105-758: Adimali is a town in the Idukki district of Kerala , in southwestern India . National Highway 185 (NH 185) is a highway in India running from Adimali to Kumily through Kattappana and ends in Adoor in Kerala. Adimaly is located on the National Highway 49 , now NH 85, known as Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway , earlier known as the Kochi Madhura Highway (India) connecting Kochi and Madurai (or
210-424: A population of 1,093,156. The 2011 Census places it at 416th among the 640 districts of India . The district has a population density of 251 inhabitants per square kilometre (650/sq mi). Its population growth rate over the decade 2001–2011 was −1.93% due to emigration and low fertility rates. Idukki has a sex ratio of 1,006 females for every 1,000 males, and a literacy rate of 92.2 percent. 4.69% of
315-510: A considerable Tamil minority population. However Malayalis are majority in these taluks as well. The aboriginal tribes in the district speak their own dialects such as Malavedan , Malaryan , Muthuvan , and Paliyan , which are closely related to the Malayalam and Tamil . According to the 2011 census, Hindus make up 48.86% (541,854) of the population, with Christians at 43.42% (481,507) and Muslims at 7.41% (82,206). Idukki district
420-423: A height of about 1000 feet, churning with force onto 13 rock slabs in the vicinity of a bridge on National Highway 49. It is one of the few waterfalls one can view from the bottom, standing so close to the water. Next to the falls, there is a designated bathing area. Valara Waterfall is another 1 kilometer from Cheeyapara waterfall en route to Adimaly. One of the tributaries of The Periyar River cascades steeply from
525-450: A high altitude plateau with rugged mountainous terrain, several river valleys and deep gorges. The entire northern part of the district forms a sub plateau higher than the rest of the district, this region includes the tallest peaks like Anamudi and includes the areas around Munnar , Pallivasal , Kanthalloor , Vattavada and Mankulam . The Pambar river valley ( Marayoor , Keezhanthoor ) forms an eastern sloping rain shadow region of
630-415: A mayor, oversees the municipal affairs. The other administrative subdivision is " blocks ", which is co-terminus with the block panchayats area. Th CD blocks are established for the purpose of rural development , aligning with the boundaries of the block panchayat . Each CD Block encompasses several gram panchayats within its limit. A block is administered by a Block Development Officer (BDO), appointed by
735-802: A portion of the Meenachil taluk which included the region of Poonjar along with the High Range region in the Idukki district in 1160 CE, which originally belonged to the Thekkumkur Rajas. This incident commenced the beginning of the Poonjar dynasty in the region. The territory of Poonjar was annexed by the Kingdom of Travancore following the annexation of the principalities of Thekkumkur and Vadakkumkur in 1749–1750. Entire portion of
840-503: Is a major river that originates and flows through Idukki. The Pamba River is another important river that originates from Idukki district. Though it is the largest district in the region in terms of area, it has the lowest population density among the districts of Kerala . There are only two municipalities in the district and the urban population is comparatively much lower than the rural population, due to its mountainous nature. The 2,695 metres (8,842 ft) high peak of Anamudi , which
945-529: Is a place with heavy rainfall mostly throughout the year and it is heaviest during the June–September season of southwest monsoon. Rains in Adimaly sometimes continue for hours or even days without any dry spell, which may bring the town to a standstill. New residents frequently relocate to Adimaly, owing to its atmosphere and surroundings. This is evident considering the abrupt increase in population both within
1050-717: Is administered by a District Collector , who is an officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) of Kerala cadre, and is appointed by the State Government of Kerala . The headquarters of the district administration is known as the Collectorate . The District Collector serves as the head of revenue administration in the district and also functions as the District Magistrate responsible for maintaining law and order within
1155-679: Is also the highest point of elevation in India outside the Himalayas , lies in the northern portion of the district of Idukki. The Idukki Dam is one of the highest arch dams in Asia. The major tourism destination of Idukki is Munnar . The name Idukki was derived from the Malayalam word ‘ Idukk ’, which means gorge . A perfect blend of the Malayali , the Tamil and various tribal cultures
SECTION 10
#17327945702711260-467: Is assisted by an additional district magistrate and deputy collectors. The districts are divided into revenue divisions which comprises several taluks under its jurisdiction. Taluks comprises several revenue villages . A revenue division is headed by a Revenue Divisional Officer / Sub Collector , and taluk is headed by a Tehsildar . The Tahsildar is assisted in each revenue village by village officers and village assistants. Village offices functions as
1365-476: Is divided into 14 districts. Districts are the major administrative units of a state which are further sub-divided into revenue divisions and taluks . Idukki district is the largest district in Kerala with a total land area of 4,61,223.14 hectares. When the independent India merged smaller states together, Travancore and Cochin states were integrated to form Travancore-Cochin state on 1 July 1949. However, North Malabar and South Malabar remained under
