Kundala Lake
Kundala Lake is a captivating destination situated at an altitude of 1700 meters above sea level, making it an essential stopover on the way to Munnar. The lake is surrounded by rolling tea plantations on the slopes of the Nilgiris, creating a scenic backdrop under the blue sky, with the mild aroma of fresh tea leaves enhancing the experience.
Visitors to Kundala Lake can indulge in various boating activities. Options include pedal boats, rowboats, and Kashmiri Shikara boats, all available for rent. Exploring the lake by boat allows tourists to fully appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area, making for an unforgettable experience.
History of kundale Lake
Kundale Lake, also known as Kundala Lake, is situated in the picturesque region of Munnar, in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is a man-made reservoir that plays a significant role in the region's irrigation and hydroelectric projects.
1. Construction and Purpose : Kundale Lake was created as part of the Kundale Dam project, which was constructed for irrigation and power generation purposes. The dam was built during the British colonial period in India.
The reservoir formed by the dam helps in irrigation and supports the hydroelectric power stations in the area.
2. Geographical Importance : The lake is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above sea level, making it one of the higher elevation lakes in the region.
It is surrounded by rolling hills, lush tea gardens, and dense forests, contributing to the scenic beauty of the Munnar region.
3. Tourism and Recreation : Kundale Lake is a popular tourist destination due to its serene environment and beautiful landscape. It offers activities such as boating, which attracts numerous visitors.
The surrounding area, including the lake, is often used for photography and nature walks, drawing both local and international tourists.
4. Cultural Significance : The lake and its surroundings have a cultural impact on the local communities, especially in relation to the agrarian practices and tea plantation work.
Kundale Lake remains an essential part of Munnar's natural and cultural heritage, reflecting both its colonial history and its continuing importance to the local people and economy.
Kundala Lake offers a variety of activities for visitors:
Enjoyable Views : The serene and picturesque surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and photography.
Boating in the Lake : Pedal boats, rowboats, and shikaras (Kashmiri-style boats) are available for a leisurely ride on the calm waters.
Photography : The lake and its surroundings offer picturesque views, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
Horse Riding : Visitors can enjoy horse riding around the lake area, which adds a touch of adventure to the visit.
Picnicking : The scenic environment makes it a perfect spot for picnics. There are areas around the lake where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal.
Nature Walks : The lush greenery and peaceful ambiance provide an ideal setting for nature walks and short hikes.
Neelakurinji Bloom : If you visit during the blooming season of Neelakurinji (which happens once every 12 years), you can witness the hills around the lake covered in blue flowers.
Tea Gardens : The lake is surrounded by tea gardens, and visitors can take a stroll through the plantations and learn about tea cultivation.
Having Tea and Snacks : Relax with a cup of tea and some local snacks while enjoying the scenic views.
Kundala Lake Entry Fee and Timings
Kundala Dam Lake entry is free, allowing visitors to walk along the lake, take photos, or enjoy a picnic.
Each boat ride lasts around 30 minutes.
Timings:
- Entry : 9 AM to 5 PM
- Boating : Ends at 4:30 PM
Best time to visit kundala Lake
The best time to visit Kundala Lake is between November and May. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time to enjoy the scenic beauty and activities at the lake. For a peaceful experience, it's also recommended to visit early in the morning.
How to reach kundala Lake
To reach Kundala Dam in Munnar, Kerala, you have several options depending on your starting point:
By Road: From Munnar : Kundala Dam is approximately 20 km away from Munnar town. You can hire a private cab or take a local bus from Munnar bus stop to reach the dam.
From Nearby Towns : Regular buses are available from nearby towns to Munnar. Once in Munnar, you can proceed to Kundala Dam.
By Rail: Nearest Railway Station : Aluva is the nearest major railway station to Munnar, located about 120 km away. You can reach Aluva by train from various cities and then proceed to Munnar by bus or cab.
Other Nearby Railway Stations : Coimbatore (150 km), Ernakulam (120 km), and Madurai (170 km) are also options. From these stations, you can take a bus or cab to Munnar.
By Air: Nearest Airport : Cochin International Airport (COK) is the closest airport to Kundala Lake in Munnar, situated about 120 km away. It is well-connected with domestic and international flights.
Other Nearby Airports : Coimbatore Airport (150 km) and Madurai Airport (170 km) are also viable options for reaching Munnar.
Each mode of transportation offers its own convenience, and once in Munnar, you can easily access Kundala Dam by road.
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