Berijam Lake
Overview: Berijam Lake is a serene freshwater reservoir nestled within the dense Palani Hills Reserve Forest, located at the site of the old Fort Hamilton. It is an artificial, star-shaped lake covering about 59 acres, crucial for supplying drinking water to the nearby town of Periyakulam. Ecology: The lake is an important conservation center for local flora and fauna. The surrounding area boasts lush Shola forests and rolling grasslands, making it an ecological hotspot. Visitors require prior permission (Forest Pass) from the Forest Department due to its location in a protected area. Tranquility: It is renowned for its tranquil environment, crystal-clear blue waters, and the opportunity for deep immersion in nature away from the main tourist crowds. The prohibition of boating helps preserve its pristine quality, making it ideal for nature study and quiet reflection.:
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2-3 Hours (Excluding Travel Time):Place Type:
Nature, Lake, Wildlife Sanctuary:Entry Fees:
Entry Fee: Generally Rs. 100 per person or nominal fee for the mandatory Forest Pass (Permission). The fee is primarily a conservation charge.
Camera Fees: Typically Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 for a still camera, though this can vary and may be i...Entry Fee: Generally Rs. 100 per person or nominal fee for the mandatory Forest Pass (Permission). The fee is primarily a conservation charge.
Camera Fees: Typically Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 for a still camera, though this can vary and may be incorporated into the overall forest pass fee. Video camera charges are higher.
Permission Required Detail: The key charge is the special permit required from the District Forest Office in Kodaikanal near the Collector's Office Road. Only about 20 vehicles are permitted per day, and this system of control is the most significant "fee" (cost of effort/time) for visitors. :Timing:
Regular Timings: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Strictly enforced due to forest regulations).
Ideal Visit Time: The gate opens at 9:00 AM, but it's essential to reach the checkpoint by 8:30 AM to ensure entry, as passes are limited. The best time for ...Regular Timings: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Strictly enforced due to forest regulations).
Ideal Visit Time: The gate opens at 9:00 AM, but it's essential to reach the checkpoint by 8:30 AM to ensure entry, as passes are limited. The best time for clear views, calm waters, and wildlife spotting is immediately after opening.
Forest Closure Months: The lake is typically open to tourists only for about seven months, usually from October to May, and is often closed during the peak monsoon season (June-September) for conservation. :Special Events:
Conservation and Wildlife Week: The Forest Department occasionally organizes special educational tours or conservation workshops in October (during Wildlife Week) or January, allowing deeper insight into the Palani Hills ecosystem.
Annual Forest...Conservation and Wildlife Week: The Forest Department occasionally organizes special educational tours or conservation workshops in October (during Wildlife Week) or January, allowing deeper insight into the Palani Hills ecosystem.
Annual Forest Department Census: Not a tourist event, but researchers often converge here during certain periods for biodiversity surveys, which can sometimes be observed under expert guidance.
Rare Kurinji Bloom Observation: While the famous Kurinji flower mainly blooms on nearby hills, it's possible for sporadic blooms to occur in the surrounding Shola forests once every 12 years, last documented locally in 2006. :Best Photo Spots:
The Pine Tree Lined Shore: The stretch of shore flanked by dense, towering pine trees provides a deep, moody, and textured background, especially under a hazy sky.
The Reflection of the Hills: Capture the perfect mirror image of the surround...The Pine Tree Lined Shore: The stretch of shore flanked by dense, towering pine trees provides a deep, moody, and textured background, especially under a hazy sky.
The Reflection of the Hills: Capture the perfect mirror image of the surrounding green hills and blue sky on the lake's still, undisturbed water, best done in the early morning.
The Forest Check Post View: The high vantage point near the entry checkpoint offers a panoramic shot of the lake's full expanse and its unique star shape.
Wildlife in Action: Photographing the local birds or distant Bison (zoom lens essential) adds a dynamic, natural element to the portfolio. :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Nature Walks and Gentle Trekking: Take sanctioned nature trails, especially the route toward the Pillar Rocks, after obtaining forest permission.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Safari: Carry binoculars to spot migratory birds and observe wildlife like Bison from a safe distance, making sure to stick to designated areas.
Photography and Landscape Capture: The clear blue water contrasting with the green Shola forest and pine trees makes it an exceptional spot for landscape photography, especially during the early morning hours.
Eco-Education Center Visit: Spend time at the center to learn about the region's medicinal plants and biodiversity, enhancing the overall understanding of the protected area.
Quiet Picnic Time: Enjoy a serene, no...
Information
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Why Famous:
Ecological Importance: It is one of the most vital water sources in the region, supplying drinking water to Periyakulam town, which is the primary reason for its restricted, protected status. This conservation effort makes its water quality exceptionally high.Ecological Importance: It is one of the most vital water sources in the region, supplying drinking water to Periyakulam town, which is the primary reason for its restricted, protected status. This conservation effort makes its water quality exceptionally high.
Wildlife Spotting: Berijam is famous for its abundant wildlife. It's a key habitat for large mammals like Bison, Indian Elephant (rarely seen), and Nilgiri Langur, as well as various local and migratory birds like Rosefinch and Leaf Warblers.
Permission Required Status: The necessity of obtaining a special Forest Pass creates an aura of exclusivity, limiting visitor numbers to around 20 vehicles per day, ensuring a serene, uncrowded experience that is highly sought after by serious nature enthusiasts. : -
Architecture:
Forest Department Lodge Style: The area, apart from the natural lake, features remnants of a nearly 100-year-old brick building, likely an old forest or colonial lodge, characterized by simple, functional colonial-era stone and brick construction. The Eco-Education Center n...Forest Department Lodge Style: The area, apart from the natural lake, features remnants of a nearly 100-year-old brick building, likely an old forest or colonial lodge, characterized by simple, functional colonial-era stone and brick construction. The Eco-Education Center near the lake is a modern, functional structure designed to blend with the environment, often utilizing locally sourced stone and timber.
Design & Dimension: The lake itself, an impressive hydraulic structure, was formed by damming a catchment area. The dimensions of the reservoir are significant, spanning approximately 59 acres (around 24 hectares). The surrounding forest check posts and viewing areas are simple wooden and stone structures, focusing purely on utility and visitor management rather than elaborate architectural style. The emphasis is on preserving the natural ecosystem over man-made structures. : -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Madurai Airport (IXM) (approx. 120 KM). Followed by Tiruchirappalli (TRZ) (approx. 150 KM) or Coimbatore (CJB) (approx. 175 KM). From the airport, hire a pre-paid taxi or take a bus to Kodaikanal town.
By Train: -
Near Tourist Places:
Pillar Rocks (8 KM back), Guna Cave (Devil's Kitchen) (9 KM), Moir Point (10 KM), Silent Valley View (12 KM), Pine Forest (15 KM), Kukal Cave (30 KM), Mannavanur Lake (35 KM), Vattakanal (22 KM), Kodai Lake (21 KM), Bryant Park (21 KM). :
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The lake is inside a reserve forest; be aware of wildlife (especially Bison and monkeys). Do not feed them. Carry a basic first-aid kit. The road is winding; if prone to motion sickness, take medication.
Packing: Carry ...
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