Pookot Lake is a scenic freshwater lake in the Wayanad district in Kerala, South India. A major tourist destination in the district, Pookot is a natural freshwater lake nestling amid evergreen forests and mountain slopes at an altitude of 770 meters above sea level. It is 15 km away from Kalpetta. It is the smallest and highest altitude freshwater lake in Kerala. The Pookot Lake, located 3km south of Vythiri town, is the most frequented tourist spot in the entire Wayanad district of Kerala. A must-visit destination on your Kerala tour, this beautiful fresh-water lake is at a distance of 13 km from Kalpetta. The most important tourist destination in Wayanad, Pookot Lake is a natural fresh water lake nestled amidst evergreen forests and wooded slopes. Surrounded by lush greenery all around, this idyllic lake, with its breathtaking scenic beauty and peaceful ambience, mesmerizes every visitor on tour to Pookot Lake. The pathway around the lake is lined by thick bushes and tall trees which further add to the overall charm. One of the main tributaries of the Kabani River – the Panamaram rivulet originates from Pookot Lake and then tumbles down into Panamaram valley. A fresh-water aquarium filled with an excellent array of fishes is a major attraction for tourists on their tour to Pookot Lake. The recreational facilities at the spot include Boating in the lake, Children's Park, and Handicrafts and Spices Emporium.

The pleasant weather, combined with the scenic beauty and hypnotizing charm of the region promises to make your tour to Pookot Lake a thoroughly rejuvenating and memorable experience. The ideal time to pay a visit to the Pookode Lake is between the months of December and May since the weather is quite pleasant during this time and the lake becomes much more enjoyable during this time of the year.

Things To Do At Pookot Lake, Wayanad

Boating facilities are available for the tourists in the Pookot Lake. Pedal boats too are available. Boating in the lake amongst its natural beauty offers a unique experience. One can also visit the freshwater aquarium situated nearby, the children's park where kids can have all the fun they want and go shopping for handiwork and spices. The District Tourism Promotion Council owns the shopping centers and you can get a variety of things here made up of bamboo and coconut husks. It is recommended to visit the lake during dawn or dusk. The freshwater aquarium comprises an excellent array of fishes which is one of the most major attractions for the tourists on their way to the Pookot Lake.

The lake is also surrounded by a circular track where the tourists can walk or spend time in the natural surroundings by sitting on the benches situated nearby. The place definitely has a sense of serenity and remains unspoiled and very attractive. Herbal, as well as tribal medicines too, are available in the market and it is a must-visit place for all the craft lovers out there. Tribal people collect honey which is present at these shops. People who would like to get a spiritual experience can visit the Sree Narayana Ashram which is surrounded by greenery and tranquility. The lake also offers water cycling apart from the breath-taking views. One can also go for a horse ride on the shores or cycle around the lake.

Why Do People Visit Pookot Lake, Wayanad?

People come to Pookode Lake for a family outing, boating and enjoying the serenity and peaceful ambience of the place. You can savour the views and watch the animals and birds coming to the lake from the surrounding forests. The lake is also home to lotuses and water lilies. The place boasts of a freshwater aquarium, a children’s park and a handicrafts shop too.

Pookode Lake is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in Wayanad, and a favourite among nature lovers. The pleasant weather, along with the hypnotic charm of the region, is sure to make your visit a memorable experience.

How To Reach Pookot Lake, Wayanad?

Pookode/Pookot Lake is about 26 km away from Wayanad city. It lies on the way to Kozhikode. From the bus stop, you can hire a taxi/auto or take a bus that will drop you nearby Pookode Lake. However, the best way is to hire a private cab from top car rental companies in Kerala to take you to Pookode Lake and all the other tourist places in Wayanad. And here are the various ways to reach Wayanad –

By Road – A network of roads connects Wayanad from nearby towns and cities. Buses from Bangalore, Kochi, Mysore and many other places are available at regular intervals to take you to Wayanad. And you can book a private cab too for your tour.

By Rail – Wayanad doesn’t have a railway station. The nearest railway station is in Kozhikode, about 100 km away. Kozhikode railway station has trains from many parts of the country including Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai. It also has regular trains from nearby cities like Kochi and Trivandrum, among others. From the railway station, you can get a bus or taxi to reach Wayanad.

By Air – The nearest airport to Wayanad is Kozhikode Calicut International Airport. It is about 100 km away from Wayanad and has many domestic and international flights. You can get a flight from major Indian cities like Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai, along with international destinations like Kuwait, Qatar, Sri Lanka and others.