Sunday 6 November 2016

Banasura Sagar Dam, Wayanad


Famed as largest "Earth Dam" in India and the second largest of its kind in Asia, Banasura Sagar Dam in Wayanad is very picturesque and peaceful with plenty of photo ops.

We were dead tired after the strenuous trekking to Edakkal caves. One can imagine sunny summer of Kerala. Wayanad being a hill station wasn't helping either. Sweltering weather tried maximum to dampen our spirits. We prayed for heavy showers to pour down and wash off our tiredness. And our prayer was answered a little late in the evening. What a down pour it was! That is why always be careful about what you wish for.





One have to walk a mile or so and ascend a few steps to reach the dam. Otherwise opt for a jeep service that is available from ticket counter to boat jetty. It is 100 rupees for up and down services for 8 people. Many children climbing up and down the steps inspired us to walk.

A reservoir was built on a tributary of Kabini river in the year 1979. The region has seasonal dry periods, so Hydro electric power project was initiated to supply water to domestic and irrigational purposes. Famed as the largest "Earth Dam" in India and the second largest of its kind in Asia, the dam was named after "Banasura" son of Bali Chakravarthi. His daughter, Usha was married to Lord Krishna's grandson Aniruddha. A massive pile of rocks are used to build the dam.





The surrounding areas are submerged as it usually happens when a dam is built. There is nothing like standing in front of these drowned islands, pristine water, and enchanting mountain ranges. A steam of balmy breeze swept over and over. oh! The divine feeling. Speed boating looked interesting, but not good enough to break the enchanting spell casted over us.





Info:
Visiting Hours: 08:30 a.m. to 05:45 p.m.
Boating Hours: 08:30 a.m. to 05:30 p.m. (Boating tickets are available at boating location)

Entry Fee:
Adult-Rs 15
Child-Rs 10

No comments:

Post a Comment