Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki

Location : About 40 km from Thodupuzha, Idukki district, central Kerala.

A land-locked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary here spreads over an area of 77 sq km in the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluks of the district. Situated at an altitude of 450-748 m above sea level, this sanctuary occupies the forest land between the Cheruthoni river and the Periyar river. There is a scenic lake around the sanctuary, covered by an enchanting canopy of tropical ever-green and deciduous trees, and offers boat rides.

Elephants, bison, sambar deer, wild dogs, jungle cats, tiger, wild boar etc are seen here apart from various species of snakes including cobra, viper, kraits and numerous non-poisonous ones. Birds include jungle fowl, myna, laughing thrush, black bulbul, peafowl, woodpecker, kingfisher etc. The wildlife here is similar to that of Thekkady. This sanctuary lies adjacent to the world renowned Idukki Arch Dam.

Getting there: Thodupuzha - Kochi is about 58 km.
Nearest railway stations: Kottayam about 114 km; Changanassery about 114 km away.
Nearest airports: Madurai in neighbouring Tamilnadu, about 140 km away; Kochi international airport, about 190 km away.