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{{short description|municipality in Kerala, India}}
{{Short description|Municipality in Kerala, India}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2020}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name                           = Karunagappally
| name                     = Karunagappally
| native_name                    = (കരുനാഗപ്പള്ളി)
| other_name               =  
| native_name_lang                = ml
| settlement_type         = [[Municipalities of Kerala|Municipality]]
| other_name                     =  
| image_skyline           =  
| settlement_type                 = [[Municipalities of Kerala|Municipality]]
| image_alt               =  
| image_skyline                   =  
| image_caption           =  
| image_alt                       =  
| nickname                 =  
| image_caption                   = Karunagappally Town Aerial View
| pushpin_map             = India Kerala#India
| nickname                       =  
| pushpin_label_position   =  
| pushpin_map                     = India Kerala#India
| pushpin_map_alt         =  
| pushpin_label_position         =  
| pushpin_map_caption     = Location in Kerala, India
| pushpin_map_alt                 =  
| coordinates             = {{coord|9|3|16|N|76|32|7|E|display=inline,title}}
| pushpin_map_caption             = Location in Kerala, India
| subdivision_type         = Country
| coordinates                     = {{coord|9|3|16|N|76|32|7|E|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_name         = {{flag|India}}
| subdivision_type               = Country
| subdivision_type1       = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_name               = {{flag|India}}
| subdivision_type2       = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_type1               = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_name1       = [[Kerala]]
| subdivision_type2               = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_name2       = [[Kollam District|Kollam]]
| subdivision_name1               = [[Kerala]]
| established_title       = <!-- Established -->
| subdivision_name2               = [[Kollam District|Kollam]]
| established_date         =  
| established_title               = <!-- Established -->
| founder                 =  
| established_date               =  
| named_for               =  
| founder                         =  
| government_type         = Municipality
| named_for                       =  
| governing_body           =  
| government_type                 = Municpal-council
| leader_title1           = Chairman
| governing_body                 =  
| leader_name1             = Kottayil Raju
| leader_title1                   = Chairperson
| unit_pref               = Metric
| leader_name1                   = Seenath
| area_footnotes           =  
| unit_pref                       = Metric
| area_total_km2           = 18.65
| area_footnotes                 =  
| area_rank               =  
| area_total_km2                 = 8.43
| elevation_footnotes     =  
| area_rank                       =  
| elevation_m             = 14
| elevation_footnotes             =  
| population_total         = 49,604
| elevation_m                     = 14
| population_as_of         = 2011
| population_total               = 25,336
| population_footnotes     = <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kudumbashree.org/sub-district/881034/20 |title=Karunagapally Municipality Profile |website=www.kudumbashree.org}}</ref>
| population_as_of               = 2011
| population_density_km2   = auto
| population_footnotes           = <ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/628368-karunagappally-kerala.html|title = Karunagappalli Population - Census 2011|access-date = 9 January 2016 |website = census2011.co.in |publisher =Census India }}</ref>
| population_rank         =  
| population_density_km2         = auto
| population_demonym       = Karunagapallikkaran
| population_rank                 =  
| demographics_type1       = Languages
| population_demonym             =  
| demographics1_title1     = Official
| demographics_type1             = Languages
| timezone1               = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| demographics1_title1           = Official
| utc_offset1             = +5:30
| timezone1                       = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| postal_code_type         = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| utc_offset1                     = +5:30
| postal_code             = 690518
| postal_code_type               = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]]
| area_code               = +91 (0)4762
| postal_code                     = 690518
| area_code_type           = Telephone code
| area_code                       = +91 (0)4762
| registration_plate       = KL-23
| area_code_type                 = Telephone code
| blank1_name_sec1         = Nearest city
| registration_plate             = KL-23
| blank1_info_sec1         = [[Kollam]] (24 km)
| blank1_name_sec1               = Nearest city
| blank1_name_sec2         = [[Climate of India|Climate]]
| blank1_info_sec1               = [[Kollam]] (24 km)
| blank1_info_sec2         = [[Climatic regions of India|Am/Aw]] <small>([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]])</small>
| blank1_name_sec2               = [[Climate of India|Climate]]
| iso_code                 = [[ISO 3166-2:IN|IN-KL]]
| blank1_info_sec2               = [[Climatic regions of India|Am/Aw]] <small>([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]])</small>
| footnotes               =  
| iso_code                       = [[ISO 3166-2:IN|IN-KL]]
| leader_title2           = Vice Chairman
| footnotes                       =  
| leader_name2             = Sakeena Salam
| leader_title2                   = Vice Chairman
| demographics1_info1     = [[Malayalam language|Malayalam]], English
| leader_name2                   = Sakeena Salam
| blank2_name_sec1         = [[Human sex ratio|Sex ratio]]
| demographics1_info1             = [[Malayalam language|Malayalam]], English
| blank2_info_sec1         = 999 [[male|♂]]/[[female|♀]]
| blank2_name_sec1               = [[Human sex ratio|Sex ratio]]
| blank3_name_sec1         = Literacy
| blank2_info_sec1               = 999 [[male|♂]]/[[female|♀]]
| blank3_info_sec1         = 94.26%
| blank3_name_sec1               = Literacy
| blank4_name_sec1         = [[Urban planning|Planning]] agency
| blank3_info_sec1               = 94.26%
| blank4_info_sec1         =  
| blank4_name_sec1               = [[Urban planning|Planning]] agency
| blank5_name_sec1         = Civic agency
| blank4_info_sec1               =  
| blank5_info_sec1         = Karunagappally Municipality
| blank5_name_sec1               = Civic agency
| blank2_name_sec2         = Avg. annual temperature
| blank5_info_sec1               = Karunagappally Municipality
| blank2_info_sec2         = {{convert|27.2|°C|°F}}
| blank2_name_sec2               = Avg. annual temperature
| blank3_name_sec2         = Avg. summer temperature
| blank2_info_sec2               = {{convert|27.2|°C|°F}}
| blank3_info_sec2         = {{convert|35|°C|°F}}
| blank3_name_sec2               = Avg. summer temperature
| blank4_name_sec2         = Avg. winter temperature
| blank3_info_sec2               = {{convert|35|°C|°F}}
| blank4_info_sec2         = {{convert|24.4|°C|°F}}
| blank4_name_sec2               = Avg. winter temperature
| website                 =  
| blank4_info_sec2               = {{convert|24.4|°C|°F}}
| website                         =  
}}
}}


