Thekkady - 114 kms off Kottayam and 65 km from Idukki
One of the best wildlife sanctuaries of the nation, Thekkady is complete with exotic flora, fauna, and evergreen forest. The vast area of 777 sq kms of forest has an exquisite sanctuary in it, and is the largest in India . It has earned a special place as one of the hotspots on any tourists agenda.
The 360sq kms of dense forest in the The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary provides home to a wide variety of remarkable birds like Malabar Grey Hornbill, Grey Jungle Fowl, Heron, Egret, Jungle Myna, Wood Pecker, Rose Winged and Blue Winged Parakeet, Ceylon Frog-Mouth and Rose Billed Roller. This fascinating spot where visitors can often spot many kinds of wild animals is also a noted Tiger reserve. The guided tours arranged by the sanctuary provide opportunities to watch these animals at close quarters. Walks through the acres of plantations and up the mountainous area provide excellent trekking opportunities. A large portion of the sanctuary is surrounded by the Periyar River . Apart from the many varieties of fish here, the river is also noted for the long lovely boat rides that are arranged by the sanctuary. These rides are another excellent way to discover the myriad wildlife that thrives in and around the water. Rowing along the splendidly constructed Mullaperiyar dam, one can always manage to spot herds of wild elephants frolicking in the river water.
Kumily- Located 4 kms from Thekkady
This is a noted town, close to the Periyar sanctuary. Acres of lush plantations constitute most of the town. Plantation town is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar sanctuary. Kumily is also one of the best places to shop for spices.
Murikkady- 5 km from Thekkady
Murikkady is a beautiful location that is known for its well looked after coffee plantations. Cardamom and pepper are also extensively grown here. The place is a significant supplier to the many spice shops at Kumily.
Pandikuzhi- 5 kms from Kumily
The beautiful location of Pandikuzhi is situated at the outskirts of the state. It is now growing to be a popular tourist destination and an enchanting picnic spot. Pandikuzhi is noted for the many species of bird and animal life and rare plants and herbs that thrive there. The landscape of the place makes it an appealing holiday venue for trekkers and adventure travelers as well.
Mangala Devi Temple- 15 kms from Thekkady
This is a famous temple in Idukki. The temple is a classic example of temple architecture of ancient Kerala. The well preserved relics of this ancient Devi temple is situated upon a hillock that stands about 1337 m above sea level. The long way through the dense forest and up the dilapidated steps leading to the temple makes the trip a lovely trek.
Chellarkovil- 15 kms from Kumily
This is a beautiful village that shares its borders with Tamil Nadu. The place presents visitors with a fantastic opportunity to observe the typical life of simple people settled in the villages at high ranges. The scenic extravaganza including acres of luxuriant fields, plains and gurgling waterfalls make it a much sought out tourist destination.
Vandiperiyar- 18 kms from Thekkady
With many tea processing sites and factories, Vandiperiyar stands out as a major trade and commercial center of the district and the state. There are many beautiful nurseries here. It is also the chosen location for the operations and research by the Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden.
Munnar - 70 kms from Idukki
Munnar, was the most popular summer resorts during the British reign and is still a very well known hill station. Located at an altitude of 1800m above sea level, this 'Kashmir of the East' is the first hill resort in the State.
The chilly climate here is ideal for cultivating tea. It is home to one of the biggest tea plantations in the world- the Kannan Devan Tea Plantations. The sight of mist topped tea plantations spread across acres of Munnar, is indeed soothing to the eye.
The most splendid sight would definitely be that of thousands of the exotic blue flower- Neelakurinji, that inundate the hills every 12 years (the next bloom will be in the year 2006). There are many lovely spots that are ideal for rock climbing and trekking as well. The noisy waterfalls, gurgling streams and rows of tiny cottages add more life and colour to the vivid picturesque location that Munnar already is.
Pothamedu - 6 kms from Munnar
This is a popular location with trekkers and adventure tourists. The magnificently beautiful mountainous place has many hills making it a perfect spot to set out on challenging treks and mountain walks. Pothamedu is also known for the beautiful tea and coffee plantations and also the lush cardamom plantations.
Devikulam - 7 kms from Munnar
The chill climate, fresh air exclusive to high ranges, acres of green lawns, exotic wildlife, and the marvelous Sita Devi Lake, all attract tourists from all over the globe. Sita Devi Lake that is known for its mineral water also provides boating and fishing facilities.
Chithirapuram - 10 kms from Munnar
Picturesque Chithirapuram is the site for the Pallyvasal Hydel Power Project. Long arrays of beautiful cottages, bungalows, shopping areas, playgrounds and courts, all designed in an old town's style, gives one the feeling of being part of an exquisite painting. Many lovely tea plantations make the place even more exotic.
Mattupetty - 13 kms from Munnar
Mattupetty, situated at a height of 1700 m, is specially known for its highly specialised dairy farm - the Indo Swiss Livestock Project. Over a 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here.
The Mattupetty also has a lake and dam, just a short distance from the farm. These are beautiful picnic spots and the boat cruises (Speed launch, slow speedboat and motorboats) along the dam are quite popular. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala Lake are other attractions in the vicinity.
Lock Heart Gap
This is a location in Mattupetty. The place is ideal for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.
Echo Point - 15 kms from Munnar
This is a very scenic place and it gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point is on the way to Top Station from Munnar
Iravikkulam National Park