1470-470: Is found in the Idukki district. The temples and other older buildings in the High Range and the surrounding regions in Idukki have significant influences from the medieval era Tamil- Pandyan architectural styles. The mountain passes like Bodinayakkanur (connecting various mountain ranges) and Cumbum (which connects the eastern Tamil country with Thodupuzha ) have facilitated trade and travel between
1575-562: Is located in the Idukki Township . The dam is located at the point where the Periyar flows through the gorge formed between two high and massive rocks known as 'Kuravan' and 'Kurathi'. Idukki has a large area of dense forest cover and shola forests . It is highly vulnerable to floods and drought and is considered a climate change hotspot in Kerala, along with the districts of Alappuzha, Palakkad, and Wayanad. Researchers attribute
1680-576: Is located in the Thodupuzha and Udumbanchola taluks in Idukki district. It has an area of 105.364sq.km. The altitude ranges from 450 to 1272 m. The highest peak is Vanjur Medu (1272m). The major rivers flowing through the area are the Periyar and the Cheruthoniar. Eravikulam is another wildlife sanctuary proclaimed as a National Park. It supports the largest population of Nilgiri tahr in
1785-551: Is part of Idukki township. Adimaly is located on the National Highway 49 connecting Kochi and Madurai. Munnar -a hill station- is about 30 km from Adimaly. The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are located en route to Adimaly. Pepper is the major cultivation in this area. Kallarkutti dam, which is constructed across the Muthirappuzha River, is about 9.5km from Adimali, on the way to panikkankudi. The dam
1890-611: Is presumed that a major portion of the High Range region in Idukki district belonged to the Thekkumkur dynasty just after the collapse the Chera Perumals of Mahodayapuram. The province Vempolinadu ( Bimbali Desam ) of the Chera Perumals of Mahodayapuram attained political autonomy in 1102 CE following the Chera-Chola wars of the 11th century CE. The Vempolinadu royal family got evolved into two independent branches by
1995-567: Is that they were given the position of forest chiefs as a reward for helping the Pandya Raja clan. At one point, they had to leave Madurai and reached Idukki via Kumily via Gudalur in Tamilakkam with the help of King Poonjar . It is also believed that those who were appointed to collect forest products for the local kings settled down here over time. The tribal people here may have migrated here in search of better living facilities. As
2100-644: The Chera dynasty (first few centuries of the Common Era ) had their original headquarters in a region called Kuzhumur at Kuttanad in the ancient Tamilakam and were sometimes known as the Kuttuvans . Some historians have identified Kuzhumur with Kumily in Peerumade Taluk of the Idukki district. The Chera dynasty is mentioned as The Keralaputras in the inscriptions of the emperor Ashoka of
2205-641: The Cherthala Taluk was transferred into the newly formed Kollam district on 1 July 1949. The High Range division of the erstwhile Travancore was merged with the remaining Taluks of the erstwhile Kottayam division to form the Kottayam district as a part of the inauguration of the new Indian state of Travancore-Cochin on 1 July 1949. The new district of Kottayam at that time contained eight Taluks – Changanassery, Kottayam, Vaikom, Meenachil, Muvattupuzha, Thodupuzha, Devikulam, and Peerumede. Hence Idukki
SECTION 20
#17327945702712310-575: The Dominion of India , the erstwhile revenue divisions were reorganised into districts and the Divan Peshkars gave way to District Collectors , paving the way for the birth of the Kottayam district on 1 July 1949, which had also included the modern-day district of Idukki in it. The erstwhile Kingdom of Cochin was reorganized into Thrissur district and Taluks of North Paravur and Kunnathunad were transferred to that district. Similarly
2415-513: The High Ranges of the Idukki district. According to the treaty signed on 16 June 1664, Dutch Malabar had trade contracts with the Thekkumkur Rajas on spices, cinnamon, opium, etc. The Thekkumkur Rajas allied with the Kingdom of Cochin and the Kingdom of Odanad ( Kayamkulam ) against the military invasions of the kingdom of Travancore into its northern kingdoms that occurred during
2520-852: The Kalabhras , the Pallavas , the Chalukyas , the Pandyas , and the Rashtrakutas during the period between 500 CE and 800 CE for nearly three centuries. Idukki was part of three Nadus (provinces) during the period of the Chera Perumals of Mahodayapuram (800 – 1102 CE ) for nearly three centuries. The Thodupuzha - Muvattupuzha region was part of a province called Keezhmalanadu during this time, with its headquarters at Karikode near Thodupuzha . The High Range region, which lies to
2625-595: The Madras Presidency with harvesting cardamom in the region. The Kannan Devan Hills on the High Range region were given on lease on 11 July 1877 by the ruler of the Poonjar dynasty to John Daniel Munroe from London and for tea plantations . This created an influx of a large number of migrant Tamil plantation workers into the region from the neighbouring districts of the Madras Presidency as well as from various parts of Southern Travancore especially from Kanyakumari district and Shenkottai taluk and
2730-599: The Madras state . The States Reorganisation Act of 1 November 1956 elevated Kerala to statehood through the unification of Malayalam -speaking territories in the southwestern Malabar Coast of India. The state comprises three parts – the Northern Kerala districts of Kasaragod , Kannur , Wayanad , Kozhikode , Malappuram ; the Central Kerala districts of Palakkad , Thrissur , Ernakulam , Idukki ; and
2835-537: The Maurya Empire (322 BCE – 184 BCE). The province Kuttanad in the ancient kingdom of Keralaputras included the modern-day districts of Idukki, Ernakulam , Kottayam , and parts of Alappuzha , which could be broadly defined as the region between the rivers Periyar and Pamba . It was bounded by the Ay kingdom to the south, which included the regions between Pamba River and Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin), and
