Kalpetta, Waynad district which impounds the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River, is part of the Indian Banasurasagar Project consisting of a dam and a canal project started in 1979.This is the largest earth dam in India. The topography here is such that many islands will be formed in the upstream of the dam when the dam is full. These islands with the background of the Banasura hill will provide a hypnotizing sight to tourists.Banasura Sagar dam, the largest earthen dam in India has also the distinction of being a beautiful picnic spot.The reservoir is dotted by a cluster of small, green islands. A boat trip here, watching the majestic Banasura Hills in the background, will be an experience that you would cherish for years. The objective of the project is to support the Kakkayam Hydro Electric Power Project and cater to the requirements of the demand for irrigation and drinking water in areas having the problem of water shortages in seasonal dry periods.Amidst the dam reservoir, there is a set of islands that were formed when the reservoir submerged the neighboring areas. The islands along with the Banasura hills formed around the background of the dam provide a spectacular view.

Interesting things to Visit

Edakkal Caves:

Edakkal Caves are two natural caves located 1000 metres high on Ambukutty Mala 25 km from Kalpetta in the Wayanad district of Kerala in India“s Western Ghats. They lie on an ancient trade route connecting the high mountains of Mysore to the Malabar coast ports. Inside the caves are pictorical writings believed to be from neolithic man, evidence of the presence of a prehistoric civilisation existing in this region. Such stone age carvings are very rare and these are the only known examples in southern India.

Sentinel rocks falls:

Locally known as Soochipara, this is a very popular leisure destination. While younger visitors love to romp in the pool formed at the foot of the fall, the more restrained can have equally good fun just taking in the scenery.

Located in the Wayanad district, Sultan Bathery is a small town that derives its present name from the famous ruler Tipu Sultan of Mysore. He built a fort over here in the 18th century. It is also known as Sultan Battery of Wayanad district. Though the fort does not remain any more, the place is worth the visit for the famous Jain Temple. The place was previously known by the name of Ganapathivattom.

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary :

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (20 km east of Mananthavady): This sanctuary has a wide variety of animals. Visiting time: 0600 - 0800 hrs and 1500 -1730 hrs. Permitting authority Asst. Wildlife Warden, Tholpetty Tel: 04935-250853

Soochipara Falls:

The Soochippara waterfalls are situated near Meppadi and are real treasures of nature. The waterfall ranged from 100 to 300 feet in height and is a luxury to the eyes. This is a prominent place for leisurely destination. And this place is a blessed place as its divinity is obvious in the beauty of the nature.This falls is around 22 km from Kalpetta.

Meenmutty Waterfalls:

Meenmutty Waterfalls is situated in Wayanad District and is 12 km east of Meppadi. It is a spectacular fall cascading in three tiers, down a height of about more than 300 m. A trekker’s paradise, it has the distinction of being the second largest waterfall in Kerala.It is well connected by road with Kalpetta.

Nearest Visiting places

Pookode Lake:

Pookode Lake is a beautiful valley and surrounded by evergreen forests and wooded hills, Pookote is one of Wayanad’s top visitor draws. This natural lake near Lakkidi is just a short distance off the National Highway 212. It has been developed as a recreational centre having boating facilities, children’s park, shop for souvenirs and spices, and a fresh water aquarium.

Thirunelli Temple:

This temple is on the banks of the beautiful Papanasi River. It is believed that people can wash out their sins by immersing themselves here in the water.

Kuruva Islands:

Kuruvadweep is a unique and fragile 950 acre protected river delta system on the Kabini River.The island is uninhabited. Rare species of birds, orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this supernal kingdom.The nearest town is Mananthavady and only 17 km.

Phantom Rock:

Just located close to Ambalavayal town, Phantom Rock; named so because of it’s skull head shape, is locally called Cheengeri Mala. The immediate surroundings offer excellent photo opportunities.

Chembra Peak:

The highest peak in Wayanad at 2100mts above sea level, this spot provides a breathtaking view of the entire valley and also has a path for trekking enthusiasts.

