Idukki tourist places
Located amidst the Western Ghats, Idukki is the second-largest district in the state. It has many great getaway locations for nature lovers. Almost 97 percent of the land is covered with rugged mountains and green forests. The two highest peaks in South India, Meesapulimala and Anamudi, are located here and is sure to enthrall the tourists with its charming beauty. Some of the most popular tourist spots in Kerala like Munnar, Thekkady, Ramakkalmedu, and Marayur are located here. Hence it is impossible to plan a tour to Kerala without a visit to Idukki.
There are famous wildlife reserves like Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Pampadumshola National Park and protected areas like Kurinjimala Sanctuary, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and so on adorn the district. Many rare, endangered, as well as critically endangered species, find their home in these regions kept devoid of human intervention. Cheeyappara and Thommankuthu waterfalls are two of the many falls in the area that enchant tourists.
Tourist Places in Idukki
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Munnar
Located 1600 meters above sea level, Munnar is one of the most visited tourist places in Kerala. The cool weather, greenery, and beautiful hills attract tourists. Honeymooners love Munnar because of its romantic atmosphere. They enjoy the misty mornings and photographing their cherishable moments in the expansive tea plantations in the area. The location provides opportunities for adventure lovers to involve in exciting activities like trekking, safari, and so on. Munnar Tea Museum showcases the genesis of tea plantations in Kerala. Operated by Tata Tea, the museum displays artifacts, rare photographs and narrates interesting facts about the history of tea plantations in Munnar.
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Eravikulam National Park
Eravikulam National park is a great place in Kerala to see the rare varieties of flora and fauna. Declared as a protected area in 1975, the park facilitates a natural environment for wildlife to flourish. It is estimated that there are 132 species of birds, 101 varieties of butterflies, 19 types of reptiles, and 26 different amphibians here. Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaques, Sambar Deer, Golden Jackal, Leopard, Stripe Necked Mongoose, Dusky Palm Squirrel are some of the species that capture the heart of the visitors.
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Chinnar
Located in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, Chinnar is one of the 12 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to the region as here they get to be close to the bosom of mother nature. There is a wide variety of animals and plants in the region, some of which are categorized as rare and endangered. The sanctuary contains the largest population of Indian Star Tortoise and Mugger Crocodiles in Kerala. Apart from that, there are 28 species of mammals, 52 varieties of reptiles, 14 species of fishes, 156 kinds of butterflies, and 225 bird species in the area. Hence tourists love to pay a visit to the region. The place is great for trekking. The view of the unexploited forest region from the topmost point is exhilarating.
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Vagamon
Previously used as an area for tea plantation by the British, Vagamon is now a prominent picnic spot in Kerala. The hill station is at a height of 1100 meters above sea level. The place is famous for its expansive green meadows, swaying pine trees, and charming waterfalls. As the climate is moderately cool, tourists from foreign countries visit Vagamon to take a break from the unbearable heat in the Indian subcontinent. Here the temperature ranges between 10 to 23 degrees Celsius even in the hottest summer. The viewpoint in the hill station gives a panoramic view of the deep valley with an unending chain of hills in the backdrop that is obscured by mist.
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Marayoor
Marayoor is the best tourist spot in Kerala for nature lovers and history aficionados. There are many remnants of the Stone Age in the small town. The dolmens and rock paintings of the place date back to 10,000 BC. Many single-chambered stone structures are located near the Thenkasinathan Shiva Temple and are believed to be used as burial sites. The rock paintings of Attala and Ezhuthu Guha are awe-inspiring. Naturalists would enjoy the walk through the thick sandalwood forest in Marayur. More than 1000 types of flowering plants, wide varieties of medicinal shrubs, indigenous and migratory birds, and rare varieties of fauna make the place a treasury of nature.
