Elappara

Elappara is a village in Idukki district in the Indian state of Kerala and one of the panchayaths in Peerumedu taluk. Cool climate is experienced as the region is situated at a height of more than above the sea level. Elappara is noted for its vast tea plantations creating an amazing experience for the visitors.HistoryThe history of present Elappara begins from 1836 by the clearance of Vembanadu region by Henty baker, a cms missionary. The first estate to start tea industry in highrange is the Tyford estate and first plantation Penshwarast, both of these are situated in Elappara panchayath. During the Kollam era, the regions including elappara was the part of Thekkumkur kingdom and later acquired by Manavikrama kulasekara perumal, the founder of Poonjar dynasty. Legends says that Manavikrama on his journey to Poonjar took rest at 'Thangalpara' near Kolahalamedu. Even today we can see the remnants of Minakshi idols in the rocks indicating the history. In 1870s, various plantations had emerged in this region. At these times, the estate owners used to reach here by horses. The tea cultivated here were known by the name Peerumedu hybrid tea, brought from China. By 1896, the area was fully utilized for tea cultivation. Later in 1900's, people worked in these plantations settled here. The first school which got started here is the Typhord estate L.P.S.AdministrationElappara panchayath was formed in 1954 including 17 wards and it belongs to the Azhutha block of Peerumedu taluk.The surrounding panchayaths are Ayyappancoil, Upputhara, Kokkayar, Peruvanthanam and Kumily.