The largest district in Kerala, Idukki beckons travellers with its serene landscapes, lush greenery, and tranquil waters. Located in the Western Ghats, the breathtaking hills, pristine forests, and diverse wildlife of this land are well renowned. The valleys and hills of this landlocked region is fed by three main rivers, the Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar and their numerous tributaries. Widely regarded as the ‘Spice Garden of Kerala’, Idukki is one among the greenest places in the state. Spanning across an area of approximately 5,105 square kilometres, this district is not just a destination but an experience waiting to unfold.
Nature's Abundance
Nature is resplendent in Idukki. Anywhere you turn you will be greeted with undulating landscapes draped in lush, velvety greenery. The picture postcard like charm and beauty of this land is incomparable. The district is home to the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, where one can spot rare species of flora and fauna in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is known for its population of elephants, deer, wild boars, and numerous species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. Idukki is also home to several picturesque hill stations, including Munnar, Devikulam, and Vagamon.
Situated in Thekkady, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Spanning over 925 square kilometres, it is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. Visitors can enjoy boat safaris on the Periyar Lake, trekking through the forest trails, and experiencing the rich wildlife that thrives in this protected area.
The Idukki Dam, Asia's largest arch dam, is an engineering marvel that spans across the Periyar River. Surrounded by lush green hills and offering panoramic views of the reservoir, the dam attracts tourists interested in engineering feats and scenic vistas. Nearby, the Idukki Arch Dam viewpoint provides breathtaking views of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape. Waterfalls cascade down the hillsides in Idukki, adding to its allure. The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are popular attractions, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for photography. For those seeking tranquility, the serene lakes here such as the Idukki Reservoir and the serene Mattupetty Lake, provide the perfect escape.
Munnar
The land where three mountain streams (Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala) unite! Munnar, often referred to as the "Kashmir of South India," is famous for its sprawling tea gardens, mist-covered hills, and pleasant climate. Located at over 1600ft above sea level, Munnar is among the most sought after honeymoon destinations in the country. It’s also home to a rare natural phenomenon - the Neelakurinji, a plant endemic to this part of the Western Ghats. Every once in 12 years the hills of Munnar get wrapped in a cloak of blue blooms called the Neelakurinji. Travellers reach here from across the globe to witness this rare phenomenon every 12 years.Â
One of the main attractions at Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park, well known for its endangered inhabitant - the Nilgiri Tahr. The highest peak in South India, Anamudi, is also located within this National Park. Ideal for those with an affinity for trekking, the park offers an unbeatable view of the sprawling lush green tea estates and jungles that surround the area.Â
If you are looking for some quiet time away from the rush of tourists, head straight to Mattupetty or Pallivasal which are both prime picnic spots in Munnar. While the former is renowned for the storage masonry dam and the serene lake, the latter is famous for being the location of the first hydro-electric project in Kerala. The Chinnakanal waterfalls offer a calm, rejuvenating space in the midst of nature while Anayirangal which is located 22 km from Munnar, is a verdant stretch of never-ending tea plants. Top Station, located near Munnar, offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and the valley of Theni district in Tamil Nadu as well. Munnar unfolds like a canvas painted with shades of green and splashes of vibrant blooms. Whether you seek solitude amidst nature, wish to explore the local culture through traditional performances and cuisine, or simply want to unwind in the lap of tranquility, Munnar promises an unforgettable experience that rejuvenates both body and soul.
Adventure and Trekking
The district offers numerous trekking and nature trails that cater to both novice and experienced trekkers. The trails through the hills and forests around Munnar, Thekkady, and Vagamon provide opportunities to explore pristine landscapes, encounter wildlife, and witness panoramic views of valleys and tea plantations. The rugged terrain and dense forests provide ample opportunities for trekking, hiking, and camping. Popular trekking routes include the trails to Ramakkalmedu, a hill station known for its windmills and panoramic views, and to the top of Meesapulimala, the second highest peak in Kerala.
The serene lakes and reservoirs in Idukki district are ideal for boating and water sports enthusiasts. Activities such as boating in the Periyar Lake, bamboo rafting in Munnar's reservoirs, and kayaking offer thrilling experiences amidst tranquil surroundings.
