A leisurely evening stroll on the shores of the reservoir of the Karapuzha dam can only be ethereal. The crimson sun has painted a bright picture of all hues on the western horizon and the slanting sun rays are seeping through the white clouds that are floating in the sky.
Undoubtedly, Karapuzha dam in the Wayanad district is a perfect destination to spend some quality time with your family members and friends. With the lifting of COVID-19-triggered curbs, scores of people are flocking to this exquisite place. As the dam is near the national highway, accessibility is also not an issue. You can reach this tourist spot from Kakkavayal, which is on the Kalpetta-Sulthan Bathery route.
An expansive garden, which is replete with various types of flowers and plants, will greet you once you cross the main entrance. The stone-paved pathway will give a feeling that you are ambling along a passage that has a regal bearing. A neatly manicured extensive meadow could be seen on one side of the path. Children can shrug off the lethargy of being cooped up at home by having a great time at the green lawns as there are many toys and playthings to keep them engaged. You can also be part of fun games and entertainment programmes for a nominal amount. Moreover, the facility also boasts of swings, sliders and watch towers.
The well-maintained garden is the highpoint of the dam premises. Just devouring the natural beauty of the flowers by sitting on the green turf can be a rejuvenating process. The watchtower will give a panoramic view of the dam. One could also see the Ambukuthi hill and the Chembra peak in the distance from the watchtower. Unlike other destinations in Wayanad, you don’t have to walk or trek for a long distance to reach Karapuzha. Even children and elderly people can come and enjoy the alluring charm of this exotic spot.
The dam, which was built for irrigation purposes, was inaugurated in 2004. The work relating to providing water to different parts of Wayanad is yet to be completed. With the commissioning of the dam, a major portion of Nellarachal is under water. The dam was decked up a few years ago to tap the tourism opportunities.
Many tribal people living near the dam indulge in coracle fishing for a livelihood and they either use nets and fishing lines to catch fish from the dam waters.
Tourist footfall is increasing in Karapuzha as it could be reached by people of all ages without any hassles. Whoever comes to Karapuzha dam in the evening can treat themselves to an enthralling sunset.