History: IDUKKI District was formed on 26 January 1972 as per Government notification No 54131/C2/71/RD dated 24th January 1972. The district consists of Devikulam, Udumbanchola and Peermedu taluks of the erstwhile Kottayam district and Thodupuzha taluk (excluding two villages Manjallore and Kalloorkadu) of the erstwhile Ernakulam district. At the time of formation the district headquarters started functioning at Kottayam and from there it was shifted to Painavu in Thodupuzha taluk in June 1976, where it is proposed to build a new planned forest township. The district's name, 'Idukki' is supposed to be derived from the Malayalam word 'Idukku' which means a narrow gorge. Periyar which is one of the largest rivers of Kerala, flowing through Idukki gorge formed between the two high massive rocks called "Kuravan" and "Kurathi", is the site of the gigantic Idukki arch dam.
We have very little authentic knowledge which throws light into the ancient history of Idukki district. Eventhough there is no clear evidence whether men of the paleolithic age lived here, there is evidence of stone-age civilisation. Stone-age dolmens were discovered in the valleys of Anchanad in Devikulam taluk. Archaeological excavation conducted during 1947-48 at Kallar Pattom colony in Udumbanchola taluk and at Vandiperiyar in Peermedu taluk brought to light the remains of Old Stone-age Menhir and Tombs.
Karikode near Thodupuzha was the head quarters of Vadakkumkoor Raja. There is remains of a fort at Karikkode. Near this fort there is a Devi temple said to have constructed by the Vadakkumkoor Raja. There is also another temple by name Annamala Temple constructed in Chola style. The church at Muthalakodam, near Thodupuzha is believed to have constructed before 13th Century. The Ninnar Mosque near Karikkode is said to have constructed by the Vadakkumkoor Raja for his Muslim soldiers. Thodupuzha was also a nerve business centre. There is historical evidence to prove that from ancient time onwards ivory, teak, rosewood, sandalwood, peacock etc., were exported to foreign countries.
Historians believe that Kuzhumoor, the capital of Chera Kings of the Sangam Age, is the Kumily in Peermade taluk. It is assumed that portions of Meenachil taluk and the whole of High Range were included in the Thanthuzhynad under the Kulasekhara Empire (A.D.800-1102). For some time these regions were under the region of the Thekkumkoor Kingdom. It was proved that Vennimala, one of the capitals of the Thekkumkoor Rajas, was in Idukki district. Poonjar Kingdom was established by Manavikrama Kulasekhara Perumal. Manavikraman brought Meenachil taluk and the High Range under his rule from the Thekkumkoor Raja. Thus major portions of Idukki district came under the rule of the Poonjar Raja.
Location: Located in the middle part of Kerala, the District is bound on the East by Madurai District of Tamil Nadu State while on the West by Ernakulam and Kottayam Districts of Kerala. In the South it is the Pathanamthitta District, while on the North it is bound by Trichur and Coimbatore Districts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu States respectively. It lies between 9 degree 15' and 10 degree 21' of north latitude and 76 degree 37' and 77 degree 25' of east longitudes.With an area of 5,087 sq.km. Idukki ranks first among the districts in the state in respect of area, forming 13 percent of the total area of the state. It extends by 115km. from south to north and 67km. from east to west.
Climate: The climate in the district undergoes a sudden variation as we go from West to East. The western parts of the distirct comprising midland area experiences moderate climate, temperture varying between 21degree C to 27degreeC with minimum seasonal variation.
The eastern parts of the district located in the highland have a comparitively cold climate with temperature varying between minus 1 degreeC to 15 degree C in november/january and 5 degree C to 15 degree C during March/April.
The district receives plenty of rains from both the South- West monsoon during June-August and the North- East monsoon during October - November. The normal rainfall is 3265 mm. As common to other parts of the state, the Idukki districtt also experiences both the south-west monsoon (Edavappathy) and North-East Monsoon (Thulavarsham) during June-July and October -November respectively. The former is more predominat with June experiencing the maximum rainfall.