2940-607: The Megalithic age itself. Numerous Megalithic monuments have been discovered from the mountainous regions of the district. The remnants of numerous Kodumkallaras and Kallaras have been found from various places at Marayur in Devikulam taluk . Megalithic remnants of Kallaras and Nadukkallus are also found at Kallarpattom colony in Udumbanchola taluk. Huge Kodumkallaras and Nadukkallus were discovered from
3045-550: The Nilgiri tahr , the grizzled giant squirrel , the Nilgiri wood-pigeon , the elephant , the gaur , the Nilgiri langur , the sambar , and the neelakurinji (that blossoms only once in twelve years). The former Kundala Valley Railway in Munnar was destroyed by a flood in 1924, but tourism officials are considering reconstructing the railway line to attract tourists. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary came into existence in 1976. It
3150-582: The Southern division headquartered at Thiruvananthapuram , and the High Range division with its headquarters at Devikulam . The High Range division in the northeastern part of Travancore included the Taluks of Devikulam and Peerumade . Thodupuzha region was however included in the northernmost division of the British Princely state of Travancore . Kottayam was the headquarters of
3255-512: The 12th century CE – the southern branch among them later came to be known as the kingdom of Thekkumkur . It included the modern-day Taluks of Changanassery , Kanjirappally , Kottayam , and Thiruvalla , along with the High Range region of Idukki district. The High Range region was later handed over to the Poonjar dynasty by the Thekkumkur Rajas. The Dutch East India Company was attracted by enormous growth of black pepper in
Adimali - Misplaced Pages Continue
3360-533: The 1740s. As a result, Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma , the architect of the modern Travancore, attacked and annexed the kingdom of Thekkumkur into Travancore in 1749 during the Battle of Changanassery , after his annexation of Kayamkulam in 1746. The Thekkumkur king took refuge in the kingdom of the Zamorin of Calicut following his defeat in the battle. In 1157 CE , Kulothunga Chola , who belonged to
3465-565: The 1940s, were chosen for the colonisation project. As a victory of the Colonisation project done by post-independence Travancore, these two Taluks and a larger portion of Cardamom Hills retained in the state of Kerala , after the States Reorganisation Act, 1956 . Following the formation of the new Indian state of Kerala according to the States Reorganisation Act, 1956 , many jurisdictional changes were done in
3570-642: The 1951 Linguistic Census of the state of Travancore-Cochin, it was found that nearly half of the total Tamil-speaking population in Devikulam taluk at that time was born outside the state of Travancore-Cochin and most of them were immigrants from the Madras Presidency , who were brought into the region by the British officials mainly as tea plantation workers to the Cardamom Hills . Furthermore, some quick decisions were taken by Pattom Thanu Pillai , who
3675-659: The Britishers migrated to Idukki. The Cardamom Proclamation of 1822, issued by the Rani Uthrittathi Thirunal Gowri Parvathi Bayi , the regent of the British Princely state of Travancore at that time, paved the way for bringing people from outside for collecting Cardamom from the forest of the Cardamom Hills in the district. The proclamation, issued on Malayalam Era 15 Medam 997 (which corresponds to CE 28 April 1822), entrusted Tamil workers from neighbouring districts of
3780-542: The Chera Perumals of Mahodayapuram got disintegrated into several small feudal states by early 12th century CE as a result of the continuous war that occurred between the Chera Perumals and the Medieval Cholas throughout the 11th century CE. The province Keezhmalanadu of the Chera Perumals of Mahodayapuram attained political autonomy in 1102 CE following the Chera-Chola wars. Remnants of numerous medieval forts have been found from Karikode near Thodupuzha , which
3885-617: The Fire and Rescue Department, Divisional Forest Officer for the Forest Department, etc. Each department's district-level offices oversee their respective areas of administration. At the time of formation, Kerala had only five districts: Malabar , Thrissur , Kottayam , Kollam , and Thiruvananthapuram . On 1 January 1957, the Malabar district was trifurcated to form new districts of Kannur , Kozhikode , and Palakkad , bringing
3990-534: The Kannan Devan Hills (Resumption Of Lands) Act, 1971. Munnar has acted as the summer residence of the British residents in Travancore. Tradition states that Colonel Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington , was the first British man to pass through Munnar during Tipu Sultan 's campaign into Travancore in the last decades of the 18th century CE, but this is unsubstantiated. The first survey of
4095-450: The Kingdom of Vadakkumkur around 1600 CE. Vadakkumkur was the northern branch of the erstwhile province of Vempolinadu which attained political autonomy in 1102 CE after the collapse of the Chera Perumals of Mahodayapuram. The rulers of this dynasty were also known by the titles Bimbaleeshas and Manikandas in the contemporary Sanskrit works just like their Thekkumkur counterparts. The kingdom of Vadakkumkur originally included
4200-612: The Muthuvan were also living in Adimali. Before 1980, the main crops under cultivation were rice as well as pepper and cardamom. Now almost 90 percent of the paddy fields have been modified for other purposes such as residential land, rubber plantations or banana fields. Adimaly is a relatively new town located between Kochi and Munnar . It gained its importance when the Government of Kerala allowed mass settlements of people from
