It was the day after Christmas when we decided to go on a trip to Wayanad. The first place on our itinerary was Banasura Sagar Dam. The dam is considered the largest earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia. Although there was a jeep shuttle facility to the dam site, the group decided to walk as the weather was pleasant. We were glad we were on foot as the walk was scenic – the large expanse of water was enhanced by a mountain chain in the backdrop. According to a website, an earth dam “is a dam built with highly compacted earth. This dam is classified as a type of embankment dam, being built in the shape of an embankment or wedge which blocks a waterway.”
Another Internet search reveals that legend has it that the hills were named after Mahabali’s son, Banasura, who sought atonement on those very hills. As I take in the view, I can see why Banasura chose the spot for his atonement, the hills are silent and beautiful, and the water, placid.
I see speed boats racing in the horizon. According to a regular at the dam, the boats carry tourists around the hills. Although I have heard that there is a picnic spot where visitors can enjoy a meal amidst picturesque environs, we decided to give this a go as we wanted to squeeze in a visit to Pookode Lake.
The lake was packed with families with kids. Here too the water is cuddled by mountains. Clumps of water lilies dot the lake and we take a pedal boat. Back on land, the smell of fresh, roasted sweet corn beckons. I also pick up some boxes of homemade chocolate. On an impulse, all of us decide to try out a fish spa. Soon, all of us were in giggles as the fish tickled and nibbled away the dead skin on our feet.
After a quick trip to the aquarium and children’s park, it was off to our next stop – Kozhikode.
In Kozhikode, we drove down to Kappad beach after dining on a seafood lunch at the famous Paragon restaurant. This rock-studded beach which finds mention in history texts as the place Vasco da Gama first set foot on the Kerala coast, wore a deserted look as it was early afternoon. The blazing sun did not stop us from playing on the sun-kissed sands. Who says you need a well-charted itinerary to enjoy a trip?
