Explore the map of Kerala, located on the southwestern coast of India, is known for its high literacy rate of 96.2% and exceptional healthcare system. Covering an area of 38,863 square kilometres, it is home to approximately 33 million people. The state’s economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and remittances from its large expatriate community. Kerala is renowned for its scenic landscapes, including the Western Ghats, backwaters, and beaches, as well as its rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam.
Explore the Kerala district map showing the 14 districts, district headquarters and state capital.
List of Districts of Kerala
S.N.
Code
Districts
Headquarters
Established
Population (2018)
Area (km2)
Area (sq mi)
1
AL
Alappuzha
Alappuzha
17 Aug 1957
2,146,033
1,415
546
2
ER
Ernakulam
Kakkanad
1 Apr 1958
3,427,659
3,063
1,183
3
ID
Idukki
Painavu
26 Jan 1972
1,093,156
4,356
1,682
4
KN
Kannur
Kannur
1 Jan 1957
2,615,266
2,961
1,143
5
KS
Kasaragod
Kasaragod
24 May 1984
1,390,894
1,989
768
6
KL
Kollam
Kollam
1 Nov 1956
2,659,431
2,483
959
7
KT
Kottayam
Kottayam
1 Nov 1956
1,983,573
2,206
852
8
KZ
Kozhikode
Kozhikode
1 Jan 1957
3,249,761
2,345
905
9
MA
Malappuram
Malappuram
16 Jun 1969
4,494,998
3,554
1,372
10
PL
Palakkad
Palakkad
1 Jan 1957
2,952,254
4,482
1,731
11
PT
Pathanamthitta
Pathanamthitta
1 Nov 1982
1,172,212
2,652
1,024
12
TV
Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram
1 Nov 1956
3,355,148
2,189
845
13
TS
Thrissur
Thrissur
1 Nov 1956
3,243,170
3,027
1,169
14
WA
Wayanad
Kalpetta
1 Nov 1980
846,637
2,130
820
Districts of Kerala
Kerala, located on the southwestern coast of India, is divided into 14 districts, each with unique geographical, cultural, and economic characteristics. These districts are the administrative units that facilitate effective governance and development across the state. Here is a brief overview of each district:
Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is known for its cultural heritage and political significance. It is home to the Kerala Legislative Assembly and major government institutions. The district boasts renowned educational institutions, IT hubs like Technopark, and tourist attractions such as the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and Kovalam Beach.
Kollam
Kollam, historically known as Quilon, is a coastal district famous for its cashew industry and backwaters. The district is a gateway to the backwaters of Kerala, offering unique houseboat experiences on Ashtamudi Lake. Kollam is also an important trading and commercial hub with a rich history in maritime trade.
Pathanamthitta
Pathanamthitta is known for its religious significance, housing the famous Sabarimala Temple, a major pilgrimage site. The district is characterized by its lush green landscapes, rivers, and cultural festivals. It plays a pivotal role in Kerala’s rubber and spice cultivation.
Alappuzha
Alappuzha, often referred to as the "Venice of the East," is renowned for its picturesque backwaters, houseboat cruises, and coir industry. The district is a popular tourist destination, offering scenic beauty, including the Vembanad Lake and Alappuzha Beach.
Kottayam
Kottayam is notable for its high literacy rate and vibrant literary tradition. The district is a major centre for rubber plantations and is home to several educational institutions, including the Mahatma Gandhi University. Kottayam also features beautiful landscapes with its backwaters and hill stations like Vagamon.
Idukki
Idukki is a high-altitude district known for its dense forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and the Idukki Dam, one of the largest arch dams in Asia. The district is a significant producer of spices, tea, and coffee. Munnar, a popular hill station, attracts tourists with its tea gardens and cool climate.
Ernakulam
Ernakulam, with its commercial capital Kochi, is the economic hub of Kerala. The district is a centre for trade, commerce, and information technology, featuring the Cochin Port, Infopark, and the Kochi Metro. Tourist attractions include Fort Kochi, Marine Drive, and the Jewish Synagogue.
Thrissur
Thrissur, known as the cultural capital of Kerala, is famous for its festivals, particularly the Thrissur Pooram. The district is a major centre for education, banking, and finance. It is home to cultural institutions like the Kerala Kalamandalam and the Thrissur Zoo.