4305-500: The North Travancore Land Planting & Agricultural Society in 1879. Soon many other Europeans began establishing tea plantations in the area throughout the 1880s, after A H Sharp, a European planter entered into tea cultivation in the region. Early plantations had few facilities and were mainly huts of straw. In 1897, a separate company, Kannan Devan Hills Corporation (KDHC) , was registered to operate
Adimali - Misplaced Pages Continue
4410-514: The Southern Kerala districts of Kottayam , Alappuzha , Pathanamthitta , Kollam , and Thiruvananthapuram . Such a regional division occurred being part of historical regions of Cochin , North Malabar , South Malabar , and Travancore . The North Malabar region, which is culturally distinct from the rest of Kerala, entirely lies in the districts of Northern Kerala . North Malabar region includes Kasargod , Kannur , Wayanad , and
4515-598: The Tamil-Pandyan country which lied to east of the Western Ghats and various Kerala kingdoms west of it during the medieval period. Periyar , the longest river in Kerala, has its source of origin and major portion of its route of flow, in the Idukki district. Pamba , the third-longest river in Kerala, also has its origin in the district of Idukki. During the Travancore Era, Munnar has acted as
4620-616: The Travancore rule in the region. The transportation facility through the dense forests of Idukki was also improved during the period. The controversial Mullaperiyar Dam was also constructed during the period. During the Travancorean administration , the British Princely state of Travancore was divided into four revenue divisions- the Northern division headquartered at Kottayam , the Central division headquartered at Kollam ,
4725-595: The Western Ghats. The eastern frontier of the district ( Kumily , Kattapana , Nedumkandam , Rajakumari and Ramakkalmedu ) constitutes the Cardamon hills . The western part of the district is covered by forests and hills bordering the eastern regions of Ernakulam and Kottayam district like Neriyamangalam , Vannapuram , Thommankuthu , Moolamattom , Vagamon and Kuttikanam . Places like Thodupuzha , Koothattukulam , Udumbanoor and Muttom are situated in
4830-506: The ancient culture. Almost all the tribal tribes of the Western Ghats were owners of a life identity that was destroyed by various invasions. Most of the land that the British planters found to plant cardamom , Tea and Coffee was in the lands where the tribal tribes roamed freely. As the mountains were cut down and whitened one by one, each tribal community was pushed back. Each tribes have their own languages closely related to Tamil and Malayalam . Ancient Roman coins have been found from
4935-592: The case of rural areas, by a Sub-Inspector of Police designated as the Station House Officer (SHO). The Kerala High Court has the jurisdiction of the state of Kerala. Each of the districts has a District & Sessions Court . Each state government department has a district office at the district level, headed by district-level officials, such as the District Medical Officer for the health department, District Fire Officer for
5040-565: The caste. It is king among mannans. Urali are believed to be the first tribe to migrate to the hills of Idukki.Uralis still practice some practices of the Stone Age in a nominal way. It is believed that the black stone placed over the grave after burial is a continuation of the Stone Age grass stone. There are 33 tribal sanctuaries in Idukki including Venmani, Mullaringad, Nadukani, Kurukanadu, Koovakandam, Kannampadi, Muthampadi, East Mattucutta, Vellall, Memarikudi, Poovantikudi. In later times,
5145-508: The district of Idukki contributes around 66% of the total power needs of Kerala. The Mullaperiyar Dam still remains as the source of the interstate dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu . In September 2023, Idukki regained its status as the largest district in the state after the addition of 12718.5095 hectares of land which was a part of Kutampuzha village in Ernakulam district to Idamalakudi village in Idukki. The Idukki district forms
5250-434: The district. These districts are further divided into police sub-divisions. A subdivision comprises several police stations under its jurisdiction, each headed by an Assistant Superintendent of Police or Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) designated as the sub-divisional police officer (SDPO). The police station is the basic unit of police administration at the district level, each headed by an Inspector of Police, or in
5355-429: The district. Tamil is the second most spoken language in Idukki district after Malayalam. Around 66% of Kerala's power needs come from various Hydroelectric Power Projects in Idukki district. Numerous cash crops and spices are cultivated throughout the district, making it The Spice Garden of Kerala . A significant area in the district is protected as reserved forests and wildlife sanctuaries. The Periyar River
SECTION 50
#17327945702715460-444: The district. The Collector serves as both the agent of the state Government and also as the representative of the people in the district. District administration is performed by the various Departments of the State Government, each of which has its own office at the district level. The District Officers of the various Departments in the district render technical advice to the collector in the discharge of his duties. The district collector
5565-510: The districts of Central Kerala . The Travancore region is incorporated in the districts of South Kerala . The Travancore region was again divided into three zones as Northern Travancore (Hill Range) ( Idukki District , Kottayam district and eastern portion of Ernakulam district), Central Travancore (Central Range) ( Kollam district , Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha district) and Southern Travancore (Southern Range) ( Thiruvananthapuram ). The districts in Kerala are often named after
