Idukki

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.

Culture

The district of Idukki has a mixed culture due to the large scale migration to the district from other parts of Kerala and from the Neighboring Tamilnadu. There are 245 tribal settlements in the District of which 74 are in Thodupuzha; 11 in Peermedu; 126 in Devikulam and 34 in Udumbanchola Taluks. Almost all the scheduled tribes are living in the extreme remote hilly banks and in the deep interiors of thickly growing forests of this district. According to the latest census around 11516 Scheduled tribal families are living in the district.

The main inhabitants of the district are the scheduled tribes, which include Malayarayan, Mannan, Muthuvan, Oorali, Paliyan, Hilpulayan, Malapandaram, Ulladan and Malayan. Among the scheduled tribes Malayarayans out class all the other factions in socio-economical and educational aspects.

Among the most celebrated festivals in Idukki, the Adimali Fest is the most prominent tourism and agricultural festival of the High ranges since 1991. Every year the festival is celebrated during the last week of December, at Adimali.

The agricultural fair and exhibition is a part and parcel of the Adimali Fest. Hundreds of farmers bring their super size products for display. Exhibition stalls of various Government Departments, Institutions and Agencies are of great attraction along with the exhibition cum sales stalls of the trade fair.

The agricultural fair at Thodupuzha is also note worthy and is held every year under the aegis of the Agricultural society.

Forest

Idukki as a prominent Hill Station in India is home to the largest wildlife Sanctuary in India, which has an expanse of approx. 777 sq.km in the district's forested land. Animal life of the order of deer, giant and Malabar squirrel abound in plenty in this scenic Hill station in India. A tour to Idukki would reveal the same.

Rivers

Thodupuzhayar and Thalayar are the important rivers of the district and the Pamba river also originates from here.

How to Reach

Air : Nearest Airports are Kochi - 120 km (Nedumbassery International Airport) and Madurai (Tamil Nadu) 140 km.

Rail : The nearest railway station is at Kottayam, 133 km away.

Road : Idukki can be reached by motorable roads from all parts of Kerala.