Tourist Places in Idukki
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary: The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Idukki district of Kerala. It was established in the year 1976 and covers an area of 77 square kilometers. The sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 450-748 meters above sea level and is a part of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The vegetation in the sanctuary includes evergreen forests, grasslands, and shrublands. The wildlife found here includes elephants, sambar deer, wild dogs, bison, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds and butterflies.
The sanctuary is also known for its beautiful landscapes, which include rolling hills, valleys, and waterfalls. The most famous among them is the Kalvari Mount, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Visitors to the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary can enjoy trekking, birdwatching, and nature walks. There are several trekking trails in the sanctuary that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.
In conclusion, the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of Kerala's natural heritage.
Periyar National Park: It is a popular wildlife sanctuary and national park known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem.
The park is spread across an area of 925 square kilometers, and it is located in the Western Ghats, one of the world's most important biodiversity hotspots. The park is home to a large variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Nilgiri tahr, lion-tailed macaque, and Asian elephant.
The park is also famous for its artificial lake, the Periyar Lake, which was created by the British in 1895. The lake provides water for the wildlife and the surrounding villages and is a popular spot for boat rides, which offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Periyar National Park offers visitors the opportunity to go on guided nature walks, trekking, bamboo rafting, and jeep safaris. Visitors can also take part in cultural activities such as watching traditional dance performances or learning about the local spice plantations.
The best time to visit Periyar National Park is from October to June, as the weather is pleasant and the wildlife is more active during this period.
Eravikulam National Park: It was established in 1978 to protect the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a species of mountain goat that is endemic to the Western Ghats. The park covers an area of 97 square kilometers and is situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level.
Eravikulam National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several species of birds, butterflies, and mammals such as sambar deer, gaur, and langur. The park is also known for its unique Shola-grassland ecosystem, which is a type of high-altitude montane forest. The grasslands are interspersed with patches of stunted evergreen forests called Sholas.
One of the main attractions of Eravikulam National Park is the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years. The last time the flower bloomed was in 2018, and the next bloom is expected in 2030. The park is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking, with several trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Visitors to Eravikulam National Park are required to obtain a permit from the park authorities, and only a limited number of visitors are allowed into the park each day to prevent overcrowding and damage to the delicate ecosystem.
Cheeyappara Waterfalls: The Cheeyappara Waterfalls is a great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The surroundings are lush green with tea plantations and dense forests. Visitors can enjoy trekking, bird watching, and photography at this picturesque location.
The best time to visit Cheeyappara Waterfalls is during the monsoon season, from June to September when the waterfalls are at their full glory. However, it is important to be cautious during the rainy season as the area can be slippery and dangerous.Cheeyappara Waterfalls is a must-visit destination for those who love nature and scenic beauty.
Mattupetty Dam: The dam is situated in the hills of the Western Ghats and is a part of the Pallivasal Hydro-electric project. It was constructed in the late 1940s to conserve water and generate electricity for the state.
The dam is surrounded by lush green forests, hills, and tea plantations. The scenic beauty of the dam and the surrounding areas make it a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating and horse riding in the area around the dam.
The reservoir created by the dam is also a source of water for irrigation in the surrounding areas. The dam has a height of 160 feet and a length of 1,200 feet. It is built on the Mattupetty Lake, which is formed by the melting of snow from the nearby hills.
Idukki Dam: The Idukki Dam is a double curvature arch dam located in the Indian state of Kerala. It was built across the Periyar River in the Idukki district of the state and is one of the highest arch dams in Asia. The dam was constructed between 1969 and 1973 and is owned by the Kerala State Electricity Board.
The primary purpose of the Idukki Dam is to generate hydroelectric power. It has a installed capacity of 780 MW, which is generated by six turbines of 130 MW each. The dam also serves to irrigate nearby agricultural lands and control floods in the downstream areas.
The Idukki Dam is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The scenic beauty of the surrounding areas, including the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary and the Idukki Reservoir, has made the dam a popular location for film shoots as well.
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