'''Karunagappally''' is a [[municipality]] in the [[Kollam district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]]. It is 24&nbsp;km north of [[Kollam]] and {{convert|60|km|abbr=on}} south of [[Alappuzha]]. Karunagappally taluk consists of [[Alappad]], [[Ochira]], [[Adinad]], [[Karunagappally]], [[Thazhava]], [[Pavumba]], [[Thodiyoor]], [[Kallalibhagom]], [[Thevalakkara]], [[Chavara]], [[Neendakara]], [[Clappana]], [[Kulasekharapuram]], [[Thekkumbhagam]], [[Ayanivelikulangara]], [[Panmana]], [[Ponmana]] and [[Vadakumthala]].<ref>[http://kollam.nic.in/villa.html] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070210123336/http://kollam.nic.in/villa.html |date=10 February 2007 }} Taluks & Villages - Kollam District</ref> The taluk is bound on the north by [[Kayamkulam]], on the east by [[Kunnathur (Kerala)|Kunnathur]] taluk, on the south by [[Kollam]] and on the west by the [[Arabian Sea]]. It is one of the fastest developing towns in Kerala and is part of Kollam metropolitan area.
'''Karunagappally''' is a [[municipality]] in the [[Kollam district]] of [[Kerala]], [[India]]. It is 24&nbsp;km north of [[Kollam]] and {{convert|60|km|abbr=on}} south of [[Alappuzha]]. Karunagappally taluk consists of [[Alappad]], [[Ochira]], [[Adinad]], [[Karunagappally]], [[Thazhava]], [[Pavumba]], [[Thodiyoor]], [[Kallalibhagom]], [[Thevalakkara]], [[Chavara]], [[Neendakara]], [[Clappana]], [[Kulasekharapuram]], [[Thekkumbhagam]], [[Ayanivelikulangara]], [[Panmana]], Ponmana and [[Vadakumthala]].<ref>[http://kollam.nic.in/villa.html] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070210123336/http://kollam.nic.in/villa.html|date=10 February 2007}} Taluks & Villages - Kollam District</ref> The taluk is bound on the north by [[Kayamkulam]], on the east by [[Kunnathur (Kerala)|Kunnathur]] taluk, on the south by [[Kollam]] and on the west by the [[Arabian Sea]]. It is one of the fastest developing towns in Kerala and is part of Kollam metropolitan area.


Karunagappally is the location of a government engineering college named the [[College of Engineering Karunagappally]], also known as<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ceknpy.ac.in|title=CEK - College of Engineering Karunagappally|website=College of Engineering Karunagappally}}</ref> CEK, and a Government Arts & Science College under the University of Kerala. Europeans called Karunagappally Martha. It is also home to renowned [[Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham]] University's campus.


 
== Tourist attractions ==
Karunagappally is the location of a government engineering college named the [[College of Engineering Karunagappally]], also known as<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ceknpy.ac.in|title=CEK - College of Engineering Karunagappally|website=College of Engineering Karunagappally}}</ref> CEK. Europeans called Karunagappally '''Martha'''.
{{AI-generated|date=October 2025|section=Tourist}}
 
