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Idukki in Kerala is one the places that truly justify the tag of 'God's Own Country', it is the second largest district in the state. More than 97% of Idukki consists of mountains and woods, which is why the destination is key to all those wishing to see the best of what nature has to offer. With so much natural cover, it comes as little surprise that many attractions in the place are all natural wonders!
Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Idukki is home to some of the most popular hill stations in South India such as Munnar, Devikulam and Anamudi. The highest peak in the Western Ghats, Anamudi also provides excellent trekking opportunities. The district abounds with nature's treasures, and has many attractions from wildlife sanctuaries to numerous waterfalls. A trip to this captivating place is highly recommended and provides a stark relief from city life. Here are some of the places you must visit in Idukki. Our travel guide highlights the key sightseeing places in the district.
Eravikulam National Park
Located in the Western Ghats in Kerala, the Eravikulam National Park is one of the popular places to visit in Idukki. It is the largest such park in the state and is truly beautiful. Rolling hills interspersed by colourful grasslands and many streams makes the park a scenic destination. Over 26 varieties of animals and more than 132 bird species can be found in the park. The place is also frequented by many colourful butterflies. On reaching the park, you will need to park private vehicles outside and board one of the park buses that take travellers on a thirty-minute journey through the hills. You are also allowed to trek a short distance once you get off the bus. Enjoy the charming vistas and make sure you take your camera along.
Photo Courtesy: Arayilpda
Anamudi
At an elevation of 8,842 ft, the Anamudi or Anaimudi is the highest peak in South India and is a part of the Western Ghats. This peak resembling an elephant's forehead is also popular for trekking opportunities. Situated close to the Eravikulam National Park, travellers can traverse the easier trails on the north and south faces. The amazing views makes Anamudi a must-visit place in Idukki.
Photo Courtesy: Arunguy2002
Mattupetty Dam
Situated close to the most popular destination in Idukki, Munnar, the Mattupetty Dam is a scenic location that attracts tourists. It is especially crowded during peak season, the views of the surrounding areas are beautiful from the dam point. Boating facilities are also available. The dam is a prominent source of hydroelectricity. It is also notable for the variety of fauna and flora see on the periphery of the dam including wild elephants.
Photo Courtesy: Bimal KC
Devikulam
The beautiful town of Devikulam is another place to visit in Idukki. Situated close to Munnar, this lovely hill station offers the best of nature from vast tea estates to rubber tree plantations and lakes. The place is named after the legend that states Goddess Sita took bath in the waters of Devikulam lake, and so got the name Sita Devi Lake. The waters of the lake are even believed to have medicinal properties.
Photo Courtesy: Manoj CB
Thomman Kuthu Waterfalls
Among the popular tourist attractions in Idukki is the Thomman Kuthu Waterfalls. The scenic fall looks like a fantasy of nature that came true. Discovered only in the late 1920s, the beautiful waterfall has also attracted filmmakers to shoot here. Located inside the jungle, the waterfall consists of seven steps. If you are done enjoying the pristine waters, you can also indulge in trekking through the forest.
Photo Courtesy: Bimal KC
Thoovanam Waterfalls
An excuse to drive through the scenic trails of Idukki is presented by the spectacular Thoovam Waterfalls, located in the Chinnar reserve. The waterfall is formed by the river Pambar that flows through the reserve. The guided trek into the forest is an unforgettable experience and arriving at the heavy cascade of the waterfalls will be a moment to remember. This rare experience to the depths of unspoilt nature makes Thoovanam integral to tourism in Idukki.
Photo Courtesy: Dhruvaraj S
Muniyara Dolmens
Among the interesting tourist attractions of Idukki is the fascinating area of Muniyara in Marayoor. The place is popular world over for its ancient burial grounds. Yes, you read that right! The Dolmens here are burial chambers made from stone pillars in interesting placements. They are remnants from the Megalithic age. It is also a research area for anthropologists.
Photo Courtesy: Naseer Ommer
Keezharkuth Waterfalls
This beautiful waterfall which has multiple streams cascading across the rock face from a height of 4,921 ft is definitely a must-visit place in Idukki. Located at a distance of 25 km from Thondupuzha in Idukki, it is also known as Rainbow Waterfalls. Surrounded by rich forests, the place is an ideal haunt for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The place also offers activities like trekking, hiking and rock-climbing.
Photo Courtesy: Kerala Tourism
Madammakkulam Waterfalls
A dreamy location, where the cascading waterfalls meets a natural pond, surrounded by lush forests. The Madammakkulam waterfalls deep in the woods used to be a favourite spot of the British planters and even got its name from a British lady who used to visit the place often! The many such picturesque waterfalls seen all across the district of Idukki is vital to its nature and eco-tourism.
Photo Courtesy: Kerala Tourism
How to Reach Idukki
By Road: A vast array of roads link Idukki to major destinations in the country. The NH-49 that connects Kochi to Madura also passes through the scenic locales of Idukki.
By Rail: Idukki does not have a railway station and the nearest junction is Kottayam, located at a distance of 133 km. The journey to Kottayam itself will be memorable as you traverse the charming trails of Idukki. Kottayam has regular and direct trains to many destinations in India.
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin, located at a distance of 132 km. It has both domestic and international flights to most major destinations.
Photo Courtesy: Arun Suresh
