Pookot Lake

Pookot Lake (locally celebrated as Pookode Lake), tucked amidst emerald Shola mountain rainforests in Vythiri just 15 km southwest of Kalpetta in Wayanad in Kerala, stands as Kerala's highest, most scenic, and tranquil natural freshwater mountain lake.

Perched at an altitude of 772 meters above sea level and spanning 8.5 hectares of crystal clear water with a maximum depth of 6.5 meters, this enchanting mountain waterbody is famous for naturally mirroring the physical geographical outline of India when viewed from above.

It's the home of floating blue water lilies and lotus blooms fringing the banks, exciting pedal and row boating across glass like mountain waters, a 1.5 km cobbled lakeside walking trail shaded by ancient tropical trees, an endemic freshwater aquarium, a natural fish spa, and authentic tribal spice and bamboo handicrafts emporiums.

It represents a rich eco tourism sanctuary where mist clad Western Ghats hill ranges, biodiversity rich evergreen Shola forests, playful freshwater barbs, and refreshing high altitude breezes unite in South India.

Located just 3 km from Vythiri town off National Highway 766, it sits 15 km from Kalpetta, 60 km from Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT), and 68 km from Calicut International Airport (CCJ), easily accessible by private taxi, auto rickshaw, or regular KSRTC state bus.

The India Map Shaped Mountain Waterbody

Fed by perennial mountain springs trickling down from surrounding wooded hills, Pookode Lake is the primary freshwater source for the Panamaram tributary of the holy Kabini River.

The lake's natural topography remarkably outlines the map of India, with thick greenery hugging the shoreline and floating water lilies creating colorful floral margins along the quiet coves.

Truth is, swimming is strictly prohibited to preserve the lake's fragile aquatic ecosystem, making boating the ultimate way to admire the misty reflections of the surrounding peaks.

Pedal Boating & The 1.5 km Lakeside Nature Trail

Boating Across Mountain Waters: Visitors can rent 2 seater and 4 seater pedal boats or guided rowboats from the DTPC boat jetty to glide silently past schools of colorful freshwater fish and lotus clusters.

The Cobbled Perimeter Walkway: A well maintained 1.5 km paved stone pathway circles the entire lake, offering a peaceful 30 minute nature walk under canopies of bamboo, wild orchids, and towering mahogany trees filled with butterflies and songbirds.

Aquarium, Fish Spa & Tribal Handicraft Emporiums

Freshwater Fish Sanctuary: The on site hatchery and aquarium showcases rare indigenous fish species, including the endangered Wayanad barb (Pethia setnai), alongside a popular Doctor Fish spa.

Tribal Handicrafts & Spices: The complex features eco shops managed by local tribal cooperatives selling pure forest honey, aromatic spices, hand woven cane baskets, bamboo lamps, and herbal cosmetics.

After enjoying your time at Pookot Lake, visit the legendary Chain Tree at Lakkidi, take in panoramic valley views at Lakkidi View Point, or explore the mist clad heights of Chembra Peak.