Idukki Tourism

Idukki is one of the 14 districts of Kerala state, India, created on 26 January 1972. At that time, the district headquarters was at Kottayam. In June 1976 it was moved to Painavu. Idukki which lies in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Idukki is the second largest district in area but has the lowest population density. Idukki has a vast forest reserve area; more than a half of the district is covered by forests. The urban areas are densely populated whereas villages are sparsely populated. Idukki is also known as the spice garden of Kerala.
Kerala's largest district, Idukki is one of the most nature-rich areas of the State. Here, highranges and wooded valleys are girded by three main rivers the Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar - and their tributaries. Powering Kerala with one-third of the State's electricity, Idukki is also famous for its gigantic arch dam. Predominantly populated by tribals,, an astonishing 50 percent of its total area is covered by forests. As a tourist destination, the place offers diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation tours, mountain treks, elephant rides etc. Idukki's numerous trekking trails and spectacular landscape dotted with rich flora and fauna, makes it a dream destination for nature enthusiasts.

Idukki also bears rivers such as Thodupuzhayar, Periyar and Thalaya. It also beds thirteen peaks, other than Anamudi that have an altitude of above 2000 m. Idukki can be called the Power House of Kerala as it caters to 66% of the state’s Hydroelectric Power consumption. The Idukki Arch Dam, Kulamavu Dam and Cheruthoni Dam are the three important dams in Idukki. A visit to these dams is worth-while as they are located in scenic backdrops. Moreover, a wind energy farm is found in Ramakkalmedu, an important hill station and a tourist hotspot of Idukki. An important irrigation project of Kerala, the Malankara Reservoir is a visitors’ favourite place for boating and fishing. Idukki has many attractions in store for its visitors. Apart from the beautiful landscape, it contains numerous tea gardens and coffee plantations, serene springs and enchanting waterfalls and a handful of animal reserves and sanctuaries. The aroma of tea and coffee lingers in the air of Murrikkaddy, a well-known plantation in Idukki. Nedumkandam Hill is the land of spice as pepper and cardamom are cultivated here. The cascades of Cellar Kovil gesture a nod of welcome to visitors.