Bhoothathankettu Dam

Bhoothathankettu Dam is a barrage and tourist destination in Ernakulam district, Kerala, situated on the Periyar River near Pindimana village. Opened in 1964, it supplements an ancient natural dam formed by massive boulders, which is steeped in local folklore attributing its creation to demons. The site offers scenic views, boating facilities on the reservoir, trekking trails through reserve forests, and proximity to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at Thattekad.

Visitors can explore both the modern concrete barrage and the ancient natural dam composed of large unshaped stones in the riverbed. The area features landscaped gardens, tree houses, and a children's play area. Boating options include pedal boats and motorboats on the calm reservoir waters. Trekking trails lead through thick evergreen forests to the old dam site, offering opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks along the Periyar River.

The modern barrage was opened in 1964 as part of the Periyar Valley Irrigation Project. The original natural dam is believed to have been formed by massive landslides during great floods in the 4th century and 1341 CE, which also opened the port of Kochi. A bridge parallel to the dam was inaugurated in June 2020.

The name Bhoothathankettu translates to 'Ghost Fort' or 'Monster Fort'. Local legend states that demons attempted to dam the Periyar River to flood the nearby Trikkariyoor Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Shiva tricked them by mimicking a rooster's crow to signal dawn, causing the demons to flee before completing their work, leaving behind the massive boulders visible today.