Chain Tree:

Even today, a chain still hangs from a Banyan tree to mark the spot where a British Colonialist murdered an Adivasi tribesman .

Pakshipathalam:

Located deep within the forest in the Brahmagiri hills at an altitude of more than 1700 mtrs, Pakshipathalam is a formation of large boulders, some as tall as two storey buildings.he deep caves found here are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of plants.

Seetha Lava Kusha Temple:

Seetha Lava Kusha Temple-This is the only temple dedicated to Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama. Local legends connect this region with many important episodes from the Ramayana. As the favoured shrine of the Pazhassi Raja, this temple has traditionally permitted entry to devotees from all faiths.

Lakkidi:

The gateway of Wayanad, is situated 700 mts above the mean sea level, at the crust of Thamarassery Ghat pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxurious forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads to this hill station.

Pakshipathalam:

Pakshipathalam is 7 km towards the north-east of Thirunelli Temple, in the Wayanad district in Kerala. Pakshipathalam is snuggled nearly 1740m above the sea level and a heaven for passionate bird lovers. With moist deciduous forests traveling to Pakshipathalam is a venture. Steep hills, streamlets and trekking make this place an ideal picnic spot.

Papanashini:

Papanashini tells that “Washing of sins” is a river in Kerala. Papanashini has a story of its origin. Lord Brahma was making Vishnu’s idol and at the same time Garuda with a pot of nectar called Amrit Kumbha reached the installation place. When Garuda was completing his circling, one drop of Amrita fell into the stream, and hence the stream obtained the power of purification. After this incident, the stream was referred as Papanashini.

Mananthavady Park :

Mananthavady Park is situated on the banks of the Mananthavady puzha. The park is also known for its bat colony. The attempts by the authorities to get rid of the bats lead to protests by environmental activists.

Valliyoorkkavu :

This Temple is dedicated to Mother Goddess and is worshipped in three principal forms of Vana Durga, Bhadrakali and Jala Durga It is the most important place of worship for the tribal communities.

Waynad Wildlife Sanctuary:

The Waynad Wildlife Sanctuary in the southern Indian state, that is in Tholpetty, Waynad district of Kerala. A part of the Waynad Plateau, this wildlife park in Kerala is famous for its tigers and leopards along with the other wildlife that one can find during holidays in Waynad. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary comprises two districts of Kerala i.e. in the north; it is a part of the Cannanore district while its southern part is located in the Calicut district.

Chembra Peak:

This is the highest hill in Wayanad. The route to the top of the peak is a challenging trek, but the fabulous view once you get to the top makes all the effort worthwhile. The tourism Promotion Council provides equipments and aides to help tourist experience the exquisite location.

Pazhassi Raja Tomb:

Pazhassi tourist resort is one of the widely visited sites in Kerala. Pazhassi Raja, the Lion of Kerala, who organised guerilla type warfare against British East India Company, was cremated here in 1805.

Chethalayam Falls:

This is one of Wayanad’s smaller waterfalls. Its surroundings offer a number of vantage points for bird-watching. It is also popular with trekking enthusiasts.You can capture beautiful scenic picture of a waterfall

Pookote:

This is an beautiful valley and surrounded by evergreen forests and wooded hills, Pookote is one of Wayanad’s top visitor draws. This natural lake near Lakkidi is just a short distance off the National Highway 212. It has been developed as a recreational centre having boating facilities, children’s park, shop for souvenirs and spices, and a fresh water aquarium. Replete with a café and restaurant, this is a good setting for day outings with family.

Thirunelli Temple:

The temple is on the banks of the beautiful Papanasi River. It is believed that people can wash out their sins by immersing themselves here in the water.

Kuruva Islands:

Kuruvadweep is a unique and fragile 950 acre protected river delta system on the Kabini River.The island is uninhabited. Rare species of birds, orchids and herbs are the sovereigns of this supernal kingdom.The nearest town is Mananthavady and only 17 km.

Phantom Rock:

Located close to Ambalavayal town, Phantom Rock; named so because of it’s skull head shape, is locally called Cheengeri Mala. The immediate surroundings offer excellent photo opportunities.

