KOCHI: Picture postcard Bhoothathankettu Dam, for long a must visit hot spot on the region’s tourist map, will prove even more irresistible to travellers now, with the dam authorities and the DTPC unveiling new initiatives to provide visitors a heady experience like never before.
Two tree houses offering a heavenly experience to the travellers is being readied on the Periyar’s banks by the dam’s side. With a bedroom, attached bathroom and balcony which offers a spectacular view of the mighty river’s sparkling waters, the tree houses will indeed be an unforgettable one-of-a kind thing to even the most discerning. “The construction of tree houses is nearly over. We are waiting for the electrical works to be completed so as to decide the date of the inauguration,” said Prince Mathew, supervisor, DTPC Bhuthathankettu.
Nine quarters have also been built near the dam to provide accommodation to the growing number of tourists visiting the region. They are also awaiting inauguration.
A walkway stretching all the way to the entrance to the tourist place as well as a cycling track is also being readied. The first phase of the walkway’s work has been completed . A rainbow bridge will also be constructed atop the walkway, according to the authorities.
“There are plans to construct a suspension bridge connecting Old Bhoothathankettu.A separate children’s park is also in the offing. We have submitted the proposals before the government,” Prince said.
The tourism here is already alive with inland pedal boating service, watchtower and swimming lessons offered by flotilla.
Currently, there are four shikari boats and six speed boats ferrying tourists. “This summer season there was a significant rise in the number of visitors here, with Sundays being the busiest. We had around 45 trips on Sundays. Thousands visit the place during weekends”, said M R Karthikeyan Nair, owner of one of the boats plying here.