The diocese of Idukki was erected by His Holiness Pope John Paul II bifurcating the diocese of Kothamangalam.

The bull of creation Maturescens Catholica Fides was promulgated on 19-12-2002, the declaration was on 15-01-2003 and the Eparchy was inaugurated on 02-03-2003. The eparchy is dedicated to MAR SLIBHA.

Nature and specialty of the area

The name of the district `Idukki` is supposed to be derived from the Malayalam word `idukku` which means a narrow gorge. The river Periyar, which is one of the largest rivers of Kerala, is flowing through Idukki and the gorge formed between the two high massive hills called "Kuravan" and "Kurathi", is the site of the gigantic Idukki Arch Dam. The total area of the diocese is covered by the mountainous hills and valleys, and dense forests. Due to its special landscape it is known as the Diocese of the Mountains. High Ranges vary in altitude from 2000 ft above mean sea level (M S L) to more than 6000 ft. The different levels of elevation promote the diversity of vegetation in this region. The hills touching the skies and being skirted round with thick rain-fed sylvan forests render a specific charm to the region. The climate is comparatively moderate with a temperature varying between 5 to 30 degrees. However, in the hot summer, the days are very warm. The nights have a moderate temperature. In peaks above an elevation of 2400 m. the temperature at times goes down to below zero in the cold months of December and January. The occurrence of mist is usual in the high range region.

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