First Book Village Kerala (Perumkulam): Libraries, Murals & Visit Plan

By Road

The most convenient way to reach Perumkulam is by road. If you're driving from Thiruvananthapuram, take the MC Road (Main Central Road) towards Kottarakara, then proceed towards Punalur. Perumkulam is accessible from the Kottarakara-Punalur route. The roads are generally in good condition, and the drive offers beautiful views of Kerala's countryside—paddy fields, rubber plantations, and small towns characteristic of rural Kerala.By Rail The nearest major railway station is Kollam Junction, about 25 kilometers from Perumkulam. Kollam is well connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India. From Kollam railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Perumkulam. The journey by road from Kollam station takes approximately 45-60 minutes.

By Air

The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport in Thiruvananthapuram, approximately 70 kilometers from Perumkulam. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach the village. The drive from the airport takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Local Transport

Once you reach the Perumkulam area, the best way to explore the Book Village is on foot. Walking through the village allows you to discover the various Book Nests at your own pace, interact with residents, and truly experience the village's atmosphere. Local auto-rickshaws are available for longer distances if you need to travel to specific locations within or around the village.

Nearby Attractions in Kollam District

While Perumkulam itself offers a unique experience, the Kollam district has several other attractions that you can combine with your visit to the Book Village. Kollam, historically known as Quilon, is one of Kerala's oldest cities and has a rich maritime and cultural heritage.

Thenmala Eco-Tourism

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Perumkulam, Thenmala is India's first planned eco-tourism destination. Nestled in the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary, Thenmala offers a range of activities including nature trails, boating, and a musical fountain. The area is known for its lush greenery and the Thenmala Dam, built across the Kallada River. It's an excellent destination for nature lovers and makes for a perfect day trip from Perumkulam.

Jatayu Earth's Center

About 40 kilometers from Perumkulam, the Jatayu Earth's Center is a unique tourism destination that combines mythology, adventure, and nature. Centered around a massive sculpture of Jatayu (the mythical bird from the Ramayana), the park offers adventure activities, a cable car ride with panoramic views, and cultural experiences. The sculpture is said to be the world's largest bird sculpture and is a remarkable feat of art and engineering.

Kollam Beach and Thangassery

Kollam Beach, located about 25 kilometers from Perumkulam, is a serene coastal area perfect for relaxation. Nearby is Thangassery, a historic neighborhood with a Portuguese-built lighthouse, old churches, and the ruins of a Portuguese fort. Thangassery's maritime history and colonial architecture offer a contrast to the inland rural experience of Perumkulam.

Ashtamudi Lake

For those interested in Kerala's famous backwaters, Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam offers a quieter alternative to the more crowded Alleppey backwaters. The lake, shaped like a palm with eight arms (hence the name Ashtamudi, meaning "eight braids" in Malayalam), is perfect for boat rides and offers glimpses of village life along its shores. Houseboat rides are available, ranging from a few hours to overnight stays.

Palaruvi Waterfalls

Located about 75 kilometers from Perumkulam (but worth the drive if you have the time), Palaruvi Waterfalls is one of Kerala's most beautiful waterfalls. The name means "stream of milk" in Malayalam, and the falls cascade down from a height of about 300 feet. The area around the falls is ideal for picnicking, and the journey itself offers scenic views of the Western Ghats.

If you're planning to explore more of Kerala's natural attractions, consider reading about the waterfalls in Kerala to include other scenic spots in your itinerary. The state's diverse landscapes offer numerous opportunities for nature enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit Perumkulam

Kerala's tropical climate means that Perumkulam can be visited throughout the year, but certain seasons offer more comfortable conditions for exploration and outdoor activities.

Winter (October to February)

Winter is the most comfortable time to visit Perumkulam. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C, making it ideal for walking around the village and exploring the Book Nests. This period is also the peak tourist season in Kerala, so while you'll have great weather, you might encounter more tourists at popular attractions nearby. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends.

