ANCHURULI: With its sylvan hills and plantations, Idukki is blessed with many picnic spots. But, the rigours of travel and lack of infrastructure deter tourists from visiting many of these destinations.
Anchuruli, from where one can view the picturesque catchments area of the Idukki dam, sets a perfect example for this. Anchuruli, an extension of the Idukki dam which is about 9 km from Kattappana, is an ideal picnic spot. From the place, one can view a subterranean tunnel of 6 km passing through a huge mountain. The tunnel is used to carry water from the Erattayar river to the Idukki dam. Another tunnel, used to carry water from Kallar to the dam, can also be spotted.
The name Anchuruli came from the five big mountains surrounding the area. Uruli in Malayalam means a big vessel and Anchu means five.
It is believed that the name came from five large hills in the shape of inverted ‘uruli’. Thickly wooded islands in the nearby area and water of the reservoir add to the vista of the place.
According to the DTPC officials, Anchuruli has the potential to become a top picnic spot in the district. The DTPC is planning to develop the place by providing basic amenities and devising various beautification projects. If things go according to the plan, boating facility will be started soon.
The Kanjjar panchayat had initiated a development project in the area in 2006. Boating services were started then but owing to scarcity of funds, the panchayat failed to complete the programme.