Things To Do
in Idukki
Idukki is a beautiful district located in the southwestern Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, featuring lush green hills, tranquil lakes, and picturesque waterfalls. The district is also home to the Idukki Arch Dam, one of the highest arch dams in Asia.
Idukki is a popular destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring spice plantations.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Idukki Dam, where you can enjoy the scenic views and take some photos. Explore the surrounding area with a short trek to appreciate the lush greenery.
Visit the picturesque Vagamon hills and try some paragliding for an adrenaline rush. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the panoramic views.
Wind down with a visit to a local tea plantation. Enjoy a leisurely walk among the tea bushes, followed by a tasting session of freshly brewed tea.
Head to the forests of the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary for an exciting morning of bird watching. Keep an eye out for exotic species and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Have lunch in a local eatery before embarking on a trek to the famous Nadukani viewpoint. The views from the top will leave you breathless.
Relax at a cozy homestay and experience local cuisine. Enjoy an evening campfire under the stars, sharing stories with other travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with lush green hills and forests.
- Pleasant climate, especially during the monsoon season.
- Rich biodiversity and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
- Famous for its tea plantations and scenic viewpoints.
- Offers activities like trekking, hiking, and boating.
- Limited access to urban amenities and services.
- Poor infrastructure in some areas, leading to travel challenges.
- Heavy rainfall can lead to landslides and transportation disruptions.
- Fewer options for shopping and dining compared to urban areas.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season, impacting the tranquility.
Best Activities in Idukki
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hills and forests of Idukki through various trekking trails such as the Meesapulimala Trek and the Ramakkalmedu Trek.
Enjoy a night amidst nature by camping at scenic locations like Munnar and Thekkady in Idukki.
Embark on a wildlife safari at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Experience the serene beauty of Idukki by indulging in boating at the Idukki Dam or the Periyar Lake.
Tours
Uncover the best of Idukki with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Idukki
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its panoramic views of the Western Ghats and picturesque windmills.
Offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and the valley below, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Provides a great vantage point to view the vast reservoir and surrounding mountains.
Food in Idukki
Idukki Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Appam, a type of rice pancake, is often served with a fragrant and creamy stew made with vegetables and coconut milk. It's a must-try dish that captures the essence of Idukki's cuisine. Recommended place: Hotel Gurubhavan in Thekkady.
Must-Try!
Karimeen (pearl spot fish) marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaf, and then grilled to perfection. This dish showcases the region's affinity for seafood. Recommended place: Spice Village Restaurant in Kumily.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Idukki better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kumily Market is a bustling hub of local food and culture. Here, you can find an array of fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat street food such as banana fritters, freshly squeezed sugarcane juice, and local snacks like banana chips and fried peanuts.
Thekkady Junction is renowned for its vibrant street food scene, offering an assortment of delicious treats such as Kappa (tapioca) with fish curry, Puttu (steamed rice cake) with kadala (chickpea) curry, and various types of savory and sweet snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Idukki, India, it is respectful to greet people with a 'Namaste' which involves placing your palms together in front of your chest and bowing slightly.
It's important to show respect when visiting religious sites in Idukki. This includes wearing modest clothing and removing shoes when entering certain places of worship.
When dining with locals, it is polite to wash your hands before and after the meal. Additionally, wait to be seated and only eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Idukki with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Idukki
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Idukki, India. However, in some upscale or tourist-oriented establishments, a tip of 5-10% may be given for good service.
In Idukki, India, cash is the primary form of payment, especially in smaller shops and local markets. However, larger establishments and tourist areas may accept credit or debit cards. It's always advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions in this region.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Idukki.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The summer season is a good time to visit Idukki if you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities. The temperature ranges from 23°C to 36°C, and it is a great time for trekking, nature walks, and exploring the hill stations.
Idukki experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which can lead to lush green landscapes and beautiful waterfalls. However, trekking and outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather conditions.
Winter is considered the best time to visit Idukki due to the pleasant weather and clear skies. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing, boating, and exploring the wildlife sanctuaries.
Idukki at Night
Hiking in Idukki
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Anamudi is the highest peak in South India, located in the Western Ghats. It offers numerous trekking routes with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes.
Meesapulimala is the second highest peak in Kerala and is known for its challenging treks and panoramic views. The trekking trail passes through scenic grasslands and shola forests.
Echo Point is a picturesque spot near Idukki, ideal for easy hikes. The area is famous for its natural beauty and the echo phenomenon caused by the surrounding hills.
Kurisumala is famous for its serene trails and spiritual significance. The hike offers an experience of the lush green hills and a view of the nearby valleys.
Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary offers a range of hiking trails through a diverse ecosystem. Visitors can enjoy the rich flora and fauna while trekking in the sanctuary.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Idukki through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Idukki by plane.
Located approximately 85 km from Idukki, this is the first fully solar-powered airport in the world, serving both domestic and international flights.
Situated around 130 km from Idukki, it serves as a major international gateway to the southern part of India and features a variety of domestic and international flights.
Approximately 155 km from Idukki, this airport serves the Malabar region and offers flights to numerous international destinations.
Located about 155 km from Idukki, it caters to passengers flying to Middle Eastern countries and other destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic and linguistic group in Idukki, predominantly speaking Malayalam.
A significant minority group in Idukki, primarily residing in border areas and speaking Tamil.
Indigenous communities such as the Muthuvan, Malasar, and Others, with distinct cultural practices.
Includes various denominations, with a notable presence in the region, particularly among the Malayali population.
A smaller demographic group in Idukki, practicing Islam and contributing to the cultural diversity.
The Soul of Idukki
Discover the essence of Idukki through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is extremely popular in Idukki, with many local tournaments and a strong following among the youth.
Football is widely played in Idukki, especially among school and college students, with several local clubs and leagues.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport in the region, with local tournaments held and a strong community interest.
Badminton has gained popularity in Idukki, being played both recreationally and competitively.
Basketball is growing in popularity, especially in schools and urban areas, with initiatives to promote the sport.
Athletics is encouraged in schools and colleges, with many students participating in local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Idukki.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Idukki is known for its abundance of vegetarian and vegan options, with many local dishes naturally suited to these dietary preferences. Restaurants and cafes in the region offer a variety of plant-based dishes, including Avial (mixed vegetable curry) and Thoran (stir-fried veggies with coconut).
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like Puttu (steamed rice cake), Appam, and seafood preparations, as these traditional offerings are often naturally gluten-free. Many dining establishments also accommodate gluten-free requests and offer alternatives to wheat-based staples.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Idukki with these cultural adventures.