Adimaly
Grama Panchayat

Adimali Grama Panchayat is situated in Mannamkandam Village, Adimali Block, Devikulam Taluk, Idukki District, Kerala. The Panchayat covers an area of 271.53 square kilometres.

The Panchayat is bounded by Kuttampuzha Grama Panchayat to the west, Vellathooval Grama Panchayat to the east, Mankulam Grama Panchayat to the north, and the Periyar River to the south.

Historically, the foothill regions of Mannamkandam and Kuttampuzha were inhabited by the Mannan tribal community. In the Mannan language, the word "Adimali" means "the place where water falls."

In earlier times, this region was a dense forest and formed part of the territory owned by the Poonjar Royal Family. It was then a part of Kottayam District and came under the Sixth Ward of Kavalangad Panchayat. During the first Panchayat elections held in 1955, the regions of Kuttampuzha and Mannamkandam together constituted the Sixth Ward of Kavalangad Panchayat.

In 1960, Mannamkandam Panchayat was formed. Later, in 1967, when Kuttampuzha Panchayat was established, Mannamkandam Panchayat lost two of its wards and assumed its present territorial extent. Subsequently, Mannamkandam Panchayat was renamed Adimali Panchayat.

Nestled beautifully in the lap of the Western Ghats, this picturesque village is bordered by the Periyar River on the south, the towering Korangatti Hills on the north, the foothills of the Koombanpara Hills on the east, and the famous Neriamangalam Arch Bridge on the west.

The historic royal highway constructed during the reign of Rani Lakshmibai, which later became National Highway 49 (now part of NH 85), enters Adimali Panchayat from Ernakulam District and continues towards the popular hill station of Munnar, a paradise for tourists.

This region, once covered with dense forests and numerous streams, was a natural habitat for wild animals. Since the settlements were mainly concentrated at the foothills, the place came to be known as Adimali, meaning "the foot of the hills."

The breathtaking Cheeyappara Waterfalls and Valara Waterfalls, cascading over massive black rock formations amidst lush green forests along National Highway 49, offer spectacular scenic views to travellers.

Standing atop Kuthirakuthi Hill, situated at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet above sea level, one can enjoy a distant view of Ernakulam City. The Lower Periyar Hydroelectric Project is located in the valley below.

The soil composition of the Panchayat consists of approximately 75% black lateritic soil and 25% red soil. Blessed with fertile land that sustains both indigenous tribal communities and migrant farming families, Adimali stands as a source of pride for the High Ranges, often celebrated as a cherished daughter of the Western Ghats.