Palakkad
Palakkad, known as the "Gateway of Kerala," is rich in natural resources and known for its extensive paddy fields and palm groves. The district is a major producer of rice and is famous for the Palakkad Gap, a natural mountain pass. Silent Valley National Park is a notable ecological hotspot.
Malappuram
Malappuram is a district with a rich cultural and historical heritage, known for its traditional arts, literature, and sports. It is one of the fastest-growing districts in Kerala and is a significant centre for the Islamic community, with numerous educational institutions and cultural organizations.
Kozhikode
Kozhikode, historically known as Calicut, is known for its historic significance as a major trading port. The district features beautiful beaches, a rich culinary tradition, and is a prominent centre for education and healthcare. Kozhikode is also known for its contributions to Malayalam literature and culture.
Wayanad
Wayanad, situated in the Western Ghats, is renowned for its scenic beauty, wildlife sanctuaries, and spice plantations. The district is a popular tourist destination, offering attractions like the Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and various trekking trails.
Kannur
Kannur, historically known as Cannanore, has a rich history and is famous for its handloom and beedi industries. The district features pristine beaches, historic forts like St. Angelo's Fort, and cultural performances such as Theyyam. Kannur is also known for its strong political activism.
Kasaragod
Kasaragod, the northernmost district of Kerala, is known for its linguistic and cultural diversity. The district features beautiful beaches, the historic Bekal Fort, and is a significant centre for coir and handloom industries. Kasaragod is also known for its unique Theyyam performances.
Kerala
Kerala, situated on the southwestern coast of India, is a state renowned for its high literacy rates, advanced healthcare, and picturesque landscapes. Covering an area of 38,863 square kilometres, Kerala is home to approximately 33 million people as per the 2011 Census. The state boasts the highest literacy rate in India at 96.2%, reflecting its emphasis on education and human development.
Economy
Kerala's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, tourism, and remittances. The state is a major producer of spices, rubber, and coconuts, with agriculture employing a substantial portion of the population. The tourism sector is a vital economic driver, attracting visitors with its backwaters, beaches, and hill stations. Additionally, a large expatriate community, particularly in the Middle East, contributes significantly to the state's economy through remittances.
Healthcare
Kerala is celebrated for its healthcare system, which ranks among the best in India. The state has achieved remarkable health indicators, such as low infant mortality and high life expectancy, attributed to robust public health infrastructure and widespread access to medical services. Kerala's focus on preventive healthcare and public health initiatives has set a benchmark for other states.
Culture and Heritage
Kerala's rich cultural heritage is showcased through its classical dance forms, such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, traditional music, and festivals like Onam and Vishu. The state is also known for its distinctive architectural style, seen in temples, churches, and mosques. The Malayalam language, literature, and cinema contribute significantly to the cultural landscape of Kerala.
Natural Beauty
Kerala's natural beauty is unparalleled, featuring the lush Western Ghats, serene backwaters, and pristine beaches. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for biodiversity. The backwaters, particularly in Alappuzha and Kumarakom, offer unique experiences such as houseboat cruises, attracting tourists from around the globe.
Education
The emphasis on education in Kerala is evident from its numerous educational institutions, ranging from primary schools to universities and research centres. The state's literacy rate is a testament to the quality of education and the importance placed on learning. Kerala's educational achievements have been driven by comprehensive policies and community participation in educational initiatives.
Infrastructure and Development
Kerala has made significant strides in infrastructure development, including transport, telecommunications, and urban planning. The state boasts a well-developed road network, extensive railway connectivity, and major ports like Kochi, which is a hub for maritime trade. Ongoing infrastructure projects aim to further enhance connectivity and support economic growth.
Environmental Conservation
Kerala is committed to environmental conservation, balancing development with sustainability. Efforts include the preservation of forests, promotion of renewable energy, and initiatives to combat climate change. The state's unique ecosystems, such as the Vembanad Lake and the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, are protected through various conservation programs.
Histroy
Kerala, located on the southwestern coast of India, has a rich and diverse history that reflects its strategic maritime position and cultural interactions over millennia. This history has shaped Kerala into a unique blend of traditions, making it a vibrant and dynamic region.