Plantations: The modern history of the district starts with the advent of European planters to this region. In 1877 Kerala Varma, the Raja of Poonjar, sold 227 sq. miles of Kannan Devan Hills to John Daniel Munroe, a British planter. This has led to the birth of Kannan Devan Hill Produce Company. Kannan Thevan is an Adivasi who showed the hills to the Planters and today Kannan Devan Hills is internationally known. The tract was largely unexplored and covered with thick forests. There were no means of communications. In 1878 the Maharaja of Travancore confirmed the sale. J.D Munroe formed the North Travancore Land Planting and Agricultural Society. The members of the society developed their own estates in various parts of the High Ranges. The first cultivation was undertaken by A.W Turnor at Devikulam area in 1877.
The pioneers tried many cropes such as Coffee, Chinchona, Sisal and Cardamom, before discovering tea as the crop best suited for this area. Tea was first planted by A.H Sharp at Parvathi, now in Seven Mallay Estate by clearing 50 acres on a dense forest. In 1895 that area was purchased by Finlay Muir & Company now known as James Finlay and Company Limited. The Kannan Devan Hills Produce Company Limited and the Anglo-American Direct Tea Trading Company Ltd., owned 28 estates in these areas. The remaining 7 estates were owned by other British and Indian Companies not belonging to this group.
With the entry of large business houses possessing capital and technical skill, the pace of development was accelerated. Experienced tea planters were brought from Ceylon and large areas were planted with tea. Roads were opened, transport organised, houses and factories built and production rose rapidly in the succeeding years. Later M/s Tata Finlay Ltd., a company incorporated in India, purchased the Tea Estates from them and are running them now, under the name M/s Tata Finlay Ltd. Their operation are mainly confined to Munnar - Devikulam area.
After the implementation of the Land Reforms Act, about 70,000 acres of Kannan Devan Hills Village were resumed from the Company as excess land with out any compensation. It is also a bare fact which should not be forgotten that the deforestation process started in the High Ranges with the advent of Plantation industry by the end of 19th century, the ever green forests existed were totally destroyed in the area and substituted with the present greenish carpet of tea leaves. Migration
The District is characterised by large migration of people from Kerala's main land as also labourers from neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. About 3 decades ago almost all the present growth centres in the highland region were thick forest. During 1890-1920 on account of plantation, people came to this place to work in plantation, while during 1920-30 the migration was on account of the poverty, due to after effect of World Wars. 1933-47 saw migration on a smaller extent for the reason of Pallivasal Project. The Pallivassal Hydro-electric Project, the first Hydro-electic Project of the State was initially constructed by the Tea Companies for their industrial use. During 1946 Government allotted forest land for 2000 persons while in 1950 Colonies were established for Ex-servicemen. In 1951 under grow more Scheme 1500 acres of land was allotted to 1000 persons, which made more and more people migrate to this District. During 1960 and 70's many migrated on account of the construction of the Historic Arch Dam at Idukki. From 1901 to 1971 the population of the district has increased about 16 times and is on a higher scale compared to the rate of growth of population of the State.
Between 1971-81 the population of the district showed an increase of about 27 percent as against an increase of 19 percent for the state as a whole. Since most part of the district is covered with dense forests and plantations there is lesser area for habitation. There is also large scale conversion of forest areas into arable lands for past two decades. This has resulted in the increase in population in the hilly taluks of the district, especially in Udumbanchola and eastern parts of Thodupuzha taluk. The establishment of the gigantic Idukki Hydro-Electric Project in Thodupuzhs taluk also has influenced the growth of population in the district. The inability of the industrial sector in the district and neighbouring areas to absorb the labour force also acted as a catalyst for the large scale encroachment of forest areas.
: A landlocked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. High ranges and wooded valleys are girded by three main rivers - Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar - and their tributaries. The River Pamba also has its origin here. As a tourist destination, Idukki offers diverse attractions like Wildlife sancturies, Hill stations, Dams, Spece plantation tours, Mountain treks, Elephant rides etc.
