Kakkayam

Kakkayam (celebrated across Kerala as the premier wilderness trekking outpost, hydroelectric reservoir valley, and gateway to the virgin evergreen rainforests of the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary), situated high in the Western Ghats ranges in Koorachundu panchayat just 68 km northeast of Kozhikode city in Kerala, is one of South India's most pristine, dramatic, and exhilarating mountain eco tourism sanctuaries.

Perched at an elevation of over 2,500 feet (750 meters) above sea level amidst mist shrouded peaks, Kakkayam was developed as part of the Kuttiyadi Hydroelectric Project (commissioned in 1972 by the Kerala State Electricity Board with a capacity of 225 MW), where the Kakkayam Dam impounds a striking mountain reservoir that feeds water through massive underground penstock pipes down to the Kuttiyadi power generation station in Kakkayam valley below.

It's the home of the legendary Urakuzhi Waterfalls (a spectacular natural geological wonder where roaring mountain torrents plunge through deep circular stone potholes resembling traditional granite grinding mortars into a foaming rocky chasm), thrilling Western Ghats forest trekking trails supervised by Kerala Forest Department eco guides, speedboating across the mountain walled Kakkayam reservoir, rich biodiversity sheltering wild Asian elephants, leopards, Nilgiri langurs, and king cobras, scenic hanging rope bridges, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Kozhikode and Wayanad hill boundaries.

It represents a rich highland and biodiversity sanctuary where 1970s hydroelectric engineering, geological rock wonders, thrilling mountain jungle treks, and cool Western Ghats rainforest tranquility unite in Thamarassery Koyilandy high ranges.

Located in Koorachundu panchayat along the Balusseri Koorachundu route, it sits 48 km from Koyilandy Railway Station (QLD), 68 km from Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT), and 82 km from Calicut International Airport (CCJ / Karipur), accessible by mountain forest roads via Koorachundu and Balusseri.

The 1972 Hydroelectric Dam & High Altitude Reservoir

Surrounded by steep granite cliffs clad in shola grasslands, the Kakkayam dam impounds crystal clear mountain streams to power the Kuttiyadi hydroelectric project.

Visitors can enjoy exhilarating speedboat safaris across the mountain lake, surrounded by towering rainforests where wild elephant herds frequently come down to drink.

Truth is, standing upon the dam wall while clouds of cool mountain mist sweep across the reservoir valley makes you forget the coastal heat completely.

The Geological Wonder of Urakuzhi Waterfalls

The Mortar Potholes: Located 1 km from the dam site, Urakuzhi features circular cavernous potholes sculpted over millions of years by churning boulders and rushing river torrents.

Rope Suspension Bridge: A secure suspension footbridge spans the roaring gorge, providing spectacular aerial views of the tumbling cascades and churning waters below.

Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary & Forest Trekking

Eco Trekking Routes: Guided trekking routes through dense wet evergreen jungles lead trekkers to remote waterfalls, watchtowers, and tribal settlements.

Rich Wildlife & Birdlife: Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary is a recognized Important Bird Area (IBA), sheltering the endangered Malabar grey hornbill, Ceylon frogmouth, and Nilgiri wood pigeon.

After experiencing the wilderness of Kakkayam, visit the downstream Peruvannamuzhi Dam and crocodile park, tour the Blue Flag certified Kappad Beach, or explore the historic 14th century Mananchira Square in Kozhikode.