IDUKKI
Have you ever felt the need to escape from the city's hustle and bustle? Do you want to experience nature at its finest? Look no further because Idukki is the place for you! Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Idukki is a small district that packs a big punch. From its stunning hills and valleys to its pristine lakes and waterfalls, Idukki has something for everyone.
But wait, there's more! Idukki is not just any ordinary tourist destination. It's home to some of the quirkiest attractions you'll ever find. For instance, have you heard about the Idukki Arch Dam, which is one of the highest arch dams in Asia? Or how about the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot rare species like grizzled giant squirrels and star tortoises?
And let's not forget about the food! If you're a foodie, then Idukki will not disappoint. The district is famous for its spicy curries and dishes made from locally grown spices like cardamom and pepper. You can even take a tour of a spice plantation and see how these spices are grown and processed.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Idukki for an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more. Trust me; it's worth it!
Psst! Don't forget to try out some freshly brewed tea from Munnar while you're there!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Idukki
- How to Reach and getting around Idukki
- Weather of Idukki
- Places to Visit in Idukki
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Idukki
- Best areas for Accommodation in Idukki
- Shopping in Idukki
- Nightlife in Idukki
- Festivals and Events in Idukki
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Idukki
- FAQs
History and Culture of Idukki
Idukki, located in the Indian state of Kerala, is a hilly district known for its lush greenery and beautiful landscapes. The history of Idukki dates back to the Neolithic era, as evidenced by the megalithic remains found in the region. Fun fact: Idukki gets its name from the Malayalam word "idukku," which means narrow gorge.
The district was ruled by various dynasties such as the Cheras, Pandyas, and Cholas before coming under British rule in 1814. Another fun fact: Idukki was once a part of Tamil Nadu until it was merged with Kerala during reorganization of states in 1956.
The culture of Idukki is a melting pot of various communities such as the Malayarayan tribes, Syrian Christians, and Muslims. The district is famous for its vibrant festivals such as Onam, Vishu, and Christmas. Pro-tip: Don't miss out on the famous Thiruvathira dance performed during Onam.
The cuisine of Idukki is a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies that are spicy and flavorful. The district is known for its exotic spices such as cardamom, pepper, ginger, and turmeric. Psst: If you're a foodie, don't forget to try out the local delicacies like puttu-kadala curry and appam-stew.
Idukki is also home to several tourist attractions such as Munnar hill station, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Anamudi peak. Hot tip: Make sure you visit the famous Kolukkumalai tea estate for some fresh tea tasting.
In conclusion, Idukki offers a unique blend of history, culture and nature that make it an ideal destination for travelers looking for an offbeat experience. Last fun fact: Did you know that Idukki has Asia's first arch dam? Now you do!
How to Reach and getting around Idukki
Idukki, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and natural wonders. Here are some ways to reach Idukki:
By Air: The nearest airport to Idukki is Cochin International Airport, located around 100 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Idukki.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Idukki is Kottayam, which is around 60 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Idukki.
By Road: Idukki is well-connected by road with major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from cities like Kochi, Madurai, and Trivandrum.
By Trekking: If you're an adventure enthusiast and want to explore the beauty of Idukki up close, trekking is the best option. There are several trekking trails that lead to Idukki from nearby towns like Munnar and Kumily.
By Cycling: Cycling is another popular way to reach Idukki. You can rent a bike from nearby towns like Munnar and pedal your way through the scenic routes that lead up to Idukki.
By Boating: If you want to experience the beauty of Idukki's backwaters, taking a boat ride is the best option. There are several boating options available from nearby towns like Kumarakom and Alleppey.
No matter which mode of transport you choose, reaching Idukki will be an unforgettable experience that will leave you spellbound with its natural beauty.
Weather of Idukki
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + Dry
Hot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantIdukki, a beautiful hill station in Kerala, experiences a pleasant and cool climate throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Idukki is from September to May when the weather remains calm and comfortable.
During the monsoon season, which lasts from June to August, Idukki receives heavy rainfall, leading to landslides and road blockages. Hence, it is not advisable to plan a trip during this time.
