Table of Contents
Banasura Sagar Dam Kerala Travel Guide: Your Ultimate Adventure Awaits!
Introduction
Banasura Sagar Dam, nestled in the heart of Wayanad, Kerala, is the largest earthen dam in India and a gem of natural beauty. Surrounded by majestic hills, this destination offers visitors a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. The trip includes visits to key attractions such as Meenmutty Waterfalls, Pookode Lake, Banasura Hills, Karalad Lake, and the stunning viewpoints around Wayanad. This two-day itinerary will take you on a journey through breathtaking landscapes, serene backwaters, and thrilling activities.
History of Banasura Sagar Dam
Built in 1979 across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of the Kabini River, the Banasura Sagar Dam was named after the mythological demon king Banasura. It was primarily constructed to aid in irrigation and hydroelectric projects. The dam is a marvel of engineering and holds historical significance due to its role in local agriculture and energy production.
Time Schedule for a Memorable Trip
Day 1
- 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM: Breakfast at Café Wayanad. Enjoy Kerala’s signature Idiyappam with stew or Appam with vegetable curry. (~₹200-₹300)
- 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Visit Banasura Sagar Dam. Enjoy boating, trekking, and photography opportunities.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Explore Meenmutty Waterfalls. The mesmerizing three-tiered falls are ideal for nature enthusiasts.
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Lunch at Wilton Restaurant. Relish Malabar Biryani or Kerala Sadhya. (~₹400-₹500)
- 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Discover Pookode Lake. Engage in paddle boating and nature walks.
- 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Relax at a local viewpoint like Lakkidi Viewpoint for a magical sunset.
- 8:00 PM: Dinner at Clayhut Village Restaurant. Try Kerala seafood specialties. (~₹500-₹700)
Day 2
- 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Breakfast at Green Gates Hotel. Sample dosa, chutney, and sambar. (~₹200-₹300)
- 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Trek Banasura Hills for adventure and panoramic views.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Visit Karalad Lake for kayaking or zip-lining.
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Lunch at The Coffee Grove Restaurant. Enjoy vegetarian thali or fish curry meals. (~₹400-₹500)
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Experience the lush biodiversity.
- 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Shopping and cultural exploration at Kalpetta.
Street Food Guides
- Pazhampori stalls (banana fritters) near Banasura Dam.
- Kallummakkaya (mussels fry) at Wayanad town.
- Thattukada dosa near Pookode Lake.
- Parippu Vada (lentil fritters) by local vendors.
- Fresh toddy near Karalad Lake.
- Kozhikode halwa at Kalpetta markets.
- Local chai shops for spiced tea and snacks.
- Nendran chips stalls.
Vegan/Vegetarian Travel Tips
For plant-based meals, try:
- 1980’s A Nostalgic Restaurant: Offers authentic vegetarian Kerala dishes.
- Jubilee Restaurant: Renowned for vegan-friendly options like avial and thoran.
- Green Gates Hotel: Serves delectable vegan thali and steamed rice cakes.
Top Local Foods to Try in Different Cities
- Malabar Biryani
- Puttu and Kadala Curry
- Kerala Sadhya
- Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (spicy chicken fry)
- Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish)
- Ada Pradhaman (dessert)
- Beef Fry and Parotta
- Appam with Stew
- Kappa and Meen Curry (tapioca and fish curry)
- Pathiri
Best Hotels to Stay
3-Star Hotels:
- Mintflower Residency
- Treebo Trend Brahma Residency
- Wayanad Bloom Residency
4-Star Hotels:
- Vythiri Village Resort
- Abad Brookside Wayanad
- Sterling Wayanad
5-Star Hotels:
- The Windflower Resort & Spa
- Pepper Trail Resort
- CGH Earth – Evolve Back Wayanad
Top Best Cafes
- Café Banasura
- Location: Near Banasura Sagar Dam
- Description: A serene café offering refreshing drinks and snacks with views of the dam.
- Estimated Price: ₹200-₹350 per person
- Bamboo Hut Café
- Location: Padinjarathara (close to the dam)
- Description: Rustic café with Kerala-inspired snacks and beverages.
- Estimated Price: ₹150-₹300 per person
- Dam View Café
- Location: Directly facing Banasura Sagar Dam
- Description: Offers coffee, tea, and light bites with panoramic dam views.
- Estimated Price: ₹200-₹400 per person
- Green Fields Café
- Location: 5 km from Banasura Sagar Dam
- Description: Cozy café surrounded by lush greenery, serving Kerala snacks and drinks.
- Estimated Price: ₹250-₹400 per person
- Hillside Café
- Location: Near Thariode, a short drive from the dam
- Description: Popular for its locally sourced coffee and stunning hillside views.
- Estimated Price: ₹250-₹450 per person
How to Reach Banasura Sagar Dam
- Train: Kozhikode Railway Station (₹200-₹500)
- Bus: KSRTC buses to Wayanad (₹100-₹300)
- Car: Private cabs (~₹3,000)
- Flight: Calicut International Airport (₹2,500-₹5,000)
Cultural Tourism
- Festivals: Onam and Vishu at Wayanad temples.
- Art: Local art shows and Kathakali performances in Kalpetta.
Adventure Tourism
- Boating: Banasura Dam.
- Trekking: Banasura Hills.
- Zip-lining: Karalad Lake.
Best Times to Visit
- Peak Season: October to February (cool weather, adventure-friendly).
- Moderate Season: March to May (ideal for sightseeing).
- Off-season: June to September (lush greenery, monsoon beauty).
Nightlife
While Banasura Sagar Dam is a serene and nature-focused destination, the nightlife around the area is more about tranquil experiences rather than bustling clubs or bars. Here are some ways to enjoy the nighttime atmosphere near the dam:
- Stargazing at Banasura Hills
- The clear skies near the dam offer an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Bring a telescope or simply relax under the vast night sky.
