Idukki dam - 554 feet Height

Idukki dam is the biggest arch dam in Asia at the height of 554 feet. The idea of constructing a dam between the two mountains in Periyar river for power generation was first conceived in 1919. History says ‘Kolumban’, the head of Aryan tribal race during the early 19th century and his British superintendent Thomas were on a hunting spree in the forest. Kolumban explained the story of Kuravan and Kurathi hills. He was impressed by the sight of water flow between the mountains and which later materialised in the form of this dam.

He produced a report to the Government of Travancore in 1932 about constructing a dam. In 1947, a preliminary investigation report was prepared and submitted by Mr.John, the then Chief engineer to the Government of Travancore. It was during 1956 that the Central Water Commission conducted a detailed investigation based on this request. The project report was prepared in 1961 and the Planning Commission accorded sanction for implementing the scheme in 1963 and the preliminary works of the project were initiated. The construction of this dam commenced in April 1969. The inauguration of the trial run of the first machine was celebrated in October 1975.

Commercial operation of the power station was commissioned on 12 February 1976 by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Construction of this arch dam along with two other dams at Cheruthoni and Kulamavu is utilised for production of electricity. The dam attracts enormous visitors for its majestic appeal and serenity. There is a hill view park at the height of 350 feet above dam water level. It offers the panoramic view of the dam. The dam also offers boat rides which is an added advantage for the tourists.