27 Best Lakes, Rivers & Backwaters near Bangalore

About Banasura Sagar Dam

At a distance of 21 km from Mananthavady, 22 km from Kalpetta, and 46 km from Sulthan Bathery, Banasura Sagar Dam is an earthen dam situated in the Wayanad district of Kerala. The dam was built across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of River Kabini, and is one of the most popular Wayanad tourist places.

Ideally placed in the foothills of Banasura hills, it is the largest earthen dam in India and the second largest in Asia. The dam got its name from Banasura, the son of King Mahabali, the famous ruler of Kerala. It is said that Banasura undertook severe penance on the top of the hills. Banasura hill is the third-largest peak in the Western Ghats.

History of Banasura Sagar Dam

The dam was built in 1979 under the Indian Banasura Sagar Project which was started to support the Kakkayam Hydro Electric Power Project. This project also aimed at contributing to the drinking water and irrigation requirements of the locals during the hot summer season. Banasura Sagar Dam is made up of massive stacks of stones and boulders. The reservoir is marked with a cluster of small islands which were formed when the reservoir submerged the surrounding areas during monsoon season. These islands with the background of Banasura hill provide a mesmerizing sight to the tourists as part of Wayanad packages.

Boating at Banasura Sagar ...

Distance from Bangalore: 267 Kms

At a distance of 16 km from Chidambaram & 217 km from Chennai, Pichavaram is an exquisite coastal village near Chidambaram in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the picturesque places to visit near Chennai and among the must include places in Chidambaram packages.

Located between the Vellar estuary and Coleroon estuary, Pichavaram is well-known for its mangrove forests spread over 1100 hectares area. The mangroves of Pichavaram are considered the second largest mangrove forests in the world. Apparently, the forest has more than 50 islands of various sizes and 4,400 big and small canals. The trees grow in water that's 3 to 10 feet deep in different places. The conditions are quite hostile, as the sea's tides bring saltwater in and out twice a day, changing the salinity. Hence, the trees have unique root systems, with membranes that only allow fresh water to enter. It is one of the popular Chidambaram tourist places.

Pichavaram can be enjoyed through a boat ride around the 1100 hectare area of the forest, which takes you through narrow canals, breathtaking sceneries and allows you to witness the amazing life forms of the mangrove trees while adoring the birdlife of the forest. Approximately 200 species of birds have been recorded, along with many ...

Distance from Bangalore: 356 Kms

At a distance of 9 from Sullurpet, 50 km from Srikalahasti, 105 km from Nellore & 88 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, Pulicat Lake is the second largest brackish water lake in India, after Orissa's Chilka Lake. It lies at the border of Thiruvallur district in Tamil Nadu and Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh states. The island of Sriharikota (home for famous ISRO) separates the lake from the Bay of Bengal. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Chennai and an ideal weekend getaway near Chennai.

The sanctuary is home to wide range of migratory birds that migrate in large numbers in winter. It is one of the best places for bird watching in the vicinity of Chennai city and at the same time experience the memorable boat riding in Pulicat Lake. The entrance to the sanctuary is situated on Sullurpet - Sriharikota road.

The lake is 60 kms long and width varies between 0.2 to 17.5 kms. It is an important stopover of migrant birds and approximately 15,000 flamingos visit the lake each year, along with pelicans, kingfishers, herons, painted storks, spoonbills and ducks.

Pulicat village, which is 60 km from Chennai (via Ponneri), is also an alternate place to experience the beauty of the lake & sanctuary. Boating is available in the lake at Pulicat ...

Distance from Bangalore: 350 Kms

At a distance of 41 Kms from Palakkad, Mangalam Dam is constructed on the river Cherukunnapuzha, a tributary of the river Mangalam. It is a popular picnic site from Palakkad.

The construction of the scenic dam was completed in the year 1956. The entire area is quite fascinating with beautiful parks and lawns.

Located on the Alathur - Vadakkanchery Highway, the reservoir is bounded with forest area which is home for wildlife like deer, elephants and a variety of birds.

Distance from Bangalore: 408 Kms

At a distance of 9 km from Ooty Bus Station, Kamraj Sagar Dam, also known as the Sandynalla Reservoir, is a very quiet and scenic dam situated on the slopes of the Wenlock Downs in Ooty. It is one of the top Ooty tourist places and also a must include in every Ooty Tour Packages.

The dam, built on the Kamrajar Lake, is spread over 400 acres and is situated on the way to Wenlock Downs & Pykara. The dam is a monsoon fed water body and measures about 6 km in length. The dam and the serene location make it a heavenly place and a favorite haunt for the nature lovers. It is also a popular destination with honeymoon couples because of its picturesque natural beauty. It is a popular shooting location in Ooty.

There are several walking trails around the lake and visitors can also explore several tourist places in the area through these walking trails. The surroundings of the lake are home to variety of birds which include peacocks, storks, kingfishers, cranes, herons and sunbirds can easily be spotted in the area. The animals that are seen in this area include wild boars, Indian bison, barking deer, monkeys, mongooses and leopards.

