Idukki, a landlocked district, derives its name from the
Malayalam word Idukku meaning a narrow gorge. Idukkis lush green foliage is
streaked with sparkling silver lines painted by the rivers Periyar, Thalayar,
Thodupuzhayar and a number of rivulets. It is estimated that over fifty percent
of the total land in the district is covered with dense tropical forests.
Idukki is the place to indulge in elephant rides, wildlife safaris, trekking,
boating or simply to bask in the calmness of picturesque greenery.
TOP ATTRACTIONS
Idukki Wildlife
Sanctuary:
The sanctuary, situated
at an altitude of 450 to 748 meters above the sea level, has a tropical green
cover sprawling over 77 sq. km covering Udumpanchola and Thodupuzha thaluks of
Idukki district. Biologically, this sanctuary is a natural habitat for an
amazing assortment of wildlife including elephants, bears, tigers, bison,
snakes and birds. The beautiful lake surrounding the sanctuary adds to the
scenic beauty of the region. The perfect way to enjoy the beauty and natural
wealth of the sanctuary is by taking a boat cruise around this picturesque
lake. The sanctuary is located at a
distance of about 40 km from Thodupuzha town.
Idukki Arch Dam:
This
magnificent dam is acclaimed to be one of the biggest arch dams in Asia . Constructed in the canyon between the Kuravan and
Kurathi hills this dam towers to a height of 550 ft and spreads to a width of
650 ft. This dam, constructed across the Periyar River
This
beautiful park situated close to Idukki and Cheruthoni dams offer breathtaking
panoramic views of the reservoir and the adjoining wilderness. This park,
perched on top of the verdant hills, sprawls over an area of 8 km dotted with
emerald green lawns, exotic plants and views to thrill you beyond imagination.
The park is an ideal place to spot elephant herds roaming in the wilderness and
for taking boat rides in the tranquil lake. The medicinal plant garden and
children’s play area add further charm to this beautiful park.
Thommankuthu Waterfalls:
. This enchanting waterfall, located at
a distance of about 20 km from Thodupuzha, is an ideal place to glimpse natures
ravishing beauty. This beautiful petite waterfall cascades down in seven steps
with a small pool at each level. This magnificent setting also offers a perfect
stage to indulge in adventure sports including trekking and mountaineering. The
place is also ideal for boating and a quite afternoon of fishing. This
unspoiled land of scenic beauty attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Nadukani:
This
idyllic site perched on top of a hill is surrounded by lush greenery and huge
boulders. The place offers an ideal spot to catch panoramic views of
breathtaking proportions of the nearby low lying areas. The name when literally
translated means “see the lands”. A two storied pavilion has been erected here
to better view the low lying areas draped in velvet greenery. The place is a
photographer’s paradise offering picture postcard visions of the valley below
with white streaks of silver streams cutting through the lush greenery. Located
at a distance of about 70 km from Thodupuzha, the place can be easily accessed
unlike most other tourist spots in the district.
Thumpachi Calveri Samuchayam:
This
mountainous terrain located at a distance of 35 km from Thodupuzha is a
beautiful spot unexplored by mainstream travelers. Perched on top of a
mountain, this is an ideal spot to enjoy a beautiful sunset - a vision painted
in hues of dazzling orange with silhouettes of majestic mountains draped in
rich robes of green in the foreground. It is also an ideal place to “rediscover
yourself” in quite meditation and just relax in the tranquil surroundings.
Kulamavu:
Kulamavu
dam lies in the vicinity of the Idukki dam. The beautiful lake and adjoining
wilderness adds to the beauty of the place making it an ideal picnic spot. The
area is also perfect for a trekking expedition or mountaineering. The location
is also a vantage point offering panoramic views of the beautiful countryside.
Painavu:
This
petite picturesque town is the headquarters of Idukki district. Painavu is a
place of amazing scenic beauty surrounded by evergreen forests and verdant
mountains. This forest township is an ideal location to escape from the hustle
and bustle of the city. It is also a preferred spot for trekking.
Kalliyanathandu:
Located
on top of a hill, this is an ideal place to enjoy a panoramic view of the
Idukki reservoir, the adjoining forests and mountains. This vantage view of
breathtaking splendor makes it a popular spot among tourists. The place is also
favored by adventure tourists for trekking and mountaineering.
Malankara Reservoir:
Located
at a distance of about 6Km from Thodupuzha, this splendid artificial reservoir
is a popular attraction among tourists. The shimmering golden water of the
reservoir is sharply contrasted by the surrounding emerald greenery. The
reservoir is an ideal setting to enjoy a boating trip or to just laze around
and do some fishing. This lake could be accessed by road.
Keezharkuthu:
The place is famous for its
splendid Rainbow waterfalls cascading down from a height of about 1500 meters.
The surrounding forests offer a picture perfect setting for this amazing
waterfall. The forest is acclaimed to have an exotic variety of flora including
those of medicinal value. The area is ideal for trekking, mountaineering and
camp sites.
Palkulamedu:
This
popular adventure travel destination, located at a distance of about 12 km from
Idukki, is set at an altitude of 3125 meters above the sea level. Views of the
city of Cochin ,
Alappuzha and other towns could be seen from this peak on a bright sunny day.
The panoramic views here are simply breathtaking.
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