The name 'Idukki' is derived from the
Malayalam word 'idukku' which means 'a narrow gorge.' With high ranges of altitude 2500 ft above sea level, Idukki abounds in forest and wildlife. The
Periyar river flows through a narrow gorge between two granite hills, the legendary
Kuravan and Kurathi Hills, where the Idukki arch-dam is constructed. Idukki covers an area of 5,061 sq km. Christians constitute the majority of the population.
Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in Kerala, is in Idukki. It is 8,841 ft high. The different levels of elevation promote the growth of diverse flora. The annual rainfall varies from 250 to 425 cm. The Periyar,
Thodupuzhayar and Thalayar are the important rivers. The forest area is about 261,000 hectare. Cardamom, tea,
tapioca, rice, pepper, rubber, coconut, sugarcane, coffee, arecanut, ginger, lemon grass and vegetables are the important agricultural produces.
Idukki has tremendous tourist potentialities. The important tourist attractions are the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary,
Eravikulam National Park, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary,
Thekkady,
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary,
Thommankuthu waterfalls and
Munnar hill station. Marayoor is the only place in Kerala having natural growth of sandal wood trees.