Chembra Peak:

The highest peak in Wayanad at 2100mts above sea level, this spot provides a breathtaking view of the entire valley and also has a path for trekking enthusiasts.

Chain Tree:

Even today, a chain still hangs from a Banyan tree to mark the spot where a British Colonialist murdered an Adivasi tribesman .

Pakshipathalam:

Located deep within the forest in the Brahmagiri hills at an altitude of more than 1700 mtrs, Pakshipathalam is a formation of large boulders, some as tall as two storey buildings.he deep caves found here are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of plants.

Seetha Lava Kusha Temple:

Seetha Lava Kusha Temple-This is the only temple dedicated to Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama. Local legends connect this region with many important episodes from the Ramayana. As the favoured shrine of the Pazhassi Raja, this temple has traditionally permitted entry to devotees from all faiths.

Lakkidi:

The gateway of Wayanad, is situated 700 mts above the mean sea level, at the crust of Thamarassery Ghat pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxurious forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads to this hill station.

Pakshipathalam:

Pakshipathalam is 7 km towards the north-east of Thirunelli Temple, in the Wayanad district in Kerala. Pakshipathalam is snuggled nearly 1740m above the sea level and a heaven for passionate bird lovers. With moist deciduous forests traveling to Pakshipathalam is a venture. Steep hills, streamlets and trekking make this place an ideal picnic spot.

Papanashini:

This “Washing of sins” is a river in Kerala. Papanashini has a story of its origin. Lord Brahma was making Vishnu’s idol and at the same time Garuda with a pot of nectar called Amrit Kumbha reached the installation place. When Garuda was completing his circling, one drop of Amrita fell into the stream, and hence the stream obtained the power of purification. After this incident, the stream was referred as Papanashini.

Mananthavady Park :

Mananthavady Park is situated on the banks of the Mananthavady puzha. The park is also known for its bat colony. The attempts by the authorities to get rid of the bats lead to protests by environmental activists.

Valliyoorkkavu :

This Temple is dedicated to Mother Goddess and is worshipped in three principal forms of Vana Durga, Bhadrakali and Jala Durga It is the most important place of worship for the tribal communities.

Waynad Wildlife Sanctuary:

The Waynad Wildlife Sanctuary in the southern Indian state, that is in Tholpetty, Waynad district of Kerala. A part of the Waynad Plateau, this wildlife park in Kerala is famous for its tigers and leopards along with the other wildlife that one can find during holidays in Waynad. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary comprises two districts of Kerala i.e. in the north; it is a part of the Cannanore district while its southern part is located in the Calicut district.

Chembra Peak:

This is the highest hill in Wayanad. The route to the top of the peak is a challenging trek, but the fabulous view once you get to the top makes all the effort worthwhile. The tourism Promotion Council provides equipments and aides to help tourist experience the exquisite location.

Pazhassi Raja Tomb:

Pazhassi tourist resort is one of the widely visited sites in Kerala. Pazhassi Raja, the Lion of Kerala, who organised guerilla type warfare against British East India Company, was cremated here in 1805.

Nearest Petrol Pump

Petrol pump
Kalpetta Mananthavadi Road,
Wayanad, Kerala, India.

Petrol Pump
SH 34, Kozhikode, Kerala

Thamarashery Petrol Pump
NH212, Thamarrassary
Kozhikode, Kerala.

Thiruvampadi Petrol Pump
SH 34, Kozhikode
Kerala.

Petrol Pump
NH212, Kunnamangalam
Kozhikode
Kerala.

Agestian Muzhi Petrol Pump
Kunnamangalam Augastianmuzhi Road
Kozhikode
Kerala 673602.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

Meenmutty resorts
chellangode, wayanad
kalpetta, Kerala 673121
Tel: 0495 4017113.

Tropical ForRest Homestays
Opp. Oriental School of Management
Lakkidi, Wayanad
Kerala 673576
Tel: 0495 2370010.

Pepper Green Resort
Near Kuruva Island, Mananthavady
Wayanad
Kerala 670646
Tel: 09946680887.

Hotel Harithagiri
Tel: Kalpetta, Kerala.

