Idukki Travel Guide: What To See, Where To Stay, Where To Eat And More

Places

Idukki Travel Guide: Here’s How To Explore The Beautiful High Range District Of Kerala

Idukki is one of Kerala’s most naturally endowed districts. Central Idukki stretches from Painavu to Thodapuzha, along the Periyar river, and offers many gorgeous sights. Adorned with misty and lush hills, gentle lakes, and charming waterfalls, Idukki is among the lesser touristy regions of Kerala. It is mostly known as an electric power centre, making it a great choice for travellers looking for quaint and unperturbed natural havens. By Karan Kaushik

The best that Idukki has to offer

Things to do

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

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Cradled by the Cheruthoni and Periyar rivers, the Idukki Wildlife sanctuary is nestled amidst tropical evergreen and deciduous forests. Common sightings here include elephants, bison, sambar deer, wild dogs, jungle cats, and wild boars. The sanctuary is also home to snakes like cobras and vipers. There are great opportunities for bird-watching enthusiasts too. Commonly spotted species include Grey Jungle Fowl, Malabar Grey Hornbill, woodpeckers, and bulbuls.

Malankara Dam

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Located on the Moolamattom-Idukki Road near Thodupuzha, this artificial lake is spread over 11km and makes for a lovely picnic spot. Stroll along the pathway at the top of the dam for stunning views of the catchment area and lush environs. The dam can be easily reached by boarding a bus or hiring a taxi from Thodupuzha.

Idukki Arch Dam

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India’s only arch dam, this architectural marvel is also the second-highest dam in the country and straddles at a height of 555 feet. It unites with the Cheruthoni and Kulumavu dams to form Kerala’s largest reservoir. The arch dam joins the Koravan Mala and Kurathi Mala hillocks. You may also plan similar visits to Cheruthoni Dam and Kulamavu Dam.

Kurishu Paara

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The literal meaning of Kurishu Para is ‘the rock on which stands a cross.’ With its pinnacle 2,685 feet above the ground, the hill offers utterly magnificent views of the Malankara Reservoir and lush plantations that surround it. Be prepared for a steep trek along a path flanked by tribal homesteads almost all the way to the top of the hill. To get here, take a bus from Thodapuzha, alight at Kudayathoor. From here, you can hire a taxi or auto to Aavarancity via the Kuval-Bhagam Road.

Thommankuthu Waterfalls

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One of the most charming and safe waterfalls in Kerala, the Thommankuthu Waterfalls serve as an ideal picnic spot. Treat your eyes to a series of enchanting waterfalls from one of the caves that surround the seven-stepped falls. Each step of the waterfall has a pristine pool beneath. Taxis are available from Thodapuzha to visit the falls.

Keezharkuthu Waterfalls

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Sequestered amidst lush forests, the Keezharkuttu or Rainbow Waterfalls cascade from a height of around 200 feet. The landscape is dotted with medicinal plants and tribal houses. The waterfalls attract trekkers, rock-climbers, and campers throughout the year. The falls are located 25km from Thodupuzha.

Ilaveezha Poonchira

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Located near Kanjar, about 20km from Thodapuzha, this picturesque little hamlet is nestled atop the Kudayathoor Mala peak. The Kudayathoor Mala is one of Kerala’s highest peaks and is also referred to as ‘Kudayathoor Vindhyan’. Legend has it that the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata visited this place during their exile. Its idyllic settings make it ideal for day picnics and treks.

Kalvari Mount

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Embark on an adventurous trail to Thumpichi Kalvari Samukhyam, a popular Christian pilgrimage centre on the Moolamattom-Idukki Road. The hiking trail leads you to a hilltop, which offers postcard-perfect views of lush hills and shimmery waters. A large cross dominates the landscape that’s been on the hilltop since 1953. A small chapel dedicated to Infant Jesus stands by its side. The rewarding views of the Idukki countryside from the top of the hill make it worth the hike.

St. Thomas Church, Mylacombu

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Said to have been established in 600 CE, St. Thomas Church at Mylacombu is Idukki’s oldest church. Also known as the Parent Church of the East, the church features age-old bronze bells that boast intricate calligraphic inscriptions. There’s an ancient baptistery too within the church complex, which is believed to be founded in 606 CE. The church is located at a distance of 8km from Thodupuzha.

Best Hotels

Idukki travel guide — Image: Courtesy Hotel Ceasar Palace, Idukki

Hotel Ceasar Palace at Gandhi Square, Thodupuzha, offers a luxurious stay. It has well-appointed spacious rooms. The River Banks resort, 4km from Thodapuzha is located by the Thodupuzha river. Built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture, the resort has tastefully-designed rooms with stunning views of the river and lush surroundings. Greenberg Holiday Resort features modern and comfy cottages, an organic vegetable farm, an orchard, and a tea plantation. Lemongrass Hill Eco Retreat in Karimkunnam, 7.5km from Thodapuzha is also a nice option.

Best Restaurants

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Pappen’s Restaurant in Cheruthoni serves delicious Chinese and Keralite cuisine. Try their fried chicken, fish curry, and beef. Then there’s Malabar Village in Thodapuzha, which offers the town’s best bamboo biryani and Malabar delicacies. Cafe Buns and Beans for its French and Italian offerings. You’d love the chic ambience too. Gopuram and Sagar, both on the Muvattupuzha Road in Thodapuzha serve mouthwatering Keralite and Chinese. At Sagar, try roast chicken, fish curry, and flaky paronthas. Another popular restaurant, which must be visited for its Malabari Biryani is The Biryani Hut. Swad, in Sicilia Hotel, is also an old favourite.

Best time to go

The winter months from September to February are the best time to visit Idukki. Monsoon is also a nice time to experience the natural beauty of Idukki.

How to Reach

By Air: Cochin International Airport, 55km from Thodapuzha is the nearest airport. Prepaid taxis are available.

By Road: Thodapuzha can be easily reached from Kochi via Muvattupuzha. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation runs regular buses to Idukki from important cities like Kottayam, Kollam, Kattappana, Kumily, Moolamattam, and Munnar.

By Rail: Nearest station Theni is well connected with cities like Kodaikanal, Palani, Chennai, and Bengaluru.