From December to February, Idukki experiences chilly weather with temperatures dropping down to 10 degrees Celsius. This period is ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who want to explore wildlife sanctuaries such as Periyar National Park or enjoy trekking in the beautiful hills.
March to May is the peak tourist season in Idukki when the weather remains pleasant with temperatures ranging between 15-28 degrees Celsius. This is also the best time for exploring tea plantations, waterfalls, and dams.
In conclusion, planning a trip to Idukki during September-May will ensure you enjoy its scenic beauty without any inconvenience due to extreme weather conditions.
Places to Visit in Idukki
Munnar -Munnar is a picturesque hill station in Idukki district and is known for its lush green tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and cool climate. It offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Thekkady - Thekkady is famous for its wildlife sanctuary that houses a variety of animals and birds. The sanctuary offers activities like elephant rides, boating, trekking, and bamboo rafting.
Anamudi Peak - Anamudi peak is the highest peak in South India, located in the Eravikulam National Park. It offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
Mattupetty Dam - The Mattupetty Dam is located near Munnar and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations. It's an ideal spot for picnics and boating.
Kurisumala- Kurisumala is a Christian pilgrim center located in Vagamon town of Idukki district. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and tea plantations.
Marayur - Marayur is a quaint little town located near Munnar and is famous for its sandalwood forests, prehistoric dolmens, ancient stone inscriptions, and cave paintings.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary - Chinnar Wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife like elephants, leopards, tigers, deer, etc., along with several species of birds.
Thoovanam Waterfalls- Thoovanam Waterfalls are located inside the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and offer breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls amidst lush greenery.
Keezharkuthu Falls- Keezharkuthu Falls or Rainbow falls are located near Thodupuzha town in Idukki district. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 1500 ft forming a beautiful rainbow effect when sunlight falls on it.
Vagamon- Vagamon town is known for its rolling hills covered with lush green grasslands that resemble Scotland's landscape; it's also home to several scenic viewpoints like Suicide Point, Murugan Hill viewpoint etc., that offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
Adventures Activities
Romantic Places
Relaxing Retreats
Hilly Regions
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Idukki
Best areas for accommodation in Idukki
Idukki is a beautiful district located in the Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush green forests, and majestic mountains. The district has several areas that offer great accommodation options to tourists. Let’s take a look at some of the best areas for accommodation in Idukki:
Munnar: Munnar is a popular hill station in Idukki that attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is known for its tea plantations, scenic beauty, and cool weather. There are several hotels and resorts in Munnar that offer comfortable accommodation to tourists.
Thekkady: Thekkady is another popular tourist destination in Idukki that is known for its wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations. There are several hotels and resorts in Thekkady that offer comfortable accommodation to tourists.
Vagamon: Vagamon is a serene hill station in Idukki that offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. It has several hotels and resorts that offer comfortable accommodation to tourists.
Here are three properties for accommodation in Idukki:
Luxury hotel: Windermere Estate - This luxurious hotel is located amidst tea plantations in Munnar and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. It has well-appointed rooms, an infinity pool, and a spa.
Budget hotel: Green Berg Resort - This budget-friendly resort is located near Thekkady and offers comfortable rooms with all basic amenities. It also has a restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.
Hostel: Avocado Valley Homestay - This hostel is located near Vagamon and offers dormitory-style accommodation to backpackers and budget travelers. It also has private rooms for couples or families who want more privacy.
Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget accommodation, Idukki has something to offer everyone. So, plan your trip today and enjoy the beauty of this magical place!
Shopping in Idukki
Idukki, located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is a popular destination known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Apart from its natural beauty, Idukki is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the things you can buy, places to visit for shopping and what to avoid while shopping in Idukki.
Things to buy
- Spices: Idukki is known for its high-quality spices like cardamom, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Handicrafts: You can find beautiful handicrafts made by local artisans such as bamboo products, coir mats, and wooden toys.