Ancient and Early Medieval Period
Kerala's history dates back to ancient times, with references in the Vedic texts and the Tamil Sangam literature, indicating its early importance as a trading centre. The region was known as the land of the Cheras, an ancient Dravidian dynasty that ruled over parts of modern-day Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The Chera Kingdom was renowned for its spice trade, particularly pepper and cardamom, which attracted traders from distant lands such as the Middle East, Greece, and Rome.
Medieval Period and the Arrival of Islam
During the medieval period, Kerala continued to thrive as a trading hub. The arrival of Arab traders in the 7th century introduced Islam to the region, leading to the establishment of one of the oldest mosques in India, the Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kodungallur. This period also saw the rise of the Kulasekhara dynasty, which unified various small kingdoms and ruled from the 9th to the 12th century.
Colonial Era
The arrival of the Portuguese in 1498, led by Vasco da Gama, marked the beginning of European colonial interests in Kerala. The Portuguese established several forts and trading posts, controlling the spice trade. However, their dominance was challenged by the Dutch in the 17th century, who succeeded in establishing their own trading settlements.
By the late 18th century, the British East India Company had taken control of Kerala, integrating it into the British colonial empire. The princely states of Travancore and Cochin, along with the Malabar region, became significant centres of British administration. The colonial period brought significant changes to Kerala's economy, society, and infrastructure, including the introduction of Western education and legal systems.
Modern Period and Post-Independence
The early 20th century in Kerala was marked by social and political movements aimed at addressing caste discrimination and promoting social reforms. Leaders such as Sree Narayana Guru and Ayyankali played crucial roles in these reform movements.
Following Indian independence in 1947, the princely states of Travancore and Cochin merged to form Travancore-Cochin, while the Malabar region became part of the Madras Presidency. In 1956, the States Reorganisation Act led to the formation of the state of Kerala, unifying Malayalam-speaking regions.
Contemporary Kerala
Post-independence, Kerala has achieved remarkable progress in human development indicators, particularly in education, healthcare, and social welfare. The state has one of the highest literacy rates in India, at 96.2%, and impressive healthcare outcomes, including low infant mortality rates and high life expectancy.
Kerala's political landscape has been characterised by the dominance of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Indian National Congress, reflecting a strong tradition of political activism and grassroots mobilisation. The state has also seen significant economic diversification, with contributions from agriculture, tourism, and the service sector, driven by remittances from a large expatriate population in the Middle East.
Cultural Heritage
Kerala's cultural heritage is a rich tapestry of traditions and influences. Classical dance forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, traditional music, and the celebrated literature of Malayalam are integral to the state's identity. Festivals like Onam and Vishu are celebrated with great enthusiasm, showcasing Kerala's vibrant cultural life.
Geography
Kerala, located on the southwestern coast of India, boasts a diverse and picturesque geography that contributes to its unique cultural and economic landscape. Covering an area of 38,863 square kilometres, the state is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west, Karnataka to the north and northeast, and Tamil Nadu to the east and south.
Topography
Kerala's topography is marked by three distinct geographical regions: the coastal plains, the central midlands, and the eastern highlands. The coastal plains, known as the Malabar Coast, stretch for about 580 kilometres along the Arabian Sea, featuring sandy beaches, lagoons, and estuaries. This region is densely populated and serves as a hub for fishing and maritime trade.
The central midlands, lying between the coastal plains and the highlands, consist of undulating hills and valleys. This fertile region supports extensive agriculture, including the cultivation of rice, spices, rubber, and coconut. The midlands are also home to numerous rivers and backwaters, which play a crucial role in irrigation and transportation.
The eastern highlands, part of the Western Ghats, are characterized by rugged mountains and deep valleys. This area includes some of the highest peaks in South India, such as Anamudi, which rises to 2,695 metres. The Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for their biodiversity and rich flora and fauna.
Climate
Kerala experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September. The state receives an average annual rainfall of about 3,000 millimetres, contributing to its lush greenery and agricultural productivity. The coastal regions have a relatively moderate climate, while the highlands experience cooler temperatures.
Rivers and Backwaters
Kerala is endowed with 44 rivers, all originating from the Western Ghats and flowing westward into the Arabian Sea. Major rivers include the Periyar, Bharathapuzha, Pamba, and Chaliyar. These rivers are vital for irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power generation.
