The Banasura Sagar Dam Zipline

The Banasura Sagar Dam Zipline combines the thrill of an aerial ride with one of the most spectacular settings in all of Wayanad. Banasura Sagar Dam is the largest earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia, and the zipline here lets you soar above its vast reservoir with the Banasura Hills rising steeply in the background. The water below shimmers in shades of blue and green, dotted with small islands that appear during the post-monsoon months, creating a landscape that looks almost surreal from above. For visitors who want more than just sightseeing at the dam, the zipline adds a rush of adrenaline to what is already one of Wayanad’s most scenic destinations.

What to Expect

The zipline at Banasura Sagar Dam launches from an elevated platform near the dam’s embankment and carries riders across a stretch of the reservoir at a thrilling speed. As you glide along the cable, you get uninterrupted views of the turquoise-green water, the chain of small islands that dot the reservoir, and the forested slopes of the Banasura Hills. The entire experience lasts about one to two minutes of actual ride time, though the preparation and safety briefing add another 10 to 15 minutes. Trained operators equip each rider with a full-body safety harness, helmet, and gloves before attaching them to the trolley system on the cable. Weight and age limits are enforced strictly, and operators conduct equipment checks before every ride. The landing platform is cushioned, and staff are present to help you dismount. After the zipline, you can explore the dam area further by taking a speed boat or pedal boat ride on the reservoir, or simply walking along the dam’s crest for panoramic views.

How to Reach

Banasura Sagar Dam is located approximately 25 kilometres from Kalpetta via Padinjarathara. From Kalpetta, take the road towards Padinjarathara and follow the signboards to Banasura Sagar Dam. The drive takes about 45 minutes to one hour through a scenic route that passes through paddy fields, small villages, and patches of forest. From Sultan Bathery, the distance is roughly 40 kilometres and takes about 1.5 hours. If arriving from Kozhikode, drive up the Thamarassery Ghat to Kalpetta (about 70 km) and then continue to the dam. Local buses run from Kalpetta to Padinjarathara, and from there auto-rickshaws can take you to the dam site. The nearest railway station is Kozhikode (approximately 95 km), and the nearest airport is Kannur International Airport (about 100 km).

Nearby Attractions

• Banasura Sagar Dam — Walk along the massive earthen dam, take a boat ride among the submerged islands, or simply enjoy the panoramic views of the reservoir backed by misty hills.
• Banasura Hills — A challenging trek to the peak of Banasura Hill rewards you with sweeping views of the dam, the reservoir, and the surrounding Western Ghats. Located just a few kilometres from the dam.
• Meenmutty Waterfalls — The largest waterfall in Wayanad, cascading down in three tiers from a height of about 300 metres. Roughly 30 km from the dam, it makes for a great half-day trip.
• Karlad Lake — A freshwater lake near Padinjarathara, about 10 km from the dam, where you can enjoy boating and picnic in a peaceful setting surrounded by hills.

Visiting Information

• Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, all days (last zipline ride around 5:00 PM)
• Entry Fee: Zipline tickets range from ₹300 to ₹600 per person depending on the package; separate charges apply for boating
• Best Time to Visit: October to March, when water levels are high and the surrounding hills are at their greenest
• Duration: The zipline itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes including preparation; plan at least 2 to 3 hours to also explore the dam and take a boat ride
• Age and Weight Restrictions: Generally, children below 10 years and individuals above 120 kg are not allowed on the zipline. Riders must be free from serious heart conditions or back problems
• Tips: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. Carry a light jacket as the dam area can be breezy, especially during the winter months