- Tea: The region is famous for its tea plantations, so make sure to purchase some fresh tea leaves or packets of tea.
- Honey: Idukki produces some of the finest honey in the country. You can find different varieties of honey like wildflower honey or forest honey.
Markets to visit
- Kumily Market: This market is located near the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and has a variety of spices, handicrafts, and other souvenirs available.
- Munnar Market: This market is located near the beautiful hill station of Munnar and has a variety of tea leaves available for purchase.
- Thodupuzha Market: This market has a range of products from vegetables to spices that you can explore.
What to avoid
- Fake products: Be careful while buying expensive items as there may be counterfeit products being sold.
- Unlicensed shops: Make sure you visit licensed shops or markets as there are many unlicensed shops selling fake or low-quality goods.
- Overpriced items: Bargain while purchasing items as sometimes vendors tend to overcharge customers who seem like tourists.
- Plastic bags: Avoid purchasing goods that come wrapped in plastic bags as they are harming our environment.
In conclusion, shopping in Idukki can be a great experience if you know what to buy and where to buy it from. Just remember to bargain well and avoid fake products. Happy shopping!
Nightlife in Idukki
Nightlife in Idukki is not as happening as in other cities but it has its own charm. The serene and calm environment of the place makes the nightlife experience unique. The district of Idukki is situated in the Western Ghats of Kerala, which is famous for its lush greenery, mountains, and waterfalls. The nightlife in Idukki is all about enjoying nature's beauty under the starry sky.
Munnar: Munnar is a popular hill station in Idukki that offers a mesmerizing view of tea plantations, mountains, and valleys. Spending a night camping under the starry sky in Munnar can be an unforgettable experience.
Vagamon: Vagamon is another hill station located around 60 km from Idukki town. It is known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities like paragliding, trekking, and rock climbing. Spending a night camping or staying at one of the homestays in Vagamon can be an excellent option for adventure enthusiasts.
Thekkady: Thekkady is known for its wildlife sanctuary that houses various species of animals like elephants, tigers, and Indian bison. A night safari at Thekkady can be an exciting experience where you can witness these wild animals in their natural habitat.
Apart from these places, there are also some restaurants and cafes that offer a peaceful ambiance to spend your night. Overall, the nightlife in Idukki may not be as happening as other cities but it has its own charm that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Outdoor Activities in Idukki
Idukki, the land of mountains and tea plantations, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of activities to indulge in and explore the beauty of nature. From trekking in the mountains to boating in the lakes, Idukki has something for everyone.
Trekking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Idukki. The district boasts some of the most scenic trekking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The most famous treks in Idukki are the Munnar- Meesapulimala trek, Chokramudi trek, and Anamudi trek.
Boating is another activity that attracts tourists to Idukki. The district has many lakes and dams where you can enjoy a serene boat ride amidst nature's beauty. Boating at Mattupetty dam, Kundala lake, and Anayirangal dam are some of the best options.
Jeep Safari is an exciting way to explore the rugged terrain of Idukki. You can go on a jeep safari through tea plantations, spice gardens, and wildlife sanctuaries. The most popular jeep safari routes are Munnar- Suryanelli route, Vagamon- Kolahalamedu route, and Thattekad bird sanctuary route.
Apart from these activities, you can also indulge in camping, rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding and much more in Idukki. Outdoor activities in Idukki will give you an unforgettable experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Festivals and Events in Idukki
Festivals and events in Idukki are an important aspect of the local culture and heritage. They provide an opportunity for the people to come together, celebrate, and showcase their traditions. Here are some of the popular festivals and events in Idukki:
Onam (August/September): Onam is one of the most important festivals in Kerala, celebrated with great enthusiasm in Idukki. It marks the homecoming of King Mahabali and is a ten-day festival filled with feasting, dancing, and cultural programs.
Makaravilakku (January): This is a famous festival held at the Sabarimala temple in Idukki. It marks the sighting of Makarajyothi, a celestial light that appears on the hill where Lord Ayyappa's temple is located. Thousands of devotees visit Sabarimala during this time.
