Pookode Lake is a natural freshwater lake located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is one of the most beautiful and serene lakes in the region, surrounded by evergreen forests and hills. The lake is also a popular tourist attraction, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Visit during One day Wayanad Local Sightseeing by Private cab. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit to Pookode Lake, including the location, timing, entry fees, how to reach, things to do, significance, FAQs, and conclusion.
Location of Pookode Lake
Pookode Lake is situated near Vythiri town, about 13 km from Kalpetta, the headquarters of Wayanad district. The lake is about 8.5 hectares in area and has a depth of 6.5 meters.
Timing / Entry Fees Pookode Lake
The lake is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm on all days. The entry fee is Rs. 20 per person for Indians and Rs. 40 per person for foreigners. There is also a camera fee of Rs. 25 per camera.
How to Reach Pookode Lake
The nearest airport to Pookode Lake is Kozhikode International Airport, which is about 75 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Kalpetta and then another bus or taxi to Vythiri. From Vythiri, you can walk or take an auto rickshaw to the lake. The walk is about 3 km long and takes about 30 minutes. The auto rickshaw ride costs Rs. 40 per vehicle and takes about 15 minutes.
Things to Do / Must See Pookode Lake
The main attraction of Pookode Lake is the lake itself, which offers a calm and peaceful view and a refreshing experience for visitors. You can see the clear water and the greenery that reflect on the surface of the lake. You can also see some aquatic animals such as fish and turtles in the lake.
Apart from admiring the lake, you can also enjoy various activities and attractions at the lake site, such as:
- Boating: You can take a pedal boat or a row boat ride on the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the water and the forests. The boating fee is Rs. 50 per pedal boat for two people and Rs. 100 per row boat for four people.
- Aquarium: You can visit the freshwater aquarium near the lake and see various types of fish and other aquatic creatures that are found in the lake and nearby rivers. The aquarium fee is Rs. 10 per person.
- Children’s Park: You can visit the children’s park near the lake and let your kids have fun with various swings, slides, seesaws, etc. The park fee is Rs. 10 per person.
- Shopping: You can visit the handicrafts shop near the lake and buy some souvenirs and gifts made by local artisans such as bamboo products, pottery items, spices, honey, etc.
Significance of Pookode Lake
Pookode Lake is not only a tourist spot but also an ecological and cultural site that has many values and meanings for the people and the environment of Wayanad. Some of the values of the lake are:
- Ecological: The lake is a source of water for irrigation and drinking purposes for the nearby villages. The lake also supports a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna that are endemic to Wayanad.
- Cultural: The lake is a sacred place for many communities that live in Wayanad. The lake is believed to be the abode of Goddess Lakkidi, who is worshipped by many tribes such as Paniyas, Kurumas, Adiyas, etc. The lake also hosts many festivals and rituals such as Thiruvonam, Vishu, Karthika Vilakku, etc.
- Educational: The lake is a learning center for many students and researchers who visit the lake to study its ecology, history, culture, etc. The lake also has an interpretation center that provides information and awareness about the lake and its surroundings.
FAQs
How long does it take to explore Pookode Lake?
It takes about one to two hours to explore Pookode Lake thoroughly. You will need some time to walk from Vythiri to the lake and back. You will also need some time to enjoy the activities and attractions at the lake site
Is there any facility for food and water near Pookode Lake?
There are some small shops near Vythiri that sell snacks and water bottles. You can also find some restaurants in Kalpetta that serve local cuisine.
Is there any accommodation near Pookode Lake?
There are some hotels and resorts near Vythiri that offer comfortable accommodation for visitors. Some of them are Vythiri Village Resort, Wayanad Wind Resort, Upavan Resort, and Lakkidi Village Resort.
Conclusion
Pookode Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, water, and culture. The lake offers a serene view and a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. The lake also has an ecological and cultural significance that adds to its charm and appeal. If you are planning to visit Wayanad, make sure to include Pookode Lake in your itinerary. You will not regret it!