Munnar: Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower that bathes the hills in blue every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m.
Pothamadu(6 km from Munnar): Pothaamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The rolling hills, the lush mountain and the breathtaking scenary here are ideal for trekking and long mountain walks
Devikulam(7 km from Munnar): This idyllic hill stations with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.
Pallivasal (8 km from Munnar): This is the venue of the first Hydro electric Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty.
Attukal (9 km from Munnar): A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukal, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The place is also ideal for long treaks.
Nyayamakad(10km from Munnar): Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 metres. The enchanting surroundings make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.
Chithirapuram(10 km from Munnar): With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old-world charm.Home of the Pallivasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantations.
Mattupetty(13 km from Munnar): Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetty is known for its highly specialised dairy farm-the Indo Swiss Livestock Project. Over a 100 varieties of high-yielding cattle are reared here. Visitors are allowed into 3 of the 11 cattle sheds at the farm.
Visiting time: 0900-1100 hrs and 1400-1530 hrs. The Mattupetty lake and dam, just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot.The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam.Speed launch and motorboats are available on hire.
Lock Heart Gap (13km from Munnar): This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mistclad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of visit.
Rajamala (15km from Munnar): This is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri tahr. Half the world population of the rare mountain goat (Hemitragas bylocres) which is fast becoming extinct, is now found here. The Nilgiri tahrs are today redused to small herds found in the Eravikulam-Rajamala region. The total number of Nilgiri tahrs in Rajamala is estimated at 1317.
Echo Point (15 km from Munnar): This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point is on the way to Top Stations from Munnar.
Eravikulam National Park (15 km from Munnar): The 97 sq. km. park is situated in the Devikulam taluk and is home to the Nilgiri tahr. The Anamudi peak (2695m) is located in the southern region of the park.
Power House waterfalls (18 km from Munnar): This waterfall on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascades down a steep rock, 2000m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic western mountain ranges, and is an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady.
Kundala (20 km from Munnar): Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Stations. The Golf Course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. is located here. The Kundala artificial dam is another attraction.Aruvikkad waterfalls is also near Kundala.
Anayirankal (22km from Munnar): It is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirankal Dam is surrounded by the Tata Tea Plantations and evergreen forests. It is an ideal picnic spot.
Top station (32 km from Munnar): 1700 m above sea level, this is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. The rare Nilakurinji (strobilanthus) belongs to this region. This plant blooms wants every 12 years bathing the hill sides in bright blue. Top Station also offers a panoramic view of the neighboring state of Tamilnadu.
Marayoor (40 km from Munnar): This is the only place in Kerala that has natural growth of sandal wood trees. The sandal wood factory of the forest department, the caves (Muniyaras) with murals and relics from the new stone age civilization and the children's park spread across a hectare of land under the canopy of a single Banyan tree are of great interest to tourist's. Thoovanam waterfalls and Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also near by.
Cheeyappara: The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are located between Nariamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi Madurai highway. The Cheeyappara waterfalls cascade down in seven steps. It is a real feast for the eyes. This is also a great place for trekking.
Meenuli: It is noted for two acres of evergreen forests upon a huge Rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and is an ideal spot for mountaineering
Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary (60 km from Munnar): Situated on the Tamilnadu Boarder, The Chinnar wild life sanctuary is spread across 90.44 Sq.km.
Idukki Arch Dam: This is the world's second and Asia's first arch dam, constructed across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills. 550 ft. high and 650 ft. wide, the dam lies close to the Cheruthoni barrage. To its west is the Kulamavu Dam. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located close by.
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha and Udumbanchola taluks of Idukki district, spreading over 77 sq.km. and is about 450-748 m. above sea level. The Idukki Reservoir formed by three dams - Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamanu - extends to 33 sq.km.
