Neyyar Dam
Neyyar Dam – A Serene Getaway Amidst the Western Ghats
Nestled roughly 30km from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Neyyar Dam perches at the foothills of the Western Ghats and is one of the region’s most enchanting escapes. Built in 1958, this majestic gravity dam spans 56m in height and stretches 294m across the Neyyar River, forming a reservoir covering around 91km².
The dam was primarily constructed to supply drinking water, support irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power for nearby communities. Supported by a sturdy rubble masonry structure, it holds around 1.06×10m³ of water, with an active capacity of 1.01×10m³.
A Hub of Wildlife & Eco Tourism
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Just beyond the dam lies the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which spans roughly 128km² of undulating hills, dense forests, and tranquil water bodies. Set within the biodiverse Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the sanctuary is home to myriad species:
- Mammals: elephants, sambar deer, sloth bears, gaur, leopards, jungle cats, Nilgiri langurs, Nilgiri tahr
- Birds: over 176 species, including migratory waterfowl
- Reptiles & Amphibians: king cobras, pythons, mugger crocodiles, turtles, and more.
Trekking and guided safaris offer immersive experiences through this thriving habitat, though sightings of elusive big mammals (like tigers) occur less frequently than sightings of deer, monkeys, and birds .
Crocodile Rehabilitation & Research Centre
Established in 1977 with around 44 mugger crocodiles, the Crocodile Rehabilitation & Research Centre remains one of the world’s few wildlife memorials originally honoring Steve Irwin. Visitors can observe crocodiles, learn about their biology, and witness conservation efforts in action.
Lion Safari Park & Deer Park
A short boat ride from the dam takes visitors to the Lion Safari Park, featuring around 15 lions within a protected enclosure—a rare opportunity to observe these majestic cats in a semi-wild setting. Similarly, the Deer Park hosts various species—spotted, barking, and mouse deer—for close-up viewing and photography.
Elephant Rehabilitation Centre
This center provides care for rescued or aging elephants. Here, visitors can feed elephant calves, observe them up close, and even enjoy elephant rides, fostering awareness and appreciation for these gentle giants .
Beyond Wildlife – Boating, Picnic Spots & Yoga
Boating on the Neyyar Reservoir
One of the most beloved attractions at Neyyar Dam is tranquil boating on the reservoir. Visitors can enjoy paddle boats, row boats, and speed boats ranging from ₹250–₹400 per person. The serene setting, framed by the verdant Western Ghats, offers an unforgettable experience, especially during cooler morning hours.
Lake Garden, Watch tower & Swimming Pool
The dam area features a manicured lake garden, a scenic watch tower affording panoramic views, and a small swimming pool—ideal spots to relax, enjoy a picnic, or capture the landscape.
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwanthari Ashram
For those seeking spiritual calm, the ashram near the dam—a branch of the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre—offers meditation, yoga courses, and retreats. Nestled under century-old trees, it’s a haven of serenity tripoto.com.
Best Time to Visit
- October–March (Winter): Ideal with temperatures between 16–30°C—comfortably cool for outdoor activities travelsetu.com
- April–May (Summer): Warm (up to 35°C); still pleasant for boating and early-morning safaris.
- June–September (Monsoon): The dam and sanctuary bask in lush greenery—but heavy rains can limit outdoor access.
Getting There & Entry Details
- Road: Located ~30km from Thiruvananthapuram, ~32km from Kovalam. KSRTC buses run 5:00am–8:00pm; taxis and ridehailing are readily available. Approximate travel time: 45–60 minutes.
- Rail & Air: Nearest railway station is Neyyattinkara (≈20km); nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International (≈38–40km) en.wikipedia.org.
- Timings: Tourist zones open 9am–4pm (some till 6am–7pm); the dam area itself sees visitors from 8:00am onward .
- Entry & Fees:
- Wildlife safari: ₹250/adult; ₹125 for children (5–12); ₹5 for under 5; foreign tourists around ₹300 keralatourism.travel
- Croc-park & Deer Park: nominal fees (~₹10–₹50) tripoto.com
- Boating: ₹100–₹400 depending on the boat type and group size
Nearby Attractions (Expand the Excursion)
- Agasthyakoodam Peak (~32km): A revered biodiversity hotspot within the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. Trek permits are issued Jan–Mar .
- Kovalam Beach (~30km): Famous for sun-kissed sands and evening entertainment .
- Poovar Island (~40km): Mangrove-lined estuary blending river and sea landscapes .
- Ponmudi Hill Station (~60km): Cooler climes, tea plantations, panoramic viewpoints .
- Varkala (~70km): Cliffside beaches, temples, and scenic sunsets .
Practical Travel Tips
- Plan early: Safari slots and boat rides during peak season fill fast.
- Hire guides: Local guides enhance wildlife spotting and trails safety.
- Pack well: Carry sunscreen, hats, insect spray, lightweight snacks, and water.
- Stay placed: Accommodations range from forest rest-houses to resorts (₹2,000–₹20,000/night) nearby .
- Support local crafts: Small eateries near the dam serve authentic Kerala snacks—don’t miss them! .
Why Neyyar Dam Should Be on Your List
Neyyar Dam isn’t just a civil engineering marvel—it’s a gateway to vibrant wildlife, lush forests, rejuvenating experiences, and outdoor enjoyment. Whether you're seeking:
- Nature & wildlife:Safari rides, crocodiles, lions, deer, elephants—all in one eco-setting
- Outdoor fun:Boating, photographable vistas, guided treks, and discoverable watch-towers
- Wellness & calm:Yoga, meditation, peaceful lakeside views
- Family-friendly adventure:Engaging tours, animal encounters, picnic spots
It offers a diverse palette that suits solo travelers, families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a spiritual or relaxing day out .
Recommended Itinerary – Day Trip
- Morning (8–10am): Arrive early. Begin with a calm boat ride across the reservoir to the Lion Safari & Deer Park.
- Mid-morning (10am–12pm): Safari bus tour into the sanctuary (lions, elephants, monkeys).
- Lunch & leisure (12–1pm): Picnic in the dam’s garden or visit the yoga ashram.
- Afternoon (1–3pm): Visit the Crocodile Research Centre, check out watch-tower views.
- Late afternoon (3–5pm): Stroll along lakeside, enjoy a paddle boat, and savor local snacks before returning.
In short, Neyyar Dam is more than a water-retaining structure—it’s a vibrant confluence of nature, wildlife, culture, and recreation. From its engineering legacy to its lake’s placid boating experience, ancient forests, and immersive wildlife centers, it offers a multidimensional Kerala experience just outside Thiruvananthapuram.
Whether you're drawn by powerful engineering, exploration in wilderness, serene lakes, or soul-soothing yoga, Neyyar fulfills it all. A must-visit destination for families, solo travelers, and wildlife lovers—Neyyar Dam is a perfect escape in God’s Own Country.