5670-440: The dynasty got split into three branches and fixed their capitals at Muziris , Tyndis , and Caroura , respectively, as seen in the ancient Greco-Roman travelogues as well as the Old Tamil literary works of the Sangam period . During the reign of Narmudi Cheral , the regions included in the Kingdom of Ezhimala was also added to the Chera empire. The ancient Chera empire collapsed due to continuous invasions carried out by
5775-413: The east of Keezhmalanadu , was possibly included in two provinces namely Nantuzhanadu and Vempolinadu (known as Bimbali Desam in Sanskrit). This period saw the decline of Buddhism and Jainism , which were once prominent in the region, along with the growth of Hinduism , in the Thodupuzha region. The tribal cultures may have sustained in the sparsely populated High Range region. The territory of
5880-437: The entire Pathanamthitta taluk and nine villages of Kunnathur taluk from Kollam district, entire Thiruvalla taluk and part of Chengannur and Mavelikkara taluks from Alapphuzha district and parts of Idukki district. Kasaragod district was formed on 24 May 1984 as the 14th district by carving out a major portion of the erstwhile Kannur district. Idukki district is the largest district in Kerala by area. Alappuzha district
5985-419: The excavation sites in Vandiperiyar region as well. The Megalithic monuments found from Idukki show numerous similarities with the contemporary remnants those discovered from Deccan plateau and other parts of the South India . Usage of Iron was common in the Megalithic culture of Deccan. Tribals are another culture that was established on the hills of Idukki after the Stone Age culture. Although many of
6090-420: The flora and fauna of the region at that time. Archaeological findings found from the district include dolmens of the Neolithic era in the Marayur area. They are locally known as "muniyara", derived from muni ( hermit or sage ) and ara (dolmen). Located on the highest point of elevation on the Peninsular India , the Cardamom Hills and its surrounding regions were inhabited by human beings during
6195-404: The governance of the urban areas in the district. These urban local bodies are governed by elected municipal councils, headed by mayor /chairperson and deputy mayor /vice chairperson respectively. A municipality, which consists of urban areas, is administered by a municipal council headed by a Municipal Chairperson. In cities, a municipal corporation, administered by a corporation council headed by
6300-504: The government, who also functions as the ex-officio secretary of the Block Panchayat. A taluk consists of urban units such as statutory towns and census towns and rural units called gram panchayats (for revenue purposes). The Local Self-Governments Department (LSGD), Government of Kerala, coordinates and supervises the administrative affairs of these local bodies and has district-level offices. There are 20 police districts in total, and among these, 8 police districts are coterminous with
6405-600: The grassroot of the revenue administration. For the purpose of local governance, there are local-self government institutions, which includes 941 Gram panchayats, 152 block panchayats, 14 district panchayats, 6 corporations and 87 municipalities. The panchayati raj institutions ( gram panchayats , block panchayats , district panchayats ) look after the governance of the rural areas in the district. These panchayats are governed by elected councils, headed by presidents and vice presidents respectively. The urban local bodies ( municipalities and municipal corporations ) look after
SECTION 60
#17327945702716510-402: The increasing frequency in landslides in Idukki to climate change and deforestation . Changes in rainfall patterns caused by climate change, coupled with deforestation and large-scale construction projects, are among the contributing factors that led to the August 2020 landslide that killed 65 people, including plantation workers. According to the 2018 Statistics Report , Idukki district has
6615-548: The largest surviving population of Nilgiri tahr , estimated at 750 individuals. The other ungulates are gaur , Indian muntjac and sambar deer . Golden jackal , jungle cat , wild dog , dhole , leopard and tiger are the main predators. Some little-known animals such as Nilgiri langur , stripe-necked mongoose , Indian porcupine , Nilgiri marten , small clawed otter , ruddy mongoose , and dusky palm squirrel are also found. Elephants make seasonal visits. List of districts of Kerala The Indian state of Kerala
6720-411: The largest tea plantations in the world. This hill station, which is more than 5,000 feet above sea level, is a tourist attraction noted for its scenic landscapes. Most of the native flora and fauna of Munnar have disappeared due to severe habitat fragmentation resultant from the creation of the plantations. However, some species continue to survive and thrive in several protected areas nearby, including
6825-648: The largest town or city in the district. Some of the districts were renamed in 1990 from the anglicised names to their local names. The 14 districts are further divided into 27 revenue divisions , 77 taluks , and 1664 revenue villages . For local governance, Kerala has 6 Municipal Corporations and 87 Municipalities overseeing urban areas. Additionally, there are 941 Gram Panchayats , 152 Block Panchayats , and 14 District Panchayats responsible for rural governance. Kerala State has been divided into 14 districts, 27 revenue divisions , 78 taluks, 152 community development blocks , and 1664 revenue villages . A district
