Kakkayam: Explore Malabar's Switzerland

As you trek the mountains, you will be overwhelmed to see parched brooks converting into waterfalls. Talk about the aftermath of an unexpected summer shower! If it looks gorgeous in the rain, it is almost pristine in spring. The intersection of mountains, dams, and valleys make this a true-blue Switzerland of Malabar.

Kakkayam Dam

Kakkayam is in Kozhikode's Koorachundu Panchayath and its biggest attraction remains the dam which is part of the Kuttiyadi Hydro Electric project, positioned at a height of about 2450 ft above sea level. You must take the Koyilandy-Thamarassery-Edavanna road and take the road from Estate mukku to reach Kakkayam. In fact, you cannot possibly miss the KSEB board at the junction. The road takes you through rubber estates and dense forests and you can route your way to the mountains through flumes, valleys and penstock pipes and sigh over gushing waterfalls and translucent rivulets. Though it does get dry in summer, all it takes is a summer shower for the streams to overflow. There are several viewpoints on the way. You need to take tickets before turning into the forest area and the Kakkayam tourist spot.

The Kakkayam tourist destination is under the supervision of KSEB with the dam being the prime attraction. There is not a better sight than waterfalls and streams flowing in the backdrop of forests, with the fog gradually veiling the greenery. It almost feels like a walk through the clouds. They have play parks and guest houses. Sometimes it almost feels like those giant trees out there can shelter the visitors who come for a siesta even from rains. And a stroll through the forests is not a bad idea either.

Speed boat safari

If you are here, we think you should jump into their speedboats that furiously sail through the blue waters, leaving behind a frothy trail. And what a mean cruise through the waterways, all the while savoring the waterfalls and the dense greenery.

A 15-minute ride will cost you 900 bucks for 5 passengers. Safety jackets will be provided.

Kariyathumpara

Kariyathumpara tourist spot which rose to prominence recently is near the Peruvannamuzhi Dam Reservoir enroute to the Kakkayam dam site. You cannot ask for a more perfect setting to spend your evening than there amid pine trees, brooks, rocks, grasslands, fenced by mountain peaks. We suggest a dip in the river as well as an elaborate photo shoot. They also offer food and accommodation.

You can also try the nearby attractions at Kariyathumpara like Bolmay Cocoa, Pookot lake and Wayanad Tea Museum.

How to reach there: It is 62 kms from Kozhikode to Kakkayam. Take the Koyilandy-Edavanna national highway and turn from Estate Mukhu junction to reach Kakkayam. You can also try the Thamarassery road. And yes, do look out for centipedes. They are all over the place.