Renovated tourism facilities at the popular Peruvannamuzhi Dam site in Kozhikode district were officially opened to visitors by Shri P. A. Mohamed Riyas, Minister, Kerala Tourism. The extensive beautification and development project, costing approximately Rs.3.14 crore, was completed over a period of two years.
The renovation project included a host of new amenities aimed at significantly improving the tourist experience. They include a children's park, interpretation centre, ticket counter, open cafeteria, canteen, landscaped gardens, tiled walkways, ornamental lighting and enhanced parking arrangements.
Local authorities indicated that the Peruvannamuzhi Dam, given its scenic surroundings and ample land availability in Chakkittapara and Koorachundu panchayats, holds great potential to become a prime location for caravan tourism in Kozhikode. The enthusiasm of local entrepreneurs to introduce complementary tourism-related services is expected to further enhance the area's attractiveness.
Existing attractions at Peruvannamuzhi, such as the wild animal rehabilitation centre, crocodile shelter, and bird sanctuary, will benefit significantly from these new developments. Furthermore, the dam’s proximity to the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary opens possibilities for regulated trekking activities, pending Forest Department approval.
Officials from the Tourism Department have also revealed plans to develop water-based tourism at Peruvannamuzhi. As an initial step, two solar-powered boats provided by the Chakkittapara Cooperative Bank will commence operations. Minister for Water Resources Shri Roshy Augustine officially flagged off the solar-powered boat services, demonstrating Kerala Tourism's ongoing commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly tourism.
As highlighted by Minister Riyas in his social media post, Peruvannamuzhi is more than just a scenic destination-it is a thriving hub of ecotourism and biodiversity. Nestled in the verdant eastern hills of Kozhikode, near the Wayanad forest belt, the village offers a range of attractions including the expansive reservoir stretching from Peruvannamuzhi Dam to Kakkayam, boat rides, the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, a crocodile breeding centre, fish farming units, and research institutions. With ongoing projects like the Tiger Safari Park at Perambra Estate and a Rs.3.15 crore tourism development plan already drawing visitors, Peruvannamuzhi stands out as a model for sustainable and immersive tourism in Kerala.