Malampuzha Dam & Gardens — Palakkad’s Crown Jewel
📍 Overview & History
0-0Location: Approximately 8–10 km from Palakkad city, nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats .
275-0Construction timeline: Foundation laid in March 1949; inaugurated on 9 October 1955 by then Chief Minister K. Kamaraj (then part of Madras State) .
464-0Structure: A composite dam — masonry section (∼1,849 m) plus earthen portion (∼220 m), with a total length of about 2,069 m and height of 115 m (~355 ft) .
💧 Reservoir & Utility
662-0Reservoir capacity: A huge 226 million m³ (≈8 TMC), draining a catchment of ~147 sq km .
823-0Purpose: Supplies irrigation to ~21,200 ha of farmland (via dual canal systems) and provides drinking water to Palakkad and surrounding villages .
1024-0Hydropower: Features a 2.5 MW small hydro-electric unit operated seasonally (mainly November–January) .
🌺 Garden & Attractions
1168-0Malampuzha Gardens: Adjoining the dam, showcasing manicured lawns, flowerbeds, fountains, and a Japanese Garden .
1354-0Rock Garden: Unique sculpture park made from scrap materials (bottles, tiles, bangles), crafted by Nek Chand — the only one of its kind in South India .
1547-0Ropeway: Aerial cable-car (ropeway) runs ~2,000 ft at 60 ft height, offering breathtaking aerial views — about a 20-minute ride .
1717-0Yakshi statue: Iconic concrete sculpture by Kanayi Kunhiraman (1969), standing ~30 ft tall — symbolizing feminine grace and mythic beauty .
1898-0Additional amenities: Snake park, freshwater aquarium, children’s park, toy train, boating, and Fantasy Park amusement center .
⏱️ Timings & Fees
2079-0Open daily: 09:00–20:00 for the dam and gardens .
2208-0Entry Fees: Adults ₹25–30, children ₹10 .
Ropeway charge: ~₹70; Snake Park and other attractions may have separate fees .
🚗 Getting There
2413-0By road: 7–11 km from Palakkad via bus, taxi, or auto .
2536-0Nearest rail: Palakkad Junction (8–10 km) .
2621-0Airports: Coimbatore (55–60 km) or Calicut (≈105 km) .
🌦️ Best Time to Visit & Tips
2717-0Ideal time: Anytime, but monsoon brings lush surroundings and full reservoir views .
2879-0Nearby gems: Dhoni Waterfalls, Nelliyampathy hills, Kava island, Palakkad Fort, Meenvallam waterfalls .
3023-0Local experiences: A Redditor suggests combining a day at Fantasy Park, a dam-top stroll, ropeway ride, and a detour to Kava or Pothundi dam for adventure .
🌟 Why Visit?
A harmonious blend of engineering marvel and serene nature — perfect for relaxation, photography, boating, and family fun.
Cultural highlights like the Yakshi statue and rock garden offer a captivating...
Read moreMalampuzha Dam: A Scenic Escape with Adventure and Charm in Kerala
Malampuzha Dam, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Palakkad in Kerala, isn't just a concrete barrier holding back water. It's a multifaceted destination offering stunning scenery, serene gardens, adventurous activities, and a glimpse into the local culture. My recent visit was a delightful mix of relaxation, exploration, and a newfound appreciation for this Kerala gem.
Nature's Embrace:
Panoramic Vistas: The towering dam itself is a sight to behold, especially from the viewpoint, where the vast reservoir unfolds like a shimmering emerald carpet, framed by lush green hills.
Boating Bliss: Take a pedal boat or speedboat ride on the placid waters of the reservoir, soaking in the serenity and enjoying the cool breeze. Keep an eye out for playful otters or graceful birds gliding overhead.
Gardens Galore: Explore the extensive landscaped gardens surrounding the dam. Breathe in the fragrant air amidst blooming flowers, wander through shaded pathways, and admire the cascading fountains adding a touch of whimsy.
Beyond the Beauty:
Malampuzha offers more than just scenic escapades. Here are some other experiences to enrich your visit:
Adventure Awaits: For the thrill-seekers, take a ropeway ride over the reservoir, offering breathtaking views from a unique perspective. You can also try trekking trails around the hills for a closer connection with nature.
Cultural Delights: Learn about the local history and traditions at the Malampuzha Dam Museum. Witness a Kathakali dance performance for a vibrant display of Kerala's rich cultural heritage.
Image of Malampuzha Dam Museum
Family Fun: Enjoy a picnic in the spacious gardens, let the kids loose in the dedicated children's park, or simply relax by the water and soak in the atmosphere.
Tips for Travelers:
The best time to visit Malampuzha Dam is during the dry season, from October to March. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the gardens and surrounding areas. Carry sunscreen and a hat, especially during the summer months. Entry fees are nominal and vary depending on the activities chosen. Be mindful of littering and respect the natural environment.
Final Verdict:
Malampuzha Dam is a versatile destination suitable for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike. It offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, exciting activities, and cultural immersion, making it a perfect addition to any Kerala itinerary. I highly recommend it for a day trip or a longer stay to truly...
Read moreMalampuzha Dam is a notable landmark and tourist attraction in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India. Here's some information about it:
Location: Malampuzha Dam is situated on the Malampuzha River, a tributary of the Bharathapuzha River, near Palakkad in Kerala.
Construction: The dam was constructed in the 1950s as a multipurpose project for irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation.
Size: The dam is one of the largest reservoirs in Kerala, with a capacity to hold millions of cubic meters of water.
Gardens: The area surrounding the dam features beautifully landscaped gardens, known as Malampuzha Gardens or Yakshi Garden, which renowned architect Nek Chand designed.
Attractions: Malampuzha Dam and its surroundings offer various attractions for visitors, including boating facilities on the reservoir. This ropeway provides aerial views of the gardens and dam, a rock garden, an amusement park, and a fish-shaped aquarium.
Dam Garden: The garden near the dam is adorned with sculptures, fountains, and flowerbeds, making it a popular spot for picnics and strolls.
Rock Garden: The rock garden features sculptures and artworks created from recycled materials, showcasing the creative talent and environmental consciousness of its creators.
Aquarium: The fish-shaped aquarium houses a variety of freshwater and marine fish species, providing an educational experience for visitors interested in aquatic life.
Boating: Visitors can enjoy boating in the reservoir, offering panoramic views of the hills and lush greenery.
Recreational Facilities: Besides the attractions above, Malampuzha Dam also offers facilities for swimming, a children's play area, and a well-maintained park for relaxation and recreation.
Overall, Malampuzha Dam is not only a critical water resource infrastructure but also a popular tourist destination offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and artistic...
Read more