Ultimate Travel Guide to Idukki

Idukki is the largest district of Kerala. The name Idukki is derived from the Malayalam word 'idukku' which means narrow gorge. This city was founded in January 26, 1972. The district is beautifully surrounded by unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations.

This beautiful hill station has rich landscapes which are shelters of large number of elephants and other exotic wildlife. The city houses some of the finest wildlife reserves in India. The place is visited by a large number of tourists all throughout the year mostly nature lovers and those love trekking and mountain walking adventures.

The district is famous for mountainous hills, dense forests, gushing streams, valleys, sprawling plantations and wildlife. Its hilly surroundings attract many adventure seekers every year. The city has world's second and Asia's first great arch dam across the Periyar River. Touritsts will get to visit various destinations such as spice plantation centers, wild life sanctuaries, mountain treks, elephant rides, etc. Teak, rosewood, ivory and sandalwood are the main trading items in the city which make it one of the major trading centers in South India. This is also one of the prominent centers of cultural learning. You can visit Idukki Arch Dam, Cheruthoni, Kalvari Mount and Nadukani, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary to get natural exposure and understand the rich culture of the city.

The Wildlife Sanctuary here is spread over an area of 77 Sq.Km and is inhabited by various wild animals. Mild weather, lush green fields and beautiful parks covered with thick vegetation makes Idukki one of the most visited tourist destinations of the State.

Tourist Destinations

There are many tourist spots in this district that are visited by thousands of tourists every year. Idukki is surrounded by three rivers likeThalayar, Periyar and Thodupuzhayar. The district houses many beautiful natural resources of the state such as Idukki Arch Dam, which is the world’s second and Asia’s first arch dam, constructed across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary which inhabitats Elephants, Sambar Deer, Porcupine, Jungle cats, Wild dogs, Wild boar Malabar Gaint Squirrel, Cobra, Jungle Fowl, Black bulbul, Kingfisher and many others. Munnar, which is considered as the most beautiful place of Kerala is located in this district. This hill station houses some of the largest tea plantations of the state.

Marayur is the other scenic tourist attraction in the district located in the slopes of the Western Ghats, where you can see the forest of sandalwood trees. Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary where you can spot Nilgiri Tahr and many other animals. Also you can visit the Periyar Tiger Reserve, with rich biodiversity and natural beauty and also to see Tigers.

Best Season Time in Idukki

Idukki is an all time tourist destination. April to June, the city has a pleasant atmosphere due to the large mountains. During March to May, ie; the peak summer season, you can find pleasant and moderate atmosphere. During monsoon, the city receives high rainfall which adds to the scenic beauty of the place. Winter season is very cold here, and you will need heavy woolen clothes in these days.

How to Reach

Kochi airport is the nearest airport to the city and Theni is the nearest railway station located at about 60 kms distance. The city is well connected by road transport.

Accommodation in Idukki

Holiday homes that give a feel of a true home away home are the best accommodation available here. There are a vast range of holiday rentals from luxury to budget which offers best facilities to their guests.

Most of the holiday accommodations available here are far from the rush of city life. These holiday homes are surrounded with the nature’s best and can provide a perfect break from daily hustle and bustle of urban life.

The breath-taking beautiful waterfalls and sandalwood forests will surely make your trip unforgettable. You can truly rediscover the little joys of life here.