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Idukki Dam
Standing at a height of almost 169 meters, Idukki dam is one of the highest arch dams in Asia. It is built across the Periyar River in a narrow gorge between Kuravan and Kurathi hills. The double curvature arch dam is part of the hydroelectric project with a 780 Mega Watts generating station at Moolamattom. Along with Cheruthoni and Kulamavu dams, the Idukki dam creates an artificial lake with a 60 square kilometer catchment area. The sheer size of the construction is enough to make anyone flabbergasted. One cannot help but wonder at the human effort and engineering skill that culminated in the double curvature parabolic dam; considering the state of technology in the early 1970s. Travelers touring Kerala visit the dam to marvel at the massive construction and the beauty of the surrounding areas.
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Thekkady
Thekkady may be the most visited tourist places in Kerala. The exceptional natural beauty, variety of activities, numerous attractions make the hill station famous. The catchment area of Mullaperiyar Dam that forms the Thekkady lake is the best place for boating and bamboo rafting. Tourists can see wild animals like tigers and elephants in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The exquisite viewpoint at Chellar Kovil, the spices of Murikady and Anakkara, and the ancient Mangala Devi Temple allure visitors to Thekkady.
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Ramakkalmedu
Ramakkalmedu is a bucolic countryside in Idukki. The panoramic beauty of the place attracts tourists to the location. The thick evergreen forest of the region is home to a variety of birds and animals. It is quite difficult to tear oneself away from the exquisite bird’s eye view of the green valley from the point. Villages in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu including Cumbum and Theni are visible from the spot. The huge statues of Kuravan and Kurathi alludes to the Sangam Period. Thus Ramakkal is one of the best tourist places in Kerala.
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Thommankuthu Waterfalls
The waterfalls at Thommankuthu is a major eco-tourism center in Kerala. Cradled between the Western Ghat mountain ranges, the waterfall attracts tourists with its scenic charm. The tranquil atmosphere of the place is almost meditative. Tourists love the view of the cascade flowing down 7 steps. Many even venture to take a bath in the cool water. All these peculiarities assign Thommankuthu waterfalls a top position on the list of tourist places in Kerala.
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Meesapulimala
Located at a height of 2659 meters above sea level, Meesapulimala is part of the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats. The hill forms the shape of a tiger with prominent whiskers which earned it the name Meesapulimala. The sight of mist kissed hills and a picturesque valley covered in a green blanket take one to the top of excitement. Adventure lovers can take part in trekking through the almost perilous path. However, the activity is highly restricted with limited bookings.
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Ayyapancoil Hanging Bridge
Famed as one of the longest of its kind in Kerala, Ayyanpancoil hanging bridge is a unique spot to visit in Idukki. The adjacent reservoir and mountain chains contribute to the exceptional beauty of the area. The deep valley beneath makes the walk through the bridge quite scary. Yet the view from the point attracts many visitors to it. It is best for spending an evening as the charm of the sunset is accentuated when the crimson rays illuminate the emerald green hills.
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Thumpachi Kalveri Samuchayam
Thumpachi Kalveri Samuchayam is located in Idukki, at a distance of 35 kilometers from Thodupuzha town. It is a top viewpoint that provides a panoramic view of the green valley and distant hills. The evening is the best time to visit the spot as it provides the opportunity to see the crimson sunset. There is a small church at the topmost point. There are very few places with such a tranquil atmosphere. Hence the church is a great spot for meditation.
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Anamudi Shola National Park
Anamudi Shola is a protected area that tops a nature lover’s list of places to visit in Kerala. Located along the Western Ghats the area is at an elevation of 2100 to 2300 meters above sea level. The dense thicket is great for trekking. Tourists love to immerse themselves in this nature’s paradise. Though Anamudi Shola is a relatively small area spanning 7.5 square kilometers, its greenery and beauty are enough to make anyone ecstatic.
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Pampadum Shola National Park
Home to many different species of flora and fauna, many of which are categorized as endangered, Pampadum Shola National park is a great place for tourists visiting Kerala. The Nilgiri Marten is the keystone species in the region. The elusive creature is difficult to find but on rare occasions, they have been sighted by tourists. Leopards and Tigers are seen roaming around sometimes. Elephants, Nilgiri langurs, lion-tailed macaques are the other animals found in the region. Many varieties of indigenous and migratory birds are found here. The nearby villages are good places for shopping. Hence the area is a busy tourist place in Kerala year-round.
