Sadhya One of the most beautiful destinations in Munnar is the Kundala Dam Lake, located around 23 kilometers away from Munnar town. Munnar, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is a popular hill station known for its picturesque landscapes and pleasant weather. The town is home to several tourist attractions, including tea plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Kundala Dam Lake is a reservoir created by a dam built on the Kundala River. The lake is surrounded by the stunning Western Ghats and the lush green tea plantations. The scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Location and Access
Kundala Dam Lake is located in the district of Idukki in Kerala, India. The nearest town to the lake is Munnar, which is around 23 kilometers away. The best time to visit Kundala Dam Lake is during the winter months from November to February. The weather during this time is pleasant, and the lake is at its fullest.
Airport: The nearest airport to Kundala Dam Lake is Cochin International Airport, which is around 110 kilometers away.
Railway: The nearest railway station is in Aluva, around 110 kilometers away. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach Munnar.
From Munnar, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Kundala Dam Lake. You can visit this place on the way to Mattupettti Dam (10 km before)
History of Kundala Dam Lake
Kundala Dam Lake was built in the early 1940s to fulfill the irrigation needs of the region. It is also known as Sethuparvati Dam. The dam is made of concrete and is around 30 meters in height. Kundala Dam Lake is one of the major sources of water for the region and is a lifeline for the local communities.
Apart from being a source of water, Kundala Dam Lake has also become a popular tourist destination over the years. The serene ambiance and breathtaking views of the lake attract visitors from all over the world.
Things to do at Kundala Dam Lake
Kundala Dam Lake offers several activities that cater to different interests and age groups. Here are some of the popular things to do at Kundala Dam Lake:
Shikara rides on the lake
A shikhara ride on the Kundala Dam Lake is a must-do activity. Shikaras are small boats that are traditionally used in Kashmir. These boats are decorated with colorful cushions and blankets, and the boatman rows the boat using a long oar. The Shikara ride takes you around the lake, and you can enjoy the stunning views of the tea plantations, the Western Ghats, and the misty mountains.
Horse and Elephant riding
Horse and elephant riding are common activities in Munnar. Tourists can rent horses or elephants to explore the verdant stretches near Kundala Lake. These rides offer scenic views of the surroundings and are popular among tourists.
Boat riding
Boating is a popular activity in Munnar, India. Tourists can rent a pedal boat or rowboat to cruise on the lake surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. The most popular lakes for boating in Munnar are Kundala Lake, Mattupetty Dam, and Echo Point.
Visit Sethu Parvathi Dam
The Sethu Parvathi Dam is a popular tourist spot and it is close to Kundala Lake. It has an interesting history, and tourists can take a boat ride on the dam’s waters. The dam offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and is a must-visit spot in Munnar.
Visit the Kundala Tea Plantation
Kundala Tea Plantation is one of the oldest tea estates in Munnar. The plantation is located near Kundala Dam Lake and offers a glimpse into the tea-making process. You can also buy different varieties of tea from the plantation.
The Echo Point
The Echo Point is a popular tourist spot located near Kundala Lake. It is known for the amazing echo phenomenon where tourists can shout out to the open space and hear their voice coming back to their ears. The Echo Point offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and is a great spot for photography.
Enjoy a picnic by the lake
Kundala Dam Lake is a perfect spot for a picnic with family and friends. You can find several picnic spots around the lake that offer stunning views of the surroundings.
Best Time to Visit Kundala Dam Lake
The best time to visit Kundala Dam Lake is during the winter months from November to February. The weather during this time is pleasant, and the lake is at its fullest.
The monsoon season from June to September is also a good time to visit as the lush green surroundings become even more vibrant. It is best to visit early in the morning so it is less busy.
Avoid traveling at night because there could be wildlife, especially elephant menace around this area.
Traveler Tips for Visiting Kundala Lake
- Try to plan your visit before sunrise to see the breathtaking beauty of the mist-covered lake. As the sun rises, the mist gradually dissipates, revealing the reflection of the sun’s rays dancing on the tranquil waters of the lake, creating a memorable view.
- Since it is a hilly region, the climate around Kundala Lake is cool and often chilly, even during the daytime. It is good to carry light woolen garments such as shawls, or woolen scarves to keep yourself warm and comfortable during your trip to Kundala Lake.
- Carry water and snacks to enjoy.