Summer (March to May)

Summer in Kerala can be warm and humid, with temperatures occasionally reaching 35°C. However, Perumkulam's inland location means it's generally less humid than coastal areas. If you visit during summer, plan your village exploration for the morning and late afternoon, when the weather is cooler. This season sees fewer tourists, so you're likely to have a more authentic and peaceful experience of the Book Village.

Monsoon (June to September)

The monsoon season transforms Kerala into a lush green paradise. While the rain can be heavy at times, there's something magical about the countryside during the monsoon—the greenery is at its most vibrant, and the atmosphere is refreshingly cool. If you enjoy rain and don't mind getting a little wet, the monsoon can be a beautiful time to visit. Just be prepared for potentially disrupted travel plans and the possibility of outdoor activities being curtailed by rain.

Tips for Visiting Perumkulam Book Village

To make the most of your visit to Perumkulam, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

Respect the Books and the Community

Remember that the Book Nests operate on trust. If you borrow a book, treat it with care and return it. These books are community resources, not souvenirs to take home. Avoid writing in or damaging the books. If you notice a Book Nest that needs attention, consider informing the library or local residents rather than trying to fix it yourself.

Interact with Locals

One of the best ways to understand the Book Village concept is by talking to the people who make it happen. If you see residents maintaining a Book Nest or organizing books, don't hesitate to ask them about the initiative. Most locals are proud of their village's unique identity and are happy to share their stories. These interactions can provide insights that no guidebook can offer.

Visit the Bapuji Smaraka Vayanasala

Make sure to spend time at the main library. It's not just a building with books—it's a community institution with a rich history. The library staff can provide detailed information about the Book Village, its history, and how it operates. If you're visiting on a weekday, the library might be less crowded, giving you more opportunities to interact with the staff and browse the collection at leisure.

Carry Essentials

Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring the village on foot. Carry an umbrella or raincoat if you're visiting during the monsoon. In summer, wear light, breathable clothing and use sunscreen. Don't forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially in the warmer months.

Combine Your Visit

While Perumkulam deserves a dedicated visit, consider combining it with nearby attractions like Thenmala or Jatayu Earth's Center to make the most of your trip to the Kollam district. This approach allows you to experience different facets of Kerala's offerings—literary culture, eco-tourism, and mythology-inspired art—all in one trip.

Support Local Initiatives

If you're inclined to support the Book Village, consider donating books to the Bapuji Smaraka Vayanasala or one of the Book Nests. The library welcomes donations of books in good condition, particularly in Malayalam and English. Before donating, it's polite to ask the library staff about their current needs and preferences.

Photography Etiquette

Photography is generally allowed in the village, but be respectful when taking pictures. Avoid photographing people without their permission, especially close-ups. If you want to photograph the interior of the main library or specific Book Nests, ask for permission first. Some Book Nests might be located near private homes, so be mindful of residents' privacy.

Conclusion

Perumkulam, Kerala's first Book Village, is more than just a tourist destination—it's a testament to the enduring power of literature and the potential of community-driven initiatives. In a world where digital distractions are omnipresent, this village offers a refreshing reminder of the simple joy of reading a physical book, the value of accessible knowledge, and the importance of preserving cultural spaces that nurture intellectual curiosity.

For book lovers, Perumkulam is a pilgrimage site—a place where books are celebrated as community assets rather than commercial commodities. For travelers seeking offbeat experiences, it offers a glimpse into rural Kerala's cultural landscape and the innovative ways in which communities are reinventing themselves. For anyone who believes in the transformative power of reading, Perumkulam is proof that books can still bring people together, inspire change, and create spaces of learning and reflection.

As you walk through the village's lanes, discovering Book Nests around every corner, you're not just seeing a novel tourism concept—you're witnessing a community's love for literature made visible. Perumkulam invites you not just to see, but to participate: pick up a book, find a quiet spot, and read. In doing so, you become part of the village's continuing story, a story that reminds us that in the age of information, the simple act of reading remains a revolutionary act of engagement with the world.