Malampuzha Dam & Gardens — Palakkad’s Crown Jewel
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📍 Overview & History
0-0Location: Approximately 8–10 km from Palakkad city, nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats .
275-0Construction timeline: Foundation laid in March 1949; inaugurated on 9 October 1955 by then Chief Minister K. Kamaraj (then part of Madras State) .
464-0Structure: A composite dam — masonry section (∼1,849 m) plus earthen portion (∼220 m), with a total length of about 2,069 m and height of 115 m (~355 ft) .
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💧 Reservoir & Utility
662-0Reservoir capacity: A huge 226 million m³ (≈8 TMC), draining a catchment of ~147 sq km .
823-0Purpose: Supplies irrigation to ~21,200 ha of farmland (via dual canal systems) and provides drinking water to Palakkad and surrounding villages .
1024-0Hydropower: Features a 2.5 MW small hydro-electric unit operated seasonally (mainly November–January) .
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🌺 Garden & Attractions
1168-0Malampuzha Gardens: Adjoining the dam, showcasing manicured lawns, flowerbeds, fountains, and a Japanese Garden .
1354-0Rock Garden: Unique sculpture park made from scrap materials (bottles, tiles, bangles), crafted by Nek Chand — the only one of its kind in South India .
1547-0Ropeway: Aerial cable-car (ropeway) runs ~2,000 ft at 60 ft height, offering breathtaking aerial views — about a 20-minute ride .
1717-0Yakshi statue: Iconic concrete sculpture by Kanayi Kunhiraman (1969), standing ~30 ft tall — symbolizing feminine grace and mythic beauty .
1898-0Additional amenities: Snake park, freshwater aquarium, children’s park, toy train, boating, and Fantasy Park amusement center .
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⏱️ Timings & Fees
2079-0Open daily: 09:00–20:00 for the dam and gardens .
2208-0Entry Fees: Adults ₹25–30, children ₹10 .
Ropeway charge: ~₹70; Snake Park and other attractions may have separate fees ~~ ~~.
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🚗 Getting There
2413-0By road: 7–11 km from Palakkad via bus, taxi, or auto .
2536-0Nearest rail: Palakkad Junction (8–10 km) .
2621-0Airports: Coimbatore (55–60 km) or Calicut (≈105 km) .
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🌦️ Best Time to Visit & Tips
2717-0Ideal time: Anytime, but monsoon brings lush surroundings and full reservoir views .
2879-0Nearby gems: Dhoni Waterfalls, Nelliyampathy hills, Kava island, Palakkad Fort, Meenvallam waterfalls .
3023-0Local experiences: A Redditor suggests combining a day at Fantasy Park, a dam-top stroll, ropeway ride, and a detour to Kava or Pothundi dam for adventure .
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🌟 Why Visit?
A harmonious blend of engineering marvel and serene nature — perfect for relaxation, photography, boating, and family fun.
Cultural highlights like the Yakshi statue and rock garden offer a captivating artistic vibe.