A hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those seeking authentic experiences and untamed natural beauty, Marayoor is an important pre-historic site in Kerala. Located around 40 km away from Munnar these verdant hills whisper stories that date back to 10,000 B.C.E. 

The name Marayoor owes its origin to the Maravars, a tribal community that lived in the area during the turn of the Christian era. The word ‘ooru’ means village. So in essence ‘Marayur’ means the ‘village of the Maravars’. These tribal people were members of the army of tribal chiefs and the kings of Chera, Chola and Pandya. That said, the stone clad secrets of this land pre-date even the kings and tribals. 

At Marayoor one is welcomed by the sight of the dolmens - tombs of primeval times. Also called dolmenoids, these burial chambers made of massive stones are believed to belong to the Iron Age. These dolmenoids, or ‘muniyaras’, are made of four stones placed on edges with a fifth one, called the cap stone, covering it. 

Another feature of Marayoor that attracts historians and archaeologists is the ancient rock paintings found here. Ezhuthu Guha, Manala, Attala and Kovilkadavu are some of the places in Marayoor where these ancient paintings can be found. In Attala more than 90 painted motifs can be seen in a colossal east facing rock shelter that is over 1,500m above sea level. This is indeed a sight to behold. 

2000-year-old megalithic monuments are not the only reason that Marayoor is so famous. Marayoor is the only place in all of Kerala where there is a natural growth of Sandalwood Trees. With over 65,000 trees, Marayoor Sandalwood is believed to be of premium quality and products made from it such as sandalwood oil are much sought after all over the world.

The ‘Sandalwood Regeneration Experimental Plot’ here helps visitors learn more about this exquisitely fragrant tree. The sandalwood depot here also gives visitors a glimpse of how sandalwood is processed. Also known as ‘liquid gold’, sandalwood is believed to have several medicinal properties and is often used in the treatment of skin issues, nausea, gastritis and digestive complications. 

Marayoor Sarkara is another product that has brought this quaint village much fame. The special variety of solid molasses that is produced in Marayoor and its neighbour Kanthalloor is well renowned for its high quality. Also known as Marayoor Sarkara, it is believed to have 97% sugar content. The Sarkara or jaggery is made by condensing the sugarcane juice until it can be rolled into big balls. 

The credit for such high quality jaggery is attributed to the fact that Marayoor falls in the rain shadow area and therefore has a very specific ph value in the soil and the exact temperatures required for the crop. Although earlier sugarcane was cultivated on over 2,500 acres, today it is only on 1,500 acres. Molasses production is a very important cottage industry in the area and supports the livelihoods of the locals. There are also plenty of local outlets available here that sell the authentic Marayoor Sarkara. 

While you are out enjoying the crisp mountain air that’s infused with the scents of wildflower, eucalyptus and sandalwood be sure to try out the local tribal fare as well. Different dishes prepared from millets are a staple in tribal cuisine. A pudding called Katti that is made from ragi powder is a specialty here.