Lake Thunakadavu in Parambikulam
· Summer: March-June (37°C - 45°C)
· Winter: November –February (27°C –7°C)
· Monsoon: June-August
Best time to visit:
October–March
Opening Time: 7:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 6:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: N/A
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: INR 10
Children:
INR 5
Cameras: INR 25
Video Camera: INR 150
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
INR 100
Children:
N/A
Cameras:
INR 25
Video Camera:
INR 150
Lake Thunakadavu, which has been formed by the Parambikulam Dam, is a scenic water body in the midst of thickly wooded forests of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a great place to watch wild life and birds. This lake is popular for spotting the playful Otters that come up to the water surface frequently.
The lake is home to numerous crocodiles, which makes it unsafe for swimming. However boating is a good option to explore the lake and its breathtakingly beautiful surroundings. Lake Thunakadavu is deep inside the Parambikulam wild sanctuary and a jeep hire is the best option to reach the lake. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the lake is a great place for a relaxed holiday. There is also a watch tower along the banks of the lake for the tourists to have a panoramic view of the forests around.
There are tree top cottages for experiencing the beauty of the jungle and the lake at night. There are guided tours where a trained tribal naturalist would accompany the tourists to the forests around to make them understand about the unique flora of the region.
Connectivites
Road:
Lake Thunakadavu is approachable only by road. It is 95 km. from Palakkad (Kerala) and about 100 km. away from Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu). There are TN State transport bus services to the sanctuary.
Railway:
The nearest rail head Palakkad (Kerala), which is 95 km. away, caters to train services to and from all major cities of India
Airway:
The nearest airport is at Coimbatore, which is at a distance of 100 km. Taxis can be hired to reach the sanctuary.