Mattupetty Dam is a popular tourist attraction located in the Munnar region of Kerala, India. The dam was built in the late 1940s under the guidance of the British government and is one of the oldest dams in the region. The primary purpose of constructing the dam was to store water for hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and domestic use.
The construction of the dam was a challenging task as the region was covered with dense forests and rocky terrain. However, the British engineers were able to overcome these challenges and built the dam with a height of 170 feet and a length of 1,200 feet.
The dam was built using a combination of concrete and rubble masonry, and it took almost four years to complete the construction.
After the construction of the dam, the region around it was transformed into a picturesque lake, which is now a popular tourist destination. The scenic beauty of the dam, coupled with the surrounding hills, forests, and tea plantations, attracts visitors from all over the world.
In addition to its beauty, the dam has also played a significant role in the development of the region. The dam provides irrigation water to nearby agricultural lands, which has helped to boost agricultural production in the area.
The hydroelectric power generated by the dam also provides electricity to the local community, helping to improve their standard of living.
Over the years, the Mattupetty Dam has undergone several renovations and improvements to ensure its safety and reliability. The dam is now managed by the Kerala State Electricity Board, and it continues to be a major source of hydroelectric power and irrigation water for the region.
Today, the Mattupetty Dam is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Munnar, and visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and other activities on the lake. The dam remains an important landmark in the history of the region, reflecting the efforts of the British engineers who built it and the vital role it plays in the development of the region.
Tourism of Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dam is a popular tourist attraction located in the beautiful hill station of Munnar in Kerala, India. The dam is situated amidst lush green hills and tea plantations, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Tourists can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the serene waters of the dam. One of the most popular activities at the dam is boating. Visitors can rent a boat and sail on the tranquil waters of the dam while enjoying the picturesque scenery.
Fishing is another popular activity at the dam. The dam is home to various species of fish, and tourists can try their hand at fishing and enjoy the thrill of catching a fish. There are several restaurants near the dam that serve delicious fish dishes made from the freshly caught fish.
The Mattupetty Dam also has several trekking trails that lead through the surrounding hills and tea plantations. These trails offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region while enjoying a refreshing trek. The trails vary in difficulty levels, making it accessible to both experienced trekkers and beginners.
For those interested in learning about the history and construction of the dam, there is a small museum located near the dam.
The museum showcases the various stages of the dam’s construction and the equipment used during the construction process.
The dam is also a great spot for bird watching, with various species of birds found in the surrounding hills and forests. Visitors can enjoy spotting rare and exotic birds while taking in the stunning views of the dam and its surroundings.
How to Reach Mattupetty Dam ?
To reach Mattupetty Dam, you can follow these directions:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Mattupetty Dam is Cochin International Airport, located approximately 110 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the dam.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Mattupetty Dam is Aluva Railway Station, which is about 108 kilometers away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the dam.
- By Road: Mattupetty Dam is well-connected by road and is easily accessible by various modes of transport.
If you are traveling from Kochi (Cochin), you can take the Kochi-Dhanushkodi Road and proceed towards Munnar. Mattupetty Dam is situated around 13 kilometers from Munnar town. There are signboards along the way to guide you to the dam.
If you are traveling from Munnar, you can take the Munnar-Mattupetty Road, which will directly lead you to the dam.
Once you reach Mattupetty Dam, you can enjoy the scenic beauty, take a boat ride in the reservoir, and explore the surrounding tea gardens. It is a popular tourist spot in Munnar, Kerala, known for its picturesque views and tranquility.