* [[Azheekal Beach]]– A coastal beach located about 10 km from Karunagappally town. Known for its scenery, clean sands, and sunset views.<ref name="kerala-tourism">{{cite web |title=Azheekkal Beach |url=https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/azheekkal-beach/609/ |website=Kerala Tourism |publisher=Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala |access-date=2025-11-22}}</ref>
==Tourist attractions==
* [[Alumkadavu Backwaters and Houseboat Facility]] – The village of Alumkadavu (3 km from Karunagappally) offers backwater views and houseboat services.<ref>{{cite web |title=Alumkadavu |url=https://www.keralatourism.org/kerala-article/2021/alumkadavu/1143 |website=Kerala Tourism |date=December 2021 |publisher=Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala |access-date=2025-11-22}}</ref>
The main tourist attraction is the house boat facility in '''Alumkadavu''' which is close (only 3&nbsp;km) to Karunagappally town.<ref>[http://indigenoustour.com/destination/kerala/Karunagappally] Karunagappally Tourism at a glance.</ref> Sree Narayana Trophy boat race, an annual boat race is organised in the Kannety (Pallickal) River, Karunagappally, during the season of [[Onam|Onam Festival]]. Nowadays houseboat, safari boat and speed-boat services are operated from Kannetty boat club which 1&nbsp;km apart from Karunagappally ksrtc bus stand to various places like Amrithapuri, '''Azheekkal beach''', harbour, Ashtamudi lake through Vattakkayal, Kattilmekkathil temple and Chavara canal. And also to Champakkadavu where we can enjoy the beauty of villages, rare species of birds and diversity. The famous [[Chinese fishing nets]] can be found on the banks of the lagoon. The '''[[Amritapuri]] ashram''' is also situated in Parayakadavu, which is 8&nbsp;km from Karunagappally. Other tourist attractions are Alumkadavu Backwater, Oachira temple, Pandarathuruth Church, Sheik Masjid Mosque, Padanayarkulangara Mahadeva Temple, Thazhava, Kovilthottam Light House, Sasthamkotta Lake, etc. Alumkadavu is the place where first houseboat made in India.
* [[Oachira Temple]] – Dedicated to Parabrahmam, this temple is a pilgrimage site and known for the Oachirakkali festival (June–July) and the Panthranduvilakku Utsavam in November–December. The temple is about 8 km away from Karunagappally and falls under the Karunagappally Taluk (sub-district)<ref name="Kerala-Tourism-Oachira">{{cite web |title=Oachira Temple near Karunagappally, Kollam |url=https://www.keralatourism.org/destination/ochira-temple-kollam/357/ |website=Kerala Tourism |publisher=Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala |access-date=2025-11-22}}</ref>
 
* Vallickavu / [[Mata Amritanandamayi Math|Amritapuri Ashram]] – Located within Karunagappally Taluk, this spiritual campus (Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s presence) draws many visitors.<ref name="Amritapuri-history">{{cite web |title=History of Amritapuri |url=https://www.amritapuri.org/ashram/history |website=Amritapuri.org |publisher=Mata Amritanandamayi Math |access-date=2025-11-22}}</ref>
Recently, [[Azheekal beach|Azheekal Beach]] is gaining popularity as a local tourist attraction.
*  [[Kannetty]](Pallickal) River Boat Race – Sree Narayana Trophy – An annual boat race held in the Pallickal / Kannetty river during Onam festival season.<ref name="Hindu-Kannetty">{{cite news |title=Chambakulam Chundan wins Sree Narayana Trophy |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/chambakulam-chundan-wins-sree-narayana-trophy/article3320078.ece |work=The Hindu |date=12 March 2012 |access-date=2025-11-22}}</ref><ref name="Youtube-Kannetty">{{cite video |title=Sree Narayana Trophy Kannetti Vallamkali 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAjKOfZiasc |publisher=GroupNTBR |date=16 September 2022 |access-date=2025-11-22}}</ref>
 
{{Gallery
|title=
|width=240 |height=140 |lines=2
|align=center
|
|alt1=Azheekal Beach
|Azheekal beach
|
|alt2=Azheekal Pozhi
|Azheekal Pozhi
|
|alt3=Model HSS Karunagappally
|Model HSS Karunagappally
}}
 
Karunagappally was an ancient Buddhist site. There was a Buddha bhikshu named Karinagan who lived in Karunagappally. He later became known as Pallikkal Puthran (as Karunagappally is situated on the banks of Pallikkal river) hence the name Karunagappally. Many traces of ancient Buddhist culture were excavated from various places in and around Karunagappally. A statue of Karinagan was placed in front of Mahadevar temple at the heart of the city. Now it has been moved to [[Krishnapuram Palace]], Kayamkulam.


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
Under 2011 India census, the population of Karunagappalli Municipality is 25,336 of which 12,219 are males while 13,117 are females.<ref>{{Cite web|url =http://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/628368-karunagappally-kerala.html|title = Karunagappalli Population - Census 2011|access-date = 9 January 2016 |website = census2011.co.in |publisher =Census India }}</ref> 75% of the population is Hindu; Muslims, the second-largest community having 19%. Christians are scattered and spread over Panchayths and Municipality limits, and account for 6% of the population. In the coastal panchaythat Azheekal, almost 100% of the population is Hindu. The high literacy of Kerala is reflected in Karunagappalli as well with 94.23% of the population classified as literate as against the national average of 74.04%.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/paper2-vol2/data_files/kerala/Analysis_Census_Data.pdf|title = Census 2011}}</ref> Karunagappalli taluk's population grew by 2% and was 418724 in 2017.
As of 2011 India census, Karunagappalli Municipality had a population of 25,336 where 12,219 are males and 13,117 are females.<ref>{{Cite web|url =http://www.census2011.co.in/data/town/628368-karunagappally-kerala.html|title = Karunagappalli Population - Census 2011|access-date = 9 January 2016 |website = census2011.co.in |publisher =Census India }}</ref> 75% of the population is Hindu; Muslims, the second-largest community having 19%. Christians are scattered and spread over Panchayths and Municipality limits, and account for 6% of the population. In the coastal panchaythat Azheekal, almost 100% of the population is Hindu. The high literacy of Kerala is reflected in Karunagappalli as well with 94.23% of the population classified as literate as against the national average of 74.04%.