Attukal Pongala (February/March): Attukal Pongala is a unique festival celebrated only by women in Idukki. It involves cooking rice pudding (Pongala) on open fires in earthen pots as an offering to Goddess Bhagavathy.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race (August): The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is an annual event held at Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha, which is about 100 km from Idukki. It features colorful snake boats racing against each other, accompanied by traditional music and cheering crowds.
Thirunakkara Arattu (March/April): Thirunakkara Arattu is a grand procession that takes place at the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam district, around 60 km from Idukki. The highlight of the event is when the idol of Lord Shiva is taken for a ceremonial bath at nearby ponds.
These festivals and events offer visitors a chance to experience the rich culture and traditions of Idukki while enjoying its scenic beauty.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Idukki
- Plan ahead: Research the weather conditions, transportation options, and accommodation availability in Idukki before you start your journey. This will help you avoid any unexpected difficulties or disappointments during your trip.
- Pack accordingly: Idukki is a hill station, so the temperature can be cooler than other parts of Kerala. Make sure to bring warm clothes, especially if you are visiting during the monsoon season (June to September). Also, carry comfortable shoes for trekking and outdoor activities.
- Respect local customs and traditions: Idukki has a diverse population with different cultural practices. Be mindful of their customs and etiquette when interacting with locals or visiting religious sites. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering temples or mosques.
- Try local cuisine: Idukki is known for its authentic Kerala cuisine, which includes a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Don't miss out on trying the local delicacies like appam, puttu, fish curry, and banana chips. You can also sample some of the organic spices grown in the region.
- Explore nature: Idukki is blessed with natural beauty in abundance, from lush green forests to cascading waterfalls. Take advantage of this by going on a trek or hike to explore some of the many scenic spots like Munnar hill station, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Vagamon meadows, and Marayur sandalwood forests.
Overall, traveling to Idukki can be an unforgettable experience if you plan well and keep an open mind to immerse yourself in its culture and natural beauty.
FAQs
What makes Idukki a popular tourist destination in Kerala?
Idukki is known for its scenic beauty, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, and spice plantations. The district is home to the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, and is also known for its numerous waterfalls such as the Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers as it houses rare species of flora and fauna. The district is also famous for its tea and spice plantations like the Cardamom Hills.
What are some popular tourist attractions in Idukki?
Some popular tourist attractions in Idukki include the Periyar National Park, which offers boat rides through the jungle where visitors can spot elephants and tigers. Other popular attractions include the hill stations of Munnar, Vagamon, and Ramakkalmedu. The Idukki Arch Dam is also a must-visit destination as it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
What is the best time to visit Idukki?
The best time to visit Idukki is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. During this time, one can enjoy outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and hiking without any inconvenience caused by heavy rainfall.
How can one reach Idukki?
Idukki can be reached by air, train or road. The nearest airport to Idukki is Kochi International Airport which is about 100 km away from the district headquarters. Kottayam railway station (114 km) and Ernakulam junction railway station (131 km) are the nearest railheads to reach Idukki by train.
What are some traditional dishes of Idukki?
Idukki has a rich culinary culture with a variety of traditional dishes that one must try. Some of these dishes include Puttu with Kadala Curry, Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot fish wrapped in banana leaf), Appam with Stew or Egg Roast, Kappa with Meen Curry (Tapioca with Fish Curry), Idiyappam with Chicken Curry/Biryani.
Is it safe to visit Idukki during monsoon season?
Although monsoon season brings heavy rainfall in Idukki which can lead to landslides and floods; it's still safe to visit during this time if necessary precautions are taken. It's recommended that visitors check weather updates before planning their trip during monsoon season.
What are some adventure activities that one can do in Idukki?
Idukki offers various adventure activities like trekking at Munnar hills or Chembra Peak Trekking trail; camping at Kolukkumalai or Bison Valley; paragliding at Vagamon Hills; rock climbing at Ramakkalmedu; bamboo rafting at Thekkady Lake etc. One can choose according to their interest level or fitness level as these activities range from easy to tough levels.
