Top places to visit

Top Places to Visit

Idukki is Kerala’s high-range treasure, filled with verdant mountains, misty valleys, tea gardens, dams, and wildlife sanctuaries. Whether you’re looking for scenic beauty, adventure, or a peaceful escape, Idukki has it all—from iconic tourist spots like Munnar and Thekkady to hidden gems deep in the Western Ghats.

Here’s a curated list of the must-visit places in Idukki:

 1. Idukki Arch Dam

 Near Cheruthoni
 Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM | Closed on Wednesdays
 Entry: ₹25 (approx.)

 Why Visit?

• One of Asia’s largest arch dams, built between two hills—Kuravan and Kurathi
• Surrounded by lush forests and reservoirs
• Offers panoramic views and peaceful vibes

Tip: Visit during monsoon or winter for full reservoir views and cool weather.

 2. Munnar Hill Station

~60 km from Idukki town

 Why Visit?

• Iconic tea-covered hills, waterfalls, and misty plantations
• Home to Eravikulam National Park, tea museums, and viewpoints like Top Station and Echo Point
• Ideal for honeymoons, photography, and long nature walks

Tip: Try a stay in a tea estate bungalow or eco-resort for an immersive experience.

 3. Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)

 Near Kumily town

 Why Visit?

• India’s most famous wildlife reserve, home to elephants, deer, bison, and sometimes tigers
• Go for boating in Periyar Lake, bamboo rafting, or guided jungle treks
• Spice plantations and Ayurvedic treatments nearby

Tip: Book safaris in advance, especially during tourist season (Oct–Feb).

4. Anchuruli Tunnel & Reservoir

 Near Kanchiyar village

 Why Visit?

• A hidden gem featuring a long, circular tunnel and a scenic reservoir
• Surreal beauty for landscape photographers and offbeat travelers
• Surrounded by forest-covered hills

Tip: Avoid visiting during heavy rains—pathways can be slippery.

 5. Ramakkalmedu Viewpoint

 Near Nedumkandam | Altitude: 3,500 ft

 Why Visit?

• Offers 360° views of hills and plains, including parts of Tamil Nadu
• Known for strong winds, panoramic sunrises, and giant statues of Kuravan & Kurathi
• Great for paragliding and photo ops

Tip: Bring a jacket—it’s windy and cooler than the lowlands.

 6. Kalvari Mount (Calvary Mount)

Near Idukki Reservoir

 Why Visit?

• One of the most peaceful and scenic viewpoints in Idukki
• Overlooks the Idukki Reservoir and surrounding valleys
• Great for sunsets, short treks, and nature meditation

Tip: Best visited early morning or late afternoon.

 7. Eravikulam National Park

Near Munnar
Open: 7:30 AM – 4 PM | Closed during calving season (Feb–Mar)

Why Visit?

• Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat found only in this region
• Trek to Anamudi Peak (South India’s highest)
• Rolling grasslands and shola forests

Tip: Book entry online to avoid long queues.

 8. Pampadum Shola National Park

 Near Vattavada, ~35 km from Munnar

 Why Visit?

• Kerala’s smallest national park, yet rich in biodiversity
• Great for silent treks, birdwatching, and escaping crowds
• “Pampadum” means “forest where snakes dance”—but don’t worry, it’s safe!

 Tip: Go with an official guide for the best experience.

9. Thommankuthu Waterfalls

 Near Thodupuzha | Series of 7 waterfalls

 Why Visit?

• Beautiful multi-tiered waterfall and trekking spot
• Surrounded by thick forests and natural pools
• Great for hiking, birdwatching, and light adventure

 Tip: Wear good trekking shoes and avoid in peak monsoon for safety.

10. Vagamon (Shared with Kottayam District)

 ~65 km from Idukki town

 Why Visit?

• Serene hill station known for meadows, pine forests, tea gardens, and misty landscapes
• Ideal for paragliding, meditation, and nature walks
• Often called the “Scotland of Kerala”

 Tip: Avoid weekends for a quieter experience—very popular with domestic tourists.

Idukki’s Top Destinations at a Glance

Idukki is not just a destination—it’s an emotion wrapped in mist and green. Whether you're standing on a windy cliff in Ramakkalmedu or sipping tea in a Munnar plantation, you'll feel closer to nature and yourself.

Idukki – Where every curve in the road opens to a new wonder.