Kathu Dam

Kathu Dam is another one of those great walks that you see so few foreigners on. I was here seven years before I heard about it in fact. Most of the foreigners here figure that the only great spot for walking is along one of the many beaches. And the beaches are beautiful enough for most people that they don't need to look any further. However, the beach gets pretty hot and pretty crowded during at least part of the year. Also, if you're the sort that prefers to bike, rollerblade, or just jog in peace, then the beach won't quite do it for you.

Well, the dam is the perfect spot. The dam itself is long enough that just walking along it is a pleasant outing. However, if you're on a bike or want to take a nice long walk, the road going around the reservoir is perfect. There is some traffic, but it's far outnumbered by the people on bikes, jogging, or just walking, so traffic is generally slow and aware of the other road users. Walking the entire way around takes about 2 and a half hours at a fairly quick pace. The whole route is covered by trees, so even if it's in the early afternoon you won't get too hot. Be sure to brings some water though, since the only vendor you're likely to meet is at the very start of the road.