Geography & Demographics
Nestled in Kerala’s midland region, Kothamangalam features a mix of hilly terrain, river valleys, and
upland panchayats. The Periyar River flows through, supported by hydroelectric and irrigation
infrastructure like Edamalayar and Bhoothathankettu dams. Much of the constituency is rural, with
scattered settlements across the hills and plains.
As of 2016, there were around 159,000 electors, rising to approximately 162,000 by 2021. The
electorate reflects a high literacy level, low ST population, moderate Scheduled Caste percentage,
and active civic participation, with turnout rates typically exceeding 75%.
Livelihood Patterns & Economic Strata
The local economy combines traditional agriculture and growing services:
 Agriculture prevails across many panchayats: rubber, pineapple, banana, spices, and small
inland fisheries along hilly streams.
 Small businesses and trade: local shops, transport services, and agro-based ventures
support semi-urban centers like Kothamangalam town.
 NRIs and remittances: a significant percentage of households benefit from Gulf earnings,
contributing to rural investment and consumption.
 Emerging tourism potential: attractions like the Inchathotty suspension bridge and scenic
riverine landscapes are slowly fueling local income streams.
Most residents occupy the middle-income strata: small landholders, service professionals, and
remittance-supported families. BPL populations tend to be concentrated among landless agricultural
laborers and fishing households in more remote panchayats. A smaller portion belongs to higher-
income categories, often linked to trade, remittance wealth, or land ownership.
Recent Developments
 Infrastructure upgrades—including road widening and rural link roads—have been initiated
under district development programmes, particularly in Keerampara and Kuttampuzha
panchayats.

 Plans for tourism-driven investment around the Inchathotty hanging bridge, the scenic hills,
and riverbanks aim to improve local livelihoods and connectivity.
 Advocacy continues for better support to agriculture and NRIlinked rural financing, as well as
upgrading health and education facilities in semi-rural panchayats.

Kothamangalam Assembly Constituency presents Kerala’s midland ethos: a pastoral landscape
blending agriculture, riverine ecosystems, NRIdriven rural ambition, and emergent ruralurban
transition. With a predominantly engaged middleclass demographic, recent investments in road
connectivity, health, and tourism infrastructure point toward inclusive and sustainable development
in the region.