Vattavada is often admired for its beauty, but few stop to ask about its past. Yet, the history of this village is as layered as its terraced farms. From ancient stone-age settlements to a refuge for fleeing tribes, Vattavada has seen it all.
The Stone Age Connection
The history of human settlement in this region goes back thousands of years. The nearby Dolmens of Marayoor (ancient burial chambers made of large stone slabs) are proof that a civilization thrived here during the Megalithic age. These silent stone structures still stand today, watching over the valley.
The Great Migration
The unique culture of Vattavada today is the result of a mass migration that happened centuries ago. Legend has it that the ancestors of the current residents fled from the Madurai region in Tamil Nadu to escape the tyranny of a local ruler (some say it was during Tipu Sultan's invasion, others say earlier).
They climbed the Western Ghats and found sanctuary in this hidden valley, which was safe, fertile, and isolated. This is why the people of Vattavada and Koviloor speak a unique dialect that is a blend of Tamil and Malayalam, and follow customs that are distinct from the rest of Kerala.
A Self-Sustaining Kingdom
For a long time, Vattavada was cut off from the outside world. The villagers developed their own system of governance (the 'Ooru Moopan' or village headman system) and agriculture. They grew what they ate and lived in harmony with the forest.
The British Era & Agriculture
While the British transformed Munnar into a tea plantation, Vattavada remained largely untouched by the monoculture of tea. Instead, the cool climate was identified as perfect for English vegetables. Seeds of carrots, cabbages, and strawberries were introduced, transforming the village into the "Market of Kerala" we know today.
Vattavada Today
Today, Vattavada is opening its doors to the world. But the old ways still survive. The terrace farming methods are traditional, the festivals are ancient, and the hospitality is timeless. When you visit, you aren't just seeing a view; you are stepping into a living history book.