Anchuruli Tunnel

Anchuruli is a tourist destination in the Idukki district of Kerala, known for its 5.5-km long circular water tunnel that carries water from the Erattayar dam to the Idukki reservoir. Located at an elevation of 2,430 ft, the site features a powerful waterfall emerging from the tunnel and offers scenic views of the surrounding forested highlands and reservoir.

Visitors can expect to see a large circular rock-cut tunnel with water gushing out to form a waterfall, especially during the monsoon. The area offers scenic views of the Idukki reservoir and surrounding hills. During summer when water levels are low, visitors may be able to walk near or into the tunnel entrance, while monsoon visits offer dramatic waterfall views but restricted access due to high water flow.

The tunnel was constructed between 1974 and 1980 to divert water from the Erattayar dam to the Idukki reservoir for hydroelectric power generation. It is a significant engineering feat carved through the Kalyanathandu hill.

The name Anchuruli means 'five vessels', referring to five small hills shaped like inverted vessels that become visible when the reservoir water level drops.