A land-locked district, Idukki is one of the most nature-rich areas of Kerala. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary here spreads over an area of 105.364 sq km in the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluks of the district. Situated at an altitude of 450-748 m above sea level, this sanctuary occupies the forest land between the Cheruthoni and Periyar rivers. There is a scenic lake around the sanctuary, covered by an enchanting canopy of tropical ever-green and deciduous trees, and offers boat rides.
Elephants, bison, sambar deer, wild dogs, jungle cats, tiger, wild boar etc. are seen here apart from various species of snakes including cobra, viper, kraits and numerous non-poisonous ones. Birds include grey jungle fowl, Malabar grey hornbill, several species of woodpeckers, bulbuls, flycatchers, etc. The wildlife here is similar to that of Thekkady. This sanctuary lies adjacent to the world renowned Idukki Arch Dam.
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is geographically located in the Thodupuzha and Udumbanchola taluks in Idukki district. The IWS is marked with steep mountains, undulating hills and valleys. The world famous Idukki arch dam is located in the forests of the IWS. This sanctuary covers an area of 105.364 sq km (40.68 sq miles). The IWS is situated at an altitude ranging from 450 to 1272 meters above mean sea level with the highest peak of 1272 meters near Vanjur Medu area. Forests covered in this sanctuary receive an average rain fall of 3800 mm in a year. The sanctuary consists of 33 sq km (12 sq miles) of water body of Idukki reservoir. This wildlife sanctuary covers the forest land between the Cheruthoniar and Periyar rivers. The forest types covered in the IWS include West Coast Tropical Evergreen forests, Semi Evergreen forests, Moist Deciduous Forests, Hill shoals and Grass Lands.
