Are you looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature? Do you want to experience the best of Kerala’s wildlife, culture, and scenery? If yes, then Neyyar Dam is the perfect destination for you.
Neyyar Dam is a gravity dam on the Neyyar river, located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. It was built in 1958 to provide irrigation and drinking water to the nearby areas. The dam also forms a large lake, which is surrounded by the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for many rare and endangered animals and plants.
Neyyar Dam offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. You can go boating on the lake, explore the wildlife sanctuary, visit the lion safari park, the crocodile park, the deer park, and the watch tower, or relax and rejuvenate at the yoga ashram. You can also enjoy the scenic beauty and the pleasant climate of Neyyar Dam, which is ideal for a refreshing getaway.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Neyyar Dam, covering everything you need to know before you visit this hidden gem. We will tell you how to reach Neyyar Dam, what to do and see there, when to visit, and where to stay. We will also give you some tips and suggestions to make your trip to Neyyar Dam memorable and enjoyable.
So, let’s get started and discover the wonders of Neyyar Dam.
How to Reach Neyyar Dam
Neyyar Dam is located about 30 km from Kovalam, a popular beach town in Kerala, and about 40 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. You can easily reach Neyyar Dam from either of these places by various modes of transport.
Bus:
You can take a bus from Kovalam or Thiruvananthapuram to Neyyar Dam. The bus fare is around Rs. 50 per person, and the journey takes about an hour. The bus service is available from 6 am to 6 pm, and the buses are frequent and comfortable.
Taxi:
You can hire a taxi from Kovalam or Thiruvananthapuram to Neyyar Dam. The taxi fare is around Rs. 1000 for a round trip, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. The taxi service is available round the clock, and the taxis are reliable and convenient.
Car:
You can drive your own car or rent a car from Kovalam or Thiruvananthapuram to Neyyar Dam. The road is well-maintained and scenic, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. The car rental is around Rs. 1500 per day, and the parking fee is Rs. 10 at Neyyar Dam.
Bike:
You can ride your own bike or rent a bike from Kovalam or Thiruvananthapuram to Neyyar Dam. The bike rental is around Rs. 500 per day, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. The bike ride is adventurous and fun, and you can enjoy the views and the breeze along the way.
Some tips and suggestions for the best way to reach Neyyar Dam are:
Avoid the peak hours of traffic, especially in the morning and evening, to save time and hassle.
Choose the mode of transport that suits your budget, comfort, and preference. If you are travelling solo or with a partner, you can opt for a bike or a taxi. If you are travelling with a family or a group, you can opt for a bus or a car.
Book your transport in advance, especially if you are travelling during the weekends or the holidays, to avoid disappointment and inconvenience.
Enjoy the scenic route to Neyyar Dam, which passes through lush green hills, forests, and villages. You can stop at some points to take pictures, have a snack, or interact with the locals.
What to Do and See at Neyyar Dam
Neyyar Dam has something for everyone, whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a wellness fan. You can spend a whole day or more at Neyyar Dam, exploring its various attractions and activities. Here are some of the things you can do and see at Neyyar Dam:
Wildlife Sanctuary
If you are a wildlife lover, you will love the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which covers an area of 128 sq km around the Neyyar Dam and lake. The sanctuary is home to many rare and endangered animals and plants, such as the Asian elephant, the gaur, the sambar, the Nilgiri langur, the lion-tailed macaque, the Malabar grey hornbill, the king cobra, and the orchid.
The sanctuary offers guided tours, nature trails, and birdwatching opportunities for visitors. You can also visit the interpretation centre, where you can learn more about the flora and fauna of the sanctuary. The sanctuary is open from 9 am to 4 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 250 per person.
Lion Safari Park
If you are looking for some thrill and excitement, you will love the Lion Safari Park, where you can see lions in their natural habitat. The park is located within the wildlife sanctuary, and it has a fenced area of 16 hectares, where about 15 lions roam freely.
The park offers safari bus rides, where you can enter the lion enclosure and observe the lions from a safe distance. You can also visit the observation tower, where you can get a panoramic view of the park and the lions. The park is open from 9 am to 4 pm, and the safari fee is Rs. 250 per person.
Crocodile Park
If you are fascinated by crocodiles, you will love the Crocodile Park, where you can see crocodiles of different sizes and species. The park is located within the wildlife sanctuary, and it has a crocodile farm, a museum, and a hatchery.
The park offers a chance to see the crocodiles up close, learn about their life cycle and behaviour, and witness their feeding time. You can also visit the museum, where you can see the skeletons, skins, and eggs of crocodiles. The park is open from 9 am to 4 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 10 per person.