Green Gates Hotel
Kalpetta, Wayanad, Kerala
Tel: 04936 202001.

Jungle Retreat Wayanad
Thirunelli Tholpetty Road, Thirunelli
Wayanad, Kerala 682398
Tel: 09620310449.

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Pothuckal Police Station
Pothuckal, Chungathara
Malapuram, Kerala.

Police Station
Malappuram, Kerala
0483 2767496.

Chevayur Police Station
A. R. Camp Road, Vellimadukunnu
Calicut, Kozhikode
Kerala 673012.

Nearest Hospital:

Homoeo Hospital
Kalpetta, Wayanad
Kerala State

Govt Hospital
Panamaram, Wayanad
Kerala

Karuna Hospital
Kalpetta - Mananthavadi Road, Panamaram
Wayanad, Kerala.

Link:

http://keralatourist-place.blogspot.com/2009/08/banasura-sagar-dam.html
http://keralatopstories.blogspot.com/2008/05/wayanad.html

Location info

• Address: Kalapetta, Wayanad District, Kerala, India

• District: Wayanad District

• Nearest City: Kalpetta, Meppadi, Mananthavady, Muttil, Meenangadi, Sultan Battery and Vythiri.

• Best time to visit: November and April.

Climate & weather

Almost its a cool place,So Temparature in Summer: 37 (Max) & 21 (Min) Degrees Celsius and in Winter: 29(Max) & 10 (Min) Degrees Celsius.

Things to do at Banasura Sagar Dam

This is the great spot for picnic, A boat trip here, watching the majestic Banasura Hills in the background etc.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Kerala. 4G is reliable in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and along the coastal belt. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain backwater stretches. Most hotels, houseboats, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Kerala cuisine — fish curry, appam with stew, puttu, and Kerala sadhya — is widely available and famously delicious.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Best time to visit Banasura Sagar Dam

The best time to visit Banasura Sagar Dam is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and the reservoir is full from the monsoon rains. Post-monsoon (October–December) offers scenic views with lush green surroundings. Summer months see lower water levels but easier access.

Timings & opening hours

Dams are typically open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. Some dams restrict access during monsoon months (June–September) due to safety concerns. Check with the Kerala State Electricity Board for specific timings.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry to dam viewing areas typically costs INR 10–30 per person. Boating charges are extra: INR 100–300 for speed boats and INR 50–150 for pedal boats. Parking fees apply.

Duration needed

1–2 hours to view the dam, explore the reservoir area, and enjoy boating if available. Picnic areas near dams can extend the visit.

Safety tips

Do not swim or bathe in the reservoir near the dam structure. Stay behind safety barriers and observe warning signs. Be cautious of sudden water release from the dam. Do not venture into restricted areas. Follow instructions from security personnel and dam authorities.

Things to carry

Comfortable walking shoes, a camera for panoramic views, drinking water, snacks, an umbrella or raincoat, binoculars for scenic views, and a hat for sun protection. Boating, if available, requires life jacket usage (provided on-site).

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (CCJ) (approximately 40 km). Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station. The destination is well-connected by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private taxis from major towns.

History of Banasura Sagar Dam

Banasura Sagar Dam is part of Kerala’s extensive hydroelectric and irrigation infrastructure developed after India’s independence. Kerala’s first hydroelectric project was commissioned in 1940, and numerous dams were built in the subsequent decades to harness the state’s abundant water resources from the Western Ghats rivers. These dams transformed Kerala’s economy by providing irrigation for agriculture and electricity for industry and domestic use, while also creating scenic reservoirs that became tourist attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Is boating available at the dam? — Many dams in Kerala offer boating facilities — speed boats, pedal boats, and rowboats are common. Charges range from INR 100–500 per person. Availability varies by season. Can I walk on the dam wall? — Walking on the dam wall is permitted at some dams (within designated areas) and restricted at others for safety reasons. Follow local signage. What is the best time to visit? — Post-monsoon (October–January) when the reservoir is full and the surroundings are lush green.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Kerala
• Category: Dams Reservoirs

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.