6930-463: The lineage of the Medieval Cholas , entered into a war with Manavikrama Kulasekhara Perumal, who belonged to the Pandya dynasty of Madurai . Upon the failure in the battle, Manavikrama appointed his brother Maravarman Sreevallabha as the monarch of the Pandya dynasty and left Madurai with his family and some of his trusted servants. Manavikrama crossed the Western Ghats and sought political asylum in Kerala . The ruler of Thekkumkur awarded him
7035-402: The linguistic demographics in the Taluks of Devikulam taluk and Peerumedu taluk underwent a significant transformation during the last decades of the 19th century CE. Earlier the region was inhabited by various aboriginal tribes like Malavedas, Malayarayas, Muthuvans, and Paliyans, and was sparsely populated. The land and the plantations were later resumed by the Government of Kerala through
7140-419: The modern-day Taluks of Ettumanoor and Vaikom along with a portion of the Meenachil Taluk. Keezhmalanadu merged with the Vadakkumkur dynasty around 1600 CE. Afterwards the Vadakkumkur kings often used to reside at Karikode near Thodupuzha, which was originally the headquarters of the Keezhmalanadu. Vadakkumkur was a vassal state of the Kingdom of Cochin during that time. Vadakkumkur's western boundary
7245-422: The modern-day district of Idukki became part of the erstwhile British Princely state of Travancore by 1750 CE. This era marked considerable progress and social reformation in all spheres. The social development indicators like the literacy rate were improved considerably during this period. After the Stone Age people and tribals, Anchunadan Tamils migrated to Idukki, Then Travancore farmers, Tamil workers and
7350-436: The neighboring districts in the Mid 20th century. The majority of the people migrated from the Kottayam, Thodupuzha, Kothamangalam, and Muvattupuzha regions. Since it intersects two major roads and is a popular resting point on the way to Munnar, Adimaly slowly grew in size. In the last 15 years, Adimaly has emerged as a major population center in the district. Adimaly is a small town in Idukki district of Kerala state, India. It
7455-500: The new Kurinjimala Sanctuary to the east, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary , Manjampatti Valley , and the Amaravati reserve forest of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary to the northeast, the Eravikulam National Park and Anamudi Shola National Park in the north, and the Pampadum Shola National Park to the south. The Palani Hills National Park is proposed to come up to the east of Idukki. These protected areas are especially known for several threatened and endemic species including
7560-626: The newly formed Ernakulam district on 1 April 1958. The land and the plantations in the Kannan Devan Hills in the High range region were resumed by the Government of Kerala through the Kannan Devan Hills (Resumption Of Lands) Act, 1971. On 26 January 1972, the district of Idukki was formed by the separation of the three High Range Taluks, namely Devikulam, Udumbanchola, and Peerumede, from Kottayam district. The High Range region
7665-401: The northern region of Kozhikode district, south Malabar region includes south-central part of Kozhikode district , Malappuram , parts except Chittoor taluk of Palakkad district , Kunnamkulam and Chavakkad region of Thrissur district. The regions of South Malabar and Kingdom of Cochin , both of which share many historical, geographical, and cultural similarities, together constitute
7770-504: The northernmost revenue division in Travancore which also included the Taluks of North Paravur , Kunnathunad , Muvattupuzha , Meenachil , Changanassery , Kottayam , Vaikom , and Cherthala in 1931, in addition to Thodupuzha. At the time of the integration of the state of Travancore and Cochin into the state of Travancore-Cochin in 1949 following the integration of the British Princely states of Travancore and Cochin into
7875-447: The number of families in each tribal village increases, a new community is created. The clothing used in the early days was wood made from crushed arayanjil. They also made musical instruments from animal skins. Adivasis have great ability to weave household items using reeds. They worshiped the forces of nature and trees. All the tribes had their own system of administration. The heads of the huts are known as Muppan or Kani depending on
7980-464: The old Alwaye Munnar road), India. From Adimaly, it is only 27 kilometers to Munnar , which is a famous hill station. The waterfalls Cheeyappara , Adimali waterfalls and Valara are located nearby. Pepper and cocoa cultivation is the main agricultural activity of this place. The Ponmudi Dam (294 meter length) was constructed in 1963 across the Panniar river, nearly 15 km southeast of Adimali, on
8085-540: The oral forms and rituals associated with tribal culture, tribal life begins in Idukki in the period 13 – 15 BC. Tribal people who were in contact with Tamil culture came to Idukki, from present day Coimbatore, Madurai and Ramanathapuram districts, as evidenced by their language, customs and art forms. According to modern anthropologists, the aborigines here belong to the Proto-Australoid race. Many stories are popular about their (Idukki) mountain climbing. One
8190-605: The people who came to Poovanthikudi, Ayyappancoil who fled from the forest where the Mullaperiyar Dam is located, they left agriculture with the migration of the Britishers , Tamils and the Malayalis . All the adivasi tribes were the owners of a great cultural heritage, the tribals who danced in the inner forests, engaged in handicrafts, organized their lives in their own unique way and created many rare charms of
8295-417: The population lives in urban areas. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes make up 13.12% and 5.03% of the population respectively. Languages of Idukki district (2011) Malayalam and English are the two official administrative languages in the district. Around four-fifth of the people in Idukki district speak Malayalam as their mother tongue. The Taluks of Devikulam , Peerumedu and Udumbanchola have
