Banasura Sagar Dam offers a landscape that looks like a collection of emerald islands scattered across a sapphire mirror. As the largest earth dam in India, it creates a massive reservoir that sits beautifully against the backdrop of the Banasura hills. Travelers often find that speedboating across these deep waters is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Wayanad.
The cool mountain air and the spray of the water make this experience a highlight of many Wayanad tour packages. This destination is easily one of the top attractions in Wayanad for those who love adventure and scenic vistas.
One fun fact people love: The picturesque islands in the reservoir were actually the tops of small hills that were submerged when the dam was originally constructed.
Where in Wayanad is it? The dam is located in Padinjarathara, which is about twenty-one kilometers away from Kalpetta.
How to reach: Private cars and taxis are the most reliable way to get to the dam site. While public buses travel to Padinjarathara, you will still need to take an auto-rickshaw for the final leg of the journey.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Wayanad for boating is from September to May because the water levels are high and the surrounding greenery is lush.
Best time of day: The late afternoon between 3 PM and 5 PM is the ideal time to visit. The golden hour light creates a stunning reflection on the water and the mountains.
Entry fee: The general entry fee is roughly ten rupees, but speedboating is a separate cost that usually amounts to one thousand rupees for a group of five people.
Commute difficulty: The commute difficulty is low. The dam is a popular spot and is well connected to most Wayanad hotels by paved roads.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- The wait times for the speedboats can exceed one hour during weekends and public holidays.
- A shuttle service is available to take you from the main gate to the top of the dam if you prefer not to walk the uphill path.
- You can find a quiet spot for a picnic in the nearby Hydel Park which most hurried tourists tend to overlook.
- The wind on the open water can be surprisingly chilly even if the sun is shining brightly.