Pookode Lake
One of the few natural (rather than dam-created) lakes in Wayanad. Pookode’s calm surface is used for pedal and rowing boats. A small aquarium and craft stalls near the entrance make it one of. The more visitor-ready spots on the plateau. Pookode Lake sits at an elevation of 768 m. Is typically explored in about 1-2 hours. The most favourable months to visit are January, November, December, and February. Conditions are best suited for sightseeing.
Pookode Lake at a Glance
Essential information about Pookode Lake.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Overview
One of the few natural (rather than dam-created) lakes in Wayanad, Pookode’s calm surface is used for pedal and rowing boats, and a small aquarium and craft stalls near the entrance make it one of the more visitor-ready spots on the plateau. Pookode Lake sits at an elevation of 768 m and is typically explored in about 1-2 hours. The most favourable months to visit are January, November, December, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Freshwater Aquarium, Pookode Lake View Tower, and Children’s Park and Play Area. Other notable highlights include boating on the lake shaped like India's map, watching Malabar giant squirrels in surrounding forest, and walking the lakeside nature trail through evergreen trees. It falls within Kerala, India.
Highlights
- Boating on the lake shaped like India's map
- Watching Malabar giant squirrels in surrounding forest
- Walking the lakeside nature trail through evergreen trees
- Spotting hornbills and kingfishers near the water's edge
- Visiting the small Pookode Lake temple on the bank
- Seeing the freshwater spring feeding the lake's clear water
Getting There
Things To Do
Visit the Pookode Lake Temple and Hanuman Statue
At the eastern edge of the lake, find a small, ancient Shiva temple with a striking 20-foot Hanuman statue nearby, a popular spot for local pilgrims. Observe the daily rituals and the brass oil lamps that add a spiritual touch to the forest setting.
45 minutes
Paddle a Pedal Boat on the Lake
Rent a pedal boat from the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation jetty and glide across the calm, spring-fed waters, getting close to the floating water lilies and the surrounding green hills. It’s a gentle, low-effort way to experience the lake’s serenity from the middle.
1 hour
Walk the Lakeside Nature Trail
Stroll along the well-laid path that circles a portion of the lake, offering quiet viewpoints of the still water and the Western Ghats’ forested slopes. Look for Malabar giant squirrels and hornbills in the canopy above.
1.5 hours
Hike the Short Forest Loop to the Viewpoint
From the main gate, take the marked, sloping path that climbs about 200 metres into the evergreen forest, leading to a small clearing with a raised platform. From here, you get a panoramic view of the entire lake shaped like a map of India, framed by cardamom and coffee plantations on distant slopes.
1.5 hours
Explore the Pookode Lake Aquarium and Freshwater Fish Farm
Step into the small, government-run aquarium near the entrance, which showcases indigenous fish species like the Kerala carp and catfish, along with a few exotic varieties. This is a quick, shaded stop that adds a scientific touch to your visit.
30 minutes
Birdwatching at the Lake’s Southern Marsh
Walk towards the quieter southern end of the lake where reeds and shallow water attract kingfishers, egrets, and sometimes the rare grey-headed fish eagle. Bring binoculars and sit on the wooden benches placed for silent observation.
2 hours
Travel Tips
Book the Pedal Boat in Advance, Not the Rowboat
For groups, reserve the larger pedal boat (seats 6-8) at the ticket counter first thing in the morning, as they sell out quickly. Avoid rowboats if any member has limited arm strength – the pedal version is easier on the knees and allows you to rest mid-lake.
Visit Early Morning for Comfort and Fewer Crowds
Reach the lake by 9:00 AM to avoid the midday heat and heavy tourist traffic, which makes walking and boating easier for seniors. The morning light also gives you the best views of the surrounding hills.
Use the Wheelchair-Friendly Walkway, Not the Steps
The main lake loop has a smooth, paved path suitable for walkers and wheelchairs, so skip the steep stairways near the boating jetty. Ask the staff at the entrance to direct you to the flat trail, which is shaded and has benches every 200 metres.