Hill View Park: True to its title it offers a panoramic view of a large area than one can experience from any high mountain park. Scene of Wild elephants in their natural habital enthrills the visitor. This park is situated adjacent to both Idukki Arch Dam and Cheruthony Dam. Spread over an area of 8 acres of land this aesthetically designed park has a natural water body at the hill top and pedal boating facility is available here. The herbal garden and children's play area are added attractions. A visit to this park makes Idukki visit a memorable one.
Nadukani: Nadukani is an ideal place for one-day picnickers. As the name indicates, this park offers panoramic view of the a large area of the same and nearby districts. A two-storyed pavilion makes an ideal place for enjoying the landscape and beauty of nature.
Thumpachi Calveri Samuchayam: This is a picnic spot also ideal for mediation, relaxation and watching sunset and is located 35 km away from Thodupuzha.
Kulamavu: Damsight - trekking trail - view point
Painavu: Scenic beauty - trekking point - evergreen forest - District Headquarters
Cheruthoni: Idukki Arch Dam sight - aerial view of the reservoir - panoramic view - hill view park.
Kalliyanathandu: The aerial view of the Idukki reservoir, panoramic view of peaks and forests makes this a splendid tourist spot. It is also an ideal place for mountain climbers and trekkers.
Malankara Reservoir (6 km from Thodupuzha): Located on the Thodupuzha-Moolamattom road, this artificial lake is accessible by road. The reservoir is ideal for Boating and fishing.
Thommankuthu (17km from Thodupuzha): The 7 steps waterfall here is much loved picnic spot. At each step there is a cascade and Pool beneath. Thommankuthu is an ideal place for adventure tourism.
Keezharkuthu (25 km from Thodupuzha): The Rain Bow waterfalls, which cascade down a rock from a height of about 1500 m is a wonderful attraction of this spot. It can be seen through out the year in full swing. The forest around the spot is home to various medicinal plants. It is an ideal place for rock climbing, mountaineering and camp tracking.
Palkulamedu (12km from Idukki): Kochi, Alappuzha and other nearby towns can be seen from this peeks which is located 3125 m above see level.
Kalvarimount (8 km from Idukki): This is famous Pilgrims center on the way to Kattappana.
Peermede: The famous plantation town, takes its name from Peer Mohammed - Sulfi saint and close associate of the erstwhile royal family of Travancore. Wide vistas of Tea, cardamom, rubber and coffee plantation interspersed with silver cascades, sculptural rocks, meadows and mist-cloaked hilltops make Peermede an unforgettable experience. The most delightful trekking trials complement the panoramic landscape. Monuments like the summer residence of the royal family add to the splendour of the land. The summer residence is converted in to the government guesthouses under the Department of Tourism, offers comfortable accommodation.
Kuttikkanam : A place for adventure tourism and trekking, or even a languorous, tranquil break. This picturesque plantation town washed in the fragrance of cardamom is surrounded by lush, green hills.
Thrissanku Hills (4 km from Peermedu, ½ km from Kuttikkanam): The rolling hills, the lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this an ideal spot for long walks. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset.
Peeru Hills (4 km from Peermede, 1 km from Kuttikkanam): This idyllic hill station is a favorite haunt of trekkers and picnickers. The hill is named after Peer Mohammed, the Sufi saint, who spent his last days here. The mausoleum of the saint, the summer palace of the royal family and the residence of the Diwan situated nearby are all worth a visit.
Grampi (5 km from Peermede): Grampi is also known as Parunthupara (eagle rock) because of the panoramic view from its peeks. Rocky plains, lush hillsides, forests, trekking trails and picturesque view lent charm to this destination. The road to Grampi is flanked by unending stretches of cardamom, tea and coffee plantations.
Pattumala (17 km from Peermede, 28 km from Thekkady): Lofty peaks, little streams and ever expanding tea plantations are the attractions of this place. Pattumala (which literally mean hill draped in silk) is home to the two most famous tea plantations, Harrisons Malayalam and A.V. Thomas & Co. The Velankanni Matha Church, build entirely granite, at the top of the hill is famous pilgrim center. The flower garden nearby is fascinating riot of colours, of roses, orchids and anthuria.
