Idukki Arch Dam is a double-curved parabolic thin arc dam constructed on the River Periyar in Kerala. The dam is located in Mariyapuram village, Kerala, and is nestled in a narrow gorge between two granite hills known locally as Kuravan and Kurathi. At 167.7 metres, it is one of Asia's tallest arch dams and the world's third-tallest arch dam. The area is lush green, and the reservoir serves as a quick escape for locals. Boating in the reservoir is open to tourists as part of promoting hydel tourism.

Summers are hot and humid, making hikes and walking difficult. Monsoon season in Idukki (June - September) should be avoided due to heavy rainfall, and boat rides are not available during this time. In general, the best time to visit Kerala is during the winter season, and the same is true for Idukki Dam. The weather is mild, making exploration enjoyable. You can explore it to the fullest.

Do you want to laze in the pristine landscape of Kerala unwinding yourself at the top of a 1200 metres hilltop from where you can savour the cool breezes blowing and have a bird’s eye view of the vast rolling green meadows? If yes, you are at the right place! Parunthumpara- an offbeat destination for tourists and especially, trekkers. Parunthumpara is a great delight to see if visiting after the monsoon. Monsoons beautify the tranquil surroundings with mystical and mythological hues, making it a more deserving place for a family vacation.

Location: Idukki
Distance from Idukki Arch Dam: 71 KM&nbsp;

Interested in picnicking in the verdant landscape of Kerala? Trust us! The rustic vibes that make you adore this place could be well felt while being close to the dams. Built across the Periyar river, the Cheruthoni dam is the third-highest dam in the country. It was constructed in the year 1976. It is a part of the Idukki Hydroelectric project. Additionally, on a two-hour cruise, one can enjoy boating between the dams of Kulamavu and Idukki. The enchanting views of the city Kochi from the height of the dam are spell-binding.&nbsp;

Location: Idukki
Distance from Idukki Arch Dam: 6.5 KM

As the name suggests, the amazing Hill View Park lends charismatic views of the Cheruthoni and Idukki dams. It’s an alluring retreat and abounds with diverse wildlife. The location does not disappoint when it comes to adventurous activities. One of the recent adventures added to it is Ziplining. To add to the wonders of this place which sprawls to an area of 8 acres there exists an artificial lake. On this charming lake, you must try out boating once.&nbsp;

Location: Idukki
Distance from Idukki Arch Dam: 3.2 KM&nbsp;

Kalvari Mount is an amazing viewpoint and a mountain peak which is located at a height of 20 metres. It stands on the Kattapana-Idukki road. It is an important and popular pilgrimage site in Idukki. Kalvari Mount or Kalliyanathandu is known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views. The spectacular aerial views of the Idukki reservoir and its surroundings it offers melt one’s heart. During the Idukki trip, do not miss out to include this location on your itinerary.

Location: Kalvari Mount View Point, Road, Narakakanam, Kerala
Distance from Idukki Arch Dam: 8.5 KM&nbsp;

Are you a shopping freak? Interested in buying silk and local fabrics or handicrafts from a prominent destination for shopping in Idukki? Painavu, a place located 10 kilometres from the centre of Idukki would serve your purpose. It lies within the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. It offers a great trekking zone. In its expanse of lush plantations, you can also spot elephants. After the monsoon, this location enchants you with its praise-worthy atmosphere and charm. One would love to fall in love with such locations. What are you waiting for?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Location: Idukki
Distance from Idukki Arch Dam: 5.6 KM

By Air: 
<ul>
<li>The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, 112 KM away. Visitors can take public transportation to the dam site via NH185 from there on.</li>
</ul>

By Road:
<ul>
<li>Idukki District's Idukki Arch dam is reachable via road and can be reached using a taxi or bus.</li>
</ul>

By Train:
<ul>
<li>The nearest railway station is Kottayam Railway Station, located approximately 110 kilometres from the dam. Tourists can catch public transportation via SH42 from the Railway Junction.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Idukki is a fantastic location because wherever you stay, you will have a view of a valley, tea plantations, and an endless horizon of hills. And a must-deserving place to visit. However, you can go exploring nearby beautiful places in Kerala, such as Ramakkalmedu, Anchurully, Kattappana, Wagamon, Chinnar, Nedumkandam, and Ponmudi. It will undoubtedly be a long journey across God's Own Country!

The dam can be seen from a long distance due to its massive size, and the sight of the structure in between the granite hills is breathtaking. The reservoir is a beautiful sight from the top of Calvary. If you have extra time for this visit, make sure to hike up Calvary and take in the breathtaking views. Just take in the breathtaking beauty of the site while you're there because photography is not permitted and you don't want to forget about this magnificent structure.
Many local species live in the forest area surrounding the dam and reservoir. A kilometre away is a cave that became famous after appearing in the Malayalam film Vyshali. Since then, it has been known as Vyshali Cave and is frequently visited by visitors to the dam.

Location: Idukki District, Kerala
Distance from Munnar: 54.5 KM
Timings: Public Holidays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Entry Fees: Rs 25 for adults and Rs 5 for children.

Tourists visiting the dam should take a thrilling boat ride through the dam reservoir. Each ride lasts about 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. At the shore, you can see a variety of birds and animals such as deer, elephants, and bison, or you can sail silently through the tranquil waters and watch the sunsets. Tourists can take boat rides every day except Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Kulamavu Dam is one of the three dams that comprise the Idukki reservoir project. Kulamavu is a popular hill station in the Idukki district and one of the places to visit in Idukki. The 60-square-kilometre artificial lake created by the three dams adds scenic beauty to the rugged rocky terrain and lush vegetation that surrounds it. The picturesque countryside and rubber and spice plantations entice visitors to the hill station. Visitors are enthralled by the various bird species that inhabit the hill station, such as the darter or snakebird, kingfisher, and so on. Kulamavu has incredible trekking trails with equally enchanting surroundings that will get trekkers' adrenaline pumping.

A Comprehensive Guide to Idukki Arch Dam, Kerala

India > Kerala

8 May 2026

Explore in Kerala

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