Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary
Nature's Grandeur : Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, this sanctuary is a major day-trip destination from Kovalam. Established in 1958, it covers an area of 128 square kilometers. The centerpiece is the gravity dam built across the Neyyar River, creating a vast, scenic reservoir. The s anctuary is home to over 30 species of mammals, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. It is particularly famous for its Lion Safari Park, where lions roam in a large fenced enclosure. The Crocodile Rehabilitation and Research Center is another major highlight, housing numerous mugger crocodiles. The lush greenery consists of tropical evergreen and deciduous forests. For hikers, the Agasthyakoodam peak (1,868m) is a challenging and spiritual trek located within this range. The reservoir offers peaceful boating opportunities with views of the mist-covered mountains. It serves as a vital ecological corridor for wildlife in the region. The air here is noticeably cooler and fresher than the coastal areas. It is an ideal spot for those looking to combine engineering marvels with raw nature.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
4 to 6 HoursPlace Type:
Wildlife & NatureBest Photo Spots:
The Watchtower : Provides a 360-degree view of the entire sanctuary and reservoir.
Dam Walkway : Perfect for capturing the scale of the water body against the mountains. ...The Watchtower : Provides a 360-degree view of the entire sanctuary and reservoir.
Dam Walkway : Perfect for capturing the scale of the water body against the mountains.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Lion Safari Bus Ride : Board the forest department bus to spot lions in the thicket.
Boating in the Reservoir : Take a speed boat or slow motor boat to see the forest from the water.
Crocodile Watching : Visit the research center to see hatchlings and adult crocodiles.
Trekking to Meenmutty Falls : A guided 6 km trek through the forest to reach a hidden waterfall.
Elephant Feeding : Watch the giants being bathed and fed at the rehabilitation center.
Bird Watching : Spot hornbills, kingfishers, and woodpeckers in the canopy.
Picnicking : Enjoy a meal at the landscaped gardens near the dam wall.
Nature Photography : Capture...
Information
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Why Famous:
Lion Safari Park : One of the few places in South India where you can see lions in a semi-wild environment. Famous for the Agasthyakoodam peak, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The dam is a popular picnic spot for its scenic beauty and boating. ...Lion Safari Park : One of the few places in South India where you can see lions in a semi-wild environment. Famous for the Agasthyakoodam peak, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The dam is a popular picnic spot for its scenic beauty and boating. -
Architecture:
Gravity Dam Engineering : The dam is a straight gravity masonry structure, approximately 294 meters long and 38 meters high. Its architecture focuses on durability and water management for the surrounding agricultural lands. The Spillway and catchment area are designed to...Gravity Dam Engineering : The dam is a straight gravity masonry structure, approximately 294 meters long and 38 meters high. Its architecture focuses on durability and water management for the surrounding agricultural lands. The Spillway and catchment area are designed to handle heavy tropical discharges. The Lion Safari Park features reinforced high-fencing and observation buses for safety. The Crocodile park uses naturalistic ponds to mimic the marshy habitats of the reptiles. -
How To Reach:
By Air : 35 km from TRV Airport.
By Train : 30 km from TVC Station.
By Road : 1-hour drive from Kovalam via Kattakkada.
By Local Transport : Private taxis are recommende... -
Near Tourist Places:
Agasthyakoodam (20 km), Meenmutty Falls (6 km), Kappukad Elephant Center (7 km), Kottoor (12 km), Kattakkada (10 km), Aruvikkara Dam (20 km), Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary (25 km), Vellayani Lake (25 km), Kovalam Beach (31 km), Napier Museum (30 km).
Tourism Tips
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Safety : Do not step into the water; it is infested with crocodiles.
Packing : Wear dull-colored clothes (greens/browns) for better wildlife spotting.
Cash : Carry enough cash as the ticket counter does ...
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