Many resorts and wellness centres here also offer Ayurvedic treatments and therapies aimed at rejuvenating the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurvedic massages, herbal baths, and yoga sessions amidst the serene natural surroundings provide holistic healing experiences for visitors seeking relaxation and wellness.
Cultural Heritage
Idukki is not just about natural beauty; it also has a rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored. The district is home to various indigenous tribes, each with its own distinct traditions and customs. Visitors can learn about the traditional lifestyles of these tribes and witness their unique art forms, handicrafts, and music.Â
Idukki is renowned for its spice plantations, where visitors can witness the cultivation of spices such as cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Guided tours through these plantations offer insights into traditional farming practices, spice processing techniques, and the importance of spices in Kerala's culinary traditions. The tea plantations in Idukki are a study in itself for many of them are centuries old.Â
Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine at local restaurants and homestays in Idukki. Traditional dishes like ‘ellum kappayum’ (beef and tapioca), ‘kappa biriyani’ (tapioca biriyani), and ‘idiyirachi’ (sun dried beef) are some of the local favourites. Other traditional Kerala fare like appam with stew, puttu and kadala curry, karimeen pollichathu (fish marinated in spices and grilled), and various vegetarian delicacies made with fresh coconut and spices are also easily available thereby showcasing the region's culinary diversity and flavours.
Unique Accommodation Options and Eco-tourism Initiatives
Idukki offers unique accommodation options such as treehouses nestled amidst lush forests and eco-lodges that blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings. Staying in these ecofriendly accommodations allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature while minimising their environmental footprint. Several initiatives here also focus on community-based tourism, where local communities actively participate in tourism activities and showcase their culture, traditions, and lifestyle. Homestays run by local families offer authentic experiences, allowing visitors to interact closely with the community, learn about their customs, and enjoy home-cooked meals.
Idukki district is a destination that captivates and rejuvenates in equal measure. Whether you seek adventure in its hills, tranquility by its lakes, or a cultural experience in its traditions, it promises a holiday of a lifetime. As you explore this pristine corner of Kerala, you will discover why Idukki remains a cherished destination for travellers seeking to connect with nature's bounty.
Come, lean in and listen to the hills whisper their tales, let the wilderness greet you with their presence, and the aroma of spices enchant your senses. Idukki awaits, ready to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.
These digital guides serve as invaluable tools for travellers planning their Kerala vacations.
Idukki, the landlocked district in eastern Kerala, is one of the most popular tourist locations in India. The E Brochure brought out by Kerala Tourism lists the important tourist destinations in Idukki district such as Amappara, Aruvikkuzhi, Hill View Park, Mattupetty Dam, Meesapulimala, Panchalimedu, Sreenarayanapuram, Thekkady, Vagamon and Urumbikkara. The tourism brochure gives information about what visitors can experience at each destination. Apart from the collection of high-definition photos, the travel brochure also has hyperlinks to 360° and regular videos of the locations
The second highest peak in the Western Ghats after Anamudi, Meesapulimala in the Idukki district is a popular spot for trekking and camping
It may be the smallest national park in Kerala, but Pampadum Shola National Park in the Idukki district can surprise visitors with its incredible collection of flora and…
The perfect offbeat getaway for adventure enthusiasts, Amappara in Idukki is an emerging tourist destination that offers grand views and adrenaline high.
Marayoor, situated 42 kilometers north of Munnar, has a history that dates back to the Stone Age civilization that is as old as 10,000 B.C.E. The dolmenoids (burial cham…
Meenuliyan Para or Meenulinjan para is a mountain peak situated near Thodupuzha in Idukki district. This is a picturesque region of Idukki, located in the Western Ghats o…
The Indian government has designated Kanthalloor as the premier Rural Tourism destination, earning the prestigious 'Gold' award for its innovative and inclusive STREET pr…
A crucial part of the Idukki hydroelectric project, the Kulamavu dam is located in Idukki district in Kerala
Tucked away in the heart of Munnar in Idukki district, the Suryanelli continues to captivate travellers with its thriving tea plantations and forests.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places in India to experience nature and wildlife in close quarters
Covered with rich greenery, Thenmala, and Kanthalloor, the most visited tourist destinations in Kerala offer plenty of camping opportunities that allow travelers to stay…
Meesapulimala is a perfect destination for adventure junkies. This second highest peak in the Western Ghats offers you trekking and camping facilities. You have to travel…
Nestled inside Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thoovanam waterfalls in Idukki district cascade from a height of 84 feet and fascinate Nature lovers and trekkers alike
Mangala Devi Temple is apopular temple located 11 km from Thekkady, Idukki district of Kerala. The chitra pournami festival held here is famous.
