Kuthirakoor Kari: This land of horses' is a hidden gem of Kochi

NESTLED near Palluruthy, amidst the tranquil backwaters of Vembanad Kayal, lies Kuthirakoor Kari – an enigmatic island steeped in history and natural beauty.

- KOKILA P L

Surrounded by water on three sides and bordered by arable wetland on the fourth, this water-bound hidden gem boasts a rich past and immense potential for tourism.

The name 'Kuthirakoor Kari' itself is intriguing. "The land was once under the Elamana Madom. Fodder for the feudal family's horses was harvested from here," explains social observer V J Michael, who is a retired teacher and long-time resident of the area.

"Hence, this came to be known as 'kuthira ooru' or 'the land of horses'. And 'kari' refers to the soil here. It was a highly cultivated area, primarily growing paddy and vegetables."

Studies on soils of Kerala reveal that the region's peaty, charcoal-like soil contributed to its name. "The rice fields, which are popularly known as 'puncha vayals' exist in three landscape elements: karapadam (upland rice fields), kayal (wetland rice fields) and kari (land buried with black, coal-like materials)," notes the Food and Agriculture Organisation.