Banasura Sagar, a dam that submerged a flourishing village

When Banasura Sagar Dam, a top tourism spot in Wayanad district of Kerala was constructed, it submerged a thriving village named Thariyode, remnants of which are still visible during a boat ride on the dam reservoir. 

In fact, a boat ride here offers a magical experience as the lake is surrounded by barren hills and valleys while several small islands project over the water. Moreover, these hills cast their dark shadows over the calm surface of the lake, providing an air of mystery to the surroundings.

When the Karamanathodu stream flowing beside Thariyode was dammed, it not only flooded the entire village but also submerged an eventful past. 

According to history, the British had planned to mine gold in the area, while Tipu Sultan of Mysore led his army along the Thariyode-Vythiri Road, which was called Kuthirapandi at that time. Later, bus services started at Thariyode much before the other areas in Wayanad. The village was also a major centre of migrant farmers. 

However, all these activities came to a standstill after dam construction began. The villagers shifted to other places in Kerala on their own or were rehabilitated elsewhere by the authorities. 

Boat ride

Travellers to Banasura Sagar Dam can get into a boat and enjoy the scenery. However, beneath the waters of the lake lies a village with houses, places of worship and other public places where people used to gather. 

Banasura Sagar Dam is a suitable spot for a family trip as apart from boating, visitors can spend time at the park, fish spa and garden. From the boat, the Banasura Hill and the Kurichyar Hill come into view along with innumerable other hills.

Moreover, birds nest on the dried up trees and when the water level in the lake falls during the summer, elephants and bison swim to the islands seeking greenery.