Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is a 70 square kilometer protected area established in 1976 in Kerala's Western Ghats. Located around the catchment area of Idukki Dam at 450-750 meters elevation, it features dense forests and a 33 square kilometer reservoir. The sanctuary provides vital habitat for endangered Asian elephants, tigers, bison, sambar deer, and diverse bird species including Malabar Grey Hornbill and Greater Indian Hornbill.

Visitors can explore dense deciduous and tropical evergreen forests surrounding the Idukki Arch Dam reservoir. Boat cruises on the 33 square kilometer lake offer wildlife viewing opportunities including elephant herds, bison, sambar deer, wild dogs, jungle cats, and various bird species. The sanctuary encompasses the Idukki, Cheruthoni, and Kulamavu dams within its boundaries, with the district headquarters Painavu located inside the sanctuary area.

Established on February 9, 1976, as per government order GO.7898/FM3/76/AD, to protect the surrounding forest area after significant rainforest clearing for the Idukki hydropower project. The Vairamani village was submerged when the Idukki Dam reservoir was filled in 1974.