Introduction:

Idukki, a landlocked district, is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. Idukki is the largest district in Kerala. The name Idukki has been derived from the Malayalam word 'Idukku' that means narrow gorge. This beautiful district of Kerala is geographically known for its mountainous hills and dense forests. Idukki is a famous tourist destination and offers diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation tours, mountain treks, elephant rides, etc.

Idukki Arch Dam

Destination Facts: 

Location: Kerala, In District Idukki
Altitude: 1350 Meters
Area: 5105.22sq km
Temperature: (summer 22 to 40°C) & (winter 20 to 32°C)
Languages spoken: Malayalam

Getting there:

Nearest Airport: Cochin airport is the nearest airport.
Main Railway Station: Cochin is the main railway station.
Main Bus Station or Road: KSRTC buses are plenty which are connecting all the major cities of Kerala. 

Distance of a few Major Towns from Idukki:

Kochi -100km, Munnar-101km, Thekkady -49km, Kumarakom -104km, Alleppey- 126km. 

Places of Tourist interest:

Hill View Park:
Hill View Park is a popular tourist attraction in Idukki and is known for offering panoramic views of the Cheruthoni and Idukki Dams. A well maintained park sprawling on an area of 8 acres, it is 1.5 Km from the Idukki town and at about 350 ft above the dam water level. 

Idukki Arch Dam:
Lying in the heart of the district, the dam is ideally located between 2 mountains – Kuravanmala (839 meters) & Kurathimala (925 meters) and surrounded by lush natural environs.
 

Kalvari Mount:
At a distance of 5 km from Idukki, lies the Kalvari Mount. It is a popular tourist destination of tourists visiting specially the hill retreat of Munnar. Basically a steep slope, Kalvari Mount provides a view of Reservoir from Idukki to Ayyappancovil on one side and Kamakshy as well as Mariyapuram villages on the other side.

Kalvari Mount

Keezharkuthu Falls:
Keezharkuthu falls, also called as Rain Bow waterfalls is a must see place in Idukki district of Kerala. The waterfalls cascade down a rock from a height of about 1,500m. It can be witnessed throughout the year in full swing. The surrounding forest of the waterfalls is the home of several medicinal plants. The spot is also ideal for enjoying adventurous activities like rock climbing, mountaineering and camp tracking.

Nadukani:
An ideal picnic spot, Nadukani is situated at an altitude of 3000 ft,, It is a charming hill station in Idukki district. Located around 25 km from Idukki, Nadukani offers panoramic view of the blue mountains in northern side and Muvattupuzha River on the other side.

 Painavu:
Painavu is the headquarter of Idukki district and is popular among the tourists for serving as a stopover for the Idukki and Cheruthoni Dam, both of which are located merely 7 km from here.

 Thommankuthu Falls:

Thommankuthu waterfall is a small and beautiful waterfall where one can always pay a visit. Its name is taken from a tribal leader Thomman who was washed away in this waterfall while crossing the river. Thommankuthu waterfall comprises of seven steps along with cascades down from a height of 1500 m. A major feature of this waterfall is that at each step of the fall a pool is formed. It is an ideal spot for adventurous activities including trekking and rock climbing. One can also indulge in activities such as boating, horse riding and fishing.
 

Thumpachi Calveri Samuchayam:
Located approximately 35 km from Thodupuzha; Thumpachi Calveri Samuchayam is a famous spot for meditation and relaxing. The cool and scenic ambiance is also perfect for enjoying sunsets.
 

Kulamavu:
With a height of 3,000 ft above the sea level, Kulamavu is one of the famous hill stations in Idukki, Kerala. It is an ideal place for trekking and tourists are sure to enjoy the Ariel view of the area while trekking. Kulamavu Dam, which is one of the three dams of Idukki Reservoir Project, is the main attraction of the Kulamavu. Stationed at the western side of Idukki Arch Dam, the world's second arch dam, Kulamavu extends between rocky hills to form the 33 Sq.km reservoirs. Boats are also available for 2 hrs cruise between Cheruthoni and Kulamavu dams. Other nearby places of interest includes Moolamattom underground power station and Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary.

Getting around the destination:

KSRTC bus service is found here for local places to visit.

Best time to visit:

October to March is the best time to visit.

Festivals:

Onam is the most important festival in Idukki, which falls in the month of Chingam (August-September).