Idukki Tourist Attraction
Idukki
Idukki is inarguably the most gifted district of Kerala, showcasing its verdant natural settings, rolling mist clad hills and shimmering landscape full of peace and tranquility. Idukki’s vast variety of landscape comprises of mountains, lush green vegetations, coffee, tea & spice plantations and most importantly, the incredible wildlife population.
The name Idukki is derived from the word ‘idukku’ meaning a narrow gorge. This landlocked district is located in the southern part of Kerala spreading over an area of 5019 sq.kms. Now a hot spot for Eco tourism, Idukki is a well developed center of rubber cultivation, tea plantations and spice production.
The hills and valleys here display a beauty unique to the district and Kerala’s highest peak-Anamudi is also located here. A walk through the rolling terrain of idukki is something to remember. Three Rivers- Thodupuzhayar, Thalyar and Periyar encircle Idukki, one of the reasons behind the rich flora & fauna of the district. Hill stations, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Mountain treks, Spice plantations and Elephant rides- Idukki offers them all, and then some more.
Apart from its trademark natural attractions, Idukki is also a strategically important location, whose Hydroelectric Power Projects accounts for around 65% of Kerala’s power needs. Statistically, it has one of lowest population density in the state, just 3.7 % as compared to the 12.9 % of Kerala’s total area that it covers. Almost 50% of Idukki is Reserved Forest area.
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport is at Cochin, 132 km way.
By Rail: There is no direct rail link to Idukki. The nearest railhead is at Kottayam, 133 km away.
By Road: National Highway (N. H. 49) from Kochi to Madura passes through Idukki district. Thodupuzha, its major town is well connected with other places in the state.
Climate & Best time to visit
One of Idukki’s main advantages is that it experiences a pleasant weather all through the year, making it suitable to visit any month. The summer season extends from April to June when the average temperature varies from 20° Celsius to 28° Celsius. The monsoons are healthy with average annual rainfall between 250 to 425 cm. Some places have even recorded rainfall of 700 cms.
Idukki Distance(s)
Ernakulam – 57 km, Kochi – 65 km, Munnar - 50 km, Thekkady - 60 km, Neriyamangalam - 22 km, Thodupuzha - 60 km, Vellathooval -33 km.
