Mankulam^NAC.in Mankulam Nature Appreciation Centre

Muduvans constitute the major tribal community in Mankulam Division. According to folk lore Muthuvas were loyal subjects of the Madurai dynasty. When the dynasty was deposed, the surviving royal members migrated to mountains tracts of Travancore, central Kerala. On their way, the Muthuvas carried the idols of Madurai Meenakshi, the deity of the royal family, on their back. Thus the name is believed to have evolved Muthuvas from the word “muthuku” which means back portion in human body.

Another community stays in the area are Mannan. They have unique customs and hereditary traditions. They have a king as titular head and they give symbolic respect to that position. Their Goddess is Madhura Meenakshi Amma.