Deer Park
If you are charmed by deer, you will love the Deer Park, where you can see deer of different varieties and colors. The park is located within the wildlife sanctuary, and it has a deer enclosure, a feeding area, and a photography zone.
The park offers a chance to see the deer in their natural environment, feed them with fruits and vegetables, and take pictures with them. You can also learn about the different types of deer, such as the spotted deer, the barking deer, and the mouse deer. The park is open from 9 am to 4 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 10 per person.
Watch Tower
If you are a fan of scenic views, you will love the Watch Tower, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Neyyar Dam, the lake, and the surrounding hills. The watch tower is located near the dam, and it has a telescope, binoculars, and a sunset point.
The watch tower offers a chance to see the beauty and the grandeur of Neyyar Dam, the lake, and the wildlife sanctuary from a high vantage point. You can also witness the spectacular sunset over the lake, which is a sight to behold. The watch tower is open from 9 am to 6 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 10 per person.
Yoga Ashram
If you are interested in yoga and meditation, you will love the Yoga Ashram, where you can learn and practice yoga and meditation. The ashram is located near the dam, and it is run by the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, a renowned organization for yoga and spirituality.
The ashram offers yoga classes, meditation sessions, lectures, and workshops for visitors. You can also stay at the ashram, where you can enjoy the simple and serene lifestyle, the vegetarian food, and the spiritual atmosphere. The ashram is open from 6 am to 9 pm, and the yoga fee is Rs. 500 per person.
Boating
If you are looking for some fun and relaxation, you will love boating on the Neyyar lake, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty and the cool breeze. The lake is formed by the Neyyar Dam, and it covers an area of 9 sq km.
The lake offers boating facilities, where you can choose from different types of boats, such as pedal boats, row boats, and speed boats. You can also go for boat rides, where you can cruise along the lake and admire the views. The lake is open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the boating fee is Rs. 100 per person.
When to Visit Neyyar Dam
Neyyar Dam has a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers, wet and windy monsoons, and mild and pleasant winters. You can visit Neyyar Dam any time of the year, depending on your preference and convenience. Here are some details about the climate and weather of Neyyar Dam, and the best time to visit -
Summer:
Summer lasts from March to May, and it is the hottest and driest season in Neyyar Dam. The temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C, and the humidity is high. The summer is a good time to visit Neyyar Dam if you want to enjoy the boating, the yoga, and the wildlife. However, you should avoid the afternoon sun, wear sunscreen and hats, and drink plenty of water.
Monsoon:
Monsoon lasts from June to September, and it is the wettest and windiest season in Neyyar Dam. The temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, and the rainfall is heavy. The monsoon is a good time to visit Neyyar Dam if you want to see the greenery, the waterfalls, and the festivals. However, you should be prepared for the showers, the leeches, and the landslides.
Winter:
Winter lasts from October to February, and it is the mildest and pleasantest season in Neyyar Dam. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, and the weather is clear and sunny. The winter is the best time to visit Neyyar Dam if you want to enjoy the views, the activities, and the climate. However, you should book your accommodation and transport in advance, as this is the peak season for tourists.
Some tips and suggestions for the best time to visit Neyyar Dam are:
- Avoid the peak season, especially during the weekends and the holidays, to avoid the crowd and the high prices. You can opt for the off-season, such as the monsoon or the summer, to enjoy the discounts and the solitude.
- Choose the season that suits your interests and preferences. If you are a nature lover, you can opt for the monsoon or the winter, to see the lush greenery and the waterfalls. If you are an adventure seeker, you can opt for the summer or the winter, to enjoy the boating, the safari, and the trails.
- Plan your trip ahead, and check the weather forecast, the availability of transport and accommodation, and the timings and charges of the attractions and activities. You can also contact the Neyyar Dam authorities or the tourism department for more information and guidance.
Where to Stay Near Neyyar Dam
Neyyar Dam has a variety of accommodation options near it, ranging from hotels, resorts, homestays, and camps. You can choose the accommodation that suits your budget, comfort, and preference. Here are some details about the accommodation options near Neyyar Dam:
Hotels:
There are several hotels near Neyyar Dam, offering rooms with basic amenities and services, such as TV, AC, Wi-Fi, and room service. The hotels are affordable and convenient, and they are located close to the dam and the lake. Some of the hotels near Neyyar Dam are:
Hotel Neyyar Park: This is a budget hotel, offering rooms with attached bathrooms, balconies, and lake views. The hotel also has a restaurant, a garden, and a parking area. The hotel charges Rs. 1000 per night for a double room.
