Ayyappancoil – a less known tourist attraction in Idukki

Ayyappancoil (Ayyappan Kovil) is a village, approximately 12 km far from Kattappana in Idukki District. It is said that   Ayyappancoil was a big township in early 1960s. During the construction of Idukki hydro-electric project, the township was evacuated by the Kerala government.

When the dam came, the area was submerged in water and transportation for the people on the other shore became difficult. The authorities have built a hanging bridge across the river for facilitating movement of the people, who are mainly tribal communities, across the river. The hanging bridge is popularly known as the Ayyappancoil hanging bridge, which is one of the longest bridges in the zone. It connects the Ayyappancoil Grama panchayath and Kanchiyar Grama Panchayath in either banks of Periyar

The name of the village Ayyappancoil came from an old temple dedicated to Sastha (Lord Ayyappa), which was the major landmark in the area. The idol here is believed to be consecrated by sage Parashurama.  As per legends the Ayyappankovil temple is one among the ‘Panchamahakshethras’ – (five huge temples) built by ‘Parasurama’ in Dwapara Yuga. These five temples were built for 5 ‘Bhavas’ of Lord Ayyappa. Aaryankavu, Achancovil, Kulathupuzha, Sabarimala and Ayyappankovil are the five temples said to be built by Parasurama.

An interesting fact is that the sreekovil stands alone when the temple submerges in water. Pilgrims on this occasion reaches the temple through small canoes in Periyar river. The temple was later replaced to a place called Thoppipala, which is on the Kattappana – Kuttikkanam state highway.

Hanging Bridge, during rainy days

Being one of the longest hanging bridges in Kerala, it is being visited by thousands every day. Thekkady, The famous tourist destination of Idukki is around 30 km away from Ayyappancoil.  Anjuruli dam is also a nearby tourist attraction.

During rainy season, the surroundings would be filled with water from Idukki dam.  which is a visual treat to the tourists. Tourists can also have a boat trip to cross the river to reach the other side, while there is water in the river.

Anjuruli Waterfall

When compared to the popular destinations Idukki, like Thekkady and Munnar, Ayyappancoil is less known to tourist and hence the surroundings are pristine and almost untouched.  It is very good holiday destination for families, friends, or even for single explorers. Idukki district has much more unexplored destinations which is serene and blessed with ethnic beauty.

Ayyappancoil is located 156 km from State capital Thiruvananthapuram. The nearby towns are Kattappana, Erattupetta , Uthamapalayam , Palai and Thodupuzha.

Ayyappancoil can be reached from any of the nearby village/town like, Kanchiyar (6 km), Elappara (11 km), Kattappana ( 12 km ), Chakkupallam (13 km) and Vandenmedu (14 km)