Kulamavu Dam is a gravity dam on the Periyar River in Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is one of the three dams associated with the Idukki hydro electric power project in the Indian state of Kerala. The dam is situated on the Thodupuzha - Puliyanmala state highway (SH-33), about 23 km from Idukki arch dam, 22 km from Cheruthoni dam and 38 km from Thodupuzha.
The Kulamavu dam is a 100 m tall and 335 m long gravity dam. The dam has a reservoir capacity of 2.53 km3. The water from the reservoir is diverted through a 2027 m long power tunnel & pressure shaft with average length 975 m to an underground power house with an installed capacity 780 MW located at Moolamattom.
The dam was constructed between 1973 and 1977. The dam was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi on 12 February 1976.
The Kulamavu dam is a popular tourist destination. The dam offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests. Boating facilities are available at the dam.
The dam is also a popular trekking destination. There are a number of trekking trails that lead to the dam. The most popular trekking trail is the one that starts from the village of Arakkulam. The trek is about 10 km long and takes about 4 hours to complete.
The Kulamavu dam is a must-visit for anyone visiting Idukki. The dam is a beautiful sight and offers a great opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Kerala.