Idukki

Located in the central Kerala, southern state of India. The name of the district is derived from the malayalam word Idukki, meaning narrow gauge.  Known as nature lover's paradise.

Idukki arch dam

Population : 1,129,221 (2001)

Area           :  5105.22 km2 (1971 sq mi)

 The history of the district starts with the advent of Europen planters to this region. In 1877 Kerala Varma , the Raja of Poonjar sold 227 square miles (590 km2) of Kannan Devan hills to John Danial Manroe, a British Planter. The tract was largely unexplored and covered with thick forest. He formed the North Travancore Land planting and Agriculture society. The members of the society developed their own estates in various parts of Hiranges . Roads were opened , Transport organised, Houses and factories built and productions rose rapidly in the succeeding years. The pallivasal Hydroelectric Project, the first hydroelectric project of the State was initially constructed by the tea companies for the industrial use.The district borders the Kerala districts of Pathanamthitta to the south, Kottayam to the southwest, Ernakulam to the northwest and Thrissur to the north and Coimbature, Dindigul and Theni Districts in Tamilnadu to the east.

It has several Eco tourism places affluent in making Eco travellers enjoy the vacation utmost. Two of the famous wildlife sanctuary, Idukki wildlife sanctuary and Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve provide Eco lovers to get intimate with nature. Periyar national park, counted as the most pleasant national park of the country is also a famous tiger reserve. Mattupetty with its beautiful lake, and Nyayamakad with its pleasant waterfall are favourite picnic spots and hang out for commoners as well as Eco tourists. The trekking point of Nyayamakad is also favourite among trekkers. Persons willing to spend some more time on Eco leisure, Sita Devi lake at Devikulam gives them fine opportunity of fishing.

                                      Eco places in Idukki                                          

Rajamala  : 

Rajamala

 Part of Eravikulam wild life sanctuary 14 km from Munnar.
Neelekurinji unique with its feature of keeping the rhythm of flowering in twelve years.
The only place where ibes (Varayad) is seen.

 Munnar : 

One of the most favourite among all hills stations of India, Munnar is also ranked as as one of the best honeymoon destination. Walking arms in arms with their newly wedded alter-ego amidst the aromatic and beautiful coffee plantation field, the hills station of Munnar is heaven for honeymooners. 

 Anakkara  :

Anakkara is one among the developed areas in the district.Anakkara is a fast growing Spice Tourism destination after it is identified by Government of India and United Nations Development Programme for exploring and promoting unique tourism potentials of about 36 unique places in India.

Mattupetty : 

Mattupetty lake and dam, close to Munnar, is a favourite picnic spots for tourists. Boat ride in the lake is prime attraction.

Idukki arch dam : 

Constructed across Kuravan and Kurathi hills, Idukki arch dam is the world's second and Asia's first arch dam.
Thekkady :

Thekkady

  Thekkady is proud to own Periyar forest, which has very fine opportunity of wildlife viewing and birding in its one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries of the country, Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve.
Nyayamakad :

  Close to Munnar,Nyayamakad has a very beautiful waterfall, which, with its natural charm, has become a favourite hang out for tourist.

Idukki wildlife sanctuary : Just close to the arch dam, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary lie in the area of 77 sq km. The rich greenery and forests are abode to numerous flora and fauna giving Eco tourists a fine treat.  

Reaching there

By Air : Cochin international airport is 12 k away from Idukki. Cochin is very well connected to all major domestic airports and many of international locations. From Cochin, Idukki is almost 3 hours drive. Taxi or local bus are easily available from Cochin.

By Rail : Kottayam is the nearest railway station, 133 km from Idukki. Taking a bus or hiring a taxi take you easily to Idukki.

By Road : National Highway 49 (Kochi-Mathura) passes through Idukki. Excellent motorable roads from many of the prime destinations like Madurai, Kottayam, Coimbatore, Kodaikanal and Devikulam lead you to reach Idukki very easily.is one among the developed areas in the district.Anakkara is a fast growing Spice Tourism destination after it is identified by Government of India and United Nations Development Programme for exploring and promoting unique tourism potentials of about 36 unique places in India.