Banasura Sagar Dam Wayanad Kerala
India's largest earthen dam, offering stunning reservoir views, unique island landscapes, and the iconic 'viral' bus stop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Misty views, full falls
Banasura Sagar Dam Wayanad Kerala
Best Time
Misty views, full falls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
India's largest earthen dam, offering stunning reservoir views, unique island landscapes, and the iconic 'viral' bus stop.
"This DAM is DAMN peaceful, exploring the majestic Banasura Sagar Dam in Wayanad, Kerala!"
📸 Capture the Viral Bus Stop
Don't miss the now-famous Padinjarathara bus stop for its incredible dam backdrop! :camerawithflash:
🚤 Enjoy a Boat Ride
Speed boat rides offer a unique way to see the reservoir and its island-like submerged hills. :motorboat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Banasura Sagar Dam
Padinjarathara
India's largest earthen dam, offering stunning reservoir views and a sense of immense scale.
The 'Viral' Bus Stop
Padinjarathara Bus Stop
A simple bus stop with a million-dollar view of the dam and misty hills. Perfect for a unique photo op.
Speed Boat Rides
Dam Reservoir
Glide across the expansive reservoir, dotted with submerged hilltops, for a refreshing perspective.
Meenmutty Waterfalls
Near Banasura Sagar Dam
A short trek leads to these scenic falls, best experienced in their full glory during monsoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serene Views
Embrace the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Viral Bus Stop
Don't miss the now-famous Padinjarathara bus stop for its incredible dam backdrop! :camerawithflash:
🚤 Enjoy a Boat Ride
Speed boat rides offer a unique way to see the reservoir and its island-like submerged hills. :motorboat:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the dam and potentially to nearby spots like Meenmutty Falls. :athletic_shoe:
☔ Pack for Rain
Wayanad can be rainy, especially during monsoon. A light raincoat or umbrella is a good idea. :umbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Viral Bus Stop
Don't miss the now-famous Padinjarathara bus stop for its incredible dam backdrop! :camerawithflash:
🚤 Enjoy a Boat Ride
Speed boat rides offer a unique way to see the reservoir and its island-like submerged hills. :motorboat:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the dam and potentially to nearby spots like Meenmutty Falls. :athletic_shoe:
☔ Pack for Rain
Wayanad can be rainy, especially during monsoon. A light raincoat or umbrella is a good idea. :umbrella:
⛰️ Consider a Trek
For stunning panoramas, explore treks like Kattukunnu for views of the dam and Western Ghats. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Banasura Sagar Dam, particularly its vast reservoir and the unique 'viral' bus stop view. The opportunity for boat rides and the scenic monsoon landscapes are frequently praised. Some find the facilities basic and suggest better upkeep.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kalpetta, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus towards Padinjarathara. The dam is well-signposted. Many travelers opt for private vehicles for flexibility. 
Yes, local buses ply the route towards Padinjarathara, which is near the dam. The Padinjarathara bus stop itself offers a famous view.
From Kozhikode, you can take a bus or taxi to Kalpetta, and then proceed to the dam. The journey offers scenic views of the Wayanad region.
Car rentals are available in Kalpetta and other major towns in Wayanad. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
The nearest airports are Kannur International Airport (CNN) and Calicut International Airport (CCJ), both approximately 2-3 hours away by road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the dam itself is generally free to enter, there might be nominal charges for specific activities like boating or accessing certain viewpoints. It's best to check on-site for current fees.
The dam is typically open from morning until evening. Specific timings for activities like boating may vary, so it's good to inquire locally.
For general entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan on specific activities like speed boat rides or visiting nearby attractions, it's wise to check for booking procedures.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or instructions from authorities.
Yes, Meenmutty Waterfalls has an entry fee, typically around ₹100, and it's a short walk to reach the falls.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy the panoramic views, take a speed boat ride on the reservoir, visit the famous 'viral' bus stop for photos, and explore nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls.
Yes, speed boat rides are a popular activity on the reservoir, offering a unique perspective of the dam and the surrounding landscape.
Absolutely! Banasura Sagar Dam is a perfect destination for a day trip from Kalpetta or other parts of Wayanad, offering a mix of natural beauty and light adventure.
It's India's largest earthen dam and the second-largest in Asia, built across the Karamanathodu river, a tributary of the Kabini River. It's named after the legendary Asura king Banasura.
Yes, the area around the dam offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the scenic beauty. The reservoir's islands are submerged hilltops, adding to the charm.
📸 📸 Photography
The Padinjarathara bus stop offers an iconic shot. The dam's vast expanse, the reservoir dotted with islands, and the misty hills during monsoon are all prime photography locations.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light for photography, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Don't miss the 'viral' bus stop for a unique perspective. The surrounding hills and the reservoir itself offer endless photographic possibilities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dam and reservoir. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant shots of the hills. A drone can offer spectacular aerial views, but check local regulations.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the tourism department before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting Meenmutty Waterfalls for a short, manageable trek that leads to a beautiful natural attraction. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities might be limited. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes and are supervised, especially near the water.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Visit during the monsoon for dramatic, atmospheric shots with mist and lush greenery. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light. Don't forget to explore nearby viewpoints or consider a trek for elevated perspectives of the dam and the Western Ghats.
+1🌿 Nature Lovers & Trekkers
For those who enjoy hiking, treks like Kattukunnu offer rewarding panoramic views of the dam and the landscape. The nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls also provides a pleasant short trek through nature.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Banasura Sagar Dam
+1The reservoir is particularly unique due to the numerous islands that dot its surface. These are actually the submerged hilltops of the surrounding mountains, creating a picturesque landscape that is often compared to the backwaters of Kerala. This unique topography makes the dam a visually stunning sight, especially when viewed from higher vantage points.
Visitors can walk along the dam's crest, offering panoramic views of the expansive water body and the lush Western Ghats in the background. The dam's presence has significantly contributed to the region's agricultural development and tourism, making it a vital landmark in Wayanad.
Experiencing the 'Viral' Bus Stop and Beyond
+1Beyond the bus stop, the area around the dam offers more to explore. For those seeking a bit of adventure and natural beauty, the nearby Meenmutty Waterfalls is a great option. A short trek leads to these cascading falls, which are particularly spectacular during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.
For the more adventurous, treks like the one to Kattukunnu offer unparalleled views of the Banasura Sagar Dam and the surrounding Western Ghats. These treks provide a more immersive experience of Wayanad's natural splendor, rewarding hikers with stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment.
Boating and Reservoir Adventures
The reservoir itself is a significant feature, created by the damming of the Karamanathodu river. Its tranquil waters, framed by the verdant hills of the Western Ghats, create a serene and picturesque environment. The presence of numerous islands adds to the visual appeal, making it a popular spot for nature photography and leisurely boat trips.
While speed boats are the most common option, the overall experience of being on the reservoir is one of peace and natural wonder. It's a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes that Wayanad has to offer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit