HistoryThe initial idea of a hydroelectric project on the Periyar River was introduced by W H John, the superintendent of Malankara Estate. He has spoken about the benefits of such a project in an article published in Malayala Manorama daily, in 1935. Later, the area between the Kuravan and Kurathi mountains was introduced to him by Chemban Kolumban, a tribal person of the region.
When the engineers came and approved the area, Kolumban was allowed a monthly pension of Rs 40 for his services, by the Kerala Electricity Board. A memorial has been established on the dam site in order to honor Kolumban.
The project work at this site was initiated in the year 1963. The then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, inaugurated the first phase of the dam in 1976. The water reservoir of this site has the capacity of holding 2 billion tons of water.
The reservoir is fed by Periyar and Cheruthoni rivers and it has been held with the help of three dams, namely Idukki, Cheruthoni and Kulamavu. The main purpose of Idduki dam is to store the water while the other dams, built at the lower section of the reservoir, direct the water to the powerhouse.
The hydroelectric power is generated at an underground station in Moolamattahm and the Idukki project has largely helped the generation of power in Kerala, with the project alone generating 780 MW of power.
AttractionsThe dam offers you a splendid view of the surrounding regions. The water reservoir of the site is not only used for power generation but also to facilitate irrigation in the surrounding areas. The dam is open for the common visitors only for 10 day during the festive season of Onam and Christmas. With its entry fee being cheap, thousands of tourists come to this place during this time of the year. Boating facilities are also provided to the visitors on the waters of the reservoir.
There are various other tourist attractions in Idukki, which you can visit while on a trip to this dam. Thommankuthu Waterfall, Hill View Park, Idukki National Park and Nadukani hill station are some of the must visit destinations in this region.
Opening Time: The place remains open for only 10 days during the festive season of Onam and Christmas. Entry Fee: The entry fee to this place is Rs 10 for adults and Rs 5 for children. The boating in the waters of the dam is charged as Rs 600 per person, for 15 minutes.
Best Time to VisitThe best time to visit the Idukki Dam is from August to March. How to ReachBy Road: The dam is easily accessible by road from the main town of Idukki. Shared and hired taxi services are available from the town to the dam. Idukki is well connected through road with the places like Munnar (37 km), Ernakulam (116 km) and Kottayam (120 km). Both public and private buses are available from these places to Idukki.
By Air: The nearest airport to the dam is Cochin International Airport, which is located at a distance of about 132 km. Regular buses and taxi services are available from the airport to the place.
By Train: The nearest train station to the dam is Kottayam, located at a distance of about 133 km. The station is well connected with various major cities within the country. Both bus and taxi services are available outside the station to get to the place.