==Economy==
==Economy==


Karungappalli used to be an agrarian economy until the late 19th century with [[coconut]], [[banana]], [[tapioca]] and [[Paddy (unmilled rice)|paddy]] as the main crops grown. With rapid urbanization and the consequent pressure on land, the reliance on agriculture has dwindled. Several cottage and small industries have now come up in the area including brick making, engineering and electronics. Proximity to [[Kollam]] (27&nbsp;km) and the excellent road and rail infrastructure have helped in this transition.
Karungappalli used to be an agrarian economy until the late 19th century with [[coconut]], [[banana]], [[tapioca]] and [[Paddy (unmilled rice)|paddy]] as the main crops grown. With rapid urbanization and the consequent pressure on land, the reliance on agriculture has dwindled. Several cottage and small industries have now come up in the area including brick making, engineering and electronics. Proximity to [[Kollam]] (27&nbsp;km) and the excellent road and rail infrastructure have helped in this transition.{{fact|date=October 2025}}


Fishing forms the major source of livelihood for the coast dwellers. The area also receives substantial foreign remittances from the large number of people from here working in the Gulf countries. Now Kerala's many prominent business centres had their branches here.
Fishing forms the major source of livelihood for the coast dwellers. The area also receives some foreign remittances from the large number of people from here working in the Gulf countries. Now Kerala's many prominent{{what?|date=October 2025}} business centres had their branches here.{{fact|date=October 2025}}


==Environment==
==Environment==


Karunagappalli is known for high [[background radiation]] from [[thorium]]-containing [[monazite]] sand. In some coastal panchayats, median outdoor radiation levels are more than 4 [[Gray (unit)#Effect on the body|mGy]]/yr and, in certain locations on the coast, it is as high as 70 mGy/yr.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Nair RR, Rajan B, Akiba S, Jayalekshmi P, Nair MK, Gangadharan P, Koga T, Morishima H, Nakamura S, Sugahara T |title=Background radiation and cancer incidence in Kerala, India-Karanagappally cohort study. |journal=Health Physics |date=January 2009|pmid=19066487 |doi=10.1097/01.HP.0000327646.54923.11 |volume=96 |pages=55–66}}</ref>
Karunagappalli is known for high [[background radiation]] from [[thorium]]-containing [[monazite]] sand. In some coastal panchayats, median outdoor radiation levels are more than 4 [[Gray (unit)#Effect on the body|mGy]]/yr and, in certain locations on the coast, it is as high as 70 mGy/yr.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Nair RR, Rajan B, Akiba S, Jayalekshmi P, Nair MK, Gangadharan P, Koga T, Morishima H, Nakamura S, Sugahara T |title=Background radiation and cancer incidence in Kerala, India-Karanagappally cohort study. |journal=Health Physics |date=January 2009|pmid=19066487 |doi=10.1097/01.HP.0000327646.54923.11 |volume=96 |issue=1 |pages=55–66 |bibcode=2009HeaPh..96...55N }}</ref>


==Transport==
==Transport==
Line 123: Line 105:
Karunagappally is on the Kanyakumari-Kochi-Panvel [[NH 66|National Highway 66]] route. In taluk, Oachira to Neendakara is accessible through this same highway.
Karunagappally is on the Kanyakumari-Kochi-Panvel [[NH 66|National Highway 66]] route. In taluk, Oachira to Neendakara is accessible through this same highway.


Main road transport is provided by State owned [[Kerala State Road Transport Corporation]] (KSRTC) and private transport bus operators. KSRTC Bus Station is situated in the heart of the town, on the National Highway 66 . Buses are available from Karunagappally to Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kottayam, Kayamkulam, Shasthamkotta, Harippad, Kottarakkara, Kodungallur, Guruvayur, etc. Local services are also available to destinations throughout the district. The station operates Super Fast, Fast Passenger, Non AC low-floor, Venad and Ordinary buses.
Main road transport is provided by State owned [[Kerala State Road Transport Corporation]] (KSRTC) and private transport bus operators. KSRTC Bus Station is situated in the heart of the town, on the National Highway 66. Buses are available from Karunagappally to Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kottayam, Kayamkulam, Shasthamkotta, Harippad, Kottarakkara, Kodungallur, Guruvayur, etc. Local services are also available to destinations throughout the district. The station operates Super Fast, Fast Passenger, Non AC low-floor, Venad and Ordinary buses.