There is a pine forest adjacent to the main road through which the reservoir is accessed. Pine trees spread across several acres is a nice place to take snaps & famous shooting spot as well. ...

Distance from Bangalore: 277 Kms

At a distance of 20 km from Munnar, Kundala Lake is a picturesque lake situated on the way to Top Station from Munnar. It is one of the scenic places to visit in Munnar.

The lake is formed by Kundala artificial dam, which is a small dam in cured shape. The lake offer boating facility. The unique experience of boating in Kashmiri boats in this lake is a special attraction. These boats are also known as Shikara Boats. Kundala Lake is one of the best places for sightseeing in Munnar. The tea estates spread across Kundala are a real feast to the eyes.


There is also a golf course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd in Kundala village.

Boating Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM

Boating Fee (30 minutes): Shikara Boat - Rs 200 for 2 persons, Row Boats - Rs 150 for 4 persons, Pedal Boat - Rs 100 for 2 persons

Distance from Bangalore: 450 Kms

At a distance of 39 Kms from Palakkad, Meenkara Dam is a lovely picnic spot amidst great scenic beauty.

This dam is built across the Gayathri River which flows into the Bharathapuzha River. This is a fascinating place with full of paddy & coconut fields and full of greenery.

Meenkara Dam can be access through Puthunagaram, Pallassana & Kollengode.

Distance from Bangalore: 384 Kms

At a distance of 22 km from Thrissur, Peechi Dam is a picturesque dam situated at Peechi village near Thrissur. It is one of the scenic tourist places in Thrissur.

Built across the Manali River, the Peechi Dam was built in 1959. Ikkanda Warrier (1890-1977), the first Prime Minister of the then independent state of Kochi, India, was the architect of Peechi Dam. The dam was started as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in the Thrissur district and caters to the drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City.

The dam has a catchment area of nearly 3,200 acres. There is a nice botanical garden with cascading fountains near the dam which is an added attraction to the visitors. One can go boating in the reservoir during Thrissur tour. Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary situated near the dam is worth paying a visit. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bangalore: 430 Kms

At a distance of 47 km from Coimbatore and 51 km from Palakkad, Siruvani Dam is a man-made reservoir located in the Palakkad district of Kerala. It is one of the beautiful places to vsit as part of Palakkad tour.

Siruvani Dam was constructed across the Siruvani River in the year 1927 to supply drinking water to the city of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. The location is in the state of Kerala, the project was executed by the Kerala Public Works Department using the funds made available by the Tamil Nadu Government. The location of the dam is in the state of Kerala and the project was executed by the Kerala Public Works Department using the funds made available by the Tamil Nadu Government. An agreement was executed between the state Governments for drinking water supply to Coimbatore town and neighboring areas from the Siruvani Dam.

The dam is 49.53 feet high and 878.5 meters above sea level with a water capacity of 650 million cubic feet. The water of Siruvani Reservoir is famous for its sweetness. Surrounded by Muthikulam Hill, the scenic beauty of Siruvani is simply enchanting. Pattiyar Bungalow, one of the most beautiful Inspection Bungalows of the Kerala Forest Department is situated on the banks of this reservoir.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bangalore: 358 Kms

About Pykara Dam

At a distance of 22 km from Ooty, Pykara Lake is a placid lake situated on Ooty - Mysore road in Tamilnadu. The dam amidst dense forest is a beautiful destination offering breathtaking scenery. It is one of the best places to visit in Ooty and an ideal place to experience a beautiful boat ride.

Situated amidst a lush green shola forest, Pykara Lake is formed as a result of the construction of the Pykara Dam over the Pykara River, the largest river in the Nilgiris district. The Pykara Lake formed by the dam is a blessed lake for the Todas, the local tribe of Nilgiris. The dam also has a powerhouse which is one of the oldest power plants in South India and is generating about 60 megawatts of electricity. It was declared a heritage plant in 1997, triggering the establishment of more hydroelectric power stations in the state.A few hundred meters north of the lake, the river tumbles down the rocks to form the famous Pykara Falls.

The place is a popular picnic spot among locals as well as tourists. The lake is surrounded by the thick forest of Mukurthi National Park. If you are lucky, you can catch a glimpse of wildlife like elephants roaming on the banks of the lake.

Boating at Pykara Dam

Organized by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, boating in Pykara Lake is a memorable experience. Visitors can hire a speed boat or motor boat from the boat house and enjoy ...

Distance from Bangalore: 275 Kms

At a distance of 17 km from Ooty and 27 km from Coonoor, Emerald Lake, a serene lake with emerald blue waters, is located near Emerald village in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. Situated amidst dense forests, it is one of the top Ooty tourist places. The lake is part of the Silent Valley National Park situated on the way to Avalanche village.

