Moonnilav
Grama Panchayat

Moonnilavu Grama Panchayat, which includes the regions of Mankombu and Irumapra Valakam, has a rich and ancient history. The Bhagavathi temple at Mankombu is believed to be very old, and the name “Moonnilavu” is said to have originated from the presence of three large Ilavu trees that once stood together in this area. This temple, considered the only one in the panchayat, is believed to have been established by the Poonjar royal family. There are also legends about the Chettipillamar community, who migrated here with their deity seeking refuge under the Poonjar king and later settled in different parts of present-day Thodupuzha Taluk, though they still visit the temple annually on Medam 10 (Pathamudayam). The hilly forest regions of Moonnilavu were once inhabited by the Malayaraya community, who were uplifted from social evils by foreign missionaries like Henry Baker Jr. and A.F. Painter. Ancient churches, schools, and the historic post office at Irumapra mark important milestones in the region’s socio-cultural development. Moonnilavu was formerly part of Poonjar Vadakkekara Panchayat and became a separate panchayat in 1969 after years of struggle, forming alongside Thalanadu. Today, Moonnilavu is known for its natural beauty and holds great potential for tourism, with places like Pazhukkakanam and Illikkal Kallu attracting visitors.