Idukki: The body of a 25-year-old man who died after jumping into a gorge at Kolukkumalai, a popular tourist destination near Munnar, was recovered on Tuesday following a challenging rescue operation.

The deceased was identified as N Dravinesh, a native of Abhiramapuram in Chennai. The incident occurred around 7 am. Dravinesh had arrived in Munnar as part of a 15-member tourist group. According to sources, he had reportedly spoken to friends about emotional distress following a failed relationship.

Witnesses said he suddenly jumped into the deep gorge in front of his friends. Videos of the incident later surfaced on social media.

A team from the Munnar Fire and Rescue Services rushed to the spot after being alerted. The rescue operation was difficult due to the steep terrain and the depth of the gorge.

After several hours of effort, firefighters descended using ropes and recovered the body from a depth of around 700 feet.

Officials of the Shantanpara police conducted the inquest at the scene. The body will be shifted to Idukki Medical College Hospital for post-mortem examination before being handed over to relatives.

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation. The body will later be taken to Tamil Nadu, where further formalities will be carried out by the Kurangani police.