Meesappulimala - a destination for the highly adventurous, is located in the second highest peak in the Western Ghats, which offers a memorable trekking experience with c…
Thrissanku Hills situated near Peerumede and Kuttikanam in Idukki offers a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset.
Attukad Waterfalls, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is noted for its long trekking route.
Vandanmedu in Kumily is one of the world's largest auction centres for cardamom. It is located in Idukki district.
Chithirapuram is a hill town known for its tea plantations and is the home of PallivasalHydel power project of Kerala.
Madammakkulam Waterfalls is situated at Peermedu in Idukki district of Kerala.
Anayirankal Dam situated 22 km from Munnar, is a famous picnic spot known for its sprawling tea plantations and boating facilities.
The Arch Dam in Idukki, built across the Kuravan and Kurathi Hills, is the world's second and Asia's first arch dam.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Munnar, Idukki. It is an ideal place for trekking and is also the habitat of the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India
Vagamon, a beautiful picnic spot famous for trekking, is situated near Peermedu in Idukki, Kerala, India
Located about 45 km east of Munnar is the serene village of Vattavada. It is an ideal place for trekking
The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, situated around 58 km from Thodupuzha in Idukki district, is an ideal place to spot elephant herds and other wildlife.
Chellarkovil is a sleepy village known for its waterfalls and hilly terrains. It is located in Kumily, Idukki district of Kerala.
Thumpachi Calveri Samuchayam is a picnic spot also ideal for meditation, relaxation and watching the sunset.
Kulamav dam is a picturesque spot located in Idukki district of Kerala.
Power House Waterfalls is located on the way to Thekkady from Munnar in Idukki district of Kerala.
Vandiperiyar situated at Thekkady in Idukki is a major trade centre for tea, coffee and pepper. Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories in Kerala, India
Situated about 1600 m above the sea level at the confluence of three mountain streams – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala, the hill station, Munnar had been the sum…
A cruise on the Idukki reservoir in Idukki Kerala. Starting from Kulamavu the cruise will take us close to the dam area and will terminate at the Cheruthoni dam. The I…
Munnar, Kerala state's famous hill station located in Idukki district, Kerala, India. Major attractions of Munnar as a destination are Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi P…
Eravikulam National Park located in the high ranges of Kerala, is situated in the Kannan Devan Hills of the southern Western Ghats at Munnar in Idukki district, Kerala. T…
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Rajappara is a remote village near Santhanpara in Devikulam Taluk in Idukki district. Rajappara is situated on the Munnar-Thekkady route. Kathakupalamedu and its adjacent…
Munnar, a popular hill station located in Idukki district, Kerala, India.
History of Periyar Wildlife sanctuary. The Periyar Valley was under the reign of the Pandyas who ruled from Madurai until the 12th century. The sanctuary was included in…
Mangaladevi Temple, a 1000-year-old structure made of large granite pieces, is situated at an altitude of 1337 meters within the dense forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserv…
Chathurangapara View Point offers visitors panoramic views of the magical hills and valleys of the Western Ghats
The Swargam Medu has come under the tourist spotlight for its serene natural setting. Take a ride to the Senapathy panchayat in Idukki district, enjoying the mist-covered…
A mythological destination and a place of tourist importance - 'Thangal Para' is primarily a Muslim pilgrimage centre, about 5 kilometres from the Vagamon town, at Kolaha…
This beautiful hilly hamlet in Idukki has a nice, pleasant climate and sprawling fields of vegetables and fruits.
A favourite of adventure seekers, Anchuruli is a popular tourist destination located in the catchment area of the Idukki dam
The Kashmir of Kerala, Kanthalloor in Idukki district is a serene village known for its cool, balmy weather all through the year
Kanthalloor and Marayoor are two sleepy hamlets situated high up on the Western Ghats. Situated around 40 km away from Munnar in Idukki district, the scenic Marayoor offe…
Mist caressing the rocks and gently enveloping the hills; rain adding a touch of freshness to the air and soothing breeze kissing you. You are experiencing Nature’s cha…
Virgin forests, savannah, rolling hills, scenic valleys, numerous streams, huge splashy waterfalls, sprawling tea plantations and winding walkways are all part of the gre…
At an altitude of 3,500ft above sea level, Urumbi Hills in Idukki is a popular destination among adventure junkies. With a rocky forest path, the journey to the top of th…
Neelakurinji, a flower which blooms once in twelve years can be seen on the hill ranges of Munnar in Idukki district of Kerala.
