Idukki is a very famous landlocked district and is arguably the most nature rich area of Kerala. Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar and their tributaries fortify high ranges and wooded valleys. Idukki is linked by incredible road networks and is thus easily accessible by road however to go to Idukki by air or rail might prove to be an ordeal. The nearest airport to Idukki is Madurai at a distance of 140 kilometres and Thiruvananthapuram is at a distance of 265 kilometres. The nearest railway station is Kuamarakom at distance of 114 kilometres and Madurai station is at about 136 kilometres.
There are many places to visit in Idukki, inter alia Idukki Arch Dam and Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. Idukki Arch Dam, 550 ft high and 650 ft wide, is the world’s second and Asia’s first arch dam constructed across Kuravan and Kurathi hills. This dam lies close to the Cheruthoni Barrage and has Kulamavy dam on its west. All these factors clearly help in increasing the intriguing levels of the travellers which in a way lures them into this city. The Idukki wildlife sanctuary is also very popular extending over Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola. It is spread over 77 sq. Km and is about 450-748 m above sea level.
Pic: Idukki Reservoir
Idukki has a much enriched zoological quotient as many kinds of animal and birds could be seen around here. the most prominent of animals being Elephant , Sambar Deer, Wild boar, Jungle cats, tigers, snakes, primarily cobra, viper and birds like jungle foul, and myna.
Idukki is a very small place with the net are being around 5019 km and the population being 1,079, 369 according to the 1991 census. Although if compared to other districts of Kerala one might feel that the number of places to visit in this district is somewhat less but still it has been attracting many travellers because of the wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation, mountain treks or even for the all interesting Elephant rides.