The Longest Tunnel of Anchuruli

 Anchuruli Tunnel.

Anchuruli is a tourist destination located in Idukki district. It is located at a distance of about 9 km from kattappana. The tunnel is 5.5 km long and 24 feet in diameter. The tunnel was constructed to bring water from Erattayar dam to Idukki dam. Construction began in march 1974 under the leadership of paili pillai. It took 6 years to complete the tunnel construction. The tunnel was completed and inaugurated in January 1980. About 22 people died during the construction period. Construction of the tunnel started simultaneously from 2 sides and collided. The tunnel is located at the highest point of the kalyanathandu hills.

The name Anchuruli is derived from the Adivasis who see  five hills in a row in the waters as if they were covered vessels. Anchuruli is a part of the catchment area of Idukki Arch Dam. The Anchuruli  tunnel is one of the largest tunnel on a rock in india.

When the idukki dam is completely filled with water, the water will reach the tunnel face. Tourists can climb the tunnel at all times except the monsoon season. The best time to visit this place is from September to the end of March. Tourists have access to this place at all times of the year. When the water flow in front of the tunnel decreasess , the extreme point of the tunnel can be seen. The light is only half a kilometre away from the tunnel. It is best not to go past the light as the tunnel is extremely open to the Erattayar Reservoir.

The tunnel is located at a distance of about 9 km from kattappana. It is easy to get here from kanchiyar kakkattukada on the kattappana- Elappara route, turn left and drive 2.5 km to reach the tunnel. Anchuruli is famous for its two movies Idukki gold and the Iyobinte pusthakam.

Anchuruli is an Ideal place for fishing. It is a reservoir with good river fish stocks. So whenever you reach there you can see fishermen. Until a few years ago, Anchuruli fest was held here for tourists. There have been a lot accidents due to the negligence of travelers. So do not go into the water during times of high flow.