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Idukki is one of the districts in the heart of the Western Ghats of Kerala, a real paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Various landscapes characterise this beautiful place, the rolling tea plantations, falling waterfalls, silent lakes, and towering mountains adds to the alluring appeal of Idukki. Explore the best places to visit in Idukki to dip into their local culture, discover outdoor adventures, and relax in the lap of nature. Take on this expedition to witness the rich culture, diverse architectures and engineering marvels of Idukki
Top 10 Places To Visit In Idukki
In this guide are the top 10 places to visit in Idukki, along with an overview of each location, the best time to visit, and the ideal duration for your next trip:
1. Idukki Arch Dam
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
The Idukki Arch Dam is an engineering marvel at an astounding height of 554 feet. This towering structure in the heart of the rugged terrain of the Western Ghats offers a feast to its beholders with its panoramic views of the hills and valleys it is surrounded by. From the observation deck of the dam, one can witness the picturesque view of the surroundings, including the Idukki Reservoir. Kuravan and the Kurathi hills.
Major Attractions: Scenic views, boat rides
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, at a distance of about 90 km
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kerala
2. Periyar Tiger Reserve
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
The Periyar Tiger Reserve forms an intrinsic part of the Thekkady in the Idukki district—the veritable backbone of Kerala’s wildlife. It is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in which all sorts of flora and fauna are found, along with the majestic Bengal tiger. Visitors can have a guided boat ride around Periyar Lake, view elephants and many other animals, and take a guided trek in those green forests.
Major Attractions: Wildlife safaris, boating on Periyar Lake, bamboo rafting.
Best Time To Visit: From October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport, about 140 km away
3. Munnar
Photo: Raj / Wikimedia Commons
Munnar is an enchanting hill station; its tea plantations run along the sides of the hills and extend far. The cool climate and beautiful scenery make this place one of the most preferred places by tourists. You can visit the many tea home gardens in Munnar and learn how tea is made. The green hills and the brilliant green lines of tea plants present a nice landscape view. Munnar is famous for a lot of its adventure activities too. You can go trekking in the hills, try rock climbing, or paragliding.
Major Attractions: Tea gardens, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, which is 110 km away
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South Kerala
4. Kulamavu Dam
Photo: Jeevan Jose / Wikimedia Commons
Kulamavu Dam is part of the Idukki Hydroelectric Project across the Periyar River. The surroundings of this dam are calm and suitable for picnics or walks. The view of this dam, with its reservoir and green surrounding hills is very picturesque. In this cool environment, visitors can spend their time boating. The peaceful ambience and nature’s beauty of the dam make it a haven for those seeking a quiet time-out gazing at the panoramic landscapes of Idukki.
Major Attractions: Alluring views, boating
Best Time To Visit: From October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 120 km away
5. Cheruthoni Dam
Photo: Reji Jacob / Wikimedia Commons
Cheruthoni Dam, lying close to the Idukki Arch Dam, is the other half performing an essential role in the Idukki Hydroelectric Project. This gravity dam is encapsulated by the midst of green surroundings that offer breathtaking views. The surroundings of the dam are calm, apt for photography, and for strolling around. A visit to this place is further complemented by the nearby Idukki Arch Dam, thus making it a must-visit on your list of places for Idukki trip, for people interested in marvels of engineering and nature’s beauty.
Major Attractions: Scenic views, boat rides
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 100 km away
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kerala
6. Anamudi Shola National Park
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Situated near the Anamudi Peak, the Anamudi Shola National Park is a rich biodiversity area. The park’s stunning shola forests and grasslands make up an ideal habitat for various species of flora and fauna. This is an impeccable tourist attraction in Idukki for trekking, spotting wildlife and different species of birds. Apart from being close to Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, this park is also associated with a chance to experience the unique ecosystem of the Western Ghats.
Major Attractions: Trekking, wildlife spotting, bird watching
Best Time: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport, about 150 km away.
7. Ramakkalmedu
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Ramakkalmedu is a hill station from where one can see the entire stretch of the Western Ghats and the plain lands of Tamil Nadu.The windmills and the statues of Kuravan and Kurathi ame it a significant tourist attraction in Idukki. Another charm added to it is the wind energy farms. Folklore and historical significance blend with the natural beauty of Ramakkalmedu, making it highly fascinating for any tourist to visit this place for adventure and relaxation.
Major attractions: Panoramic views, Kuravan and Kurathi statues, trekking.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport, about 120 km away
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Kerala
8. Painavu
Photo: PranavMurali / Wikimedia Commons
Forests and hills surround Painavu, the administrative headquarters of the district of Idukki. Situated amidst beautiful landscapes, Painavu serves as the peaceful retreat for Idukki District. Painavu is a gateway to various places of interest in the Idukki District, including the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. In the area, one can have trekking programs and eco-tourism activities. The serene surroundings and scenic beauty make Painavu an ideal place for nature lovers and clientele who aim to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Major Attractions: Scenic views, trekking, eco-tourism activities.
Best Time To Visit: Any time of the year since its climate remains pleasant
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 110 meters away.
9. Keezharkuthu Falls
Photo: Abhinaba Basu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Popularly regarded as Rainbow Falls, Keezharkuthu Falls is an amazing waterfall that descends from a height of approximately 200 feet. Situated in a dense forest, it is a perfect spot for trekking and rock climbing and a must on your Idukki tourist places list. The ecosystem around these falls hosts a diverse variety of flora and fauna, offering a relaxed ambience. Keezharkuthu Falls is a great spot for picnics and photography, offering the perfect getaway into the lap of nature.
Major Attractions: Trekking, rock climbing, scenic views, picnic spots
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 130 km away
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kerala
10. Ilaveezha Poonchira
Photo: Manu M Nair / Shutterstock
Located between three enchanting hills, Mankunnu, Kudayathoor Mala, and Thonippara, is the valley of Ilaveezha Poonchira. The name means “the pond of flowers where the leaves do not fall,” which rightly depicts its serene nature. This valley is your trekking haven on your Idukki tourist places itinerary. Sunrise and sunset views from here are glorious. Large stretches of lush green landscapes and tranquil ambience make this place a paradise for nature lovers. Ilaveezha Poonchira’s beauty, with its peaceful surroundings, is always appealing as a source of relief from the ruckus of everyday life.
Major Attractions: Trekking, panoramic views, lush green valleys
Best Time To Visit: From October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 120 kilometers away.
The treasure trunk of Idukki offers a diversity of natural and cultural attractions right in Kerala. From towering Idukki Arch Dam and Periyar Tiger Reserve to the calm and serene hill station of Munnar and Keezharkuthu hidden falls. From adventure and leisure activities to taking a closer glance at nature, Idukki forms that perfect destination for an everlasting memory. Choose TripXL and take a trip to these wonderful places to visit in Idukki today to soak in the beauty.
Cover Photo: Balachand / Wikimedia Commons
