Pookode Lake

Nestled amidst the green forests and scenic mountain slopes lie the Pookode Lake at an altitude of about 770 metres. The Pookode Lake is a fresh water lake, the only one of its kind that has the shape of India’s map. The lake is famous for the picturesque views of nature all around. Pookode Lake is located at about 15 km away from Kalpetta in the Wayanad district of Kerala. Sprawling across an area of 8.5 hectares, Pookode Lake has a depth of 6.5 metres.

Pethia pookodensis, a type of fish belonging to the Cyprinid fish species is believed to be found only in the Pookode Lake in India. The fish belonging to this species can grow up to a length of 4.3 centimetres. There are several other fish belonging to different species that can be found in the lake. The blue lotuses found in abundance in the lake add up the beauty of the lake.

The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) has arranged boating facilities which is one of the major activity/ attraction at Pookode Lake that draws the attention of many tourists. The boats arranged for the boating services are pedal boat and row boat. The place, including the lake and its surrounding areas are well-maintained, such that they resonate the unspoiled beauty of nature. The place also has an eatery and provisions for other necessary facilities. Other places of interest for tourists visiting the Pookode Lake include the aquarium, children’s park and a shop that exclusively sells hand-made articles (articles made up of bamboo and coconut husk) and spices.

Some important info to add-up on Pookode Lake – one of the major attractions in Wayanad:

Visiting time: Between 9 am and 5 pm.

Entry Fee: Applicable [Rupees 10 for adults and Rupees 5 for children]

By road, one can reach Pookode Lake from Calicut on NH 212 (about 60 km).

Nearest Bus Stop: Thalippuzha

Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (Calicut) Railway Station

Nearest Airport: Kozhikode (Calicut) International Airport