8400-402: The province of Kudanad , which lies between the rivers Periyar and Chaliyar (modern-day districts of Thrissur , Palakkad , and Malappuram ), to the north. It was during the reign of Uthiyan Cheralathan (105–130 CE) that the Chera dynasty began to expand towards the northern and the eastern regions of Kuttanad by conquering the provinces of Kudanadu and Kongu Nadu . Afterwards
8505-627: The regions like Edamaruku near Thodupuzha , indicating ancient trade between the Ancient Rome and the region during the Classical Antiquity . Spices might had been imported from the region as a part of the ancient Indian Ocean trade . Idukki district is still known as The Spice Garden of Kerala. The literary works of the Sangam period help to take a look into the contemporary period. According to those works, early members of
8610-421: The reliance on Adimaly by these smaller towns faded during the years due to development of adequate roads and other infrastructure, few have emerged as self-reliant commercial townships. Adimaly is located in an area with several waterfalls, valleys and hills. It is known for its pepper and cardamom plantations. The area also has a few dams and adjoining man-made reservoirs. The rapids of Cheeyappara descend from
8715-460: The respective revenue districts, while the remaining 12 police districts are constituted by bifurcating the revenue district into "city" and "rural" areas. Each police district is headed by a "District Police Chief" (DPC), an IPS officer typically holding the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) or above. The District Police Chief is responsible for maintaining law and order, conducting criminal investigations, and overseeing police administration in
8820-532: The semi elevated Thodupuzha River plains with scattered hills. The Periyar river basin in the district which includes Vandiperiyar , Ayyapankoil , Rajakkad , Idukki , Cheruthoni and Adimaly is an elevated plateau crisscrossed by river valleys and lies between the high peaks of the western and eastern parts of the district. The southern region is entirely covered with the forests of the Periyar National Park . Anamudi and Meesapulimala ,
8925-477: The social elements that existed in the Stone Age can be seen in the tribal culture here, the two groups represent two different periods. There is no clear evidence of where the Stone Age people went later. It is also thought that the mountain may have come down due to the weather and difficulties in living conditions. Tribal people found in Idukki are Mannan , Muthuvan , Paliyan , Urali , Malayarayan , Malapulayan , Ulladan . According to those who have studied
9030-459: The state. Two new Taluks, namely Kanjirappally (from Changanassery and Thiruvalla) and Udumbanchola (from Devikulam and Peerumede) were carved out on 1 October 1956 in the Kottayam district. After a month, a new Taluk called Kuttanad was carved out from Changanassery and Ambalappuzha . The Kuttanad Taluk was transferred into the newly formed Alappuzha district on 17 August 1957. The Taluks of Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha were transferred into
9135-514: The summer residence of the British residents in Travancore. Higher peaks like Anamudi on the eastern border of the Idukki district have acted as a natural boundary between the Malayalam kingdoms and the contemporary Tamil kingdoms in the past, thereby reducing invasions into the region from the neighbouring Tamil country as well as from other parts of the Indian peninsula. The 17th century Dutch work, Hortus Malabaricus , contains information about
9240-600: The tea estates which was later taken over by the American Direct Tea Trading Company Ltd., who owned 26 estates, most with coffee and some with Cinchona , almost all in the area except for a few in the lower areas. The former Kundala Valley Railway through Munnar , established in 1902, was destroyed by the Great flood of 99 that occurred in 1924 across the modern-day state of Kerala . Many dams were constructed in Idukki district during
9345-592: The terrain was undertaken by Benjamin Swayne Ward in 1816–1817, who followed the Periyar River into the Western Ghats and established a camp at the confluence of three rivers, from which the name of Munnar is derived. Munroe, Henry Turn, and his half-brother A W Turner, obtained ownership of the Cardamom Hills from the Raja of Travancore and began clearing forest around Devikulam in 1879. Munroe formed
9450-499: The top of a hill to a depth of about 200 feet, into a gorge. Near the centre of Adimali township, an eponymous waterfall has become an attraction and landmark, accessible from the town. Adimaly generally has a cool climate throughout the year, typical of the higher altitudes, though not as cold as Munnar. Temperatures rarely exceed 26 degrees and never drop below 10 degrees as it usually stays around 17-24 degrees. Though December–January are comparatively cooler than other months. Adimaly
9555-508: The total to seven districts. Alappuzha district was carved out of erstwhile Kottayam and Kollam districts on 17 August 1957, to form the 8th district. Ernakulam district was formed on 1 April 1958 as the 9th district, carved out of parts of erstwhile Thrissur and Kottayam districts. Malappuram district was formed on 16 June 1969 as the 10th district, with Ernad and Tirur taluks of the erstwhile Kozhikode district and Perinthalmanna and Ponnani taluks of Palakkad district. Idukki district
9660-498: The town and nearby areas in the recent past. Idukki district Idukki (ഇടുക്കി; IPA: [iɖukːi] ) is one of the 14 districts in the Indian state of Kerala in the southwest of the country. It is the largest district in Kerala and lies amid the Cardamom Hills of Western Ghats in Kerala. Idukki district contains two municipal towns – Kattappana and Thodupuzha , and five taluks . The district
