Banasura Sagar Dam
The largest earthen dam in India and the second largest in Asia
Important Info
- Best Season: November-February
- Open Hours: 9 am - 6 pm
- Time Required: 3-4 hrs
- Entry Fee: Rs. 10
- Camera: Rs.20
- Boating: Rs.500 (5 people)
At the foot of the Banasura hill in the Wayanad district of Kerala is the Banasura Sagar Dam, which is the largest earthen dam in India and the second largest in Asia. It is an important tourist attraction exactly located in Kalpetta in the Wayanad district. The dam is made up of massive stacks of stones and boulders. The dam here was constructed on behalf of the Banasurasagar Project in 1979, to support the Kakkayam Hydroelectric power project to meet the water demand for irrigation and drinking purposes.
One of the beautiful sights here is the set of islands in the dam's reservoir. These islands are formed during the monsoon season when the reservoir submerged the surrounding areas. The Banasura hills in the background of these islands give a visually captivating treat to the visitors. The dam and its premises attract plenty of tourists because of these peculiarities. Very close to the dam is Karalad Lake, which is another tourist hotspot in Wayanad.
Trekking and boating in the reservoir are one of the top attractions in these regions. A trip can plan to trek into the dark forests of Banasura Peak. Boating in the lake and the dam is a unique experience for visitors. There is a nature park very much close to the boating place. Speed boat and pedal boat facilities are available here, tourists can choose according to their wishes.
Travel Tips
- Boating is one of the major attractions.
- Speed and pedal boats are available.
- Children can enjoy horse rides.
- Will get amazing views from the top of the dam.
- Can enjoy Zipline activities.
Traveler's Experience
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Detailed Information
According to local Hindu mythological belief, Banasura is the son of the famous and revered King Mahabali who ruled Kerala. The Banasura Sagar Dam is named after Banasura.
Banasura Sagar Dam, which impounds the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River, is part of the Indian Banasura Sagar Project consisting of a dam and a canal project started in 1979. The goal of the project is to support the Kakkayam Hydroelectric power project and satisfy the demand for irrigation and drinking water in a region known to have water shortages in seasonal dry periods.
The Banasura Sagar Dam is located 21 km from Kalpetta, in Wayanad District. Kalpetta, the small town lying on the Kozhikode- Mysore National Highway. It is the headquarters of Wayanad district and is about 72 km from Kozhikode. The town is a tourist hub, as well as a major trading center in the district and, which is surrounded by coffee plantations and mountains. It is through Kalpetta the spices, coffee, and tea produced in the mountains of Wayanad are traded out to various other regions of India.