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Anakkara
Located in the Kumily-Munnar state highway, Anakkara is a small village in Idukki. The unique beauty of the hamlet attracts tourists visiting Kerala. The Chellarkovil waterfall is the most visited spot. The cascade has something special about it as those visiting it have reported that they felt very calm and relaxed at the place. The town has created options for trekking and paragliding to attract adventure enthusiasts.
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Mangala Devi Temple
Deep in the forest of Periyar National park rests a unique surprise for the tourists in the form of a temple. The Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple that is almost 2000 years old is constructed by ancient Tamilakam King Cheran Cheguttuvan. The shrine is dedicated to the legendary character Kannagi and is an amusing location for history aficionados. The nearby viewpoint, located 1337 meters above mean sea level, provides a sweeping view of the mountain ranges and the green valley beneath.
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Pandikuzhi
A captivating location with mountains covered in a green blanket, streams zigzagging in the valleys, and clouds creating moving shadows in the landscape, Pandikuzhi is an exquisite location. As it is located merely 5 kilometers away from Thekkady, it is easily accessible. Tourists make sure not to miss the spot on their Kerala visit as it exemplifies the natural beauty of the land.
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Vattavada
Vattavada is a bucolic hamlet located near Munnar. The greenery, wildlife, and mild climate make it one of the best places to visit in Kerala. The village is famous for its splendid strawberry groves. Tourists can avail wine and jam made of freshly picked berries. There are trekking routes from the hamlet that leads to nearby places like Meesapulimala and Kanthalloor. Activities like camping, safari, and mountain biking make the place all the more exciting.
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Valara waterfalls
An enchanting falls located between Adimali and Neriamangalam, Valara waterfall is for those who love to enjoy the might of nature. During rainy seasons the falls assume its full fury. It is quite impressive to see the vigor of the cascade during this time of the year. Hence tourists visiting Kerala flock to Valara. The surrounding thicket is suited for trekking and adds to the charm of the waterfalls
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Panchalimedu
Tourists who just want to retreat to the bosom of mother nature and free themselves of the stress of their hectic lifestyle prefer Panchalimedu as their destination. The place with its exceptional green meadows, chain of hills, and comfortable climate is enchanting. The myth holds that Pandavas and their wife Panchali lived here during their exile. Tourists love to visit Pandavaguha, the cave believed to have sheltered the brothers. Locals claim that the marks seen inside the cave are the footprint of the Bhima, the second, and the strongest of Pandavas. There is a small circular pond at the place called Panchalikulam where Panchali took her daily bath.
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Pallivasal
Commissioned in 1940, Pallivasal is the first hydroelectric project in Kerala. It also marked the establishment of the first electricity transmission network, a 66-kiloVolt line from Pallivasal to Thiruvananthapuram. Located in the midst of a thick forest, the area is immaculately beautiful. Tourists visiting Kerala love to visit Pallivasal to see the historic energy generating station and also to imbibe the tranquil atmosphere.
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Thangalpara
Located near Vagamon at an elevation of 2500 meters above sea level, Thangalpara is a peculiar spot in Idukki. The name derives from the Sufi Saint, Sheikh Farududdin, who lived here almost 800 years ago. A huge boulder here is believed to be used by the saint to grind his betel nut. Many pilgrims visit the place to seek the blessings of the saint. The tranquility of the high point attracts tourists to the region. The inexplicable view of the surrounding mountains and green valley beneath is enough to make anyone awestruck
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Mattupetty
Mattupetty is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. The exceptional beauty of the countryside and the huge dam are the major attractions in the region. The concrete gravity dam is built to conserve water for hydroelectricity. The artificial lake formed due to the construction of the dam is a great place for boating. Tourists love the activity as it is an opportunity to see animals that come to drink water from the lake. Those who love some activity can involve in trekking. It is the best way to enjoy the music of the rare varieties of bird species in Mattupetty.
