Escape the concrete jungle and step into lush greenery, where the air smells of fresh rain and the sounds of waterfalls and birds fill the air. In Kozhikode’s highlands, Kakkayam Dam and Kozhippara Falls invite you to experience Kerala’s raw, untouched beauty. These two natural gems make an ideal day trip for adventure seekers. Kakkayam’s calm reservoir offers peace and relaxation, while the wild, cascading Kozhippara Falls brings thrill and excitement. Together, they create a journey from quiet moments to thrilling discovery in the heart of the Western Ghats.
Kakkayam Dam: Trekking in the Hidden Hills
Kakkayam Dam, built across the Kuttiyadi River, is a haven of tranquility. About 60km from Kozhikode city, Kakkayam Dam is part of the Kuttiyadi Hydro Electric Project and sits at 2,450ft above sea level. The region boasts some of Kerala’s most untouched greenery, with emerald forests, winding rivers, and a rich biodiversity zone recognized by the IUCN. t’s a fantastic spot to slow down and immerse yourself in the calming embrace of nature.
What to Do:
Boating: Hop on a speed boat run by the Kerala Hydel Tourism Centre (KHTC) for a scenic ride across the reservoir. This is the best way to get a panoramic view of the dam and its catchment area, and you might even catch a glimpse of wildlife.
Wildlife Spotting: The area is part of the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, so keep your eyes peeled for a variety of animals. While sightings are not guaranteed, lucky visitors might spot elephants, bison, sambar deer, and a rich diversity of birds, including the Malabar hornbill.
Trekking & Hiking: For those who crave adventure, Kakkayam offers rugged trekking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. The trek to Kariyathan Rock is particularly rewarding, offering a 360-degree view of the entire landscape.
Picnic: The dam site is a popular picnic spot, with benches and shaded areas providing the perfect setting for a leisurely meal with family and friends.
Hanging Bridges: The hanging bridge over Urakkuzhi Waterfalls provides a dramatic setting, especially during monsoon flow.
Things to know:
Best time to visit: April to November for trekking; monsoon season for dramatic waterfalls.
Timings: The dam is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Entry Fee: There is a nominal entry fee of around INR 20 per person.
Photography: While it is a picturesque location, some sources indicate that photography is strictly restricted near the dam area, so it’s best to check with the authorities upon arrival.
Kozhippara Falls: A Swimmers’ Paradise
Just a short distance from Kakkayam, Kozhippara Falls tumbles over mossy rocks in multiple tiers, offering clear, refreshing waters and plenty of adventure.
What to Do:
Jungle Trekking: The trek to Kozhippara Falls is an adventure in itself, winding through dense forests and rugged terrain. It’s an ideal spot for those who enjoy a bit of a challenge to get to their destination.
Swimming: The falls are swimmer-friendly, with natural pools at the base where you can take a refreshing dip. The cool water is a perfect reward after the trek.
Bird-watching: The surrounding forests are home to a diverse range of birds, making Kozhippara a great spot for avid bird-watchers and nature photographers.
Rock Climbing: The rocky terrain around the falls also offers opportunities for rock climbing.
Things to know:
Timings: The falls are generally open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Entry Fee: Indian adults are charged around INR 40, and children around INR 15. There are higher fees for foreign visitors.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit both Kakkayam and Kozhippara is during the post-monsoon and winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the waterfalls are in full flow.
How to Reach
Both destinations are located in the Kozhikode district of Kerala. The nearest major city is Kozhikode (Calicut), approximately 60-65 kilometers away.
By Public Transport: You can take a bus from Kozhikode to Thamarassery and then hire a taxi to reach the dam and falls.
By Road: The most convenient way to reach Kakkayam and Kozhippara is by car or taxi. The drive from Kozhikode takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