Accommodation Options near Kundala Dam Lake
Munnar offers several accommodation options for visitors to Kundala Dam Lake. Here are some of the popular options:
1. Windermere Estate
Windermere Estate is located approximately 15 kilometers from Munnar town and about 8 kilometers from the Kundala Dam Lake. The resort offers several amenities, including a swimming pool, spa, and restaurant. The resort also offers several activities, including trekking and bird watching.
2. Tea Harvester
Tea Harvester is located about 14 kilometers away from Munnar town and close to Kundala Dam Lake, at a distance of about 5 kilometers. The hotel offers several amenities, including a restaurant, spa, and game room. The hotel also offers several activities, including cycling and trekking.
3. Green Trees Resort
Green Trees Resort is located in Chinnakanal, Munnar, Kerala, India, and is approximately 22 kilometers from Munnar town. The resort is also near the Kundala Dam Lake, at a distance of about 1.5 kilometers. The resort offers several amenities, including a restaurant and garden. The resort also offers several activities, including trekking and camping.
4. Camp Noel
Camp Noel is a deluxe resort located 5.6 km from Kundala Lake. The resort offers family rooms with a kitchenette, a 24-hour front desk, laundry, a restaurant, complimentary breakfast, and room service. It is a great place for nature lovers to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet.
5. Vrindhavan Mist City
Vrindhavan Mist City is one of the best hotels in Munnar, located 9 km from Kundala Lake. The property covers 33 acres of land with plantations of fruits, vegetables, and flowering trees. The hotel offers mountain viewing suites, a kitchenette, free parking, complimentary breakfast, and airport transport.
6. Mountain Club Resort
Mountain Club Resort is located 11.4 km from Kundala Lake. The resort has a rustic look with stone walls and typical Kerala roof tiles. The family rooms of each cottage are spacious and equipped with all amenities. The resort offers free parking, free high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, a shuttle bus service, an outdoor pool, room service, and laundry.
7. Sterling Munnar
Sterling Munnar is located 18 km from Munnar town in the village of Chinnakanal. The resort is surrounded by tea gardens and offers a peaceful and luxurious stay. The rooms have a private balcony with a view of the Anayirangal Dam. Amenities include free parking, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, concierge, laundry, meeting rooms, and children’s activities.
8. The Siena Village Munnar
The Siena Village Munnar is located 11.6 km from Kundala Lake. The resort offers sophisticated accommodations in the midst of nature. Amenities include free parking and breakfast, free internet, concierge, laundry, spa, banquet facilities, and suites.
Near By Attractions
Activities at Blossom International Park: Blossom International Park is a 16-acre park located 3 km from Munnar. It offers a wide range of activities for families, including boating, skating, cycling, hiking, and multiple swings and ropeways designed for kids. The park offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and is a great place to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Devikulam: Devikulam is located 16 km from Munnar and offers a panoramic landscape view. The hill station is a favorite trekking spot for tourists, and there is no entry fee.
Rajmala: Rajmala is located at an altitude of 8983 ft and is a hill station nestled in the Nilgiris. It is the ultimate destination for naturalists and wildlife lovers, home to the rare species of Nilgiri goat, locally known as Nilgiri Tahr. It is located about 25 km from Munnar.
Chithirapuram: Chithirapuram is an old-world charm that attracts tourists besides its natural gems scattered all over. It is home to the first hydroelectric project in Kerala, known as the Pallivasal Hydel Power Project. Rolling tea estates on the slopes of the Nilgiris envelop the entire region in a green blanket. There is no entry fee, and it is located about 10 km from Munnar.
Floriculture Centre: The Floriculture Centre is a teeming garden run by the Forest Development Corporation of Kerala. It is a perfect place to spend quality time in close connection with nature while learning about different rare varieties of flowers and herbs. The entry fee is Rs. 10 per person, and camera fees are Rs. 20 per day, while video photography is Rs. 50 per day. The timings are between 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and it is located about 2 km from Munnar.
Mattupetty Dam and Mattupetty Indo-Swiss Farm: Mattupetty Dam is a popular picnic spot and offers boat rides to tourists. The Indo-Swiss Farm is a specialized farm with more than 100 species of productive cattle. Visitors can only enter three out of eleven cattle sheds. Entry fees for the boat ride are Rs. 300 for 15 minutes for five people, while the big boat ride is priced at Rs. 700 for 30 minutes for 20 people. The entry fee for the Indo Swiss Farm is Rs. 5, and the timings are from 9:00 am to 11:00 am and 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm.
Conclusion
The serene ambiance and breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings attract visitors from all over the world. The lake offers several activities that cater to different interests and age groups. The best time to visit the lake is during the winter months from November to February, and several accommodation options are available near the lake.
