Perumbavoor Municipality is an important commercial town in Ernakulam District. Perumbavoor is widely known as one of Kerala’s major centers for plywood and timber trade. In addition, the region became historically significant through the growth of agriculture, small-scale industries, and commerce.

History

Perumbavoor Municipality was formed in 1936. It was one of the four major panchayats approved by Sir C. P. Ramaswami Iyer, who was then the Diwan of Travancore. Later, on January 1, 1953, it was officially elevated to the status of a municipality. The first governing council was led by K. Harihara Iyer.

Perumbavoor had been known as a trading center since ancient times. Being located near the Periyar River, the area had favorable conditions for the growth of agriculture and goods transportation. Later, with the large-scale development of the timber industry and plywood manufacturing, Perumbavoor earned the title “Timber Hub of Kerala.”

Social and Economic Growth

Trade in agricultural products such as rubber, pepper, ginger, turmeric, coconut, and arecanut flourished in Perumbavoor. Even today, it remains one of Kerala’s largest plywood industrial regions. Due to the presence of workers from different Indian states, Perumbavoor has also grown into a multicultural town.

Administrative and Political Importance

Perumbavoor is one of the important legislative assembly constituencies in Kerala. The town is also home to several administrative and judicial institutions, including courts, a sub-court, and the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal.

Origin of the Name

There are different opinions regarding the origin of the name “Perumbavoor.” Some believe the name originated from a phrase meaning “land of large snakes.” Other historical studies suggest that the name may have come from the presence of a large ancient idol (“Bomma”) associated with Buddhist or Jain cultures.