Peruvannamuzhi Dam

Peruvannamuzhi Dam (celebrated across Malabar as the premier reservoir eco tourism resort of Kozhikode and the scenic gateway to the Kuttiyadi irrigation project), tucked beneath the towering Western Ghats peaks in Chakkittapara panchayat just 60 km northeast of Kozhikode city in Kerala, is one of Northern Kerala's most scenic, biologically diverse, and refreshing eco tourism destinations.

Constructed between 1964 and 1975 across the Kuttiyadi River (also known as the Murat River) as part of the Kuttiyadi Irrigation Project, this massive 171 meter-long masonry gravity dam impounds an extensive 10.5 square-kilometer reservoir studded with emerald forested islets, supplying essential drinking water to Kozhikode metropolis and irrigating over 36,000 hectares of agricultural paddy and spice fields across the district.

It's the home of the famous Peruvannamuzhi Crocodile Rehabilitation Centre (a specialized wildlife conservation sanctuary breeding and caring for endangered Mugger / Marsh crocodiles in naturalized river enclosures), the lush Smrithi Vanam ecological garden (dedicated to the memory of eminent environmentalists and freedom fighters), exciting motorboat and speed boat safaris weaving through uninhabited jungle islands, a dedicated bird sanctuary harboring over 90 species of endemic and migratory birds, a freshwater fish hatchery, spice gardens, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the forested reservoir basin.

It represents a rich natural and conservation sanctuary where 1970s hydraulic engineering, reptilian wildlife rehabilitation, thrilling reservoir speedboat safaris, and tranquil Western Ghats rainforest wilderness unite in Koyilandy taluk.

Located in Peruvannamuzhi village near Chakkittapara along the Kozhikode Kuttiyadi route, it sits 42 km from Koyilandy Railway Station (QLD), 60 km from Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT), and 75 km from Calicut International Airport (CCJ), easily accessible by regular KSRTC and private buses, auto rickshaws, and tourist cabs from Perambra and Kozhikode.

The 1975 Kuttiyadi Masonry Dam & Reservoir Basin

Rising amidst dense green foothills, the dam wall provides stunning panoramic vistas across the sapphire reservoir waters framed by mist clad mountain ranges.

Numerous forested islands dot the vast reservoir, creating secluded waterways and sheltered bays that harbor thriving aquatic and avian ecosystems.

Truth is, cruising in a motorboat through the quiet forested bays of the reservoir while cool mountain breezes blow across the water is wonderfully refreshing.

The Crocodile Rehabilitation Centre & Wildlife

Mugger Crocodile Sanctuary: Established by the Kerala Forest Department in 1982, the center houses rescued marsh crocodiles in protected natural river pools, educating visitors on reptile conservation.

Avian Sanctuary: The forested reservoir perimeter shelters Brahminy kites, kingfishers, grey herons, cormorants, and rare Malabar hornbills.

Smrithi Vanam Eco Park, Boating & Spice Gardens

Smrithi Vanam Garden: Planted with rare medicinal herbs, ornamental trees, and fragrant spice plants, this landscaped memorial park features shaded walking paths and resting benches.

Speedboat & Rowboat Safaris: The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) operates 8 seater motorboats, speedboats, and pedal boats for guided reservoir excursions.

After exploring the reservoir at Peruvannamuzhi Dam, visit the nearby Kakkayam Dam and hydroelectric valley, tour the Blue Flag certified Kappad Beach, or visit the historic 13th century Muchundi Palli in Kozhikode.