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Mattupetty Dam is a serene and beautiful spot, located in the picturesque hill station of Munnar, in the Idukki district of Kerala. This place attracts travelers from all around the world due to its peaceful atmosphere, the refreshing landscape, and the scope for carrying out outdoor activities. Mattupetty Dam certainly should be on your list of must-visit places in Munnar, whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or just wanting to spend some relaxing time.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of Mattupetty Dam, its unique features, the boating experiences available, and how to make the most of your visit to this enchanting location.
What is Mattupetty Dam?
Mattupetty Dam is a reservoir located about 13 kilometers from the town of Munnar, nestled in the lush hills of the Western Ghats. The Kerala State Electricity Board constructed this earth embankment dam in the 1950s. It controls irrigation, hydroelectric generation, and flood control functions. The dam is located at an elevation of around 1,700 meters above sea level. Vistas for visitors exist in the form of views of the hills, forests, and tea estates surrounding the dam.
This dam plays an essential role in supplying water for the people of the region; it is also a highly visited place that attracts tourists, as such due to its scenic beauty and other recreational activities available in the area.
Scenic Spot in the Heart of Munnar
Mattupetty Dam is the perfect destination for a nature lover visiting Kerala's Western Ghats. It is located amidst verdant hills, rolling mountains, and lush tea estates. The dense forests surrounding this dam are home to diverse wildlife, making it a peaceful retreat for those who seek a refuge from city-life worries.
The visitors are surrounded with a breath-taking sight of the quite waters in the reservoir, which reflects the greenery and hills surrounding it. A cool climate is an added attraction in the regions around the dam that makes it one of the favorite places for tourists, especially in the scorching hot summer months when the weather at the plains has become unbearable.
Boating at Mattupetty Dam
One of the highlights of visiting Mattupetty Dam is the opportunity to indulge in boating on the reservoir. The boating facility at Mattupetty Dam offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the picturesque surroundings from the water. The boating area is maintained by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), and there are several options for tourists to choose from, including rowboats and motorboats.
Rowboats at Mattupetty Dam
A serene and relaxing rowboat is provided for hire. Paddling across the serenely calm water of the reservoir affords views of the silent peace and tranquility that fill the surroundings. When paddling up the water course, you'll catch sight of some green hills with towering trees. Wildlife can easily be seen, passing by the shores of the area. It’s a great way to relax and connect with nature while enjoying the fresh air.
Rowboats are ideal for smaller groups, couples, or individuals looking for a serene experience on the water. The boats are easy to operate, and you can hire a boat with a guide who can help row the boat while explaining the history and significance of the dam and its surroundings.
Motorboats at Mattupetty Dam
For those who want to experience a faster pace and a more adventurous feel, motorboats can also be hired. These motorboats will give you a thrilling ride around the reservoir, and you will be able to cover more distance while exploring the dam's beautiful surroundings. The motorboats are designed to carry a larger number of people, so they are great for families or groups of friends who want to share the experience together.
A fun ride around the water of Mattupetty Dam by motorboat is an excellent way to know the beauty of the surroundings, and the scenic beauty that the dam and the surrounding hills offer attracts large number of tourists to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. It takes about 15-20 minutes to enjoy the boat ride, with the cool breeze and the sound of water adding to the glee.
Things to Do Around Mattupetty Dam
Though boating is the main attraction at the dam, there are many other things you can do during your visit to make it a memorable experience.
1. Visit the Mattupetty Dairy Farm
It is located close to the Mattupetty Dam. Mattupetty Dairy Farm - This is a favorite spot for animal lovers and families. The farm is famous for its high-quality cattle breeding; there are several types of Swiss dairy cattle residing in this farm. Here, one will be allowed to see the cattle and learn about dairy farming in the area. Children feel very happy to go through these farms as they are allowed to get closer to the animals- cows and goats.
The farm also offers the opportunity to buy fresh dairy products, such as milk, butter, and cheese, directly from the farm. It’s a fun and educational stop for anyone visiting the Mattupetty Dam area.
2. Explore the Tea Gardens
There is nothing like vast tea plantations in Munnar, which Mattupetty also boasts. Tea estates offering tour services can be found around Mattupetty Dam and give a walkthrough of the method of making teas. The beauty of walking within neat green fields inside the plantations amidst the sight of the Mattupetty Dam offers experience and memories with some freshly brewed hot tea.
3. Visit the Nearby Echo Point
Not far from the Mattupetty Dam is Echo Point, a popular tourist spot in Munnar. This area is known for its natural echo phenomenon, where visitors can shout or call out, and the sound will bounce back from the hills. It’s a fun and interesting activity for families and groups to enjoy together.
The scenic beauty of Echo Point, with mist-covered hills and serene surroundings, is a great place to relax and enjoy the view. It is also a fantastic spot for photography, offering numerous opportunities to capture the beauty of Munnar's landscape.
4. Trekking and Nature Walks
For nature lovers, trekking and nature walks around Mattupetty Dam provide a challenge to see the diversity of flora and fauna of the region. The vicinity of the dam includes lots of birds and wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and several kinds of deer. If you are lucky, you can catch some of them even while trekked through the forested trails.
There are several trekking paths, from easy walks to more demanding hikes for seasoned walkers. It is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Western Ghats and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Best Time to Visit Mattupetty Dam
The best time to visit Mattupetty Dam is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this period, the weather in Munnar is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities like boating and trekking. The monsoon season (June to September) should be avoided, as the heavy rains can make the area slippery and difficult to navigate.
How to Reach Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dam is just about 13 kilometers away from the town of Munnar. You can approach Munnar by road from Kochi (approx. 130 km), Aluva, or Ernakulam. Then from Munnar you can reach the dam in a taxi or by renting a car. Buses are also readily available from the town to the dam.
For those who are coming by train, the nearest railway station is either Aluva or Ernakulam, and from there, you can take a taxi to Mattupetty.
Conclusion
Mattupetty Dam is one of the most beautiful and scenic places in Munnar. Be it a quiet boat ride in the serene reservoir, or a tour of the beautiful tea estates, or just sitting and taking in the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, a visit to this dam is sure to leave you with memories for a lifetime. The cool climate, picturesque surroundings, and plenty of outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, families, and adventure enthusiasts alike.
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