The state's iconic backwaters, a network of interconnected canals, lakes, and rivers, are a unique geographical feature. The Vembanad Lake, the largest in Kerala, is a significant component of this network. The backwaters support a rich ecosystem and are a major attraction for tourism, particularly houseboat cruises.
Biodiversity and Natural Resources
Kerala's geography supports a diverse range of ecosystems, from coastal mangroves to montane grasslands. The Western Ghats are a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous endemic species of plants and animals. Notable wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Kerala include Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, and Eravikulam National Park, which protect species like the Nilgiri tahr, Asian elephant, and lion-tailed macaque.
The state's natural resources include mineral deposits such as ilmenite, monazite, and bauxite. Additionally, Kerala's forests provide valuable timber and non-timber products, supporting local livelihoods and contributing to the state's economy.
Coastal and Marine Resources
Kerala's extensive coastline is rich in marine resources, making fishing a vital economic activity. The coastal waters are abundant in fish varieties like sardines, mackerel, and prawns. The state's fisheries sector not only provides employment to thousands but also supports a thriving seafood export industry.
Challenges and Conservation
Kerala's geographical advantages come with challenges, such as environmental degradation, deforestation, and coastal erosion. The state faces the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Conservation efforts are focused on sustainable development, preserving biodiversity, and protecting natural resources. Initiatives like afforestation, eco-tourism, and the promotion of renewable energy sources are integral to Kerala's environmental strategy.
Demographics
Kerala, located in the southwestern part of India, is known for its unique demographic profile that reflects a high level of human development and social progress. According to the 2011 Census, Kerala has a population of approximately 33 million people. The state’s demographics are characterised by a high literacy rate, favourable sex ratio, and significant achievements in health and social indicators.
Population and Density
With an area of 38,863 square kilometres, Kerala has a population density of about 860 people per square kilometre, which is higher than the national average. The population is distributed unevenly across the state, with urban areas like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode being more densely populated compared to rural regions.
Literacy and Education
Kerala boasts the highest literacy rate in India at 96.2%, according to the 2011 Census. This remarkable achievement is the result of consistent investment in education and effective public policies. The state has a well-established network of schools and higher education institutions, ensuring access to quality education for all segments of society. Female literacy in Kerala stands at 92%, reflecting the state's commitment to gender equality in education.
Health and Life Expectancy
Kerala is renowned for its exemplary healthcare system, which has resulted in impressive health indicators. The state has the highest life expectancy in India, with an average of 77 years for women and 71 years for men. Infant mortality rates are among the lowest in the country, at 12 per 1,000 live births. Kerala's public health system, complemented by private healthcare providers, ensures comprehensive healthcare coverage for its residents.
Sex Ratio
Kerala has a favourable sex ratio, with 1,084 females for every 1,000 males, according to the 2011 Census. This is significantly higher than the national average and reflects the state's progressive stance on gender equality and women's empowerment.
Age Distribution
The demographic profile of Kerala shows an ageing population, with a higher proportion of elderly people compared to other states. The proportion of people aged 60 and above is around 12.6%, which is higher than the national average. This trend is a result of improved healthcare and higher life expectancy, posing both challenges and opportunities for social and economic policies.
Religion and Caste
Kerala is known for its religious diversity and communal harmony. The population is composed of Hindus (54.7%), Muslims (26.6%), and Christians (18.4%), along with smaller communities of Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists. The state has a long tradition of religious tolerance and secularism, with various religious communities coexisting peacefully.
Kerala's caste composition includes Scheduled Castes (9.1%) and Scheduled Tribes (1.1%). The state has implemented various affirmative action policies to uplift these communities and ensure their socio-economic development.
Migration and Diaspora
Kerala has a significant diaspora, particularly in the Middle East, contributing to the state's economy through remittances. Approximately 2.1 million Keralites work abroad, and their remittances account for a substantial portion of the state's GDP. This migration has also led to social changes, with increased wealth and improved living standards in many parts of Kerala.
Urbanisation
Kerala has a high rate of urbanisation, with about 47.7% of its population living in urban areas. The major urban centres include Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode, which are hubs of economic activity and development. The state's urbanisation is characterised by well-planned infrastructure and sustainable development practices.
