Idukki is known for the splendid green mountains, streams and spices. It is one of the a main tourist destinations in Kerala with its hill stations, such as Devikulam surrounded by lush hills and tea plantations, and its valleys. The famous resort Thekkady (Periyar Tiger Reserve), is in Idukki District.Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world’s most fascinating natural wildlife reserves – the periyar wildlife sanctuary, spread across 777 sq km, of which 360 sq.km is thick evergreen forest, the periyar wildlife sanctuary was declared a tiger reserve in 1978. It is a part of the Project Tiger scheme and is also home to large herds of elephants, bison and deer. The greatest attraction of Periyar is the splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in india where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake.
Also Munnar – breathtakingly beautiful – a haven of peace and tranquility – the idyllic tourist destination in God’s own country. Located at 1600 metre above sea level, this was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes, trekking and holiday facilities make Munnar a unique experience. Munnar is one of the major centers of tea trade in Kerala. It is the highest peak in south India and is home to animals like elephants and the rare Nilgiri Tahrs. Among the exotic flora, there is the Neelakurinji, which blooms every 12 years.The Mattupetty Lake is one of the major tourists attractions around Munnar.
The Lake at a distance of thirteen km from Munnar, was created by a small hydro electricity dam is flanked by steep hills and woods all around. The Top Station is a vintage point around Munnar that offers panoramic views of the lovely landscapes and the valley. At a distance of seventeen kilometres from Munnar is the Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. While in the sanctuary you can spot a variety of animals including the tahrs. The sanctuary also offers wondrous vistas of the valley. For adventurous activity seekers trekking is an option in the sanctuary. The animal lovers at Munnar must visit the Ernakulum National Park. The park is nineteen kilometres away from Munnar. The sanctuary is renowned as home to the mountain goat of the Nilgiri tahr. The two sanctuaries are just two kms from each other.
With the Sahya ranges occupying most of the geographical area, the district has within its boundary the highest mountain peak and the largest area of forestland in the state.IdukkiMost of the tourist attractions le is that different regions in Idukki have the ideal climate and ambience to embrace thriving vegetation and exotic wildlife. There are plenty of sanctuaries and national parks and most of them arrange tours, jungle walks and safaris for tourists. The colossal mountain ranges that form a backdrop for most area also provide challenging trekking spots and picturesque picnic locations. Idukki also has many breath-taking beautiful waterfalls, a naturally formed sandalwood forest, and India’s first arch-dam. The hill s tation Munnar, with its spectacular views, well run specialized dairy farm, and lush green carpet of tea plantations are one of the hotspots in Idukki.
Thekkady
114 kms off Kottayam and 65 km from Idukki
One of the best wildlife sanctuaries of the nation, Thekkady is complete with exotic flora, fauna, and evergreen forest. The vast area of 777 sq kms of forest has an exquisite sanctuary in it, and is the largest in India. It has earned a special place as one of the hotspots on any tourists’ agenda.
The 360 sq km of dense forest in the The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary provides home to a wide variety of remarkable birds like Malabar Grey Hornbill, Grey Jungle Fowl, Heron, Egret, Jungle Myna, Wood Pecker, Rose Winged and Blue Winged Parakeet, Ceylon Frog-Mouth and Rose Billed Roller. This fascinating spot where visitors can often spot many kinds of wild animals is also a noted Tiger reserve. The guided tours arranged by the sanctuary provide opportunities to watch these animals at close quarters. Walks through the acres of plantations and up the mountainous area provide excellent trekking opportunities. A large portion of the sanctuary is surrounded by the Periyar River. Apart from the many varieties of fish here, the river is also noted for the long lovely boat rides that are arranged by the sanctuary. These rides are another excellent way to discover the myriad wildlife that thrives in and around the water. Rowing along the splendidly constructed Mullaperiyar dam, one can always manage to spot herds of wild elephants frolicking in the river water.
Kumily
– Located 4 kms from Thekkady
This is a noted town, close to the Periyar sanctuary. Acres of lush plantations constitute most of the town. Plantation town is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar sanctuary. Kumily is also one of the best places to shop for spices.
Pandikuzhi
– 5 kms from Kumily
The beautiful location of Pandikuzhi is situated at the outskirts of the state. It is now growing to be a popular tourist destination and an enchanting picnic spot. Pandikuzhi is noted for the many species of bird and animal life and rare plants and herbs that thrive there. The landscape of the place makes it an appealing holiday venue for trekkers and adventure travelers as well.
