Idukki

Area: 5150.89 sq. km. Population: 1,078,066  Altitude: 935 m to 2817 m above sea level

A landlocked district, 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".