Why Tamil Nadu’s Emerald Lake Is Witnessing Lesser Footfall

Emerald Lake, located in the Emerald village area of the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, is named after its surrounding region and is also called the Silent Valley. The lake is approximately 25 kilometres from Ooty. A bridge spans the lake area, where water from two dams converge. This scenic spot attracts numerous tourists. Currently, the lake is dry, revealing only sand dunes, which has led to a decline in tourist visits. Previously, tourists enjoyed standing at elevated points to admire the water-filled lake, along with the various fish and birds that inhabited it. Watching the sunrise and sunset from this location was a memorable experience. To access Emerald Lake, travellers can take a scenic route that leads through the residential area of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board starting from Emerald village. This route connects Ooty, a popular hill station, to Manjoor, another picturesque destination in the Nilgiri district. Along this road, visitors can enjoy the lush greenery and serene landscapes, typical of the region.

Upon arriving at Emerald Lake, tourists are advised that certain parts of the lake area are restricted from public access. These restricted zones are closely monitored by local law enforcement to ensure the safety and preservation of the natural environment. This precaution is taken to safeguard both visitors and the ecological balance of the lake surrounding. Due to climate change and insufficient rainfall, many lakes and dams in the Nilgiri district, including Emerald Lake, have dried up. This has significantly reduced tourist visits.

A local resident shared in an interview, “When the lake was full, it attracted many tourists. But now, in its dry state, tourists no longer come. Five years ago, there was plenty of water, but over the past four years, it has gradually decreased, and this year it is extremely dry.”

“The diminishing water levels in the lake have caused a water shortage in the surrounding villages. The bridge between Avalanchi Dam and Emerald Dam used to attract many tourists, but now, with the lake dry, no one visits,” he expressed with regret.