Hidden amid the rolling emerald hills of Kerala’s Idukki district, Kundala Lake is a tranquil jewel among Munnar’s myriad attractions. Known for its stunning vistas, rare blooms, and pristine waters, this artificial reservoir beckons travelers seeking a peaceful, picturesque escape from the everyday rush. Whether admired for its scenic beauty or its singular role in the region’s hydroelectric story, Kundala Lake stands out as a must-visit destination that blends history, biodiversity, and recreation in the lap of the Western Ghats.
History and Formation
Kundala Lake’s origins are closely tied to the ingenious engineering feats of the early 20th century. Carved in the British colonial era, the lake is formed by the Kundala Dam (also known as Setuparvati or Sethuparvathi Dam), a crown in Kerala’s hydroelectric dream. Completed in 1946 as part of the prestigious Pallivasal Hydroelectric Project—the state’s very first such initiative—the dam is celebrated as Asia’s first arch dam. The ambitious project created a reservoir at roughly 1,700 meters above sea level, helping to irrigate farmlands, generate power, and feed local streams, while simultaneously unveiling one of South India’s most idyllic water bodies.
Geography and Setting
Set about 20 kilometers from Munnar’s bustling hill station, Kundala Lake sits at a high altitude, encircled by mist-wreathed mountains and lush tea estates. The approach, via winding roads adorned with tea gardens and eucalyptus groves, offers breathtaking views at every turn. The lake itself, expanding in a gentle basin, reflects the dramatic skyline of the Western Ghats—a sight that becomes magical at sunrise, when early rays create a golden glitter on the calm surface.
Surrounding the reservoir are vast grasslands, forests teeming with birdlife, and villages rooted in old-world charm. The region’s microclimate, defined by cool air and copious rainfall, nurtures a profusion of wildflowers, making Kundala a year-round green paradise.
Attractions and Activities
Boating: The Heart of Leisure
A main draw for visitors is boating. Options abound—rowboats, pedal boats, and even Kashmiri-style shikaras offer idyllic rides across the serene lake. Gliding over the clear waters, travelers can soak in panoramic views of the tea-carpeted hills, spot distant waterfalls, and feel the fresh mountain air.
Floral Spectacles
Kundala Lake is kissed by rare floral phenomena. The Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana), a legendary shrub that blooms only once every twelve years, transforms the hills in a dramatic blue—drawing botanists and tourists alike. The even rarer cherry blossoms grace the landscape twice a year, giving the slopes a magical pink glow. These fleeting displays make Kundala a hotspot for photographers and nature lovers planning their visit to coincide with the blooms.
Photography, Nature Walks, and Picnics
The area around Kundala Lake is a photographer’s dream. Mornings, with their misty blankets and light ripples on the lake, are perfect for capturing ethereal landscapes. Nature enthusiasts can explore scenic walks along the lake’s edge, discovering new perspectives at every bend. Family picnics—on grassy banks amid singing birds and distant views—offer a taste of the region’s storied tranquility.
Beyond the Lake: Exploring the Munnar Highlands
Visitors can extend their sojourn with nearby attractions. The famous Top Station viewpoint, located further up the serpentine road, offers commanding sights of the Western Ghats and adjoining Tamil Nadu valleys. The Sethuparvathi Dam, Kundala Golf Course, Echo Point, and vibrant tea plantations provide diverse experiences, from hiking and birdwatching to sipping fresh local tea at small roadside cafes.
Practical Details for Travelers
- Location: About 20 km from Munnar town, en route to Top Station, easily accessible by taxi or private vehicle.
- Altitude: Around 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above sea level.
- Timings: Boating and lake activities generally operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee to visit; separate charges apply for boating.
- Best Time to Visit: Kundala Lake is enchanting throughout the year, but the monsoon (June to September) brings out the greenest landscapes. For the Neelakurinji bloom, visitors must plan ahead for its 12-year cycle (next expected around 2030). Cherry blossoms brighten the area in spring and late autumn.
- How to Reach: The lake can be reached by road from Munnar, with buses, taxis, and rental vehicles available. The final approach is scenic and offers ample opportunities to stop for photographs.
Conservation, Culture, and Community
Beyond its beauty and recreation value, Kundala Lake holds cultural and ecological significance. The dam and reservoir underpin local agricultural and power supply systems, supporting the lives of thousands. Nearby tea estates owe much of their prosperity to the reservoir’s reliable irrigation. Local communities, including estate workers and villagers, have integrated the lake into their lore, traditions, and livelihoods.
The growth of responsible tourism in the region has increased awareness about the need to protect the lake’s fragile ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to avoid littering, respect local customs, and support sustainable travel activities that ensure Kundala remains pristine for generations to come.
Conclusion
Kundala Lake is a harmonious blend of nature, history, and human ingenuity—a blue mirror that reflects not only the Western Ghats but also the spirit of Kerala. Whether boating with loved ones, marveling at rare flowers, or simply breathing in mountain air, travelers find an enduring sense of peace on its shores. For those seeking Kerala’s alpine magic, Kundala Lake is a chapter that cannot be skipped.
