Introduction
The ancient land founded
by the legendary mythological figure Rishi Parashuram, blessed
with emerald backwaters and gold and silver beaches is Kerala-
God's own country. With the Arabian Sea on the west and the
Western Ghats on its east, Kerala is a treasure trove of
indigenous cultural practices and art forms that have mesmerized
people all over the world. Be it the age old Kathakali or the
newly rediscovered Mohiniattyam or the knowledge of Ayurveda.
Basking in the generosity of the sun and rain the climate of
Kerala supports a lush vegetation including the famous spices and
a wide array of wildlife unlike anywhere else in the country. This
miraculously unspoiled serene wilderness is all nature lovers'
paradise and rapidly gaining momentum as a popular tourist hub in
and around the country.
Though shadowed by the fabled beauty of the beaches and
backwaters, the hill stations in Kerala on the Western Ghats are
the repository of a different kind of wealth displayed in oblivion
and irrespective of human interest. Nestled among the low hills of
which a large part is a reserve forest, the virgin hill station of
Idukki is one of the most popular in Kerala.
About Idukki
At an altitude of 750 to 2500 m above sea level the
landscape at Idukki is scarred by the rivers Periyar, Thalayar and
Thodupuzhayar. The name Idukki is derived from the word idukku
meaning a narrow gcome' in
Malayalam. The low green hills at Idukki make way for the
meandering rivers to gurgle past its slopes. A sprawling 1500 sq.
m area at Idukki is taken up by Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary which is
home to an amazing range of wildlife. The Idukki district notably
supplies about 66% of Kerala's power consumption. The
hydroelectric project at the Idukki Dam offers a sizeable
contribution. This dam is the world's second and Asia's first Arch
Dam.With its aroma of its famous spices and the moist green hills
Idukki is ready to get you drunk with its abundance.
Tourist Attractions
There are a host of luxury and budget hotels at Idukki to
suit your purpose. Some of the hotels are:
Taj Garden
Retreat
Michael's Inn
Carmellia Haven
How to
Reach
Idukki is very well connected via road to other
places in Kerala and outside. The NH 49 and state highways 13 and
33 pass through the district. The nearest rail and air terminal is
at Madurai 140 km away.
Travel Tips
-
Undertake excursions to the sanctuary for wildlife
viewing
-
Enjoy elephant rides
-
If you visit the place at winter carry woolen garments
-
Arrange picnic at Keezar Kuthu
Get more details on specific hill
stations by clicking links below
