Mattupetty Dam & Lake in Munnar, Kerala
Here is a guide and itinerary for your trip to Mattupetty Dam & Lake in Munnar, Kerala.
🗺️ Suggested One-Day Tour Itinerary
Because Mattupetty Dam is located about 13 km east of Munnar Town, it is usually paired with nearby top attractions on the same route (Munnar–Top Station route).
08:30 AM – Morning Drive: Depart from Munnar town towards Mattupetty (approx. 30–40 min drive along scenic tea estates).
09:15 AM – Photo Stop at Photo Point: Stop briefly by the manicured, rolling tea gardens for group photos or tea estate walks.
10:00 AM – Mattupetty Dam & Lake:
Take a walk across the 237-meter dam top for panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding hills.
Head to the DTPC boating dock and enjoy a Speedboat or Slow Pontoon Boat ride.
12:00 PM – Echo Point: Drive 5 km further to Echo Point. Enjoy the natural echo phenomenon, lakeside views, and local street stalls.
01:30 PM – Lunch Break: Enjoy local Kerala food at a lakeside cafe or restaurant near Echo Point/Mattupetty.
02:30 PM – Kundala Lake or Cowboy Park:
Option A: Head to Kundala Lake (for pedal boating or horse rides by the lake shore).
Option B: Visit Cowboy Park (2 km from the dam) for ziplining, 12D theatre, and adventure games.
05:00 PM – Sunset View at Yellapetty / Return Drive: Enjoy the evening breeze and head back to Munnar town.
🏗️ Infrastructure & Facilities
Boating Centre (DTPC Managed): Offers motorboats, speedboats, and larger group/pontoon boats equipped with mandatory safety gear/life jackets.
Parking: Dedicated paid parking spaces available near the dam entry zone for private cars, bikes, and tourist buses.
Food & Snacks: Multiple local stalls, tea vendors, and quick-bite counters offering fresh corn, tea/coffee, snacks, and fruits.
Restrooms: Public washrooms are available near the parking and boating counters.
Accessibility: Paved road atop the dam allows easy walking for kids and seniors; however, some dock areas down to the boats have steps/slopes.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the timings and entry fees?
Timings: Generally open daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Dam Entry Fee: Nominal charge of ₹10 per person.
Boating Costs:
Speedboat (5 pax): ₹500 – ₹1,080 approx. per boat (15 mins).
Large/Pontoon Group Boat: ₹700 – ₹2,000 depending on duration and capacity.
2. Can we spot wild elephants near the lake?
Yes! The reservoir is a vital water source for wildlife in the surrounding forest reserve. Herds of wild elephants are frequently spotted drinking or grazing along the edge of the lake, especially during early mornings or late afternoons.
3. Can we visit the Indo-Swiss Dairy Farm at Mattupetty?
The Mattupetty Indo-Swiss Livestock Project (Cattle Farm) is located about 3 km from the dam. While general entry into the core breeding areas is restricted for biosecurity reasons, visitors can enjoy view of the sprawling pastures and high-yield cattle from outside/designated viewpoints.
4. What is the best time of year to visit?
Best Months: September to May. Post-monsoon and winter seasons offer pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and full water levels.
Monsoon (June – August): Heavy rains can restrict boating activities for safety reasons
What are the best transport options to reach Mattupetty Dam from Munnar town, including auto, taxi, and bus costs?
Travelling from Munnar town to Mattupetty Dam (approx. 13 km) is simple and scenic. Depending on your budget, flexibility, and group size, here are the best transport options along with approximate costs:
1. 🚌 KSRTC / Local Government Bus (Most Budget-Friendly)
Estimated Cost: ₹20 – ₹45 per person (one way)
Travel Time: ~30–40 minutes
Details:
Buses heading towards Top Station, Kundala, or Vattavada depart from the Munnar Main KSRTC Bus Stand and pass right over/along Mattupetty Dam.
Pros: Highly economical for solo travelers and small budget groups.
Cons: Schedules are limited compared to city routes, and buses can get crowded during peak tourist hours. You will also need to adjust your sight-seeing time around the bus departure schedules for your return journey.
2. 🛺 Auto-Rickshaw (Best for Short Sightseeing / Couples)
Estimated Cost:
One-Way Drop: ₹350 – ₹500 (approx. depending on negotiation)
Return Trip / Sightseeing Package: ₹800 – ₹1,200 (includes waiting time at the dam + stops at Photo Point)
Travel Time: ~30–35 minutes
Details:
Auto stands are easily available across Munnar town center (Moolakadai / KSRTC Stand).
Pros: Open views of tea gardens during the ride and flexible schedules.
Cons: Not ideal for larger groups (max 3 passengers) or severe rainy/chilly conditions.
3. 🚕 Private Taxi / Cab (Most Comfortable & Convenient)
Estimated Cost:
One-Way Drop: ₹700 – ₹1,000 (Hatchback/Sedan)
Half-Day / Full-Day Sightseeing Package: ₹1,800 – ₹2,500 (Covers Mattupetty Dam, Photo Point, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake)
Travel Time: ~25–30 minutes
Details:
You can easily book cabs through local taxi stands, tour counters, or directly through your hotel/resort in Munnar.
Pros: AC/Non-AC comfort, luggage space, and driver acts as a local guide. Most tourists prefer booking a day package since Mattupetty, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake lie on the exact same road.
🏍️ Alternative Option: Scooter & Bike Rentals
Estimated Cost: ₹500 – ₹900 per day (excluding fuel)
Details:
Bike rental shops in Munnar town offer scooters (Activa, Dio) and motorbikes (Royal Enfield).
Pros: Freedom to explore at your own pace and enjoy riding through smooth, winding hill roads and tea plantations. Valid driving license and helmets are mandatory.
💡 Recommendation
For Sightseeing: Book a round-trip taxi or auto package that includes Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Lake, as finding individual return transport at Mattupetty Dam can sometimes take waiting time during peak hours.
For Budget Travel: Catch an early morning KSRTC bus heading towards Top Station/Kundala and board a returning bus in the afternoon.