This region is said to have been part of Mahodayapuram, the capital of the Chera Empire. It is also believed that the place visited by the European traveller Buchanan was Kunnamkulangara itself. The history of this town is believed to extend back as far as the period of cave dwelling.

Origin of the Name

It is believed that the name Kunnamkulam originated from the geographical characteristics of the region, which was rich in hills (kunnu) and ponds (kulam).

Role in the Indian Freedom Struggle and National Movement

The newspaper A.R.P., which opposed the press prohibition proclamation issued by Sir C. P. Ramaswami Iyer, the Diwan of Travancore, was published from a printing press in Kunnamkulam.

Social, Political and Cultural Movements

The first publication associated with the printing tradition of Kunnamkulam, “Vidyaratna Prabha,” was started in 1860. It was established by Paramel Uthuppu. The printing press, which was initially started under the name “Jnanodayam,” later developed into the Akshara Ratna Prakashini Press.

The first school established in Kunnamkulam was popularly known as “Maitrachan’s School.”

Commercial and Transportation Importance

Kunnamkulam has historically been known as one of the major commercial and market centres in the district. The town gained national recognition for the manufacture of notebooks.

The bus stand, located at the heart of Kunnamkulam Municipality, serves as the central hub of transportation for the region and plays a vital role in connecting the town with surrounding areas.