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Idukki
- Kerala
Idukki,
the unspoiled natural queen of Kerala is a tourist paradise. Idukki
is the most gifted district of Kerala. About 1500 Sq.Km. of its area
is reserved forest, much of which is home to a variety of flora and
fauna. This forest area house wild life like, tigers, deer, Indian
bisons and monkeys. Streams, valleys and hills combine to make
Idukki an ideal year-round holiday destination.
Places
To Visit
The
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary:
This
sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluks of
Idukki district, spreading over 77 sq. km and is about 450 - 748 m
above sea level. The Idukki Reservoir formed by three dams -
Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamavu - extends to 33 sq km.
Idukki
Arch Dam: This
is the world's second and Asia's first arch dam, constructed across
the Kuravan and Kurathi hills. 550 ft. high and 650 ft. wide, the
dam lies close to the Cheruthoni barrage. To its west is the
Kulamavu Dam. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located closeby.
Thekkady:
The very
sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending
chains of hills and spice scented plantations. In the Periyar forest
of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and
spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and
hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain
walks.
The
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Lying
close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady
is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves -
the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq km, of which
360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geomorphology,
diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts
visitors from all over the world.
Kumily:
(4 km from
Thekkady): This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady,
is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. An important
shopping centre and spice trade centre, the main bus station and
most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region are in
Kumily.
Murikkady:
(5 km from
Thekkady): Washed in fresh spice scented air, Murikkady is a
panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.
Pandikuzhi:
(5 km from
Kumily): This picturesque spectrum of exotic flora, fauna and
gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu
border. A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities
for trekking and is a photographer's delight.
Mangala
Devi Temple: (15
km from Thekkady): The ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods
at the top of a peak 1337 m above sea level. The temple is built in
the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed
here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a
panoramic view of the eastern slopes of the ghats and some hill
villages of Tamil Nadu. Permission to visit the area can be obtained
from the Wildlife Warden, Thekkady. Ph: 322027.
Chellarkovil:
(15 km from
Kumily): This sleepy little village with its breathtaking view of
the plains and cascading waterfalls is a feast for the eyes. The
village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Cumbum in
neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Vandiperiyar:
(18 km from
Thekkady): The River Periyar flowing through the centre of this town
nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade
centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The
Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden have a delightful
array of rose plants, orchids and anthuria.
Vandanmedu:
(25 km from
Kumily): This is one of the world's largest auction centres for
cardamom. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantations of
Vandanmedu is a heady experience.
Thrissanku
Hills: (4
km from Peermede, 1/2 km from Kuttikanam): The rolling hills, the
lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this an ideal spot for
long walks. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sunrise and
sunset.
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