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Chellarkovil
– 15 kms from Kumily
This is a beautiful village that shares its borders with Tamil Nadu. The place presents visitors with a fantastic opportunity to observe the typical life of simple people settled in the villages at high ranges. The scenic extravaganza including acres of luxuriant fields, plains and gurgling waterfalls make it a much sought out tourist destination.
Pothamedu
– 6 kms from Munnar
This is a popular location with trekkers and adventure tourists. The magnificently beautiful mountainous place has many hills making it a perfect spot to set out on challenging treks and mountain walks. Pothamedu is also known for the beautiful tea and coffee plantations and also the lush cardamom plantations.
Chithirapuram
– 10 kms from Munnar
Picturesque Chithirapuram is the site for the Pallyvasal Hydel Power Project. Long arrays of beautiful cottages, bungalows, shopping areas, playgrounds and courts, all designed in an old town’s style, gives one the feeling of being part of an exquisite painting. Many lovely tea plantations make the place even more exotic.
Lock Heart Gap
This is a location in Mattupetty. The place is ideal for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.
Eravikkulam National Park
The 97sq km area of Eravikulam National Park embraces an exotic landscape complete with green meadows, dense forests, tall rock and mountains. The myriad species of animals and birds here include many rare ones as well. Many unusual plants can also be found in the park.
Munnar
– 70 kms from Idukki
Munnar, was the most popular summer resorts during the British reign and is still a very well known hill station. Located at an altitude of 1800m above sea level, this ‘Kashmir of the East’ is the first hill resort in the State.
The chilly climate here is ideal for cultivating tea. It is home to one of the biggest tea plantations in the world- the Kannan Devan Tea Plantations. The sight of mist topped tea plantations spread across acres of Munnar, is indeed soothing to the eye.
The most splendid sight would definitely be that of thousands of the exotic blue flower- Neelakurinji, that inundate the hills every 12 years (the next bloom will be in the year 2006). There are many lovely spots that are ideal for rock climbing and trekking as well. The noisy waterfalls, gurgling streams and rows of tiny cottages add more life and colour to the vivid picturesque location that Munnar already is.
Eravikulam national park is one of the main tourist attraction, where you can find the endagered species of Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat called “varayadu” in Malayalam). A trek to Rajamala (“King of hills” in Malayalam), in the morning is sure to spot a few friendly mountain goats. You can also find Gaur, Langur, Lion-tailed macaque, and Elephants depending on the season and time of travel. The altitude is 1,600-1.800 m above sea level. Temperature ranges from a minimum of 0⁰C to a maximum of 28⁰C. Warm clothes and rain gear is recommended. The tourist season is from Aug-Mar.
Murikkad
– 5 km from Thekkady
Murikkady is a beautiful location that is known for its well looked after coffee plantations. Cardamom and pepper are also extensively grown here. The place is a significant supplier to the many spice shops at Kumily.
Mangala Devi
Temple- 15 kms from Thekkady
This is a famous temple in Idukki. The temple is a classic example of temple architecture of ancient Kerala. The well preserved relics of this ancient Devi temple is situated upon a hillock that stands about 1337 m above sea level. The long way through the dense forest and up the dilapidated steps leading to the temple makes the trip a lovely trek.
Vandiperiyar
– 18 kms from Thekkady
With many tea processing sites and factories, Vandiperiyar stands out as a major trade and commercial center of the district and the state. There are many beautiful nurseries here. It is also the chosen location for the operations and research by the Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden.
Devikulam
– 7 kms from Munnar
The chill climate, fresh air exclusive to high ranges, acres of green lawns, exotic wildlife, and the marvelous Sita Devi Lake, all attract tourists from all over the globe. Sita Devi Lake that is known for its mineral water also provides boating and fishing facilities.
Mattupetty
situated at a height of 1700 m, is specially known for its highly specialised dairy farm – the Indo Swiss Livestock Project.Idukki Over a 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here.
The Mattupetty also has a lake and dam, just a short distance from the farm. These are beautiful picnic spots and the boat cruises (Speed launch, slow speedboat and motorboats) along the dam are quite popular. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala Lake are other attractions in the vicinity.
Echo Point
– 15 kms from Munnar
This is a very scenic place and it gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point is on the way to Top Station from Munnar
Anamudy
This is the highest mountain peak in the state. The colossal mountain that stands as tall as 2694metres is situated on the southern border of the Iravikulam national park. It provides excellent opportunities for trekking.