Road transport is also supported by private taxis and autorickshaws, also called as autos.
Road transport is also supported by private taxis and autorickshaws, also called as autos.{{fact|date=October 2025}}


===Rail===
===Rail===


[[Karunagappalli railway station]] ,(KPY) is a NSG 5 category railway station situated in Edakkulangara. It lies on the Kollam-Kayamkulam rail route of the Thiruvananthapuram-Ernakulam railway line and is only 1.5&nbsp;km far from the KSRTC bus station. Auto rickshaws are available from and to the railway station. Buses are available to railway station bus stop every 15 minutes (150 meters from station). Also buses are available from town to Alumoodu Jn. bus stop every 5 minutes, which is only 700 meters away from KPY railway station. There are 32 express and 18 passenger trains are available from here.
[[Karunagappalli railway station]], (KPY) is a NSG 4 category railway station situated in Edakkulangara. It lies on the Kollam-Kayamkulam rail route of the Thiruvananthapuram-Ernakulam railway line and is only 1.5&nbsp;km far from the KSRTC bus station. Auto rickshaws are available from and to the railway station. Buses are available to railway station bus stop every 15 minutes (150 meters from station). Also buses are available from town to Alumoodu Jn. bus stop every 5 minutes, which is only 700 meters away from KPY railway station. There are 32 express and 18 passenger trains are available from here.{{fact|date=October 2025}}


Mumbai (Lokamanyathilak)-Thiruvananthapuram-Lokamanyathilak [[Netravati Express]], Kanyakumari-Bangalore-Kanyakumari [[Island Express (train)|Island Express]], TVC-Hydrabad-TVC [[Sabari Express]], Kanyakumari-Mumbai-Kanyakumari [[Kanyakumari Mumbai Express|Jayanthy Janatha Express]], Nagarcoil-mangalur-Nagarcoil [[Ernad Express]], TVC-Mangalur-TVC [[Maveli Express]], TVC-Ernakulam-TVC [[Vanchinad Express]], Nagarcoil-mangalur-Nagarcoil [[Parasuram Express]], TVC-Shornur-TVC [[Venad Express]], TVC-Mangalur-TVC [[Malabar Express]], TVC-palakkad-TVC [[Amritha Express]], [[Rajya Rani Express]], Thiruvananthapuram-Guruvayoor-TVC Intercity Express, [[Kollam - Visakhapatnam Express]], Trivandrum-Mangalapuram-Trivandrum Express and Punalur Palakkad [[Palaruvi Express]] are the main train connections. Around 50 trains have stop here in both directions.
Mumbai (Lokamanyathilak)-Thiruvananthapuram-Lokamanyathilak [[Netravati Express]], Kanyakumari-Bangalore-Kanyakumari [[Island Express (train)|Island Express]], TVC-Hydrabad-TVC [[Sabari Express]], Kanyakumari-Mumbai-Kanyakumari [[Kanyakumari Mumbai Express|Jayanthy Janatha Express]], Nagarcoil-mangalur-Nagarcoil [[Ernad Express]], TVC-Mangalur-TVC [[Maveli Express]], TVC-Ernakulam-TVC [[Vanchinad Express]], Nagarcoil-mangalur-Nagarcoil [[Parasuram Express]], TVC-Shornur-TVC [[Venad Express]], TVC-Mangalur-TVC [[Malabar Express]], TVC-palakkad-TVC [[Amritha Express]], [[Rajya Rani Express]], Thiruvananthapuram-Guruvayoor-TVC Intercity Express, [[Kollam - Visakhapatnam Express]], Trivandrum-Mangalapuram-Trivandrum Express and Punalur Palakkad [[Palaruvi Express]] are the main train connections. Around 50 trains have stop here in both directions.{{fact|date=October 2025}}
Station Code: KPY.
Station Code: KPY.


===Air===
===Air===


[[Trivandrum International Airport]] is the nearest airport and is easily accessible via the National Highway 66.
[[Trivandrum International Airport]] is the nearest airport and is accessible via the National Highway 66.{{fact|date=October 2025}}


==Politics==
==Politics==
[[Karunagappally (Assembly constituency)|Karunagapalli assembly constituency]] is part of [[Alappuzha]] [[Lok Sabha]] [[constituency]] and the major political parties in Karunagappally municipality and nearby panchayaths were CPI[M], CPI, Congress, BJP{{clarify|Explain what this abbreviations mean|date=March 2021}}<ref>{{cite web
[[Karunagappally (Assembly constituency)|Karunagapalli assembly constituency]] is part of [[Alappuzha]] [[Lok Sabha]] [[constituency]] and the major political parties in Karunagappally municipality and nearby panchayaths were CPI[M], [[Communist Party of India|CPI]], Congress, BJP.{{clarify|Explain what this abbreviations mean|date=March 2021}}<ref>{{cite web
  |url=http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf  
  |url=http://archive.eci.gov.in/se2001/background/S11/KL_Dist_PC_AC.pdf  
  |title=Assembly Constituencies - Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies  
  |title=Assembly Constituencies - Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies  
Line 153: Line 135:


==Industries==
==Industries==
The major industries in the public sector are [[Indian Rare Earths Limited]] (IRE) and [[Kerala Minerals and Metals]] Limited (KMML) in Shankaramangalam.[[KERAFED]] in Puthiyakavu, house-boat manufacturing in Alumkadavu, the state owned Kerala Feeds Ltd in Kallelibhagom are also major industries. The [[KMML]] is the first of its kind.
The major industries in the public sector are [[Indian Rare Earths Limited]] (IRE) and [[Kerala Minerals and Metals]] Limited (KMML) in Shankaramangalam. [[KERAFED]] in Puthiyakavu, house-boat manufacturing in Alumkadavu, the state owned Kerala Feeds Ltd in Kallelibhagom are also major industries.{{fact|date=October 2025}}


Cashew nut industry plays a vital role. Western India cashews in Puthiyakavu and Latha cashews processing, imports and exports in Charamurimuk are the major cashew processing units in town limits. Coconut, paddy, tapioca, banana, etc. are the other main agricultural crops. Prominent small scale and cottage industries are based on bricks, well rings making, engineering, electronics items and handicrafts.
The cashew nut industry plays a role in the local economy.{{fact|date=October 2025}} Western India cashews in Puthiyakavu and Latha cashews processing, imports and exports in Charamurimuk are the major cashew processing units in town limits. Coconut, paddy, tapioca and banana are the other main agricultural crops. Other small scale and cottage industries are based on bricks, well rings making, engineering, electronics items and handicrafts.{{fact|date=October 2025}}


==Religious centers==
==Religious centers==
There are many religious centers in and around [[Karunagappally]]. The Municipality is known for its religious harmony. Major religious centers include Kattilmekkathil Devi Temple,Sree Subhramanyaswami Temple  Panama,Changankulangara Sree Mahadevar Temple, Pulithitta Chathushashti Yogini Sametha Mahakali Dharmadaiva Temples (Pulithitta Sree Bhadrabhagavathy Dharmadaiva Temple),India Pentecostal Church of God,Karunagappally,Assemblies of God Church, Karunagappally,The Pentecostal Mission,Karunagappally,  Karunagappally Sheikh Masjid, Padanayarkulangara Mahadeva Temple, Ochira Parabrahma Temple, Sree Mookumpuzha Devi Temple, Maruthurkulangara Mahadeva Temple, Mararithottam Mahadeva Temple, Puthiyakavu Devi Temple, Karunagappally Jama'at Mosque, Vallikkavu Temple, and Puliyankulangara Temple,Shree kasiviswanatha temple and Vadakke nada bhagavathi temple Cheriazheekal
There are many religious centers in and around [[Karunagappally]]. The Municipality is known for its religious harmony. Major religious centers include Kattilmekkathil Devi Temple, Ochira Parabrahma Temple, Sree Subhramanyaswami Temple  Panama, Changankulangara Sree Mahadevar Temple, Thevalakkara Major Devi Temple, Pulithitta Chathushashti Yogini Sametha Mahakali Dharmadaiva Temples (Pulithitta Sree Bhadrabhagavathy Dharmadaiva Temple), India Pentecostal Church of God, Karunagappally, Assemblies of God Church, Karunagappally, The Pentecostal Mission, Karunagappally,  Karunagappally Sheikh Masjid, Karunagappally Jama'at Mosque, Padanayarkulangara Mahadeva Temple, Sree Mookumpuzha Devi Temple, Maruthoorkulangara Mahadeva Temple, Mararithottam Mahadeva Temple, Puthiyakavu Devi Temple, Edakkulangara Sree Devi Temple, Vallikkavu Temple, and Puliyankulangara Temple, Shree kasiviswanatha temple and Vadakke nada bhagavathi temple Cheriazheekal.{{fact|date=October 2025}}


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 14:35, 22 November 2025

Karunagappally
Municipality
Karunagappally is located in Kerala
Karunagappally
Karunagappally
Location in Kerala, India
Karunagappally is located in India
Karunagappally
Karunagappally
Karunagappally (India)
Coordinates: 9°3′16″N 76°32′7″E / 9.05444°N 76.53528°E / 9.05444; 76.53528
Country India
StateKerala
DistrictKollam
Government
 • TypeMunicipality
 • ChairmanKottayil Raju
 • Vice ChairmanSakeena Salam
Area
 • Total18.65 km2 (7.20 sq mi)
Elevation
14 m (46 ft)
Population
 (2011)[1]
 • Total49,604
 • Density2,700/km2 (6,900/sq mi)
DemonymKarunagapallikkaran
Languages
 • OfficialMalayalam, English
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN
690518
Telephone code+91 (0)4762
ISO 3166 codeIN-KL
Vehicle registrationKL-23
Nearest cityKollam (24 km)
Sex ratio999 ♂/♀
Literacy94.26%
Civic agencyKarunagappally Municipality
ClimateAm/Aw (Köppen)
Avg. annual temperature27.2 °C (81.0 °F)
Avg. summer temperature35 °C (95 °F)
Avg. winter temperature24.4 °C (75.9 °F)