- Campfires and Night Camping
- Several resorts and campsites around the dam organize campfires and night camping activities. These are great for bonding, storytelling, or simply enjoying the cool breeze by the water.
- Night Trekking
- Some nearby hills and trails, like those in the Banasura Hill region, offer safe and guided night treks that allow you to experience the wilderness after dark.
- Night Boat Rides
- Certain resorts around the dam organize evening or early night boat rides for guests to enjoy the moonlit waters of the reservoir.
- Cultural Evenings
- Local homestays and resorts often arrange traditional Kerala dance or music performances, giving visitors a taste of the region’s culture after sunset.
Top Places for Night Activities
- Banasura Hill Resort: Offers night trekking, campfire events, and stargazing activities.
- Contour Island Resort & Spa: Hosts private lakeside dinners and cultural evenings.
- Wayanad Silver Woods Resort: Known for serene night boating experiences.
While the nightlife near Banasura Sagar Dam leans more toward nature and tranquility, these options provide a unique and peaceful way to enjoy the region at night.
Packing Tips
Pack lightweight, breathable clothes for summer, waterproof gear for monsoon, and jackets for winter.
Budget Travel Tips
- Affordable Accommodations
- Opt for budget-friendly homestays or guesthouses near the dam, such as Green View Homestay or Banasura Hill View Cottages, which offer basic amenities at prices starting from ₹800-₹1,500 per night.
- Local Transportation
- Use public buses or shared autos from nearby towns like Kalpetta or Mananthavady to reach the dam. Shared transportation costs are as low as ₹20-₹50 per ride.
- Carry Snacks and Water
- Bring your snacks and refillable water bottles to avoid spending extra on food or bottled water at tourist spots.
- Plan Group Travel
- Traveling in groups allows you to share expenses for accommodation, guided tours, and transportation, significantly reducing individual costs.
- Eat Local
- Visit small local eateries instead of high-end restaurants to enjoy authentic Kerala meals at budget prices (₹100-₹200 per meal). Look for places like Padinjarathara Tea Stall for affordable, tasty snacks and tea.
- Off-Season Travel
- Visit during the off-season (June to September) for lower prices on accommodations and fewer crowds, although occasional rains may affect some activities.
- Avoid Paid Activities
- Explore free or low-cost activities, such as hiking nearby trails, visiting local temples, or enjoying the natural beauty of the dam without spending on organized tours.
- Plan Ahead
- Book tickets and accommodations online in advance for discounts and better deals.
Estimated Budget:
- Solo Traveler: ₹1,500-₹2,500/day
- Couple: ₹2,500-₹4,000/day
- Family (4 members): ₹5,000-₹7,000/day
These tips will help you explore Banasura Sagar Dam and its surroundings without exceeding your budget while ensuring a fulfilling experience.
Travel Safety Tips
Carry ID, avoid late-night isolated areas, and stay hydrated.
What to Buy
- Spices
- Handicrafts
- Bamboo items
- Organic tea
- Coffee
- Tribal jewelry
- Traditional textiles
- Coconut oil
Local Transportation Options
- Auto-rickshaw (~₹100 per ride)
- Bike rentals (~₹500/day)
- Taxis (~₹1,000/day)
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress Modestly:
- While visiting temples or local villages around the dam, wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to respect local customs. Lightweight cotton clothes are ideal due to the warm climate.
- Respect Local Customs:
- Always seek permission before taking photos of locals, especially in villages or cultural settings. Greeting with a polite “Namaskaram” is appreciated.
- Temple Visits:
- If you plan to visit nearby temples like the Thirunelli Temple, remove footwear before entering and avoid wearing leather items. Maintain silence inside the temple premises.
- Conserve Nature:
- As the area is eco-sensitive, avoid littering and respect the natural surroundings. Use dustbins provided at the dam and nearby trails.
- Interactions with Locals:
- Be courteous when interacting with locals and shopkeepers. A friendly and polite tone will often be met with warmth and helpfulness.
Being mindful of these cultural practices ensures a respectful and enriching experience for visitors exploring the serene and culturally rich surroundings of Banasura Sagar Dam.
Emergency Contacts
| Service | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 100 |
| Fire | 101 |
| Ambulance | 108 |
| Tourist Helpline | 1363 |
Local Language Phrases
Malayalam is the primary language spoken in Kerala, including the areas around Banasura Sagar Dam. Here are some useful phrases to help you interact with locals:
| Malayalam Phrase | English Meaning | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Namaskaram | Hello/ Greetings | Nah-muh-skah-rahm |
| Sukhamano? | How are you? | Soo-kah-mah-noh? |
| Ente peru [your name] aanu | My name is [your name] | En-teh peh-roo [your name] ah-noo |
| Nandi | Thank you | Nahn-dee |
| Enthinu? | How much is this? | En-thee-noo? |
| Cheyyum | Yes | Chey-yoom |
| Illa | No | Ill-lah |
| Onnu nirthu | Please stop (e.g., for transport) | On-noo neert-thoo |
| Vazhikkati tharumo? | Can you show me the way? | Vah-zhi-ka-tee tha-roo-moh? |
| Velay koodi | Price is too high | Veh-lai koo-dee |
| Saadhanam ethra dhooram? | How far is the destination? | Sah-dhah-nahm eth-rah dhoo-rahm? |
Learning and using these basic phrases can make your interactions with locals more pleasant and show your respect for the local culture.
Photography Restrictions
Avoid photography in temples and tribal zones without permission.
Final Question
How can we make your visit to Banasura Sagar Dam more memorable?