Plan a Short, Flat Nature Walk and Use the Restrooms Before the Trail
The 3.5 km lake loop is easy but takes about 1.5 hours with photo stops, so allocate time for just one loop and then rest at the lakeside pavilion. Use the clean public restrooms near the ticket office before starting, as there are none along the path for seniors with mobility concerns.
Carry Your Own Snacks and Water, But No Plastic Bottles
There is only one small snack kiosk near the entrance, and it often runs out of water by noon, so bring refillable bottles and light eatables. Remember, Kerala enforces a strict plastic ban – carry cloth bags and avoid single-use plastic wrappers or you may be fined.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main pathway around the lake is flat, paved, and about 2.2 km long, making it quite manageable for most seniors. There are benches and shaded spots to rest, but some sections near the boating area have gentle slopes and uneven stones. If walking the full loop is tiring, you can simply enjoy the view from the entrance plaza or the watchtower.
Early morning, between 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM, is ideal because the lake is calm, the mist is lifting, and tour groups haven't arrived yet. The light is also soft for photography, and the surrounding hills reflect beautifully on the water. Avoid weekends and public holidays if you prefer a quieter experience.
The lake is part of the Western Ghats, and you can visit the nearby Pookode Lake View Point and the small freshwater aquarium inside the premises. Within a 30-minute drive, you can explore the tea plantations of Wayanad, the Lakkidi viewpoint, and the ancient Thirunelli Temple. For a relaxed day, combine the lake with a short visit to the nearby Kuruvadweep island (if river conditions permit) or a spice plantation tour.
There is a small canteen near the entrance that serves South Indian snacks like vada, tea, and coffee, but the menu is limited and not suitable for a full meal. Clean, pay-and-use restrooms are available near the main parking area, but they may not be spotless during peak hours. It’s wise to carry your own water bottle and some light snacks, though eating near the lake shore is discouraged to keep the area clean.
Yes, pedal boats and rowboats are available, and life jackets are provided for all passengers. The lake is shallow and calm, so it is generally safe, but you should avoid boating if you have balance issues or back problems, as getting in and out of the boat requires some care. The pedal boat ride is about 20–30 minutes and offers a lovely close-up view of the hills.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Pookode Lake
Day 1
Begin your visit with a gentle introduction to Pookode Lake, allowing time to absorb the tranquil atmosphere. The day focuses on leisurely walks around the lake perimeter and enjoying the surrounding forested hills at a relaxed pace. You will also have the chance to visit the nearby freshwater aquarium and the ecological museum to learn about the region's biodiversity.
- Take a peaceful walk along the 2.5 km circular path around Pookode Lake, pausing at the watchtower for panoramic views of the hills.
- Visit the Pookode Lake Aquarium, which showcases native fish species found in the Western Ghats.
- Explore the small ecological museum near the lake entrance, displaying local flora, fauna, and tribal artifacts.
Day 2
On the second day, venture slightly beyond the lake to experience the surrounding low hills and spice plantations. The morning is ideal for a short, easy nature trail through the adjacent forest, followed by a visit to a nearby viewpoint for a broader landscape perspective. The afternoon can be spent relaxing by the lake with a boat ride, if desired, before departing.
- Take a gentle guided nature walk through the forest fringe near the lake, spotting birds and butterflies (ask local guides at the entrance for the safe, easy trail).
- Visit the Lakkidi viewpoint, about 6 km from Pookode, which offers sweeping views of the Wayanad valley and the winding roads below.
- Enjoy a slow pedal boat or rowboat ride on the calm lake waters, surrounded by green hills (boating is available at the lake).
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Tour Packages for Pookode Lake
Wayanad
Kerala
11 place(s) covered within Wayanad
Banasura Sagar Dam
Chembra Peak
Edakkal Caves
Kalpetta
Kanthanpara Falls
Kuruvadweep
Lakkidi View Point
Meenmutty Falls
Soochipara Falls
Sultan Bathery
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
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