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The largest of the 14 districts in Kerala, Idukki is an unspoiled natural beauty blessed with abundant wildlife, waterfalls and mountain treks. This landlocked district is dotted with wild life sanctuaries, hill stations and tea plantations. Its high ranges and wooded valleys are girded by the three main rivers of Kerala – Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar and their tributaries. The great River Pamba also has its origin here.
From the heights of Idukki, one can enjoy an awe inspiring view of the picturesque surroundings. The mighty Idukki arch dam, built across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills, is one of the most popular places to visit in Idukki. It is the world’s second and Asia’s first arch dam.
Idukki is also famous for its scenic waterfalls – Thommankutth, Thenmaarikutth and Vaalakutth. They offer a rejuvenating break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Besides, Idukki is also a place of many heritage sites like the Kiliyar Temple, Thakazhi Bhagawati Bhagavate temple and Kuttikkanam. Iravikulam National Park, Chinnar wildlife sanctuary and Painavu are some of the other important top tourist places in Idukki.
List of Top 15 Tourist Places in Idukki
1. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated near the Idukki Arch Dam, this wildlife sanctuary is a popular attraction for animal enthusiasts. Kottayam serves as the closest railway station and Cochin airport is a three hour drive away.
Visiting this park in any season will be rewarding as its rich flora and fauna will amaze you. Reptilian species like cobra, viper and krait will bewilder you while avian species such as black bulbuls, laughing thrushes etc will enchant you.
2. Thommankuthu Waterfalls
Thommankuthu Waterfalls is one of the premier picnic spots and adventure sport locations in Idukki. The enchanting waterfall is famous for its seven-step river with pools at each step. There are also caves and viewpoints here that attract tourists in large numbers.
3. Mangala Devi Temple
Mangala Devi Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Bolara, Mangalore. It is dedicated to Goddess Mangala Devi, the presiding deity of this port city who lent her name to the town.
The temple architecture reflects the style of Kerala. It is a beautiful place with lush greenery all around.
4. Sita Devi Lake
A sacred destination for Hindus, Sita Devi Lake is also rich in essential minerals and reportedly has healing properties. It is believed that Sita from Ramayana bathed here and hence, the name.
The pristine lake mesmerizes tourists with its sparkling crystal clear waters, tall trees and flowering shrubs on the banks and twittering songbirds. The place is also ideal for trout fishing.
5. Ramakkalmedu
Ramakkalmedu is a hill station and hamlet on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Its enchanting beauty attracts tourists for its hills, monument and panoramic views of Tamil Nadu towns like Cumbum, Theni, Kombe, Thevaram etc.
The statues of Kuruvan and Kurathi atop one of the hills are another reason that entice travellers here. The constant wind (best visited on a sunny day) is also an attraction for nature lovers and picture takers.
6. Cheeyappara Waterfalls
Located between Neriamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi – Madurai highway, this waterfall cascades down in seven steps. It’s a lovely spot for tourists to bathe and take pictures.
Seeing the waters gloriously cascade down the rocky slopes during and after the monsoon months is the best time to visit Cheeyappara Waterfalls. It is also a popular trekking spot.
7. Meesapulimala
As photography tourism takes off, Meesapulimala’s popularity has grown. The popular 8 km trek from Rhodovalley leads to the mountain’s base.
Located at a significant altitude in Idukki district, the peak gets its name from its resemblance to a whiskered mustache and tiger’s mouth. A mesmerizing trek through the shared border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it is home to gushing brooks and picturesque tea estates.
8. Anayirankal Dam Reservoir
Located at a distance of 22 Km from Munnar, the Dam is surrounded by Tata Tea Plantation and forests. It is one of the most popular picnic spots and tourist destinations in Idukki district.
The name ‘Anayirankal’ is derived from two Malayalam words, ‘aana’ meaning elephants and ‘irankal’ meaning coming down. The herds of wild elephants visiting the dam for drinking water add to the beauty of the place.
9. Hill View Park Idukki
Hill View Park Idukki is a popular day-tripper attraction with amazing views of Cheruthoni and Idukki Arch Dams. A natural lake, herbal garden and children’s play area add to its allure.
Spread over 8 acres this aesthetically conceived park is situated 350 ft above the Dam water level. Herds of wild animals thrill visitors.
10. Cheruthoni Dam
Cheruthoni Dam is an iconic structure in Kerala, contributing to power generation and tourism. The dam and its reservoir offer breath-taking views of the landscape.
One of the shutters of the Cheruthoni dam of the Idukki reservoir has been raised by 70 cm to discharge 50 cusecs. The released water enters Lower Periyar and reaches Kavalangad in Ernakulam, Kaladi, Varappuzha, Aluva, and the Arabian Sea.
List of Tourist Places in Idukki for One Day Trip
Top Tourist Places in Idukki for One Day Trip are:
- Kalvari Mount
- Anchuruli Waterfalls
- Hill View Park
- VALARA WATERFALLS
- Thommankuthu Waterfalls
- Cheruthoni Dam
- Meesapulimala
- Kulamavu Dam
- Nadukani Pavilion
- Panchalimedu
List of Tourist Places in Idukki for for 2 days
Top Tourist Places in Idukki for for 2 days are:
- CHEEYAPPARA WATERFALLS
- VALARA WATERFALLS
- Idukki Dam
- Cheruthoni Dam
- Hill View Park
- Microwave view point
- Nadukani Pavilion
- Anchuruli Tunnel
- Madammakkulam Waterfalls
- Kalvarimount Tourism Developement Society KTDS
- Thooval Waterfalls
- Chathurangapara View Point (Wind Mills)
- Meesapulimala
List of Tourist Places in Idukki near Kattappana
Top Tourist Places in Idukki near Kattappana are:
- Periyar National Park
- Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
- Parunthumpara Hill View Point
- Anchuruli Water Falls
- Anchuruli Tunnel
- Ayyapancovil Hanging Bridge
- Eravikulam National Park
- Thommankuthu Waterfalls
- Cheruthoni Dam boating
List of Places to visit in Idukki for couples
Top Places to visit in Idukki for couples are:
- Pothamedu View Point
- Cheeyappara Waterfalls
- Muniyara Saints Cave
- Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
- Mattupetty Dam
- Eravikulam National Park
- Idukki Dam
FAQs
What are the top attractions to visit in Idukki?
The top attractions to visit in Idukki are:
- Idukki Dam
- Meesapulimala
- Kalvari Mount
- Anayirankal Dam Reservoir
- Panchalimedu
What are the best outdoor activities in Idukki?
The best outdoor activities in Idukki are:
- Idukki Dam
- Kalvari Mount
- Meesapulimala
- Anayirankal Dam Reservoir
- Cheeyappara Waterfalls
What are the most popular things to do in Idukki with children?
The most popular things to do in Idukki with children are:
- Idukki Dam
- Kalvari Mount
- Anayirankal Dam Reservoir
- Cheeyappara Waterfalls
- Ramakkalmedu
