KOZHIKODE: Boating which opened at the Kakkayam dam reservoir as a part of the hydel tourism project under the Kerala hydel tourism centre (KHTC), a subsidiary of the Kerala state electricity board (KSEB), has been drawing crowds.
The 15-minute boat safari which commenced operation on August 10, gives an opportunity to view two breathtaking waterfalls including Ambalappara waterfalls which could not be accessed by road.
“The lucky passengers can view herds of animals and bison grazing in the catchment area. The lush greenery, unexplored dense forests are a real feast for the eyes,” said P. Suresh Kumar, Assistant executive engineer who is in-charge of the hydel tourism project in Kakkayam.
The destination is christened as ‘Malabar Haven’ under the project. Currently KHTC is running 22 trips a day using its two speed boats. Each boat has a capacity of six members including the driver.
A trip costs Rs 750 and the boats can run up to 50 trips a day. Along with the boat ride, KHTC has kicked off a bicycle ride from the Kakkayam dam site which lasts for 30 minutes.
“The boat ride and bicycle ride are the first pha-se of the Rs 6 crore project envisaged at Kakkayam. In the second phase, cable car, trekking, cottage facilities for tourists are planned,” added Mr Kumar. Kakkayam dam site is close to another major tourism attraction, Thusharagiri. The boat service is available between 9 am and 5.30 pm.
