Understand

Pathanamthitta, nestled in the picturesque Western Ghats, is a quaint countryside town with a fascinating history. Originally settled by ten Nair feudal families near the Achankovil river, the town quickly grew as more families were drawn to its fertile soil, perfect for rice farming. The Syro-Malabar Church played a significant role in the town's development, introducing rubber plantations that attracted Christian immigrants from all over Kerala. Pathanamthitta soon became known as the NRI hub of Kerala, with around 80% of its population consisting of Non-Resident Indians, making it one of the wealthiest regions in the state. In addition to its vibrant Christian community, Pathanamthitta has a rich Hindu culture, particularly among the influential Nair caste. The town's numerous small principalities, led by Nair feudal lords, caught the attention of Maharaja Marthanada Varma of Travancore in the 18th century. He annexed these principalities, forming a powerful Nair army and turning Pathanamthitta into a major Hindu pilgrimage center. The hilltop shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa became one of the royal temples of Travancore, attracting pilgrims from far and wide. Today, millions of devotees visit this shrine, bringing global recognition to Pathanamthitta. After India gained independence, the town became part of Kerala and was designated as the 12th district. The lush rainforests surrounding Pathanamthitta led to the establishment of lumber mills and industrial growth in the region. Major industries such as Punalur Paper Mills and Forest Industries of Travancore provided employment opportunities, while the presence of missionary schools and colleges offered local residents access to higher education and professional training. This led to a significant migration of people from Pathanamthitta to the United States and other western countries, further solidifying its reputation as an NRI hub.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)Butter chicken is a rich and creamy curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish originated in the Indian subcontinent and gained popularity in Canada due to the large population of Indian immigrants. It's typically served with basmati rice and naan bread. Butter chicken contains meat – chicken.

Dish: BiryaniBiryani is a popular rice dish made by cooking Basmati rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or fish), vegetables, yogurt, and a blend of spices. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and is often considered the national dish of Pakistan. It's known for its flavorful layers and distinct aroma. Biryani contains meat – primarily chicken, goat, or fish.

Dish: SamosasSamosas are deep-fried or baked pastry snacks filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat. They originate from South Asia and have become a popular street food across India. Often served as an appetizer or a quick snack, samosas can be found at roadside stalls, train stations, and even weddings. Samosas can contain meat – typically potatoes, onions, and peas, but some varieties may include meat such as chicken or lamb.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing