Manimala River

Manimala River is a 92 km long river in South and Central Kerala. Though the river is a tributary of Pamba River, it is considered a separate river for geographical purposes. It has its origin on the Muthavara Hills (2500 feet above main sea level) on the Western Ghats, in Idukki district of Kerala, India. The river passes through the districts of Kottayam, Pathanamthitta and finally joins the Pamba River at Muttar near Tiruvalla in Alappuzha district.Yendayaar, Koottikkal, Mundakayam, Erumeli, Manimala, Kottangal, Kulathurmoozy, Vaipur, Mallappally, Thuruthicad, Vennikkulam, Kaviyoor, Kallooppara, Niranam, Muttar, Thalavadi, Kozhimukku and Champakkulam lie on the banks of Manimala River. Its running length is estimated at 92 km. It empties itself into the Vembanad Lake.

Niranam was an ancient sea port at the confluence of Manimala River and Pamba River. At Kaviyoor ancient rock-cut cave temples can still be seen.

Manimala River has been an important water way of Central Travancore. Rising in the hills of Kottayam-Idukki ranges, running westward, the river joins the plains at Manimala junction and then the flows through the midland plains and through the Kuttanad rice bowl area. Sand-mining on the river bed has led to depletion of the water ways of the river.

Manimala

Manimala is an area in Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala, situated about 12 kilometres (7.5 mi) from the nearest town Kanjirappally.

Geography

The River Manimala is 92 kilometres (57 mi) long and is a tributary of the River Pamba. The area is mostly hilly with Kuranganmala, Varukunnu and Poovatholymala being the most important hills. Ponthenpuzha forest separates the village from Pathanamthitta district.

Manimala is acclaimed for its high literacy rate and access to primary and secondary education facilities within walking distance. There are three main high schools within 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) of the town center. In recent years the schools have undergone significant modernization with the installation of state of the art facilities such as IT and science labs. The village boasts hundred percent literacy rate. Girls are generally high achievers than boys at schools and universities. The people from all religions, mostly Syrian Christians, Hindus and Muslims live in harmony and peace in this village.