Bhoothathankettu Dam

According to legends, some monsters planned to submerge the Thrikkariyoor temple and presiding deity Lord Shiva by making a dam in the Periyar river and flooding the area. But Lord Shiva, suspecting trickery, came up with a plan to deter them. He made it appear that dawn was approaching by crowing like a rooster. The demons fearing the arrival of light fled from their task. But the remains are visible proof of their effort – the huge stones the demons were supposed to have rolled onto the river bed – the Old Bhoothathankettu, are still there. The Periyar flows through the narrow space which the demons did not quite manage to block.

That is legend and imagination for all. The actual formation of the old Bhoothathankettu remains a conjecture. It has been attributed to two great floods  one in the 4th century and the other in 1341, which threw open the Kochi Port.  The massive landslides during the floods are believed to have caused the gigantic rocks to roll down from the mountain and become entrenched in the old Bhoothathankettu.
If it is curiosity about this place that brings tourists here, it will be Bhoothathankettu's mesmerizing beauty that keeps them enthralled forever. Tall mountains, a calm lake, river Periyar and an all encompassing forest meet at the eco  tourism destination to make it a tribute to nature.

Bhoothathankettu is 100 metres above sea level and has a very moderate climate. Here a nature loving tourist can enjoy a cruise through the freshwater lake, trek through the deep evergreen forest, and even go for an adventure expedition down the turbulent Periyar. One could also take a cool dip in the fresh clean medicinal water coming down the mountain where Neelakoduveli, a life giving herb is said to grow, a trip upriver on a houseboat, a ride on a speedboat,  go rock climbing, fishing...the possibilities for relaxation and fun remain endless. A trip on the houseboat is a must.
A journey up the Periyar, with its beauty and tranquility, to satisfy your parched senses are mere bonuses. The dam is a vantage point from where you can spot the turbulent water rushing from the dam towards the old Bhothathankettu. The river gives one the impression of sprouting here and there into a pool of blood, due to the presence of a red water plant, possibly algae, that grows on the rocks just beneath the rushing water. A view of the surrounding area from up there will make you forget the scorching rays of the sun that beats down on you. You will be just lost in the beauty of the Periyar. The sunrise from Bhoothathankettu is yet another treat to watch.

Getting there
Nearest railway station: Aluva Railway Station, about 41 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 40 km
Google map coordinates: 4MQ6+2Q Poochakuthu, Kerala