The blue waters of Emerald Lake surrounded by lush green meadows and forest is simply mesmerizing. The water is crystal clear and of course cold. This is a great place to enjoy the day with breathtaking views of the slopes of Nilgiris. Emerald Lake is also a haven for a variety of birds. It is a mini paradise for bird lovers and ornithologists as they get to see and study a number of native birds. It is also notable for the scenic sun rise and sun set views near the lake. The Tea gardens is a great spot to spend some time as it gives a memorable experience. Trekking is another activity visitors can indulge in.

Far from maddening crowds packed in the town, this place is untouched by regular tourists. There are no amenities around the place except The Red Hill Nature Resort which is a little further from the shore of the lake. The various facilities arranged by the resort for tourists include mountain biking, bird watching, fishing and trekking in the regions surrounding the lake.

The journey to Emerald Lake (from Ooty / Coonoor) offer ...

Distance from Bangalore: 317 Kms

At a distance of 36 Kms from Thrissur, Chimmony Dam (also known as Chimmini Dam) is a picturesque dam constructed across Chimmony Puzha. Located in Echippara village (2 Kms), near Varandarappilly town, the dam is surrounded by the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary.

Close to Peechi Dam and Mangalam Dam, the Chimmony Dam provided water supply for drinking and forming to the nearly by villages. Situated on Nelliyampathy slopes of Western Ghats, Chimmony Dam is a place with immense natural beauty. Boating is also available in the reservoir.

It can be reached via Varandarappilly & Palappilly from Thrissur. It has limited public transportation. Best way to reach the dam is to hire private vehicle from Varandarappilly.

Distance from Bangalore: 449 Kms

At a distance of 24 Kms from Munnar, Anayirankal Dam is a lovely place located on NH49 (towards Palani, after Devikulam).

The surroundings of the falls are full of tea plantations & forests and appear like a green carpet. It is one of the earliest Dams built in India using concrete. Elephants are also spotted in the vicinity of reservoir.

This place is connected by frequent buses from Munnar. All buses towards Palani stop here.

Distance from Bangalore: 478 Kms

At a distance of 34 Kms from Palakkad, Kanjirapuzha Dam is a fascinating dam surrounded by hills with rich natural beauty.

The reservoir is surrounded by an evergreen forest named Vettilachola. Three islands at all sides of the reservoir gain a special attraction. These islands are abundant with marine life including commercial varieties grown by the fisheries department.

There is a wonderful garden at bottom of the dam with several facilities. Boating facilities is also available in the reservoir.

Distance from Bangalore: 363 Kms

At a distance of 58 Kms from Kozhikode Railway Station, Kakkayam Dam is a picturesque dam and a good picnic spot. This area has rich wildlife population and also an excellent trekking & rock climbing destination.

Kakkayam offers challenging trekking and rock climbing experience along the Kuttiady River. The Urakkuzhi waterfalls located in the Urakkuzhi ghat area is an added attraction. This place offers breathtaking views of the valleys with numerous waterfalls.

The best time to visit this place is November to March. Few direct buses are available from Kozhikode.

Distance from Bangalore: 334 Kms

At a distance of 57 Kms from Kozhikode Railway Station, Peruvannamuzhi Dam is a beautiful picnic spot with great natural beauty amidst hills. The reservoir meets the drinking water needs of Kozhikode, Quilandy and Vadakara.

Boating facilities are available at the reservoir of the dam with speedboats and rowboat. There is a small island in the reservoir of the dam with a bird sanctuary & crocodile farm. One can closely observe the giant crocodiles maintained by forest department here. There is a garden named 'Smaraka Thottam' created for the memory of the freedom fighters of the region.

Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM.

Distance from Bangalore: 304 Kms

At a distance of 17 km from Kalpetta, Karapuzha Dam is an earth dam situated near Vazhavatta in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the biggest earth dams in India and also one of the major Wayanad tourist places.

Karapuzha Dam is built on Karapuzha River, a tributary of Kabini River. The construction of the dam began in 1977 and it was completed in 2004. The height of the dam is 28 meters and length is 625 meters. The purpose of the dam is irrigation and it left and right bank canals are still under construction.

The dam is located in the greenish and natural regions of Wayanad. It is an ideal place for watching aquatic birds that frequent the reservoir, which is surrounded by partially submerged hills and green islands. The Tourism Department has ambitious plans to develop the area around Karapuzha Dam. They plan to landscape the area, construct an aquarium and provide boating and canoeing facilities also.

Vazhavatta is connected by few buses with Kalpetta. But Meenangadi town (7 km from the Dam) on Kalpetta - Sulthan Bathery road has frequent bus facility. Private transportation can be availed from Meenangadi to reach the Karapuzha Dam. The road to Karapuzha Dam is very bad and the short distance takes about 30 minutes. There is not much to see near the dam except the view of the water and surrounding hills. The water level is very low in summer and not recommended to visit in summer.

Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM

Distance from Bangalore: 270 Kms