Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala.
The high ranges and wooded valleys are grided by three
main rivers - the 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 sanctuaries, hill
stations, spice plantation tours, mountain treks, elephant
rides and so on.
Munnar: Munnar is
situated at the confluence of three mountain streams
- Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, Kundala. 1600 m. above sea
level, this hill station was the summer resort of the
British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations,
picture book towns, winding lanes, and holiday facilities
make this a popular hill station.
Among the exotic flora found in the
forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This
flower which bathes the hills in blue once every twelve
years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the
highest peak in South India, Anamudi - which towers
over 2695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.
Cycle Rental: DTPC
provides cycling facilities at Munnar. (Rs. 10/- per
hour, Rs. 50/ per day).
Tea Factory Visit: Permission to visit any of the 26 factories of Tata
Tea Ltd. can be had from the Regional Office at Munnar
Ph: 0091-4865-30561 to 30565
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady:
One of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife
sanctuaries. Thekkady is noted for its geomorphology,
wildlife and scenic beauty. The Periyar Tiger Reserve
attracts travellers from all over the world 360 sq.
km. of the 777 sq. km. sanctuary is covered with evergreen
forests. The 26 sq. km. artificial lake formed by the
Idukki Dam across the Periyar River offers boating facilities.
This is the only sanctuary in India
where the wild elephant can be observed and photographed
at close quarters from the safety of a boat. A boat
cruise on the lake is perhaps the best way to watch
the wildlife in the reserve. Entry to the Periyar Wild
Life Sanctuary: 00.60 hrs to 18.00 hrs.
Peerumed : Situated
Situated amidst rubber, tea, coffee, and pepper plantations
is this dainty little hill station of Peerumed, an ideal
stopover on the way to Thekkady. Surrounded by rolling
hills and valleys, Peerumed is well known for its waterfalls,
open grasslands and delightful trekking trails.
This pleasant hill station was once
of the summer retreat of the Maharajas of Travancore.
Sabarimala: A well-known
pilgrim centre, Sabarimala is situated amidst dense
forests in the rugged terrains of the Western Ghats.
The temple is situated 5 km away from Pamba and can
be reached only by trekking. The main festival is during
December/January this period is called as 'Mandalakalam'.
The pilgrims will take fenance which is called as "Mandalavritham".
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