9765-564: The two highest peaks in India south of the Himalayas, are located in Idukki district. Anamudi is situated in the Kuttampuzha Panchayat of Adimali Block in the Kannan Devan Hills village of Devikulam taluk. Thirteen other peaks in the district exceed a height of 2,000 m (6,600 ft). Periyar , Thodupuzhayar, Muthirappuzhayar, and Thalayar are the important rivers of the district. Idukki Dam , Asia's largest arch dam ,
9870-462: The way to Rajakkad . Thopramkudy is the nearest town. Adimali is known for its proximity to Munnar and natural environment. Adimali has almost all the basic facilities like roads, super markets, markets, educational institutions and hospitals. The former name of the Adimali area was Mannamkandam , as the name indicates the Mannan tribe once populated the area. Other tribal groups collectively called
9975-417: The world. Anamudi peak is on the southern part of this park. Most of the park is grassland and the average altitude is more than 5000 feet above sea level . Heavy rain and gushing winds make the area inaccessible during the monsoon season. The famous Neelakurinji ( Strobilanthes kunthiana ) grows here. It has a flowering cycle of 12 years. Twenty-six species of mammals have been recorded in the park including
10080-525: Was a part of the Kottayam district at the time of the formation of the state Kerala in 1956. Apart from the Kanyakumari district , the Devikulam taluk in present-day Idukki district had a slight Tamil -majority in the late 1940s. The Travancore Tamil Nadu Congress (TTNC) had requested to merge it with the Madras State as a part of the upcoming States Reorganization Act of 1956. However, in
10185-407: Was a part of the combined military alliance formed by the kingdoms of Odanad (Kayamkulam), Thekkumkur , and Cochin against the expansion of Travancore into the northern territories. As a result, Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma , the architect of the modern Travancore, attacked and annexed Vadakkumkur in 1750. The Vadakkumkur Raja sought asylum in the kingdom of the Zamorin of Calicut . It
10290-464: Was constituted on 26 January 1972, by taking Peerumade , Udumbanchola , Devikulam taluks of the former High Range division from Kottayam district and the Thodupuzha taluk from Ernakulam district . Its division was previously headquartered at Kottayam city but moved to Kuyilimala near Painavu and Cheruthoni in June 1976. Malayalam and English are the two official administrative languages in
10395-578: Was constructed in 1961 as the part of Neriamangalam hydro electric project. Ponmudi Dam, which is constructed across the Panniar river, is about 15 km from Adimali, on the way to Rajakkad . The dam which was built in 1963 has a length of 294 m. The places nearby to this area are Kuthirayalla, Pettimudi, and Maankulam. Pettimudi area is near to Tamil Nadu. Adimaly for decades served as a commercial hub for many smaller towns nearby such as Kunjithanny, Anachal, Rajakkad, Shanthanpara, Vellathooval, Murikkassery, Thopramkudi, Panikkankudi, Kallarkutti etc. However,
10500-645: Was extended up to the Vembanad lake and the eastern boundary was the Western Ghats , which bordered with the medieval Pandyan country and the later territory of the Madurai Nayak dynasty . The Dutch Malabar who became an influential power in the territory of Vadakkumkur during the 17th century CE and the first half of the 18th century CE had trade centres in Vadakkumkur. Vadakkumkur Raja
10605-427: Was formed on 26 January 1972 as the 11th district, with Devikulam, Udumbanchola and Peermedu taluks of the erstwhile Kottayam district and Thodupuzha taluk of the erstwhile Ernakulam district. Wayanad district was formed on 1 November 1980 as the 12th district in Kerala by carving out areas from Kozhikode and Kannur districts. Pathanamthitta district was formed on 1 November 1982 as the 13th district by carving out
10710-530: Was merged with the Thodupuzha taluk of Ernakulam district to form the district of Idukki. It was the largest district of Kerala by area at that time. In 1998, Kuttampuzha village was transferred into the Ernakulam district , making Idukki the second largest district in Kerala, only after to Palakkad . The High Range region is still sparsely populated and various cash crops and spices are extensively cultivated there. Now various hydroelectric power projects in
10815-427: Was the capital of the kingdom of Keezhmalanadu, many of them belonging to the era between 14th century CE and 16th century CE. Keezhmalanadu included parts of modern-day Taluks of Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha . The Portuguese explorers described the region as "The Pepper country" due to the availability and high scale production of good quality Black pepper there during the 16th century CE. Keezhmalanadu merged with
10920-630: Was the first in India to get connected to a super-fast broad band system as a part of the Digital India campaign. It was also the first to get BSNL 4G in whole country, taking the number of 4G operators in the district to four, including Vodafone Idea Ltd , Jio , and Bharti Airtel . Munnar was the summer resort of the British Government in the south. The town is situated at the convergence of three mountain streams, namely Muthirappuzha , Nallathanni, and Kundala. Munnar has some of
11025-510: Was the first prime minister of Travancore, to ensure that the taluk of Devikulam will retain in the modern-state of Kerala , as the region had a greater economic importance in the future coastal state of Kerala. Pattom came up with a colonisation project to re-engineer the demography of Cardamom Hills . His colonisation project was to relocate 8,000 Malayalam -speaking families into the Taluks of Devikulam and Peermade . About 50,000 acres in these Taluks, which had become Tamil-majority area by
#270729