Kaniyambetta panchayat in Wayanad unveils tourism plan; Kallanchira dam will be developed as a major tourist attraction

A seed storage and processing center to be developed at Ambalakunnu will ensure farmers have access to quality seeds and seedlings. | Photo credit: File photo

Kallanchira Dam in Wayanad will become a major tourist attraction. According to Kaniyambetta grama panchayat officials, boating and kayaking facilities will be introduced at the check dam. Sidewalks, seating and a children’s park are also part of the proposed plan.

It is among a number of projects designed to make the local authority a major tourist destination in the Hill District. Other proposed projects include Mulaparambath Canal, Public Swimming Pool at Panamkandi, Children’s Happiness Park at Thazhe Varadoor, Chittoor Tribes Museum, Seed Storage and Processing Center at Ambalakunnu, Wayanad Coffee Project and the proposed Cheekkalloor Airstrip Project.

The projects are part of the ‘Ever Shine Kaniyambetta-2030’ initiative, which aims to develop major locations in the panchayat over the next five years. Kaniyambetta grama panchayat president VP Yoosuf said the initiative seeks to integrate tourism, agriculture, heritage conservation, infrastructure development and air connectivity.

The Mulaparambath canal area will be developed with a children’s park, open gymnasium, walking paths, rest benches, gardens, shade trees and solar lights to make it suitable for recreation and physical exercise.

The public swimming pool at Panamkandi will be renovated and beautified with improved facilities for teaching swimming to children and youth. The panchayat also plans to generate local employment by setting up businesses like a buffet.

The Kavadam-Cheekkalloor approach road will be upgraded to improve connectivity. The proposed works include the widening of the road, the laying of interlocking paving, the construction of sidewalks, the installation of solar street lights and the provision of rest benches. Trees and flowering plants will also be planted along the stretch.

The proposed Children’s Happiness Park at Thazhe Varadoor will be developed under the Destination Challenge programme. It will have, among other things, modern play equipment, a safe playing area, an outdoor stage, gardens, walkways, drinking water and toilets.

Officials said the Chittoor Tribal Museum will be built to preserve and showcase the heritage and tribal culture of the Adivasi district. The museum aims to introduce visitors to Adivasi art forms and traditional musical instruments.

A seed storage and processing center to be developed at Ambalakunnu will ensure farmers have access to quality seeds and seedlings. It will focus on scientific storage and conservation of traditional rice varieties. The Wayanad Coffee project seeks to increase the market value of coffee in the region and improve farmers’ incomes by promoting agricultural tourism and exploring new marketing opportunities.

Published – 01 Nov 2026 18:34 IST