Hotel Lake Palace: This is a mid-range hotel, offering rooms with modern amenities, such as TV, AC, fridge, and kettle. The hotel also has a swimming pool, a gym, and a spa. The hotel charges Rs. 2000 per night for a double room.
Hotel Green Valley: This is a luxury hotel, offering rooms with deluxe amenities, such as TV, AC, minibar, and jacuzzi. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, and a conference hall. The hotel charges Rs. 4000 per night for a double room.
Resorts:
There are several resorts near Neyyar Dam, offering cottages and villas with premium amenities and services, such as TV, AC, Wi-Fi, and room service. The resorts are expensive and luxurious, and they are located away from the dam and the lake. Some of the resorts near Neyyar Dam are:
Resort Neyyar Heritage: This is a heritage resort, offering cottages and villas with traditional architecture and decor. The resort also has a restaurant, a pool, and a garden. The resort charges Rs. 5000 per night for a cottage.
Resort Neyyar Hills: This is a hill resort, offering cottages and villas with contemporary design and furnishing. The resort also has a restaurant, a spa, and a terrace. The resort charges Rs. 6000 per night for a cottage.
Resort Neyyar Springs: This is a spring resort, offering cottages and villas with natural springs and waterfalls. The resort also has a restaurant, a gym, and a library. The resort charges Rs. 7000 per night for a cottage.
Homestays:
There are several homestays near Neyyar Dam, offering rooms and houses with local amenities and services, such as TV, fan, Wi-Fi, and home-cooked food. The homestays are cheap and cozy, and they are located in the villages near the dam and the lake. Some of the homestays near Neyyar Dam are:
Homestay Neyyar Farm: This is a farm homestay, offering rooms and houses with farm animals and crops. The homestay also has a kitchen, a dining area, and a playground. The homestay charges Rs. 500 per night for a room.
Homestay Neyyar River: This is a river homestay, offering rooms and houses with river views and access. The homestay also has a kitchen, a living room, and a fishing area. The homestay charges Rs. 600 per night for a room.
Homestay Neyyar Forest: This is a forest homestay, offering rooms and houses with forest views and trails. The homestay also has a kitchen, a lounge, and a bonfire area. The homestay charges Rs. 700 per night for a room.
Camps:
There are several camps near Neyyar Dam, offering tents and huts with basic amenities and services, such as bed, fan, light, and toilet. The camps are adventurous and fun, and they are located in the wildlife sanctuary near the dam and the lake. Some of the camps near Neyyar Dam are:
Camp Neyyar Safari: This is a safari camp, offering tents and huts with safari themes and decor. The camp also has a restaurant, a campfire, and a safari tour. The camp charges Rs. 800 per night for a tent.
Camp Neyyar Eco: This is an eco camp, offering tents and huts with eco-friendly materials and practices. The camp also has a kitchen, a garden, and an eco tour. The camp charges Rs. 900 per night for a tent.
Camp Neyyar Adventure: This is an adventure camp, offering tents and huts with adventure activities and equipment. The camp also has a cafe, a game zone, and an adventure tour. The camp charges Rs. 1000 per night for a tent.
Some tips and suggestions for the best place to stay near Neyyar Dam are:
Compare the prices, features, and facilities of the different accommodation options, and choose the one that fits your budget, comfort, and preference. You can also check the reviews, ratings, and photos of the accommodation options online, or ask for recommendations from other travellers.
Check the availability and booking of the accommodation options in advance, especially if you are travelling during the peak season or the holidays, to avoid disappointment and inconvenience. You can also contact the accommodation providers directly, or use online platforms, such as Tripoto, to book your stay.
Enjoy the hospitality and the ambiance of the accommodation options, and respect the rules and regulations of the place. You can also interact with the hosts, the staff, and the other guests, and learn more about the culture and the lifestyle of Neyyar Dam.
Neyyar Dam is a beautiful and serene spot in Kerala, where you can enjoy a variety of attractions and activities, such as wildlife, boating, yoga, and more. It is a perfect destination for travellers who want to explore the hidden gem of Kerala, and experience the best of its nature, culture, and scenery.
In this article, we have provided you with a comprehensive guide to Neyyar Dam, covering everything you need to know before you visit this hidden gem. We have told you how to reach Neyyar Dam, what to do and see there, when to visit, and where to stay. We have also given you some tips and suggestions to make your trip to Neyyar Dam memorable and enjoyable.
We hope you have found this article helpful and informative, and we hope you have a wonderful time at Neyyar Dam. If you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions, please feel free to share them with us in the comments section below.
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