Bhoothathankettu is a dam and tourist spot in Ernakulam district in Kerala,. It is situated outside the village of Pindimana, about 10 km away from the town of Kothamangalam and 50 km away from the main city of Kochi. The original natural dam has been supplemented by a modern dam impounding the Bhoothathankettu Reservoir (Thattekad Reservoir).Bhoothathankettu is among the most picturesque dams in Kerala. It is said the natural fortification of hills and forests that guard the place were built by bhoothams (spirits/ghosts). it contains some of the best trekking trails in the State. Trekking through the forests here is an exhilarating experience. A boat ride here is a beautiful way to explore the natural beauty on display. Located nearby is the legendary Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at Thattekkad.
The reason behind the dam’s name is that monsters (Malayalam: Bhootham) planned to submerge the Trikkariyoor temple, whose presiding deity is Lord Shiva by making a dam in the Periyar river and flooding the area. Suspecting trickery the omnipotent Lord Shiva, came up with a plan to deter them. He faked the approaching dawn by a rooster’s sound. The demons fearing the arrival of light fled the place. To this day there is a visible proof of their effort where you can see the boulders which the demons were supposed to have rolled onto the riverbed, the Old Bhothathankettu. The Periyar flows on through the narrow space which the demons did not quite manage to dam up.
The two main irrigation projects of Ernakulam district – the Periyar Valley Irrigation Project and the Idamalayar are also located nearby. One can also access pedal boats and cruises in these parts. It is a wonderful picnic spot about 10 km from Kodamangalam.
Today the Bhoothathankettu Dam & Reserve Forest is loved for hiking where you can see the cave where the Ghosts were believed to live while the dam makes for a beautiful view of the river itself. The place also offers boating for children and adults.
