Situated in Idukki District in the state of Kerala, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located at about 40 kilometers away from Thodupuzha town. This wildlife sanctuary was established in the year 1984. This sanctuary also came into prominence due to the presence of Idukki Arch Dam. This dam is Kerala’s first hydroelectric project. The sanctuary is surrounded by Idukki reservoir. It is a beautiful lake sprawled in an area of about 33 square kilometers area. There are three dams in the area- Idukki, Kulamavu and Cheruthoni. The entire sanctuary covers an area of about 77 square kilometers. The sanctuary offers a perfect place to watch some diverse species of flora and fauna. This place is simply beautiful and spending vacations in the lap of nature will make them truly a memorable one.

History

In 1984, the famous Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary came into existence when notification for the establishment for the same was issued by the Government of Kerala. The talukas in Kerala- Peermade and Thodupuzha are covered by this Wildlife Sanctuary. The Idukki reservoir is the largest reservoir in the state of Kerala that surrounds the sanctuary from three sides.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

This wild life sanctuary experiences cool, humid weather and a rainfall higher in average than the surrounding areas. In the months of January to April, the rain fall decreases and only light rain fall is experienced once in a while. Monsoon season, both north west as well as north east is experienced by this region. The months September and October are the best months to visit this Wildlife sanctuary.

How to Reach

By Air

Nedumbassery International Airport, Cochin is the nearest airport to reach this wildlife sanctuary at about 132 kilometers away.

By Rail

Ernakulam Railway Station is the closest Railway Station to reach this wild life sanctuary. It is about 57 kilometers away from the sanctuary. Kottayam Railway Station is another railway station close to Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, at about 133 kilometers away.

By Road

To reach this wild life sanctuary, many state roadways, private coaches and taxi cabs are available from all parts of the state. The roads are well connected and well maintained.

Wildlife

Flora

The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary enjoys diverse range of species in flora. The sanctuary has dense tropical evergreen forests that include white pine, Bhadraksham, Kuntherekkapine, Vediplavu, Vayana, Punnappa, Maravuri, Palai, etc. There are semi evergreen tropical forests too in some parts of the sanctuary where forests like Cheeni, Vetti and Akil are located. Zonal grass covers the tropical meadows area.

Fauna

Idukki Wildlife sanctuary houses a diverse range of wild animals within its periphery. Some of them are- Elephant, bear, Wild Bison, deer, leopard, wild pig and tiger. A variety of reptilian species are also seen in the sanctuary. Some of these are python, cobra, viper, snake, rat, and many more.

Avifauna

Birds like jungle babbler, woodpecker, small green barbet, hornbill, large wood shrike, golden oriole, purple sun bird, blue winged parakeet are commonly seen in the area. Unique fish species like Barbus sarana, B.carnaticus, etc are also observed in this sanctuary. The popularity of this sanctuary also increased due to the presence of elephants, an isolated population due to over cutting of trees and development activities being carried out in the nearby areas.

Activities to Do

Boating

Visitors coming here love to enjoy boating in the Idukki Lake. This is the perfect way to enjoy nature’s attractions and scenic splendor all around. Some activities are also conducted by the Forest Department to enhance awareness about the nature’s blessings bestowed in this area among the students.

Trekking

Trekking is another activity that can be indulged in by the visitors coming here as this is the best way to explore the area at a leisurely pace. There are trekking trails within the forest where visitors can roam around.

Administration of Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

The administration of Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is carried out by Forest Department, in the state of Kerala. An Assistant Wildlife Officer takes care of the sanctuary.

Accommodation

Chandana Residency

This hotel is situated in the Idukki District and is known to offer warm hospitality to the guests coming here for stay. Excellent facilities and services are also offered. Well appointed rooms and views of scenic locales all around attract the visitors.

Vagamon Hide Out

Mud cottages are offered at Vagamon Hide Out. This unique accommodation attracts a large number of tourists coming to Idukki Wild Life Sanctuary.

General Information

Fees

• Adult Rs.15/-
• Foreigners Rs.150/-
• Children (Below 12 years) -Rs.7/-
• Guide Rs.150/-
• Video / Movie Rs.150/-
• Ordinary Camera Rs.25/-
• Vehicle (Light) Rs.75/-
• Vehicle (Others) Rs.20/-
• Vehicle (Heavy) Rs.150/-

Visiting Timings

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Nearby Attractions

Idukki Arch Dam

The major attraction for the tourists coming to Idukki Wildlife sanctuary is Idukki Arch Dam. This is Kerala’s first hydroelectric project. There are tunnels and power generator situated underground close to the dam.

Keezharkuthu Falls

This magnificent waterfalls with cascading water from a height is another popular tourist attraction for the visitors coming to the wild life sanctuary

Location Map

Photo Gallery