Kakkayam Dam
About Kakkayam Dam
Kakkayam Dam is a forest-fringed reservoir destination in Koorachundu, Kozhikode, set on the outskirts of the Western Ghats and associated with the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary landscape. Built across the Kuttiyadi River, the dam has created a scenic reservoir surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, misty valleys, and rich biodiversity.
The area is popular with nature lovers and adventure seekers for trekking trails, rock climbing, nature walks, and boating on the reservoir. Visitors may also explore nearby waterfalls such as Urakkuzhi and Ambalappra, and enjoy panoramic viewpoints like Kariyathan Rock. Wildlife sightings can include elephants, bison, deer, wild boar, and many bird species, though access to some areas may depend on weather and official permissions.
Kakkayam is also valued as a picnic and eco-tourism spot, offering a quieter mountain experience away from Kozhikode’s coast. The landscape is especially atmospheric in misty conditions and during the monsoon, but travellers should follow safety advisories, forest rules, and local instructions.
Kakkayam Dam, Koorachundu, Kozhikode, Kerala 673615, India
Moderate on weekends and holidays; quieter on weekdays
How RutMe scores this
Kakkayam Dam is a scenic eco-tourism escape in the Western Ghats near Kozhikode, where forested hills, misty valleys, and a calm reservoir create a classic nature getaway. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want trekking, boating, viewpoints, and a chance to experience Kerala’s greener, quieter side away from the coast. The destination works well as a half-day to full-day outing, with picnic-friendly surroundings and opportunities to spot wildlife or visit nearby waterfalls. Its appeal is strongest in cooler months and misty weather, when the landscape feels most atmospheric. That said, visitors should plan carefully around forest rules, weather conditions, and limited amenities, especially during monsoon periods.
- +Beautiful natural scenery and photogenic landscapes
- +Affordable visit with low entry costs
- +Good for picnics, short hikes, and relaxed nature outings
- –Limited accessibility for wheelchair users and uneven terrain
- –Weather and forest restrictions can affect access and safety
Suggested itinerary
Reach the dam area via Koorachundu and begin at the main visitor point. Take in the first views of the reservoir, forested slopes, and surrounding hills.
Explore the dam surroundings, photo spots, and nearby viewpoints such as Kariyathan Rock if accessible. The landscape is especially rewarding in misty weather.
Enjoy a boat ride or speed-boat service if available through the operating authority. This offers a close look at the reservoir, waterfalls, and forested catchment area.
Pause for a picnic or short break in designated areas. Visitors often spend time relaxing amid the cool highland atmosphere.
Continue to trekking trails or nearby waterfalls such as Urakkuzhi or Ambalappra, subject to weather and permissions. Follow marked paths and safety instructions.
Wrap up the visit with final reservoir views and head back before dark, especially during monsoon or if roads are unfamiliar.
What's included
- ✓Scenic reservoir and dam access
- ✓Nature and viewpoint experience
- ✓Trekking area access where permitted
- ✓Boating/speed-boat experience where operating
- ✕Personal expenses
- ✕Camera or special activity fees if charged on-site
Opening hours
| Monday | 09:00:00 – 17:00:00 | Last entry 17:00:00 Reported daily visitor hours; some sources mention broader access hours. |
| Tuesday | 09:00:00 – 17:00:00 | Last entry 17:00:00 Reported daily visitor hours; some sources mention broader access hours. |
| Wednesday | 09:00:00 – 17:00:00 | Last entry 17:00:00 Reported daily visitor hours; some sources mention broader access hours. |
| Thursday · Today | 09:00:00 – 17:00:00 | Last entry 17:00:00 Reported daily visitor hours; some sources mention broader access hours. |
| Friday | 09:00:00 – 17:00:00 | Last entry 17:00:00 Reported daily visitor hours; some sources mention broader access hours. |
| Saturday | 09:00:00 – 17:00:00 | Last entry 17:00:00 Reported daily visitor hours; some sources mention broader access hours. |
| Sunday | 09:00:00 – 17:00:00 | Last entry 17:00:00 Reported daily visitor hours; some sources mention broader access hours. |
Show timings
| Monday | 06:00 – 08:00 | Early access / scenic visit |
| Monday | 09:00 – 17:00 | Main visitor hours |
| Tuesday | 06:00 – 08:00 | Early access / scenic visit |
| Tuesday | 09:00 – 17:00 | Main visitor hours |
| Wednesday | 06:00 – 08:00 | Early access / scenic visit |
| Wednesday | 09:00 – 17:00 | Main visitor hours |
| Thursday · Today | 06:00 – 08:00 | Early access / scenic visit |
| Thursday · Today | 09:00 – 17:00 | Main visitor hours |
| Friday | 06:00 – 08:00 | Early access / scenic visit |
| Friday | 09:00 – 17:00 | Main visitor hours |
| Saturday | 06:00 – 08:00 | Early access / scenic visit |
| Saturday | 09:00 – 17:00 | Main visitor hours |
| Sunday | 06:00 – 08:00 | Early access / scenic visit |
| Sunday | 09:00 – 17:00 | Main visitor hours |
