Wayanad, a hidden gem in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is surrounded by lush greenery, serene lakes, and tranquil hill stations. My trip to this beautiful district left me with unforgettable memories, but none quite as enchanting as my visit to the mesmerizing Pookode Lake on the last evening of my stay. The cool and breezy winter evening added an extra layer of serenity to the entire experience.
This lake is Located near Kalpetta, the heart of Wayanad, Pookode Lake is a freshwater lake renowned for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. As soon as I arrived, my eyes were blessed to see the water lilies floating over the lake’s calm waters, the water reflecting the shades of the sky, and the surrounding greenery that seemed to wrap the place in a cozy embrace. With its high elevation of 770 meters above sea level, this is the highest-altitude freshwater lake in Kerala, yet it remains compact, spanning just 8.5 hectares, making it the smallest of its kind in the state. Despite its size, the charm of Pookode Lake is undeniably immense. The depth of the lake is said to be not more than 6.5 meters,
The shape of the lake is what fascinated me the most. It resembles the map of India, an aspect that the locals are proud of, it is easier to spot the Shape through an aerial view. As the boatman rowed us slowly across the lake, I couldn’t help but marvel at the stillness, broken only by the rhythmic splash of the oars in the water. This perennial freshwater lake, nestled among the hills, is one of its kind in Kerala. Pethia pookodensis is a species of cyprinid fish known to occur only in Pookode Lake. The lake has an abundance of flowers floating in the water and freshwater fishes.
Among the peddle boat and row boating options available at the lake, I chose to opt for a rowboat. The calm of the evening, combined with the gentle rocking of the boat, made for the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The boatman was not only skilled but also a local with vast knowledge about the history and significance of the lake. As he rowed, he shared interesting information about the area, including the fact that Pookode Lake is the point of origin for the Panamaram River. This river flows through the valley, eventually joining the mighty Kabini River, contributing to the ecological balance of the region.
The surrounding area is a true haven for nature lovers. The lush forest along the perimeter of the lake, and with the misty mountains in the distance, was extremely charming. Although I was not the only visitor that evening, the lake never felt overcrowded. Many other visitors were enjoying pedal boats, leisurely making their way across the water at their own peaceful pace. The atmosphere was calm, and the air was crisp, making it the ideal time to unwind.
After the boat ride, I took a stroll around the walking track that encircles the lake. The path is well-maintained and offers scenic views at every turn. With the winter chill, walking around the lake became an incredibly refreshing experience. The sound of the gentle breeze rustling through the trees, the distant chirps of birds, and the quiet gurgle of water created the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing evening walk.
One of the things that stood out to me about Pookode Lake was the cleanliness. The area is well-maintained, with littering being virtually non-existent, which is a testament to the efforts put into preserving this pristine environment. The pristine waters and the surrounding forest feet unspoiled, and this made me appreciate the natural beauty of the lake even more.
As I made my way back to the entrance, I passed by several souvenir stalls. There were also small tea, coffee, and spice stalls, where I indulged in a hot cup of tea to warm myself against the evening chill. The aromas of freshly brewed tea and the warmth from the cup made for the perfect conclusion to my time at Pookode Lake.
The entire experience was made even more special by the fact that it was my last day in Wayanad. I couldn’t have asked for a more peaceful and memorable way to end my visit to this beautiful district. Wayanad had already captured my heart with its rich greenery, scenic landscapes, and warm people, but my time at Pookode Lake added a final touch of serenity to my trip that I’ll carry with me for a long time.
If you’re planning a trip to Wayanad, Pookode Lake should be on your itinerary. Whether you choose to row across its waters or simply take a leisurely walk along the track, the lake offers an unforgettable experience. With its stunning views, fresh mountain air, and tranquil atmosphere, it is a perfect escape into nature’s embrace. As the sun sets behind the hills, you’ll find yourself lost in the beauty of this place.
