Which District of Kerala is Known as the Land of Palm Trees?

Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is a beautiful state in southern India. Famous for its lush greenery, serene backwaters, palm-fringed and rich culture, Kerala attracts visitors from all over the world. It is also known for its traditional art forms, delicious cuisine, and high literacy rate, making it truly unique. In this article, we will know about the district of Kerala which is known as the “Land of Palm Trees.”

An Overview of Kerala

Kerala, a state on India’s Malabar Coast, was formed on 1st November 1956. Spread over 38,863 square kilometers, it is bordered by Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and the Lakshadweep Sea. With a population of 33 million, it has 14 districts and its capital is Thiruvananthapuram. Malayalam is the official language of this culturally rich and scenic state.

Administrative Divisions of Kerala

Kerala is divided into 14 districts for administrative purposes. These are further divided into 27 revenue divisions, 75 talukas and 1,453 revenue villages. This structured system helps in efficient governance and management of the state’s administrative and developmental activities.

Land of Palm Trees in Kerala

The Palakkad district of Kerala is famously known as the “Land of Palm Trees,” because of many palmyra trees in the region. These trees are a significant part of the district’s culture, heritage and identity, making them iconic to Palakkad.

Why is Palakkad Called the Land of Palm Trees?

Palakkad is home to countless palmyra trees, which are tall and swaying with fan-shaped leaves. The palmyra tree, also called Borassus flabellifer, is deeply linked to the district’s traditions, literature and lifestyle. It is a symbol of pride for the people of Palakkad.

The scientific name of the palmyra tree has an interesting meaning:

• “Borassus” comes from a Greek word referring to the leathery fruit covering.
• “Flabellifer” means fan-bearer, referring to the tree’s large, fan-like leaves.

Cultural and Historical Importance of Palmyra Trees

The palmyra tree is featured in many novels, poems, and stories that highlight the culture of Kerala. In Tamil Nadu, the palmyra trees is also the official state tree, showcasing its importance across regions. The tree is admired for its strength, usefulness and beauty.

Decline in Palmyra Trees

Despite its importance, the number of palmyra trees in Palakkad is decreasing. Urbanization and the shift to more profitable cash crops are major reasons for this decline. This has raised concerns about preserving the tree as part of the district’s natural and cultural heritage.