Mullaperiyar Dam is a historic masonry gravity dam built across the Periyar River in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats. Constructed between 1887 and 1895 by British engineer John Pennycuick, the dam stands at a height of 53.6 meters and is located at an altitude of about 881 meters above sea level.
It is a vital source of water for irrigation and power generation in Tamil Nadu, while creating the scenic Periyar Lake (Thekkady Reservoir) that forms the core of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The dam and its surrounding lush green hills offer breathtaking views, making it a popular attraction for tourists visiting Thekkady.
Mullaperiyar Dam Location
- Address: Mullaperiyar Dam, Thekkady, Idukki District, Kerala — 685536
- Pin Code: 685536
- Administrative Zone: Idukki District, Kerala (near Tamil Nadu border)
| Reference Point | Distance |
| Thekkady / Kumily | 23–26 km |
| Vandiperiyar | ~8–10 km |
| Kottayam | 110–120 km |
| Munnar | 110–120 km |
| Cochin International Airport | 140–150 km |
Timings and Entry Fee Mullaperiyar Dam
| Activity | Timings | Entry / Activity Fee |
| Dam Viewpoint Area | 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (all days) | Free |
| Boating in Reservoir (Thekkady side) | 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM | Separate charges (₹150–400+) |
| Best visiting window | 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM | — |
Note: Access to the dam structure itself is restricted due to security reasons. Visitors can enjoy views from designated viewpoints and boat on the reservoir from Thekkady.
How to Reach Mullaperiyar Dam
- From Thekkady/Kumily: 23–26 km drive (45–60 minutes) through scenic forest roads.
- From Kottayam: 110–120 km (approx. 3–3.5 hours).
- By Bus: Frequent KSRTC/private buses from Kumily/Thekkady to the dam viewpoint.
- By Cab: Most convenient for tourists staying in Thekkady.
- By Air: Cochin International Airport, then taxi to Thekkady.
Best Time to Visit Mullaperiyar Dam
| Season | Months | Experience |
| Peak Season | October to March | Cool, pleasant weather — ideal for sightseeing & boating |
| Post-Monsoon | September–November | Lush greenery, good water levels |
| Monsoon | June–August | Very green but heavy rains may restrict views |
| Summer | April–May | Warm — fewer crowds |
The best time is October to March, when the weather is comfortable and the surrounding hills look spectacular.
Nearby Places to Visit Mullaperiyar Dam
| Place | Distance | Description |
| Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve | Adjacent | Famous for elephant & tiger safaris, boat rides |
| Thekkady Lake | At the dam | Scenic reservoir for boating and wildlife spotting |
| Mangala Devi Temple | ~15 km | Ancient temple in the forest (open only during specific days) |
| Kumily | 23–26 km | Main tourist hub with spice plantations |
| Vandiperiyar | 8–10 km | Tea estates and viewpoints |
| Munnar | 110–120 km | Hill station with tea gardens |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Where is Mullaperiyar Dam located?
A: Mullaperiyar Dam is located in Idukki district, Kerala, near Thekkady, about 23–26 km from Kumily town.
Q2. What are the timings of Mullaperiyar Dam?
A: The viewpoint area is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time for visiting is between 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
Q3. What is the entry fee at Mullaperiyar Dam?
A: Viewing the dam is free. Boating in the Periyar Lake has separate charges.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Mullaperiyar Dam?
October to March is the ideal period for pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
Q5. Can tourists go on the dam?
A: Public access to the top of the dam is restricted for security reasons. Visitors enjoy views from designated points and boat rides on the reservoir.
Mullaperiyar Dam is not just an engineering marvel but also a gateway to the pristine beauty of Thekkady and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. While visiting, respect all security guidelines and combine your trip with a wildlife safari and boat ride in Periyar for a complete experience. Best enjoyed during the cooler months!
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