Idukki Arch Dam
General Overview: The Idukki Arch Dam is a world-renowned engineering marvel and one of the most iconic landmarks in India. It is a double curvature arch dam constructed across the Periyar River in a narrow gorge between two massive granite hills known as Kuravanmala and Kurathimala. Standing at a h eight of 168.91 meters, it is one of the highest arch dams in Asia. The dam is unique because it does not have any spillways; instead, it relies on the nearby Cheruthoni Dam to release excess water. The construction of this dam created a vast reservoir of 60 square kilometers, which provides water for the Moolamattom Underground Power Station. The folklore surrounding the two hills—Kuravan and Kurathi—adds a layer of cultural charm to the site, as legend says they were a tribal couple turned to stone. The dam’s design allows it to withstand immense water pressure by transferring the force to the solid rock walls of the surrounding mountains. Access to the dam is often restricted to public holidays and special seasons, making a visit here a rare and prestigious experience. From the top of the dam, one can see the sprawling blue waters of the reservoir contrasted against the deep green of the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a symbol of Indo-Canadian collaboration and a proud achievement for the Kerala State Electricity Board.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Monument / DamEntry Fees:
Standard Fee: During public opening times, the fee is around 25 to 40 rupees per person.
Boat Ride: A 15-minute boat ride for a group usually costs around 600 rupees. Camera fees are extra and vary by type. ...Standard Fee: During public opening times, the fee is around 25 to 40 rupees per person.
Boat Ride: A 15-minute boat ride for a group usually costs around 600 rupees. Camera fees are extra and vary by type.Timing:
Seasonal Timings: During open periods, the dam can be visited from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Late afternoon at 3:30 PM is perfect as the sun hits the arch at a beautiful angle, making the concrete glow against the hills. ...Seasonal Timings: During open periods, the dam can be visited from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Late afternoon at 3:30 PM is perfect as the sun hits the arch at a beautiful angle, making the concrete glow against the hills.Special Events:
Public Opening Seasons: The most significant events are the limited periods during Onam (August/September) and Christmas (December) when the dam is opened to the general public.
Project Anniversaries: Occasional celebrations mark the commiss...Public Opening Seasons: The most significant events are the limited periods during Onam (August/September) and Christmas (December) when the dam is opened to the general public.
Project Anniversaries: Occasional celebrations mark the commissioning of the power project, highlighting the dam’s contribution to the state’s economy.Best Photo Spots:
The Arch Curve: Shooting from the side allows you to capture the dramatic "C" shape of the dam as it clings to the granite mountains.
Kuravan and Kurathi Hills: Capturing the two hills together with the dam as a bridge between them is a clas...The Arch Curve: Shooting from the side allows you to capture the dramatic "C" shape of the dam as it clings to the granite mountains.
Kuravan and Kurathi Hills: Capturing the two hills together with the dam as a bridge between them is a classic Idukki photograph.
The Deep Valley: Looking down from the top toward the Cheruthoni riverbed provides a sense of the dam's incredible height.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Admiring the Arch: Stand at the center of the dam to appreciate the double-curvature design. It is a masterclass in civil engineering that leaves every visitor in awe.
Boating in the Reservoir: The Forest Department and DTPC operate boat cruises. A boat ride allows you to see the dam from the water level, which emphasizes its incredible height.
Trekking the Kuravan Hill: For those with permission and a guide, trekking up the nearby hills provides a panoramic view of the entire Idukki district.
Exploring the Legend: Read the plaques and talk to local guides about the folklore of the Kuravan and Kurathi hills. It adds a spiritual and cultural depth to the visit.
Nature Walks: The area around the dam is part of a protected forest...
Information
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Why Famous:
Architectural Wonder: It is famous as Asia’s first arch dam and the third tallest of its kind in the world.
Cultural Legend: The dam is famous for the story of Kuravan and Kurathi, the tribal couple whose names are now immortalized by the ...Architectural Wonder: It is famous as Asia’s first arch dam and the third tallest of its kind in the world.
Cultural Legend: The dam is famous for the story of Kuravan and Kurathi, the tribal couple whose names are now immortalized by the hills the dam connects. -
Architecture:
Double Curvature Arch: This dam is a concrete double-curvature parabolic thin arch dam. It stands 169 meters tall with a crest length of 366 meters.
Engineering Marvel: It is built between two granite hills, using the natural rock strength ...Double Curvature Arch: This dam is a concrete double-curvature parabolic thin arch dam. It stands 169 meters tall with a crest length of 366 meters.
Engineering Marvel: It is built between two granite hills, using the natural rock strength to support the arch. The dam contains no spillways, a rare feature that highlights its specialized design for the narrow gorge. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Cochin Airport is the nearest gateway, roughly 110 KM away.
By Train: Kottayam Railway Station is about 105 KM from the site.
By Road: Frequent buses ply from Thodupuzha (43 KM) and Munnar (40 KM) to... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Cheruthoni Dam (2 KM), 2. Hill View Park (3 KM), 3. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary (10 KM), 4. Kalvari Mount (10 KM), 5. Painavu (4 KM), 6. Kulamavu Dam (27 KM), 7. Meesapulimala (65 KM), 8. Thekkady (70 KM), 9. Peermade (80 KM), 10. Anchuruli Tunnel (30 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Follow all security instructions strictly. Do not attempt to lean over the railings of the dam.
Packing: Carry a light jacket as the wind on top of the dam can be quite chilly even during the day.
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