Mundakayam

Mundakayam is a significant town in the Kottayam district of Kerala, renowned for its historical and economic contributions to the rubber industry. The town’s history is notably marked by the year 1904, when British planter J.J. Murphy established the first commercial rubber plantation in India. Settling in the nearby area of Yendayar, Murphy, often referred to as “Kerala’s Rubber Man,” pioneered the rubber industry in the region with the support of workers from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Mundakayam has since become a major hub for natural rubber production, with Kerala contributing approximately 90 percent of India’s total rubber output. In addition to its role as a leading rubber producer, Mundakayam is also home to a significant milestone in the rubber industry: in 1924, J.J. Murphy established the first rubber research center in India here. This research center played a crucial role in advancing rubber cultivation and processing techniques, further cementing Mundakayam’s status as a pivotal location in the rubber sector.

Mundakayam is well-connected by road, situated along the Kollam-Dindigul National Highway 183, which runs through the town. This key route facilitates easy travel and connectivity to and from the town. Mundakayam is surrounded by several neighboring areas, including Yendayar, Kootikkal, and Urumbikkara, all of which contribute to the region’s accessibility and local network.

Often referred to as “the gateway to the high range,” Mundakayam serves as a crucial rest stop for travelers en route to the Idukki high ranges. It is a popular spot for visitors to take a break, enjoy tea and snacks, and prepare for the mountainous journey ahead. This strategic location makes Mundakayam a convenient and welcoming point for those heading into the scenic and elevated terrains of the Idukki region.

Mundakayam is a major commercial hub and spice trade center in the Kottayam district of Kerala. The town acts as a focal point where commodities from the surrounding agricultural lands converge. A prominent feature of Mundakayam’s infrastructure is its large bus station, which offers extensive connectivity with buses available to almost all parts of Kerala.

The town is also traversed by the Manimalayar River, a significant waterway in central Kerala. Originating from the Muthivara Hills along the Idukki-Kottayam border in the Western Ghats, the Manimalayar River flows through Mundakayam before emptying into Vembanad Lake.

Three bridges span the Manimalayar River in Mundakayam. Two of these bridges connect both shores of the town, facilitating easy movement and access. Additionally, Mundakayam serves as a transit point for pilgrims traveling from Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh to Sabarimala, with Erumeli town located just 12 kilometers away.

Town has many shopping complexes and restaurants. This is an ideal location for shopping in Eastern part of Kottayam district.

Mundakayam is part of Poonjar constituency in Kerala Assembly and part of Pattanamthitta Loksabha constituency. Hindus and Christians form majority of the population. There is a Muslim community lives in the town. Kerala Congress(M), CPI(M), Indian National Congress and BJP are the major political parties of the area.