Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Munnar in Idukki, Kerala, India, the Mattupetty Dam is more than just a dam. It's a scenic spot that attracts tourists for its serene beauty and recreational activities.
The dam, built in the late 1940s, is a concrete gravity dam that serves the purpose of water conservation and power generation. The reservoir created by the dam, also known as Mattupetty Lake, is a sight to behold. The still waters reflect the surrounding tea estates, creating a picture-perfect postcard scene.
Here are some of the things you can do at Mattupetty Dam:
- Boating: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake. Paddleboats and kayaks are available for rent.
- Spotting wildlife: The area around the dam is home to a variety of birds and animals, including elephants, which are sometimes spotted near the lake.
- Visiting the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project: Located close to the dam is the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, a cattle breeding farm established in 1963. Here you can see different breeds of high-yielding cattle.
- Enjoying the views: The dam itself offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can take a walk on the dam and soak in the natural beauty.
While the dam is open to visit throughout the year, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from August to May. The monsoon season (June to July) can make the area slippery and some activities may not be available.
Here are some additional tips for your visit to Mattupetty Dam:
- The dam is located about 13 km from Munnar town. You can hire a taxi or car to get there.
- There is an entry fee to visit the dam.
- There are a few small shops selling snacks and drinks near the dam.
- Public restrooms are available near the dam.
- Be sure to carry your camera as you will find plenty of scenic spots to capture.