Banasura Sagar Dam in Wayanad | Timings, Images,Things to Do

Banasura Dam, Wayanad Overview

Lying in the lap of the Banasura hills in the Wayanad district is the picturesque Banasura Sagar dam. Banasura Dam is the largest earthen dam in the country and the second-largest in Asia. The view of the sprawling reservoir from the top of the dam is breathtaking. Adventures like speed boating are readily available, and a trek up to the Banasura Peak is filled with streams, diverse flora, fauna, lush tropical green and majestic waterfalls. An earthen dam, also known as an embankment dam is created by placing mounds of clay, sand, rock or soil. The view of Banasura Lake from the top of the hill is mesmerising.

Attractions

Boating and trekking are what this Dam is known for; there are not many places in India offering the adrenaline filled speed boating experience. Horse Racing and Camel Rides are also available if you book the service in advance. Green meadows are bordered by blue hills.

Trekking
With exotic panoramic views, Banasura offers wanderlusts enchanting trekking options. A trek to Meenmutty Falls would take all your worries away. This three-tiered, three hundred feet high waterfall is a two-kilometre trek, but one needs to be extremely cautious during monsoons because the climb is treacherous and has left casualties before. The trek to the Banasura hill peak is another mesmerising journey, with the view of the surrounding areas a visual treat to the eyes.

Places to Visit Nearby
Suchipara Falls which is an ideal location for rock climbing, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Edakkal Caves and Chembara Peak are a few other spots you may explore. A lot of famous temples like Shri Ayyappa Mandir, Shri Nath Mandir and the Nirur Shiva Mandir are very close to the dam.

The tickets are not readily available and one you may need to line up in queues for your tickets and facilities.

Banasura Hill Resort

Banasura Hill Resort is the only 'earthen' resort and the largest of its kind in the country. It is a major hit among travellers visiting Banasura Hills. They have a variety of accommodation options with Earth rooms and log huts being the most sought after options. The earth rooms have been built of baked clay. They have a spa, a restaurant with an expansive view of the landscape and also offer numerous adventure activities. Prices range from INR 9000 to INR 20000 per night depending on the type of accommodation you choose.

Best Time To Visit Banasura Dam

The best time to visit the place is during the months of November to May when the weather is optimum and the treks are not treacherous.

Stay Near Banasura Dam

High to mid budget resorts are available in and around the resort with price ranging from INR 2000 to INR 10000 per night. Since Banasura dam is also considered a starting point for the trek, most of the hotels offer packages including adventure sports and trekking options.

Banasura Hill Resort is the most famous resort in the area offering huts, suites and villas along with the adventure sports.

Green Grace Wayanad Homes, Seagut Banasura Resorts, Lake View Cottage and Bethel Homestay are few other budget options.

How To Reach Banasura Dam

Kalpetta (22 km), Mananthavady (21 km) and Sultan Bathery (43 km) are the nearest towns. Buses and Taxis are available at regular intervals.
The nearest airport and railway station are at Kozhikode, almost ninety-five kilometres away. Your hotel may also arrange your travel on request.

More Details about the Banasura Dam

Built along the river of Karamanathodu, a tributary of the Kabini river, this tourist hotspot is well maintained as a part of the Indian Banasura Sagar Project. It provides irrigation, drinking water and electricity to surrounding places. The sprawling area of clear water is a photographer's dream, dotted with tiny islands and the view is incredible during monsoons. The hills are named after 'Banasura', son of the famous ruler, King Mahabali. An ideal picnic spot, Banasura Dam is one the most beautiful places not just in Kerela, but the entire country.