The dam is named in honor of Pazhassi Raja, known as the 'Lion of Kerala', who utilized the region's dense forests to wage guerrilla warfare.
The project was inaugurated in 1979 to support the irrigation needs of over 11,000 hectares of land.
The barrage features 16 radial gates designed to regulate water flow and manage flood control during the monsoon season.
The reservoir area is a documented habitat for various migratory birds, particularly during the winter months.
The site is locally referred to as the Kulur Barrage due to its proximity to the Kulur locality.
Pazhassi Dam, also known as the Kulur Barrage, is a masonry dam constructed across the Valapattanan River in the Kannur district of Kerala. The dam serves primarily as an irrigation project, providing water to the agricultural fields of the surrounding Thalassery region. It is situated within a reservoir area that has been developed as a landscaped park for public recreation. The site is named after Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja, an 18th-century chieftain who led resistance against the British East India Company. The reservoir creates an expansive water body that attracts local birdlife. A garden area adjacent to the dam includes walking paths and viewpoints overlooking the barrage gates. The location serves as a water source for the Kannur district's regional water supply scheme.
The pedestrian walkway on the dam crest offers a panoramic view of the reservoir and the barrage gates.
Bring insect repellent as the reservoir area and surrounding greenery often host mosquitoes.
Visit during the early morning hours to observe bird activity near the water before the midday heat.
Stay on designated walking paths as the area near the water gates can be slippery.
Do not attempt to climb onto the dam gates or cross restricted areas marked with safety fencing.
The park area may remain closed or have restricted access during peak monsoon flooding periods for safety.