Kolukkumalai, the highest tea garden in India, is situated around 32 km from Munnar in Idukki district.
Annamalai Temple in Karikodu, Idukki is an old temple dedicated to lord Siva.
Tata Tea opened a Tea Museum in the famous hill station Munnar. Munnar is one of the centres for tea plantations in the State. The museum is located in the Nallathanni Es…
Kuttikkanam or Kuttikanam is an adventure tourism spot located near Peermedu in Idukki
Periyar Tiger Reserve located in Thekkady in the district of Idukki, is one of the 27 tiger reserves in India. The Periyar forest is one of the finest wildlife reserves i…
Located a few km from Munnar in Idukki district of Kerala, Pothamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations.
Bamboo rafting is part of the 'nature walk' of eco-tourism project by the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Peeru Hills is located 4 km from Kuttikanam, Idukki district of Kerala. It is an idyllic hill station for picnickers.
Peeremede, situated 40 km from Kumily in Idukki district, is an exquisite hill station.
Pattumala at Peermede in Idukki district of Kerala is known for its lofty peaks, little streams and tea plantations.
Marayoor, situated 40 km from Munnar in Idukki district, is famous for its natural Sandalwood Forests and pre-historic rock paintings.
Mangalam Dam, a tourism centre with boating facility, is located near Vadakkencherry in Palakkad district.
Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Station in Munnar. The sprawling Kundala Tea Plantations and the Kundala Lake are the main attractions here.
Ramakkalmedu, located about 40 km from Thekkady, is one of the windiest places in Asia. Being so, one can also find here a wind farm, which is an undertaking of the Gover…
Pallivasal located 8 km from Munnar, Idukki district is the site of first Hydro-Electric Project in Kerala
Rajamala hills is situated on the famous hill station at Munnar in Idukki district of Kerala.
Parunthumpara or Eagle Rock is an enchanting hill station located near Peermedu in Idukki district.
Nurtured by the plantation hills of Munnar, and not far away from the Anamudi Peak is Mattupetty, a famous hill town in Idukki district of Kerala.
The Cheeyappara Waterfalls and Valara Waterfalls are fascinating tourist destinations located on the way to Munnar in Idukki.
Echo point is a scenic destination located 15 km from Munnar in Idukki district. It got its name from the natural echo phenomenon here.
The mass blooming of the Neelakurinji (Strobilanthus) flower takes place once in twelve years in the famed hill station of Munnar in Kerala, India
Kalvary Mount , a popular Christian pilgrimage centre and a picnic spot famous for trekking in Idukki. The place also offers an aerial view of the Idukki Reservoir and it…
Rich in wildlife, the mixed deciduous forests the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is ideal for trekking. The sanctuary offers five different packages to explore it and is an i…
Renowned as a slice of heaven, Devikulam is a hill station situated close to Munnar. It is noted for its pine tree fringed roads, the majestic Sita Devi mountains blanket…
The Orali, Malapandaram and Malayarayan tribes live in the hills of Peermede in Idukki, Kerala, India.
Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre is a well established Ayurvedic Hospital managed by the Peermede Development Society in Pallikunnu is in Idukki district, Kerala.
Pandikuzhi situated 5 km from Thekkady in Idukki district of Kerala is a popular picnic spot. It offers great opportunities for trekking and photography.
Kanthalloor, nestled on the border of Kerala and Tamilnadu between Udumalpet and Munnar, is an immaculate village of imposing splendor, soothing climate and nature. Here,…
Murikkady known for its spice plantations is located 5 km from Thekkady, Idukki district of Kerala.
Kumily is a plantation town situated near Thekkady in Idukki district, Kerala. A popular shopping destination for spices in Kerala.
