Nestled in the scenic hills of Munnar, in the Idukki district of Kerala, the Mattupetty Dam is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Famous for its serene beauty, lush green surroundings, and a perfect blend of nature and human engineering, the dam offers visitors a unique experience in the heart of Kerala's Western Ghats. Located at an altitude of 1700 meters above sea level, the Mattupetty Dam provides panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations, making it a must-visit destination for those traveling to Munnar.
History and Construction of Mattupetty Dam
The Mattupetty Dam is a multipurpose project, primarily built for water conservation, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. It was constructed in the 1940s by the Indian government to meet the growing water and electricity demands of the region. The dam itself is a gated concrete gravity structure that has significantly contributed to the water supply in the surrounding areas.
The dam is located on the Mattupetty River, which is a tributary of the Periyar River, and it serves as a crucial resource for the local ecosystem and agricultural activities. As an essential part of Kerala's irrigation system, Mattupetty Dam has also become an important spot for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. Over the years, the site has attracted tourists with its picturesque location, making it a peaceful getaway for those looking to experience the tranquility of Munnar's natural beauty.
Mattupetty Dam: A Visual Delight
The Mattupetty Dam is surrounded by the lush greenery of Munnar's hills, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the vast stretches of tea plantations that Munnar is known for. Visitors to the dam can enjoy the stunning landscape, with its mist-covered mountains, sparkling waters, and picturesque surroundings. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a peaceful retreat, whether you're a nature enthusiast or a photographer looking to capture the beauty of Kerala.
The lake formed by the dam is ideal for boating, making it a popular activity for visitors. The cool breeze from the hills, combined with the calm waters, makes for a memorable and relaxing boating experience. The Mattupetty Dam also offers a chance to spot various species of birds, making it a delightful destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. The surrounding area is also home to wildlife, and you may even catch glimpses of elephants, sambar deer, and wild boar.
Mattupetty Dam Boating: A Unique Experience
One of the major attractions at Mattupetty Dam is the boating facility offered to tourists. The dam has a boating station where visitors can hire rowboats, speedboats, or pedal boats to explore the picturesque lake and its surrounding beauty. The tranquil waters of the reservoir, with the backdrop of lush hills and tea gardens, create a magical setting for boating.
For those seeking a more peaceful and relaxing experience, rowboats are a popular choice. These boats are perfect for slow, scenic rides around the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy the serenity of the area and immerse themselves in the natural beauty. The boating rides typically last for 20-30 minutes and offer a chance to see the lake from different angles, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and plantations.
For those looking for a bit of adventure, speedboats provide an exhilarating ride across the water. Speedboats offer a thrilling experience while zooming across the lake, giving tourists the chance to enjoy a quick but exciting ride, making it ideal for those with a more adventurous spirit. The pedal boats provide a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the waters, offering a light workout as you pedal your way around the lake.
Boating at the Mattupetty Dam is a peaceful, yet exciting experience, and it’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The boating station is well-maintained and safe, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their time on the water without any worries. Whether you're enjoying the calm of the rowboats or the rush of the speedboats, the experience will undoubtedly be a highlight of your visit to the Mattupetty Dam.
Other Attractions Around Mattupetty Dam
While the Mattupetty Dam is a major attraction, there are several other notable places in the vicinity that you can explore. These sites offer additional activities and provide a deeper connection with the natural beauty of Munnar.
Echo Point: Located nearby, Echo Point is famous for its natural echo phenomenon, where sounds are reflected back from the surrounding hills. It is a popular spot for tourists to shout, sing, or call out and hear their voices echo across the hills. The place is also ideal for nature walks, photography, and a relaxing time amidst the hills.
Kundala Lake: Situated around 8 kilometers from Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake is another picturesque spot that is perfect for boating. It is a serene, emerald-green lake surrounded by lush hills and is known for its nearly intact natural environment. Pedal boating here offers an entirely different experience compared to Mattupetty Dam, with a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere.
Tea Gardens: Munnar’s sprawling tea estates are famous worldwide, and you can visit them around Mattupetty Dam. The Kannan Devan Hills Tea Museum, located nearby, provides an interesting insight into the history and process of tea cultivation in Munnar.
Trekking and Nature Walks: Munnar is a haven for nature lovers and trekkers. Several trekking trails pass through the forests and hills surrounding Mattupetty, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich biodiversity of the region. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trekker, there are trails suitable for all levels of fitness.
Best Time to Visit Mattupetty Dam
The best time to visit Mattupetty Dam is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as boating and sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to September) is also a wonderful time to visit, as the area becomes lush and green, though heavy rains may make boating less enjoyable.
The summer months (April to June) can be warmer, but the hill station climate of Munnar remains relatively cool compared to other parts of Kerala.
How to Reach Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dam is located around 13 kilometers from the town of Munnar. The easiest way to reach the dam is by hiring a taxi or using private vehicles. Munnar is well-connected by road to other major cities in Kerala, and buses also run regularly from Munnar to the dam.
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, around 110 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is in Aluva, about 100 kilometers from Munnar.
Conclusion
The Mattupetty Dam is not just a marvel of engineering; it is also a serene retreat nestled amidst the beauty of Munnar's hills and valleys. Whether you are looking for a peaceful boat ride on a tranquil lake, a picturesque view of the surrounding hills, or a closer connection with Kerala’s natural beauty, Mattupetty Dam offers all this and more. With its unique blend of nature, adventure, and serenity, it remains one of the top destinations to visit in Munnar, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