Vagamon (25 km from Peermede): Grass-covered hills, velvet lawns and the cool mountain air make Vagamon a perfect holiday retreat. A curious blend of religious mysticism and European legacies, this hillside village is a haven of tranquility. The chain three hills - Thangal hills, Mudugan Hill and Kurisumala - is a mark of religious harmony. The dairy farm managed by the kurisumala monks is worth a visit.
Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre: A well-established Ayurvedic Hospital, Sahyadri Managed by the Peermedu Development Society in Pallikunnu, is well known for its curative and rejuvenate treatment packages. The center has well-appointed treatment and accommodation facilities, a unit for manufacturing Ayurvedic medicines and a well-maintained raw drugs museum where more than 200 verities of rare and endangered herbs are preserved. More than 400 herbs used for medicines are grown in the hospital's own garden spread over 35 acres.
Ilaveezhapoonchira (55 km from Kottayam, 20 km from Thodupuzha): This is another picnic spot located in the midst of beautiful hillocks near Kanjar. It is easily accessible from Palai in Kottayam District. Surrounded by three enchanting hillocks - Mankunnu, Kudayathoor mala and Thonippara-this place ideal for trekking.
Tribel settlements in Peermede: The Oorali, Malappandaram and Malayarayan tribes live in the hills of Peermede. The main tribel settlement here is Plakkathadam, which is also known for its trekking trails.
Thekkady: The very sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice-scented plantations. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great apportunities for treks and mountain walks.
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq.km, of which 360 sq.km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world.
The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar, however, are the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake.
Entry timing: 0600 - 1800 hrs.
Kurisumala: A place for adventure tourism and trekking. This will offer a panoramic view of Kumily town and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Kumily (4 km from Thekkady): This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. An important shopping centre ans spice trade centre, the main bus station and most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region are in Kumily
Murikkady (5 km from Thekkady): Washed in fresh spice-scented air, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.
Pandikuzhi (5 km from Kumily): This picturesque spectrum of exotic flora, fauna and gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border. A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.
Mangala Devi Temple (15 km from Thekkady): This ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a oeak 1337 m above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic view of the eastern slopes of the Ghats and some hill villages of Tamil nadu. Permission to visit the area can be abtained from the Wildlife Wadren, Thekkady
Chellarkovil (15 km from Kumily): This sleepy little village with its breathtaking view of the plains and cascading waterfalls is a feast for the eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Cumbum in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Vandiperiyar (18 km from Thekkady): The River Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture farm and Flower Garden have a delightful array of roses, orchids and anthuria.
Vandanmedu (25 km from Kumily): This is one of the world's largest auction centres for candamom. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantations of Vandanmedu is a heady experience.
Pullumedu(43 km from Thekkady, 26 km from Periyar): The winding journey to this hill town, along the Periyar River, offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns, rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu which can be accessed only by jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Jyothi illumination at the shrine are visible from here. Since it is part of the restricted forest zone, special permission to visit Pullumedu has to be obtained from the Wildlife Preservation Officer, Thekkady
Ramakalmedu (40 km from Thekkady and 75 km from Munnar): Rolling green hills and the fresh mountain air make Ramakalmedu an enchanting retreat. The hills top also offers a Panoramic view of picturesque villages of Bodi and Cumbum on the Eastern slop of the western ghats.
Plantation Tours: Plantation tours are arranged from the District Tourism Information Office at Thekkady Junction in Kumily (Ph:0486-322620). Tours cover cardamom, pepper, coffee and tea plantations, tea factories, tribal settlements and the surrounding hill regions.
Elephant rides: The Forest Department, Thekkady offers facilities for elephant rides through the jungle. Time: 1000 - 1700 hrs. Duration: 30 Minutes. Fare: Rs.30 per person. Tickets are available from the Wildlife Information Counter. Ph:0486-322028
Trekking: Main trekking areas in Thekkady: Kurisumala near Kumily, Pullumedu, Ottakathalamedu near Kumily, Grampi near Vandiperiyar
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