Karunagappally is a municipality in the Kollam district of Kerala, India. It is 24 km north of Kollam and 60 km (37 mi) south of Alappuzha. Karunagappally taluk consists of Alappad, Ochira, Adinad, Karunagappally, Thazhava, Pavumba, Thodiyoor, Kallalibhagom, Thevalakkara, Chavara, Neendakara, Clappana, Kulasekharapuram, Thekkumbhagam, Ayanivelikulangara, Panmana, Ponmana and Vadakumthala.[2] The taluk is bound on the north by Kayamkulam, on the east by Kunnathur taluk, on the south by Kollam and on the west by the Arabian Sea. It is one of the fastest developing towns in Kerala and is part of Kollam metropolitan area.

Karunagappally is the location of a government engineering college named the College of Engineering Karunagappally, also known as[3] CEK, and a Government Arts & Science College under the University of Kerala. Europeans called Karunagappally Martha. It is also home to renowned Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University's campus.

Tourist attractions[edit | edit source]

Template:AI-generated

  • Azheekal Beach– A coastal beach located about 10 km from Karunagappally town. Known for its scenery, clean sands, and sunset views.[4]
  • Alumkadavu Backwaters and Houseboat Facility – The village of Alumkadavu (3 km from Karunagappally) offers backwater views and houseboat services.[5]
  • Oachira Temple – Dedicated to Parabrahmam, this temple is a pilgrimage site and known for the Oachirakkali festival (June–July) and the Panthranduvilakku Utsavam in November–December. The temple is about 8 km away from Karunagappally and falls under the Karunagappally Taluk (sub-district)[6]
  • Vallickavu / Amritapuri Ashram – Located within Karunagappally Taluk, this spiritual campus (Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s presence) draws many visitors.[7]
  • Kannetty(Pallickal) River Boat Race – Sree Narayana Trophy – An annual boat race held in the Pallickal / Kannetty river during Onam festival season.[8][9]

Demographics[edit | edit source]

As of 2011 India census, Karunagappalli Municipality had a population of 25,336 where 12,219 are males and 13,117 are females.[10] 75% of the population is Hindu; Muslims, the second-largest community having 19%. Christians are scattered and spread over Panchayths and Municipality limits, and account for 6% of the population. In the coastal panchaythat Azheekal, almost 100% of the population is Hindu. The high literacy of Kerala is reflected in Karunagappalli as well with 94.23% of the population classified as literate as against the national average of 74.04%.

Economy[edit | edit source]

Karungappalli used to be an agrarian economy until the late 19th century with coconut, banana, tapioca and paddy as the main crops grown. With rapid urbanization and the consequent pressure on land, the reliance on agriculture has dwindled. Several cottage and small industries have now come up in the area including brick making, engineering and electronics. Proximity to Kollam (27 km) and the excellent road and rail infrastructure have helped in this transition.[citation needed]

Fishing forms the major source of livelihood for the coast dwellers. The area also receives some foreign remittances from the large number of people from here working in the Gulf countries. Now Kerala's many prominent[clarification needed] business centres had their branches here.[citation needed]

Environment[edit | edit source]

Karunagappalli is known for high background radiation from thorium-containing monazite sand. In some coastal panchayats, median outdoor radiation levels are more than 4 mGy/yr and, in certain locations on the coast, it is as high as 70 mGy/yr.[11]

Transport[edit | edit source]

Road[edit | edit source]

Karunagappally is on the Kanyakumari-Kochi-Panvel National Highway 66 route. In taluk, Oachira to Neendakara is accessible through this same highway.

Main road transport is provided by State owned Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private transport bus operators. KSRTC Bus Station is situated in the heart of the town, on the National Highway 66. Buses are available from Karunagappally to Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kottayam, Kayamkulam, Shasthamkotta, Harippad, Kottarakkara, Kodungallur, Guruvayur, etc. Local services are also available to destinations throughout the district. The station operates Super Fast, Fast Passenger, Non AC low-floor, Venad and Ordinary buses.

Road transport is also supported by private taxis and autorickshaws, also called as autos.[citation needed]

Rail[edit | edit source]

Karunagappalli railway station, (KPY) is a NSG 4 category railway station situated in Edakkulangara. It lies on the Kollam-Kayamkulam rail route of the Thiruvananthapuram-Ernakulam railway line and is only 1.5 km far from the KSRTC bus station. Auto rickshaws are available from and to the railway station. Buses are available to railway station bus stop every 15 minutes (150 meters from station). Also buses are available from town to Alumoodu Jn. bus stop every 5 minutes, which is only 700 meters away from KPY railway station. There are 32 express and 18 passenger trains are available from here.[citation needed]

Mumbai (Lokamanyathilak)-Thiruvananthapuram-Lokamanyathilak Netravati Express, Kanyakumari-Bangalore-Kanyakumari Island Express, TVC-Hydrabad-TVC Sabari Express, Kanyakumari-Mumbai-Kanyakumari Jayanthy Janatha Express, Nagarcoil-mangalur-Nagarcoil Ernad Express, TVC-Mangalur-TVC Maveli Express, TVC-Ernakulam-TVC Vanchinad Express, Nagarcoil-mangalur-Nagarcoil Parasuram Express, TVC-Shornur-TVC Venad Express, TVC-Mangalur-TVC Malabar Express, TVC-palakkad-TVC Amritha Express, Rajya Rani Express, Thiruvananthapuram-Guruvayoor-TVC Intercity Express, Kollam - Visakhapatnam Express, Trivandrum-Mangalapuram-Trivandrum Express and Punalur Palakkad Palaruvi Express are the main train connections. Around 50 trains have stop here in both directions.[citation needed] Station Code: KPY.