Come to the villages located in the low lying hills of the Western Ghats beside the Periyar forests. The village life tour package organized by Kerala Tourism commences a…
Pambadum Shola National Park, the smallest national park in Kerala is situated 35 km away from the Munnar town in Idukki district. Pambadum Shola is a favourite eco-tou…
Situated in Idukki district of Kerala, at an altitude of 900-1800 m above sea level, Thekkady is a dream destination for adventure travellers and Nature lovers alike. The…
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Deepu Sebastian
deepusebastiankkd@gmail.comSibil Kumar.P.K
pksibil@gmail.comVijayakumar J
vijaythonnakkal@gmail.comRenju R
renju644@gmail.comSuresh K. B
sureshkbwyd@gmail.comJaisal M. K.
jaisalmk@gmail.comAbdulkhadar P.M.
abdulkhadar.parekkattu@gmail.comSunil Daniel
sunildaniel21@gmail.comSai Ramesh
saitheguide@gmail.comRenjith Hadlee
mail@resplendentexperiences.comSuresh Kumar P
sureshethnic@gmail.comSadanandan.T.K
tksadanandan44@gmail.comMohana Chandran B.
mohana_1960@yahoo.co.inJojan Mathew
jojanstourindia@rediffmail.comSajin B.J.
sajinbj@gmail.comHaneefa E I
eihaneefa@gmail.comRajeevan Pallath
parajeevan@yahoo.comRemya Mohan
akkuremo@gmail.comJobin Chacko
jobipnpnl@gmail.comPrasannakumar S.
prasannakumarnath1@gmail.comSivasankara Panicker.P
pspanicker@hotmail.comSanthosh.S.R
santsou@gmail.comFrancis Sebinster
sebinster.francis@gmail.comJunaid K.K
junucer247@gmail.comRosemary Neel
cochinroadking@gmail.comAshkar Rahim
ashkarrahim@gmail.comBinu Kumar T P
binulotus@gmail.comArunkumar .S.S
arun777hiya@gmail.comPadmaraj KM
Padmarajnair16@gmail.comArun Sebastian
travelwitharun@mail.comSiddharth V.S
siddvs12@gmail.comSreejith Vasudevan
sreevasnair@gmail.comAbhilash P Gopinath
abylashg@gmail.comSanjay Johnson
sanjayjohnson@hotmail.comSojo Jose
sojanjose448@gmail.comDanti Jacob C J
dantijacob@gmail.comSreejith M.K
sreejithm053@gmail.comDeleep K.S
deleepks88@gmail.comJijumon F
periyarexplore@gmail. comVarghese K.J
kjvarghese2010@gmail.comBipin Mathew
bipinpaduva@gmail.comSathyadas K S
sathyadassathya69@gmail.comLinson C L
linsoncl.07@gmail.comAswathy U
achoosasok@gmail.comThomas .C.T
malayalakeralam@gmail.comSunil.S
ethnicvoyages@gmail.comDileep Kumar V
dilzlieben75@gmail.comSajukurian
sajukurian56@gmail.comDeepa Francis
diepafb@gmail.comBinumon K.G
binumonkg@gmail.comAncel Correya
ancel.kestrel@gmail.comVishnu Vijayan
vishnuxml@gmail.comSuresh Kumar .K
achuammu.suresh@gmail.comSundaramoorthy C.K
sundramoorthy@gmail.comJoseph Kuriakose
shinekuriakose082@gmail.comAnaz.A.B
basheer.anaz@gmail.comVinod P R
vinod1595@yahoo.co.inSajeev C T
ctsajeevcochin@yahoo.co.inHareesh Das H
harisunora@gmail.comSojan T A
sojanthottuchira@gmail.comJosemon Scaria
josemon.scaria@gmail.comMuraleedharan Pillai.N
murali7808@gmail.comSreejith Mohan
sreejith319@gmail.comBinu P Jose
binujoseonline@gmail.comNoushad P.S
nsnoushadsaleem@gmail.comAnish Jose
anishjosetdpa@gmail.comTed Tony Tom
beachwood.in@gmail.comRajesh V
Rajeshkhd2008@gmail.comFelix George
felixgeorgesaji@gmail.comSaneesh T.P
sanimsw@gmail.comShajas P S
shajasvaikom@gmail.comDr.Jose Bejoy
withfullofgrace@gmail.comRejanish.V.S
rejanish100@gmail.comXavier Mathew
sajimannukulam@gmail.comShafi C M
shaaficm@gmail.comSriraj P S
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