Cheruthoni Dam
General Overview: The Cheruthoni Dam is a massive concrete gravity dam situated in the heart of the Idukki district. It stands as the largest and highest gravity dam in the state of Kerala, playing a crucial role in the Idukki Hydroelectric Project. The dam is built across the Cheruthoni River, a ma jor tributary of the Periyar River. When the reservoir reaches its maximum capacity, the waters of the Idukki Arch Dam, Cheruthoni Dam, and Kulamavu Dam merge to form one large artificial lake. Visitors are often mesmerized by the sheer scale of the concrete wall and the breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. The area is enveloped in lush greenery, providing a serene escape for nature lovers and photographers. Walking across the top of the dam offers a panoramic perspective of the Idukki reservoir. This dam is particularly famous for its spillways, which are opened during heavy monsoon seasons to manage water levels. The surrounding hills, often covered in mist, create a dramatic backdrop that feels like a scene from a movie. The dam also serves as a vital resource for irrigation and electricity generation for the entire state. It was constructed with technical assistance from Canada in the 1970s. Today, it remains a testament to modern engineering and a primary tourist attraction in the High Ranges of Kerala.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Engineering / DamEntry Fees:
Adults & Kids: The entry fee is typically 40 rupees for adults and 20 rupees for children.
Additional Charges: Parking fees for vehicles range from 20 to 50 rupees depending on the vehicle type. Note that prices are subject to change by the...Adults & Kids: The entry fee is typically 40 rupees for adults and 20 rupees for children.
Additional Charges: Parking fees for vehicles range from 20 to 50 rupees depending on the vehicle type. Note that prices are subject to change by the KSEB authorities.Timing:
Regular Timings: The dam is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM on all days, though this is strictly for the outer viewing areas unless a special season is on.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to arrive is around 10:00 AM to avoid the afternoon heat...Regular Timings: The dam is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM on all days, though this is strictly for the outer viewing areas unless a special season is on.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to arrive is around 10:00 AM to avoid the afternoon heat and enjoy the clear morning light for photos.Special Events:
Monsoon Splendor: During the months of August and September, if the reservoir is full, the opening of the shutters becomes a major state event attracting thousands.
National Engineers Day: Celebrated on September 15th, the dam is often the s...Monsoon Splendor: During the months of August and September, if the reservoir is full, the opening of the shutters becomes a major state event attracting thousands.
National Engineers Day: Celebrated on September 15th, the dam is often the site of seminars and visits by technical professionals honoring the builders of the dam.Best Photo Spots:
The Dam Crest: The middle of the dam offers a symmetrical view of the concrete path stretching into the hills, perfect for perspective shots.
Reservoir View: Facing east, you can capture the vast, mirror-like surface of the lake against the ...The Dam Crest: The middle of the dam offers a symmetrical view of the concrete path stretching into the hills, perfect for perspective shots.
Reservoir View: Facing east, you can capture the vast, mirror-like surface of the lake against the rugged mountains.
Spillway Gates: A low-angle shot from the base of the dam (where accessible) highlights the massive scale of the seven radial gates.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Walking the Dam Crest: One of the most popular activities is walking the 650-meter length of the dam. The cool breeze and the vast expanse of water make for a refreshing experience.
Photography: The dam provides excellent opportunities for wide-angle landscape photography. The symmetry of the concrete structure against the organic shapes of the mountains is a favorite subject for artists.
Visiting Hill View Park: Located nearby, this park has a natural lake and a watchtower. It is perfect for a family picnic and offers a bird's eye view of the entire reservoir system.
Exploring Cheruthoni Town: After visiting the dam, tourists can walk through the small town of Cheruthoni to sample local Kerala snacks like banana fritters and spiced tea.
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Information
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Why Famous:
Engineering Significance: It is famous for being the largest concrete gravity dam in Kerala.
Scenic Beauty: The dam provides some of the best views of the Idukki reservoir and the surrounding peaks of the Western Ghats. It is also a key com...Engineering Significance: It is famous for being the largest concrete gravity dam in Kerala.
Scenic Beauty: The dam provides some of the best views of the Idukki reservoir and the surrounding peaks of the Western Ghats. It is also a key component of India’s largest underground power project at Moolamattom. -
Architecture:
Technical Structure: The Cheruthoni Dam is a straight gravity dam built with mass concrete. It measures 138 meters in height and has a length of 651 meters at the crest.
Design Features: The dam features seven large radial spillway gates th...Technical Structure: The Cheruthoni Dam is a straight gravity dam built with mass concrete. It measures 138 meters in height and has a length of 651 meters at the crest.
Design Features: The dam features seven large radial spillway gates that are used to discharge water during floods. Its massive base provides the weight necessary to resist the horizontal pressure of the impounded water. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is about 100 KM away from Idukki.
By Train: The closest major railway station is at Kottayam, approximately 100 KM from the dam.
By Road:<... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Hill View Park (1 KM), 2. Idukki Arch Dam (2 KM), 3. Kalvari Mount (12 KM), 4. Painavu (5 KM), 5. Kulamavu Dam (25 KM), 6. Thommankuthu Falls (45 KM), 7. Malankara Dam (50 KM), 8. Vagamon (60 KM), 9. Nadukani Viewpoint (20 KM), 10. Ramakkalmedu (55 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the dam crest is long. Carry a hat and sunscreen as there is little shade on the dam.
Packing: Bring water and light snacks, but ensure you do not litter.
Cash...
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