Why a trip to Karalad is a must for adventure junkies

If you are at Wayanad this weekend, here is one new place you could go to. The Karalad Lake situated about three kilometers from Banasura Sagar Dam has been opened to the public. The lake set against a very green landscape offers plenty of entertainment. The Karalad Lake was formed after a landslide about two centuries ago. Spread across 11.5 acres, the lake in Thariyod Panchayat did not attract attention of tourism officials until recently. In 1998, a master plan was proposed after which basic facilities and a garden were built here. Now the place has become a hub for adventure activities. **The facilities available here are**: A zipline that travels 240 metres in seven seconds across the lake at a significant height. This is believed to be the largest zipline in south India and the only one across a water body. Kayaking is offered in inflatable rafts and one can move across the lake or circle it many times. A land zorb allows travellers to hurtle down a cliff while being seated inside a huge, semi-inflated ball. The hundred metre drop through special paths would allow one to absorb the beauty of the surroundings. There is also a wall-climbing facility where you can try your hand at climbing a 30-metre wall while being suspended with ropes and harnesses. In addition there is an archery range and a paint-ball facility for recreation. There are ten tents here for accommodation during any climate. One can also go boating or swimming in the lake and the conference hall and garden welcomes corporate tourists. There is also a counter for purchasing local goods. A roof top restaurant keeps concerns of foodies at bay. Officials are now planning to put up a children's park here.