Idukki dam is an arch dam across the Periyar river in Kerala. Idukki dam, with Cheruthoni and Kulamavu dams, has created a large artificial lake.
Boating
We spent a day in the Idukki dam area during our recent trip to Vagamon. The drive from Vagamon to Idukki township took us about 2 hours. Our first place to visit was Hill park, but a “boating ticket counter” just before hill park caught my attention. I casually went up to the counter and asked whether the boat ride was open. He immediately gave us two tickets and asked us to hurry up!
We drove for a km on a narrow road to reach the opening of the Idukki backwaters. As the person at the ticket counter mentioned, the boat was ready to depart. It was Christmas week, and we were surprised to get into the boat without any waiting time.
It was a pleasant ride of 30 minutes. The mountains and the forests surrounding the backwater were serene and beautiful. The boat took us near to Idukki and Cherothoni dams before heading back.
The road to the boating point was narrow, with limited parking area. I was wondering how the parking will be managed for the new vehicles when they arrive. Later, we saw cars stopped at the ticket counter. Effective management by authorities, or else it would have caused mayhem on that narrow road.
Hill park
Savouring the boat ride experience, we drove further to the hill park and parked near its entrance. As the park was on a hill, we had to climb up.
The view of the backwater was stunning. The Idukki arch dam, with its large expanse of water, looked spectacular from the viewpoint.
The park had activities like the boat ride and several adventure sports. It was a well-maintained park with several viewpoints, activities, amenities and clean toilets. What else does one need in a tourist area?
Another activity is to walk on Idukki and Cheruthoni dams. Unfortunately, photography is banned, and we are not even allowed to take mobile phones.
Kalvary mount viewpoint
There are several viewpoints to see the Idukki dam backwaters. We visited Kalvary mount viewpoint. The last km of the road was steep, but we drove without any issues. Low-powered vehicles will struggle on this stretch.
We parked the car at the parking lot and walked the remaining distance to the viewpoint. We were spellbound when we saw the view. Unbelievable!! Undoubtedly, the best sight of the day!!
When we left Idukki, we were a satisfied lot. The day went very well, and the beauty of the places went beyond our expectations.
Information and tips
- One day is sufficient to see various places in Idukki.
- There are many hotels and resorts surrounding the Idukki backwaters.
- There are not many good restaurants in the area. We went to “The Maharani hotel” next to the main road near Idukki. The food was good.
- I heard that walking on the Idukki dam is allowed only on holidays. Check before you visit.
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