Air[edit | edit source]

Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport and is accessible via the National Highway 66.[citation needed]

Politics[edit | edit source]

Karunagapalli assembly constituency is part of Alappuzha Lok Sabha constituency and the major political parties in Karunagappally municipality and nearby panchayaths were CPI[M], CPI, Congress, BJP.[clarification needed][12]

Including Neendakara, Thevalakkara, Chavara and Panmana Panchayaths, Chavara assembly constituency is part of Quilon Lok Sabha constituency. CPI(M), RSP, CPI, BSP, BJP, [clarification needed] are major political parties there.

Industries[edit | edit source]

The major industries in the public sector are Indian Rare Earths Limited (IRE) and Kerala Minerals and Metals Limited (KMML) in Shankaramangalam. KERAFED in Puthiyakavu, house-boat manufacturing in Alumkadavu, the state owned Kerala Feeds Ltd in Kallelibhagom are also major industries.[citation needed]

The cashew nut industry plays a role in the local economy.[citation needed] Western India cashews in Puthiyakavu and Latha cashews processing, imports and exports in Charamurimuk are the major cashew processing units in town limits. Coconut, paddy, tapioca and banana are the other main agricultural crops. Other small scale and cottage industries are based on bricks, well rings making, engineering, electronics items and handicrafts.[citation needed]

Religious centers[edit | edit source]

There are many religious centers in and around Karunagappally. The Municipality is known for its religious harmony. Major religious centers include Kattilmekkathil Devi Temple, Ochira Parabrahma Temple, Sree Subhramanyaswami Temple Panama, Changankulangara Sree Mahadevar Temple, Thevalakkara Major Devi Temple, Pulithitta Chathushashti Yogini Sametha Mahakali Dharmadaiva Temples (Pulithitta Sree Bhadrabhagavathy Dharmadaiva Temple), India Pentecostal Church of God, Karunagappally, Assemblies of God Church, Karunagappally, The Pentecostal Mission, Karunagappally, Karunagappally Sheikh Masjid, Karunagappally Jama'at Mosque, Padanayarkulangara Mahadeva Temple, Sree Mookumpuzha Devi Temple, Maruthoorkulangara Mahadeva Temple, Mararithottam Mahadeva Temple, Puthiyakavu Devi Temple, Edakkulangara Sree Devi Temple, Vallikkavu Temple, and Puliyankulangara Temple, Shree kasiviswanatha temple and Vadakke nada bhagavathi temple Cheriazheekal.[citation needed]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Karunagapally Municipality Profile". www.kudumbashree.org.
  2. ↑ [1] Archived 10 February 2007 at the Wayback Machine Taluks & Villages - Kollam District
  3. ↑ "CEK - College of Engineering Karunagappally". College of Engineering Karunagappally.
  4. ↑ "Azheekkal Beach". Kerala Tourism. Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. Retrieved 22 November 2025.
  5. ↑ "Alumkadavu". Kerala Tourism. Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. December 2021. Retrieved 22 November 2025.
  6. ↑ "Oachira Temple near Karunagappally, Kollam". Kerala Tourism. Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. Retrieved 22 November 2025.
  7. ↑ "History of Amritapuri". Amritapuri.org. Mata Amritanandamayi Math. Retrieved 22 November 2025.
  8. ↑ "Chambakulam Chundan wins Sree Narayana Trophy". The Hindu. 12 March 2012. Retrieved 22 November 2025.
  9. ↑ Sree Narayana Trophy Kannetti Vallamkali 2022. GroupNTBR. 16 September 2022. Retrieved 22 November 2025.
  10. ↑ "Karunagappalli Population - Census 2011". census2011.co.in. Census India. Retrieved 9 January 2016.
  11. ↑ Nair RR, Rajan B, Akiba S, Jayalekshmi P, Nair MK, Gangadharan P, Koga T, Morishima H, Nakamura S, Sugahara T (January 2009). "Background radiation and cancer incidence in Kerala, India-Karanagappally cohort study". Health Physics. 96 (1): 55–66. Bibcode:2009HeaPh..96...55N. doi:10.1097/01.HP.0000327646.54923.11. PMID 19066487.
  12. ↑ "Assembly Constituencies - Corresponding Districts and Parliamentary Constituencies" (PDF). Kerala. Election Commission of India. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 March 2009. Retrieved 20 October 2008.

External links[edit | edit source]


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