The famed Idukki Dam, hidden in Kerala’s gorgeous landscapes, has reopened its gates to tourists just in time for the vacation season. This reopening, however, is accompanied by a slew of new rules and restrictions, mostly in response to a security breach in September. In this essay, we will look at the improved visiting protocols, access details, and overall visitor experience at Idukki Dam.
New Changes and Restrictions
Limited Access During Holidays
- After a several-month hiatus, visitors are now granted access to the Idukki and Cheruthoni dams only during the holiday season, beginning with Onam.
- The current admission period runs until December 31, putting visitors under a time limitation.
Entrance through Vellapara Only
- Tourists can only get to the dams via Vellapara, as all other routes are still closed.
- A new ticket counter has been set up at the dam’s entrance gate, emphasizing the importance of identification while purchasing tickets.
Enhanced Security Measures
- A metal detector body search is now required for all guests, with greater police presence during inspections.
- Vehicles are not permitted to approach the dam, and visitors are required to store personal belongings in the cloakroom at the admission booth.
Buggy-Only Tours
- Visitors will be driven around the dam in buggy vehicles rather than walking. To accommodate additional tourists, the number of buggies has been increased.
- This modification is in reaction to a security breach in September, which necessitated tighter control over guest movement.
Revised Ticket Prices
- The entry ticket price has been reduced to Rs 100 for adults and Rs 150 for youngsters, both of which include the buggy charge. The unified pricing of tickets streamlines the visitor experience.
Visiting Experience
Idukki Dam Timings
- The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with access from the Paremavu side of the Cheruthoni-Thodupuzha road.
- Visitors must travel a total of 6 kilometers up and down when seeing Cheruthoni Dam, Idukki Arch Dam, and Vaishali Caves.
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Best Time to Visit
- Winter (November-February) is regarded the finest time to visit Idukki, with mild weather and enthralling visual beauty.
- The dam, on the other hand, may be visited all year, demonstrating the district’s diverse climate.
Additional Attractions and Activities
- For a more immersive experience, guests can take a 15-minute boat trip for Rs 600 for up to five people, which provides a close encounter with the grandeur of Idukki Dam.
- Idukki Dam is one of Asia’s highest arch dams, standing at 167.68 meters, making it the third tallest arch dam.
Conclusion
As the Idukki Dam reopens to the public, new measures and limits are in place to safeguard the safety and security of visitors. While these restrictions may cause some inconvenience for visitors, the stunning views, historical significance, and extra attractions make a trip to Idukki Dam a genuinely unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, Idukki Dam is a tribute to engineering marvels and Kerala’s natural splendor.